All Engines Pulling?

[had8ley]

It is my understanding that Amtrak hardwires units through the train when using distributed power. That's why only certain cars can be used for push-pull operation. If that's the case they operate the same way they would if they were both up front. So unless there is a problem with one of the units both should be pulling at the same amount at the same time. Of course the one with HEP would have less HP for the same throttle notches than the one that is just for traction.

I may be mistaken but Amtrak does not employ distributed power. Distibuted power is radio control engines that are placed in the middle or rear (most of the time) on freight trains. What Amtrak is running with two units is commonly referred to as 'push-pull." You are correct that some equipment is not able to operate in this mode.

Aloha Jay

Isn't this exactly what the Acela is? and somewhere in the thread was a reference to a power unit at each end. and therefore the question about how that power is used. I s one unit only working, of are both working and how hard is each working

IIRC, Eric, the Acela is not radio controlled but cable controlled (I've never run one but have ridden the cab); that would be the difference between "push-pull" and distibutive power. If, indeed, I'm wrong for the kazillionith time, it would be classified as distibutive power if it is radio controlled; never heard it called that but what the hay? As a sidelight~ when distibutive power first came out a freight crew set out the rear (distibuted power) unit in a siding next to their train on the main line. They forgot to shut off the radio that commanded the unit. When they pulled away from the siding they were rammed by their own power !!! :unsure: I just don't think the Acela power is radio controlled. Where is Dutch when we need him ???

 

[Ryan]

You're right Jay, the Acela is not radio controlled...

 

[Train2104]

Interesting thread. And it leads me to a question. On double ended trains, like the Hiawatha, is the rear engine pushing as well as the front engine pulling? Or is the rear engine just along for the ride.

IIRC, Hiawatha uses NPCU's.