Over weekends now, for several months;I've noticed a westbound 'merchandise train[mixed car types]. The train seems to arrive in this area each saturday, in the middle of the morning. Mostly. I have caught what appeard to be the same power (?)on eastbound trains on sunday afternoons or evenings(?).
The power for this particular move seems to be yard types {GP38-2's (?) engines. An unusual move through this area[ main 3 Eldorado sub] . The usual power provided is GE's, and a smattering of EMD's. For the COFC's and TOFC's, and various comodity unit moves. So the use of those GP type's stick out to the casual observer. This morning there were 3 GP 38-2 and the fourth unit was equipped for RC [ the flasher lights on the cab, and support gril were give-aways(?)].
Very occasionally, one can see a 'GP type' running 'back in the pack' behind a learer unit. {possibly enroute ot another assignment(?). Which is why this GP powered train sticks out.
*Are they running those GP engines to put on miles, and engine time(?). *I would suspect that in Yard Use they would get a high amount of low RPM engine time(?). *Do they 'need' to run them on the road 'to blow out the build-up' in their systems?
Can anyone provide some answers?
Going to Argentine for their regular 90-120 day inspections from outlying points I suspect, from somewhere where an outlying switch/roadswitcher job is on their scheduled day off?
Where is the Eldorado sub located??
KANSAS
USUALLY PART OF THE EMPORIA SUB THESE DAYS (EL DORADO-WELLINGTON) as they continue to consolidate
I am in NS territory. There is a small yard near me where 3 locals are based out of M - F and 4 GP38-2s are used for the local power. They are brought down to a larger yard for servicing and then returned to the yard for their Monday morning duties. You are probably seeing the same type of thing where you are
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