CP Rail CEFX West Mt. MacDonald Sub & Conaught Tunnel Sept 2

CP Rail emerging from the West Portal of Mt MacDonald. When I worked for CP Rail as aTrainman in 1977, the 5 Mile Long Conaught Tunnel[1916] was the only route through this area.

Category:

Autos & Vehicles

Tags:

• CP
• Rail
• Mt
• MacDonald
• Sub

[JoeHVACR]

Went through there at 20 MPH [either direction] in 1978 coal train. Took 15 minutes. All you could see was the instrument panel an the engineers control stand. Got Pictures!

[afzx960]

My question is when they built the Mount MacDonald, why didn't they just double-track it and eliminate the Connaught route entirely. I could be wrong, but my guess is it would be an unnecessary expenditure - I mean, it's awfully expensive to build tunnels, and the lighter trains probably would have no problem going over the Connaught route.

[JoeHVACR]

I think you are right. The just increase the volume. CP and CN use each others track in Fraser Canyon for traffic in the same direction to avoid meets and have emptys on the steeper grades.

[JoeHVACR]

Have a video clip of such a trip from the engineers view point. Just have to figure out how to get it to you.

[revho700]

I was on the very first Rail Grinder to pass through this tunnel in 1989.

The Grinder was called Loram RG-16.

To this day I'm still amazed on the trip through there and I can say that there isn't many people who can say the same.

I also can say that I also went through the Connaught tunnel to and we camped at the west entrance of that which was also amazing to walk up to the entrance and see the light at the eastend 5 miles away!!!

[JoeHVACR]

Still with the railroad? I started out with the MOW Section [motorcars /hand tools], did some time climbing poles with CP Telecommunications then went on to the running trades as a brakeman. Still remember the time we "pulled a knukle" going up Albert Canyon. As always, the sound of SD40's pulling hard brings back memories.

Joe

[rebecca1robinson]

Just wanted to add that my grandfather (now 87) rode through this tunnel atop a steam train boxcar during the Depression and nearly died. His older brother held a raincoat over their faces and they were so relieved to see light. What I want to know is how long would they have been in there, on a freight train travelling at the average speed in the 30's? Thanks

[JimboRailfan]

@afzx960 I read that it's because the Connaught Tunnel uses only eastbound trains (with a 1% ruling gradient for eastbounds) and the Mount MacDonald Tunnel uses only westbound trains (with a .8% ruling gradient for westbounds), therefore making it a just as useful and much cheaper solution than making a double track tunnel.

[TrainGuy33]

They Would Not Abandon The Conaught Line Because It Would Cost A LOT MORE, Also The Conaught Line Helps Unloaded Trains.

[JoeHVACR]

Good to know, when I transfered up there form Nelson Sub on a change of card they still had Cabooses. Got tired of the 2 Hr Call and got out while I was still young.

Regards,