Just today I was flipping through MBI's book on the Santa Fe Chiefs. In the last chapter which focusses on Amtrak, I found photos captioned as the SW Chief showing a train of only 8 or 9 Amfleet cars. There was another shot in San Bernadino that had only one loco and 5 Superliners. I'm not an Amtrak expert, but I don't believe the SW Chief ever ran with all Amfleet or was as short as five cars. Am I confused or is the book in error?
Roger in MI
The book is unfortunately wrong.
I was very disappointed with the Amtrak section. The SW Chief never used Amfleets. The picture is a San Diegan. The 5 car Superliner train is the Desert Wind.
A bit more research would have helped.
Matt from Anaheim, CA and Bayfield, COClick Here for my model train photo website
AMTRAK'S western train length's vary with the season.
Most 'western' trains use the hi level 'Superliner' cars, and 'thrue trains' have a diner and lounge, with both coach and sleepers.
'Hook-on segments such as Spokane - Portland, or SLC - LA may include a Lounge or Diner, but not both. Other trains may only have a 'lunch' counter.