by doepack
J hogger wrote:Isn't there a difference when a 20-30 yr old locomotive breaks down compared to a 5-6 yr old locomotive breaking down?Yes there is, but the MP's weren't intended to replace the F40's, they were supposed to replace most of the C's, and provide additional power for service expansions. And while that's been accomplished (barely), you're right about the F40's getting tired, but newer power to replace them is likely going to have to wait, since Metra has made getting newer cars for the electric district a top priority when (if?) the next funding package arrives. That's understandable, but it may come with a price of reduced overall reliability with the diesel equipment, which won't improve until the rebuilds are done.
But to get back on topic (sort of), I wonder if these officials who were "embarrassed" to let the C's run more regularly are the same ones that let Amtrak 7 suffer behind a Metra 2121 running at a reduced load. Wouldn't be surprised...
--Dorian--