Amtrak on its way into Tampa must turn the train around and back it down into the station. Because of the neighborhood where the wye is, we get a closeup look at the operation.
I've received quite a number of comments asking "Why don't they just put an engine on either end?" It's because these are long distance trains. They run two locomotives at the head end, pointed forward. This provides for all needed on-board power, plus a backup engine in case one fails en route. The cabling and other mods that would be needed to run a push-pull setup wouldn't make sense to merely save 15 - 18 minutes on the turn at Tampa over a 31 -hour trip. Also, there is no drone footage in this video because my new DJI Air 2s had some flight restrictions built in that I couldn't override at that location. It was apparently under the approach to a nearby Class D airport.
Additionally, the Amfleet carriages have seating that only faces one direction. Amtrak runs them forward for passenger comfort (running "backwards" can lead to motion sickness for more sensitive passengers). Even if you could run locomotives on both ends, you'd still end up with cars running the wrong way around.
@@pjotrtje0NL the carriages are pointing in the correct direction. As he said Tampa is the end of the line that's why the train backs into the station so everything is pointing in the right direction
My dad died of natural causes while working on a railroad track crew he loved his job. I miss him, we used to take the train Maine to Florida and back the Pullman cars and the porters were always a treat , Had many rail adventures with my dad , Got train rides nobody gets . Like in the Snowplow pushed by a steam locomotive from Bartlett, NH through Crawfords Notch over Frankinstein Trestle , The last Steam powered passenger train Portland Maine to Boston Mass the sound of a steam whistle makes me cry to this day , a sound that marked time in a time past the whistle at the Sawmill its 5 AM , One on the morning train 5:40AM , the Woollen mill 7AM and you best be in your seat at school when you hear it .
I appreciate that your video wasn't just about trains. You also managed to provide a history lesson, demonstrate respectful cultural exploration, and support a local business!
Its the right thing to do support mom.and pop businesses. I hate walmart for how they treat employees and hurt mom and pop businesses. Local food usually is best too. Where i railfan there a many small buisnesses i eat at and support. I get gas at an independent station at my fav spot hes a bit more than big oil but its better service and im helping a family and the owners a veteran.
I'm an Ybor city native and my grandmother's house backed up to those same railroad tracks. Fond memories of running outside to wave to the train . Sometimes they would throw us candy when they passed.🙂
We live in Winter Park, about two hours north of Tampa, where the tracks go right through our downtown shopping and park district. My son was in love with trains from a very early age, so we used to stand in the park close to the tracks and watch trains go by all the time. One day while picking up passengers, a conductor waved us over to the doorway, stepped down, took an Amtrak pin off his lapel, and handed it to me for my son. One of my best memories of his childhood.
My dad started with Atlantic Coast Line in Tampa. Purple engines. We left Tampa Union on vacation, heading to Ohio. Rode on many railroad cars during his career. I remember him talking about the Silver Star. I still have his old lantern when he switched the tracks. Also have his blue hat he wore working there passenger runs. Lots of memories riding this train. Remember our luggage being put on the carts and rolled to baggage car. Loved the video. My dad is still Living and is 97.
Terri your dad would love the old switching engine in Davenport for the rock plant. It's the ACL 100 painted up just as you say in purple and silver livery. I am certain you can find dozens of photos of it online but it's neat to see in person as well.
My dad was a railroad man. He started with Central of Georgia, then later with Southern Railway (later known as Norfolk Southern). We lived in rural Georgia and then moved to Atlanta when he went to work for Norfolk Southern. Every other weekend he would come home to rural GA and then on alternating weekends we would come to Atlanta on the Nancy Hanks II which ran from Savannah to Atlanta. This craziness went on for about a year. My mom would get us kids up early Saturday, feed us breakfast, drive to Millen, GA to get on the train arriving in Atlanta about 1 pm. Then we would be house hunting until leaving on Sunday evening about 6 pm, arriving back in Millen about 11 pm. She would then drive us sleeping kids home and get us in bed to be in school the next day. Don't know how they managed that for a year. I remember we had 2 phones growing up (back then there was no call waiting, etc.), one phone being for his work, because he worked crazy hours and was always on call. Sometimes we might see him a couple times a week because of his schedule. He was the man in the caboose radioing to the engineer. He actually died while at work on the train, massive heart attack many decades ago.
