Added: 7 months ago
From: citytransportinfo
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  • Very interesting. Is the class 73 the only 'dual-mode' type locomotive in Britain? The US has several, mainly used for service into and out of New York's Penn Station (diesels can't be used in the tunnels, hence third rail use). Were the 73's developed for a similar purpose?

  • @JeffOrnstein01 I am not shure but I don't think so. Recently, some European manufacturers have introduced those 'electrodiesels' again for the purpose to save on shifters. Freight trains are usually running on electrified main lines but need to move onto sidings or work connections that are not electrified. Typically, the power on diesel electrics is but 20 - 25 % compared to the power under the wires or on 3rd rail. The freight loco itself can now move trains into the loading/unloading bay.

  • @JeffOrnstein01 Running with diesels in tunnels is not such a problem in the UK, even in London freight trains are hauled by the Canadian built JT42CWR, here known as class 66. This diesel electric loco with it's 2268 kW beats the electro diesels with only 450 - 650 kW. Class 66 's can be spotted all over Europe being built in a stunning number of 624 items. The manufacturer, formerly GME, was so clever to adept easily to the developing lease market in Europe caused by privatizing in the 90s.

  • @spoorus Thanks for the info. Dual-Modes (US types) are also primarily used by Metro-North at Grand Central. The P32's utilize the third rail in the tunnel, and switch to diesel power where the electrification ends (such as Croton-Harmon). I guess it might be ok in the UK, as using diesels in tunnels may not enter passenger stations - therefore, is it for freight only? Also, the Class 66 utilizes the 710 prime mover - making it an offshoot of GM EMD's US locomotives - I think!.

  • What was the reason for running this particular special? Was it commemorate something?

  • @liox sorry, I've no idea - other than it was to collect passengers arriving on the QE2 ocean liner. However, the special rolling stock suggests that this was more than a 'normal' boat train.

    I was there because I took a disabled person to the docks; he was going to America and was unable to sit in an aircraft seat so travelled on the QE2 instead.

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