Virgin Trains

[Anonymous]

Our class 57 " Thunderbird " rescue engines have been fitted with a general motors engine
Our class 220 voyager units also have an american heart in cummins blocks

[jchnhtfd]

Now there's a term I haven't run into before -- 'rescue engine'. I can imagine what the function might be, but what is, really?

Not surprised that EMD or Cummins engines are used -- when one comes down to it, there aren't that many folks making big diesel engines. On the other hand, a big chunk of the electircal gear in North American locomotives is of European design, if not manufacture. It's a global economy, really!

[Hugh Jampton]

QUOTE: Originally posted by jchnhtfd

Now there's a term I haven't run into before -- 'rescue engine'. I can imagine what the function might be, but what is, really?

It is just what it sounds like,, a loco that is kept in reserve somewhere (they tend to be parked at 100 or so mile intervals) that is used to rescue a broken down train. They are also used when MoW have an electrified railway closed and the detour is a non-electrified line.


p.s. Personally I think the Pendolinos and Voyagers (and the Midland's Meridians) blow in the negative direction. No leg room, no luggage space, weird doors, uncomfortable seats and etcetera.

[M636C]

Everything isn't what it seems!

Soon, we won't be calling the EMD 12-645E3s (and 12-645F3s in some cases) in the various Class 57 locomotives "General Motors" engines when the sale to Greenbriar goes through.

And the Cummins railcar engines, the KTA 19R and the updated QSK 19R, which is arguably the most successful railcar engine in the world today, has always been built in England at Cummins plant in Daventry! I haven't had a chance to ride anyone's Pendolino, but sadly I must agree with Hugh that even the best underfloor engines are a bit intrusive, compared to a normal hauled passenger car.

But the big problem with space in the trains quoted is the clearances that they are required to run (and tilt) in!

And Virgin feel that they can't get a reasonable return on the Cross Country services the Voyagers were built for, and the franchise has not been renewed!

Peter

[Kozzie]

I can't say too much at all on the technical side of things, but as a passenger, I really enjoyed a trip on the Tilt Train here in Queensland. A 400 mile round trip to Bundaberg was very comfortable. Plenty of leg room, very comfortable seats, great service and smooth quiet ride. Sure beats driving down the highway!

Dave

[M636C]

Dave,

I think the loading gauge in Queensland might actually be larger than that in the United kingdom now, despite the smaller rail gauge. This would allow the queensland tilting trains to be roomier inside.

Peter

[Anonymous]

Franchise for Virgin Cross country has not been withdrawn either.We are half way into a 12 month review period and with the definate withdrawel of Central Trains its looking good for my brothers and sisters.I just hope that when it is renewed we put in an order for some more coaches for the voyager fleet!

[Anonymous]

Franchise for Virgin Cross country has not been withdrawn either.We are half way into a 12 month review period and with the definate withdrawel of Central Trains its looking good for my brothers and sisters.I just hope that when it is renewed we put in an order for some more coaches for the voyager fleet!