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Drive a train?

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  • Member since
    January 2001
  • From: US
  • 32 posts
Drive a train?
Posted by Rescuedtrains on Sunday, October 30, 2005 10:13 AM
What is the correct description of what a locomotive engineer does?

Drive the train?

Operate the train?

Contol the train?

Engineer the train?

Does it matter if the motive power is steam or diesel?


Steve
  • Member since
    November 2003
  • From: West Coast
  • 4,122 posts
Posted by espeefoamer on Monday, October 31, 2005 6:32 PM
Im most familliar with Run the train.
Ride Amtrak. Cats Rule, Dogs Drool.
  • Member since
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Posted by txhighballer on Monday, October 31, 2005 6:40 PM
As long as I have been railroading,it's always been called "running". In fact,when engineers are promoted,it's called" set up running".
  • Member since
    May 2014
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Posted by trolleyboy on Wednesday, November 2, 2005 3:15 PM
We always refer to it as operating the train at the museum but it's electric streetrailway equipment, so the terminology likely a bit different. However running the train does seem to be the most common term used when one is thinking of steam or diesel powered trains.

That seems to make sence becaus eif you look at steam operations. the fireman fires the boiler, and the Conductor on passenger trains. basically directs passengers and crews or conducts operations.

Therfore the engineer is in control of the movement of the train so yes I think runs is the most appropriate term.

Rob
  • Member since
    June 2004
  • From: Over yonder by the roundhouse
  • 1,224 posts
Posted by route_rock on Tuesday, November 22, 2005 12:47 PM
Balling the Jack! Running seems to be the most accepted term here.

Yes we are on time but this is yesterdays train

  • Member since
    November 2005
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Posted by wanswheel on Wednesday, November 23, 2005 10:58 AM
The engineer runs his iron horse.
  • Member since
    September 2005
  • From: Mass
  • 1,063 posts
Posted by trainfreek92 on Wednesday, November 23, 2005 4:49 PM
i believe he runs the train. Tim
Running New England trains on The Maple Lead & Pine Tree Central RR from the late 50's to the early 80's in N scale

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