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[quote user="SouthPenn"] It's my understanding that today helpers that are spliced into the train are radio controlled from the head end.  We've come a long way. <div style="clear:both;"> </div> [/quote] Not always.  The ATSF 3751 does not have (or did not have at the time Pentrex made the video) dual controls.  They did a helicoper chase over Cajon Pass, with radio comms from the crew, and you can clearly hear the steam engineer asking the diesel (BNSF ES44AC I think, but cant remember) to adjust his throttle/dynamic brake setttings. I have not been in the cab of the N&W 611 recently, but I know they have been working on adding PTC gear that is now required (a new turbo is being crammed in under the shroud, fortunately it doesnt show).  I do not think she has a diesel throttle (no real need) the video I linked had a diesel helper, but on her Manassas excursions there haven't been any diesel helpers (and really doesnt need one unless the tracks are wet, slight issue this past year).   611 generates 77,899lbs of tractive effort, I believe the most of any extant 4-8-4.   I would suggest a visit to either Viginia Museum of Transportation (during excursion off season), or to Oregon Rail Heritage Center in Portland, OR, to see full sized 4-8-4s.  There is an operating GS-4 (SP 4449) in Portland, as well as SP&S 700.
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