P32AC-DM

[5292nate]

Why does The Lake Shore Limited run both P42DC's up front?

[donjgatlin]

Why does The Lake Shore Limited run both P42DC's up front?

That's normal. It doesn't switch directions at the end of its run. The main reason the high-speed trains do it is because it distributes the forces more evenly and it keeps them from having to turn the entire consist at the end of the run. I'd also think that the Lake Shore Limited might be way too long to use DPU's on it, but I'm not sure.

[5292nate]

I'm enjoying learning these things! The Lake Shore Limited is P048. What is P049? I thought it was the returning Lake Shore?

[donjgatlin]

I'm enjoying learning these things! The Lake Shore Limited is P048. What is P049? I thought it was the returning Lake Shore?

It should be. Normally the same train has the number next to it for the opposite direction of travel. Example: The Palmetto here is P089/P090. Number 90 is Northbound and number 89 is Southbound.

[5292nate]

OK. But you said it doesn't change directions at the end of the run.

[donjgatlin]

OK. But you said it doesn't change directions at the end of the run.

The Lake Shore Limited does turn around eventually, but not until several hours later. The Michigan line trains may not have a place to turn around or just don't have the time to. It's also probably much safer and probably gives better performance/handling on those trains to have locomotives on both ends when traveling at 110mph. That keeps the slack in the train much lower and probably lowers the risk of derailment.

[1225fan5358]

Of the train number is and even number, its NorthBoud or EastBound. If odd number, its Southbound or Westbound.

[9of13]

Hey all! Just to add more info, the p32ac-dm arent just on the Empire corridor, MTA-Metro-North Railroad operates these as well. Their 3rd rail shoes are set for their under-running 3rd rail and do not retract. The Amtrak versions do because Penn Station has its thrid rails made for LIRR's top-of-rail 3rd while it runs under diesel along MNR's Hudson line with its under running rails. You will find MNR's P32AC-DMs on all three of MNR's "East of Hudson" lines (Harlem, Hudson and New Haven).