The ' JUMP FROG ' is something I've never seen . I was a rail train operator on the Union Pacific and rode the loaded rail trains and worked in 18 states . I unloaded 18 strings of rail that was welded for the ' AAR ' Test Facility just outside of Pueblo , Colorado . The pieces of rail varied from as short as 30 feet to several hundred feet and we spent 4 days unloading the rail according to a very detailed list of where each piece was unloaded . Everything from the sub grade to the signal systems of the railroads is tested at the facility . At the time I was there they had 3 tracks 4 , 7 and 11 miles long and trains of all types of rail cars were run for hours and some that ran 24 hours . It's a ' FRA ' facility and highly regulated . Extremely interesting facility. Without a doubt the most enjoyable place I worked in my railroad career . I enjoy your videos a lot and look forward to each that you post . Great video .
What you call jump-frog is actually an old invention. It used to be common on crossings where a narrow-gauge or light railway crossed a standard gauge line. Recently it's gained popularity in turnouts on tram networks where the diverging line is far less frequently used. It isn't much fun because the wheels on the secondary line must climb on, roll across and run off the railhead of the primary line. The flange on the railhead is a bad omen, isn't it? If you're a railwayman, you can imagine the wear & tear it comes with and the permanent speed restriction on the secondary line. After a few derailments they get replaced by traditional "frogs". Until somebody re-discovers the hole in the pipe and nobody remembers whey they fell out of use previously.
@@szabados1980 Good information. Too often, people don't look into the history of why things are done the way they are so they "change" things. Years go by and then they find there is a problem. Sometimes progress means relearning what happened in the past so you don't make the same mistake.
@@szabados1980 As a railroader the first thing I thought about the Jump-Frog was its a perfect example of a track device to cause a derailment . The cost of the jump-Frog vs a regular frog must have been the reason for it's use . Walking speed of the train should be in the rules during movements .
Never even heard of a "Jump Frog"! Somewhat different than the setup for a diamond and vey useful I imagine. I've seen "replicas" of a jump frog on some poorly constructed MODEL railroads!! 😛 Now we can say they are prototypical!! 😁
That's funny that you all should say that. When I got the notification for this upload, I thought to myself 'I've just been notified of Danny's upload'. The funny part is that I was exactly right. Spooky, eh?
It’s on my bucket 🪣 list to take the wife on a Amtrak trip. Recently retired from law enforcement seven years ago and after having an heart attack in October I’m afraid I better get on that bucket list. I’m doing awesome and feel great but time just gets away from you and I don’t want no regrets. Thanks for sharing your passion Danny. You bring sunshine to those rainy days.
As a former freight conductor and track worker its a very through explanation for those who are totally clueless in the world of railroading. brake lights, shove moves, signals, etc. nice job
I'm a 3rd generation rail fan and have lived in Tampa for over 27 years... never get tired of seeing rail videos showing off the local action! Excellent job, sir...
Fond memories! About 30 years ago my wife, 2 young sons (2 & 4) & I took this train (Silver Meteor) from Kingston, RI to Tampa. & back a week later.. A fascinating experience.. Civilized Travel!!! Had a "roomette" (a weird "L" shaped bunkhouse made so they could fit twice as many travelers in the same space) on the way down for my wife and the little one, and a real stateroom (with delivered coffee, newspaper & a few other amenities..) for the 2 of them on the way back. Sitting in the last car when coming into Tampa, NOT expecting the reverse, a little, quite old conductor almost hobbled to the end of the train with this 9 or 10 inch long brass thing in his hand (What was it???) and proceeded to insert it into the end of a rubber hose tied to the end railing.. We turned around in our rear seats and enjoyed a tweeting whistle punctuated view of a slow back up into Tampa. When we got there, the tracks spread out and no less than 3 other complete train sets were there rumbling and waiting to leave. One of the most indelible experiences of that train trip... along with the splitting of the 2 trains in Jacksonville.. one engine going to Miami with half the train and one engine going to Tampa. Of course, the reverse coupling of the 2 trains on the way back was rather awesome also. (Too many more experiences for this post!!)
