In my October 2007 (page 63) issue I saw a picture of a tri-Rail DMU, a similar trailer and a diesel locomotive. Is this common practice, and if so what does the diesel do? If it’s necessary to have the diesel, doesn’t that destroy the purpose of having DMUs in the first place? Is it possible they aren’t working properly? Also, does anyone know if Vermont has ordered similar DMUs for the Vermonter?
rode tri-rail DMU a few times. Its acceleration sucks.
could not maintain the schedule unless a very quick station stop
I enjoyed riding it back in February of last year. I found it to be a touch of luxury, with reclining seats and VERY clean wrap-around windows. This contrasted with the straight seating in the regular bi-level cars, most of which had either dirty windows and/or badly scratched lexan.
From what I have read, Vermont opted not to order this equipment. A satisfactory deal could not be made between the State and the manufacturer.
If I recall correctly, Vermont wanted a buyback at 90% of the sales price at the end of the third year should the service not work out. Colorado Railcar was unwilling/unable to do such a guarantee.
Someone observed elsewhere that Vermont spends its nickels as if they were manhole covers.
I don’t know about Vermont, but Mike Ditka once voiced that opinion about George Halas.