Running the C&NW Commute Trains

Trains Magazine Passenger
1

Great video…

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Video highlight just how formulaic operating a locomotive and train are - especially in passenger service where you have known and repeatable train/power combinations. Once you KNOW your job. Pick the braking point and the throttle/brake manipulations and the resulting actions happen and the proper stop is accomplished.

Of course freight trains don’t make passenger stops, however, a similar thought process takes place with freight engineers. In freight you don’t have to worry about where the passenger doors are - you just need to stop clear of the Absolute Signal or designated Milepost - but the same principles apply in knowing your train’s consist and how it is handling.

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Commuter train engineers are masters at that process. Here in Chicago and elsewhere, they always stop at the same spot and for good reason. The commuters know exactly where to stand on the platforms to board the train first.

Rich

4

would that be the el. I visited Chicago once but never got to ride it wanted to though.

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Don’t know about the CTA. I was referring to Metra which runs commuter trains in the suburbs.

Rich

6

got ya thanks Rich

7

Rode the El one time in the early 1960’s - it stopped, I got on, it went to its destination, which wasn’t where I wanted to be. Got on another train and retraced my route and eventually go where I wanted to be.

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I rode the “L” and the subway daily for years, both to school and work. My daily commute also involved a variety of buses and bus routes. Even rode on streetcars.

Rich

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Makes you wonder how much 90 mph capable track METRA has but never uses.

10

What track does METRA own?

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Metra owns and operates the following rail lines: Rock Island, Metra Electric, Milwaukee District North, and Milwaukee District West.

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I believe they also own/operate the SWS Orland Park line to Manhattan since it’s in Metra’s PTC implementation plans and track charts.

13

Does Metra own or operate on any class 5 track? The UP west line had 70 mph freights according to 1990s timetables I have (which would have required class 5) but I have no recent ETTs. But I seem to recall reading somewhere that it’s now only 60 in Metra territory for UP west freights. Implying a down grade to class 4.

I know Metra is toying with a proposal for 90 on the Electric. Is it already class 5? Or does that need an upgrade to get there?

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AFAIK, the speed limit is still 70.

15

Thanks!