Amtrak172
Service Attendant
- Joined
- Apr 22, 2014
- Messages
- 167
Repainting the Amfleet IIs or, more likely putting new vinyl stripes on is not that big a deal costwise. Unless Congress in the next 2-3 years suddenly provides Amtrak with a lot of funding to buy replacement rolling stock, an order of Viewliner IIs to replace the Amfleet IIs in the near term is unlikely. Amtrak's next major equipment order will be new HSR trainsets for the NEC as the HSR trainsets will generate enough additional revenue to pay off the loan. After that order is underway, funding and placing an order with Siemens for a batch of P-42 locomotive replacements may take priority.I would imagine that it wouldn't be for at least 4-5 years because if their looking for those new Siemens locomotives. If Amtrak wants to launch Amtrak America with its own paint scheme for the single-level LD trains, why repaint the Amfleets if they're planning on replacing them? Thats my opinion. That and all Viewliner single-level LD train consists would make Amtrak's trains look good
As for a sightseer lounge Viewliner II, i would be surprised if such cars were ordered and built. But a Viewliner II replacement for the Amfleet II diner/cafe car would be a considerable improvement with the dual windows. Start with the Viewliner II diner car, but shrink the kitchen area on one end and put in more tables or observation chairs with small side tables. More cost effective than adding another non-revenue car to the consist.
Good. I'm happy about this because I don't want to see the Amfleets become retired.
Amtrak172