Are DCC locomotives compatible with DC layouts?

DCC locomotives compatible with DC layouts: An image of a locomotive on a set of test rail

Cody Grivno addresses whether DCC-equipped locomotives can be ran on DC layouts without damaging the locomotives DCC control system. Are you looking to learn more about your model railroad, or do you have questions about full-size trains? We’d love to hear from you! Send us an email at: AskTrains@trains.com, or leave a question in the […]

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How can I verify track voltage?

verify track voltage: An image of hands holding a track voltage meter

Cody Grivno discusses the Model Rectifier Controlmaster V, and how model railroaders can verify track voltage while operating with this system. Are you looking to learn more about your model railroad, or do you have questions about full-size trains? We’d love to hear from you! Send us an email at: AskTrains@trains.com, or leave a question […]

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Union Pacific announces start of transition of Chicago commuter rail operations to Metra

Commuter train and two freight trains in setting sun.

CHICAGO — Union Pacific is working with commuter rail operator Metra to “safely and seamlessly transfer its commuter operation in Chicago, including the employees who perform the work,” UP announced today (Thursday, March 30), setting the stage for an exit from the commuter rail business long sought by the freight operator. UP said Metra will […]

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Diesels from long-defunct U.S. builder Davenport still operating in Thailand

Blue and tan shovel-nose diesel locomotive with red pilot at station

Thai State Railways (State Railway of Thailand or SRT) still has at least three diesel locomotives built 71 years ago by long-defunct American manufacturer Davenport Locomotive Works in regular service. One, at Nakhon Lampang in the north of the country, is used regularly to switch cars into Chiang Mai-Bangkok services with passengers onboard. The units […]

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Landmark diesel: CNJ 1000

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Central Railroad of New Jersey box-cab No. 1000, built by an Alco/General Electric/Ingersoll-Rand consortium, gained the title of “first commercially successful diesel-electric locomotive” when CNJ put it to work on October 22, 1925. After a three-decade career, the unit was retired to the B&O Railroad Museum in Baltimore. CNJ photo […]

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Union Pacific reopens Cima Subdivision after derailment of runaway iron ore train

KELSO, Calif. — Union Pacific reopened its Cima Subdivision today less than 26 hours after part of an iron ore train ran away and derailed on the 2.2% Cima Hill grade near Kelso. “Union Pacific crews worked around-the-clock to rebuild the tracks in the Mojave National Preserve, east of Barstow, where 55 railcars and two […]

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Gulf & Atlantic buys three Midwestern short lines

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Gulf & Atlantic Railways will acquire three railroads operating in Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio — the Chesapeake & Indiana, Vermilion Valley and Camp Chase — from Midwest & Bluegrass rail, the company announced Monday. The railroads involved are: — The Chesapeake & Indiana (CKIN), a 28-mile line in northwest Indiana, with connections […]

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