Empire Builder Discussion 2025

[pennyk]

From January 3, 2025 forward, please post comments discussing the Empire Builder here. For previous posts regarding the Empire Builder, please refer to this thread, which is currently locked:

https://www.amtraktrains.com/threads/empire-builder-discussion-2023-q4-2024.86223/page-11

 

[ThePun]

First! Lol

We are currently the victims of losing all three Charger engines on the Eastbound EB just East of Fargo and a freight engine just got us rolling around 12pm after being dead since 6am today.

 

[soarbooks]

... Did Amtrak keep you guys warm, comfortable, and fed during your LONG delay?

 

[B&Ofan]

It looks like 8/28 scheduled to arrive in Chicago today is delayed.

AmtrakAlertsMechanical Issue: As of 7:04 AM MT, Trains 8 and 28 is stopped east of St. Cloud (SCD) due to mechanical issues. The crew is in contact with the mechanical team who are working to resolve the issue. We will provide an update as more information becomes available. Departure estimates are subject to change. If a train is delayed past its scheduled departure time, it may still leave earlier than the updated estimate, if conditions allow. To avoid missing your train, please stay near the boarding area and monitor for announcements or updates.

Does anyone here have any idea on what is happening? My Mom is on the train and at least they seem to have HEP. I ask because some people here sometimes have more information then what the general public.

Thanks in advance.

 

[AmtrakBlue]

It looks like 8/28 scheduled to arrive in Chicago today is delayed.

AmtrakAlertsMechanical Issue: As of 7:04 AM MT, Trains 8 and 28 is stopped east of St. Cloud (SCD) due to mechanical issues. The crew is in contact with the mechanical team who are working to resolve the issue. We will provide an update as more information becomes available. Departure estimates are subject to change. If a train is delayed past its scheduled departure time, it may still leave earlier than the updated estimate, if conditions allow. To avoid missing your train, please stay near the boarding area and monitor for announcements or updates.

Does anyone here have any idea on what is happening? My Mom is on the train and at least they seem to have HEP. I ask because some people here sometimes have more information then what the general public.

Thanks in advance.

Your mom, being on the train, would be your best source of info. She can ask the car attendant or conductor for info.

 

[JohnV]

Wife and I were scheduled to travel from SEA to Chicago 1/20 on #8 (Empire Builder). Received a text last night saying the train was cancelled. Called and was told cancellation occurred as forecast temps could adversely impact the trains air braking system.

 

[John Bobinyec]

Wife and I were scheduled to travel from SEA to Chicago 1/20 on #8 (Empire Builder). Received a text last night saying the train was cancelled. Called and was told cancellation occurred as forecast temps could adversely impact the trains air braking system.

Gee, I wonder what VIA in Canada does differently to keep the trains moving.

jb

 

[west point]

Called and was told cancellation occurred as forecast temps could adversely impact the trains air braking system.

Have to wonder if that means too much moisture in the air lines? that might lead to a problem in the water separation system (air dryers) of the air compressors. Maybe the standard of minimum air loss does not replace air enough. Another problem may be a consequence of the blended braking system used on trains that causes non replacement of the air in the lines. Not sure what the 2nd high pressure reservoir line is connected to other than the car end doors.

 

[west point]

a weather item I forgot about is high winds. Train 8 / 15 Jan is now 12 hours+ late due in part to high winds east of browning. Now no one can tell where high winds will actually happen so any area thast is forecast for any high winds may need to be forecast. Have to wonder what the wind speed component for tipping of a superliner is. Although they are taller, car carriers are known to have been blown over.

If dispatch has enough warning parking any train on a section of track that will head directly into the wind of course is best. Variable wind directions could mess that all up. So best to not run a train into such conditions.