8:30 The Pennsylvanian does an interesting backup move of its own, but it’s a dead head move after passengers are dropped off in Pittsburgh. The train backs out of the station and travels about 5 miles to a wye off the Norfolk Southern Pittsburgh Line (former Pennsylvania Railroad main line), reverses onto the wye, and then after clearing the switch goes forward onto the Pittsburgh Line facing eastbound. It then reverses again for the 5 miles back to the Pittsburgh station and is now positioned for the next eastbound run to New York City.
Came here to say this. The train reverses east out of Pittsburgh Station to CP Home, and stops a few car lengths short of the signal. There, a hand throw switch leads to an industrial line that used to connect to the Low Grade freight line, now known as the Conemaugh Line. After shoving back into this industrial line several hundred yards, there is another switch that then leads back to the Pittsburgh Line via CP Home. Now turned around, the train gets the signal at CP Home, and reverses back for the Amtrak Station for the night. This train will become the eastbound train the following morning.
I know very little about trains and railways, but as a Tampa resident for three years I am so happy to know of this unique and quirky rail maneuver so close to home! Thank you for the lovely video!!
My dad retired from CSX after a career that started with Atlantic Coast Line. He loved the railroad dearly and even helped move the train to the train museum in our town of Waycross, GA. I have wanted to ride Amtrak but haven’t had a chance yet.
What makes these videos so fun to watch is just how pleasant and educational they are, no flashy editing or unnecessary add-ons that could annoy someone. It's just useful train and eatery related info.
Stumbled across this on my newsfeed, don't normally view this type video. Am a retired rail: Tower Operator, Yardmaster, Dispatcher and Locomotive Engineer and I find this very well done. Thank you for the memories; wish you continued success!
Another excellent video Danny, thank you. As an enthusiast here in Scotland, I've got a decent understanding of how our railways work but the U.S. system is very different. Your descriptions of the various equipment and operations may be obvious to your North American audience but they're a great help to the rest of us. I learn a lot from your easy-going narration and thoroughly enjoy your work. Cheers for now, Dougie.
Thanks, Danny - As usual, a fascinating, well-shot, engagingly narrated piece, and the culinary suggestions added a nice touch. One can sure work up an appetite chasing those trains! As you asked for suggestions...I recently re-posted a 1977 photo I'd taken of Reading No. 2101 pulling a Chessie Steam Special out of the tunnel and across the bridge over the Potomac into Harpers Ferry, and a friend quickly let me know "The #2101 is about to go back into service and will pull Reading Rambles excursions in 2022 on the Reading and Northern RR." Wow- I'd had no idea that handsome machine would run again! I can imagine how fascinating a video program or two by you would be. Hopefully, it's not too far off your beaten path. Don't know how good (or existent!) the Cuban food might be up there, but I know I'd enjoy seeing your coverage of a Reading Ramble!
I grew up in Tampa, and my dad was a Passenger Service Agent on the Silver Meteor from St. Pete to NYC. I rode the train with him many times throughout my childhood. This video brought back many memories for me.
That wye takes up a lot of real estate! Would be great to see drone video of this operation from up high for a perspective of the magnitude of the wye area. Interesting video, thanks!
Wonderful video! I always love your style and presentation, very well narrated with superb information and great filming, I love coming back to your channel time and again! Also, as I spent a lot of time in Florida during the late 1990s, especially around Tampa and Clearwater, seeing those sunkissed views again brings back some lovely memories of visiting the old Clearwater Depot and the short section of street running. Keep up the great work! 😁
Danny. another train home run! As a tv producer, I appreciate that you included the comment about several trips to get the needed variety of angles! Awesome sir!! You make railfanning come alive!! Joe Carleo - Retired PBS international producer.
Wow, great video! Have been a RAIL FAN longer then I can remember. You sound as though you were in radio or a professional announcer which really made this stand out as one of the better videos on UA-cam. Thank you
Thanks Danny, I've sat in my car at those same locations, at the wye, to see Amtrak 91 and 92 do this turn, and rode back from Orlando on board twice. The 17 crossings through Ybor City still are unlike any place that I've see.... backwards!
Super interesting, Danny! I've also been wondering for a couple of years now about that baggage car whistle-I could've sworn I heard one in Chicago one time, but I couldn't find really much of anything about them, and so I started to think I was just going crazy haha. Thanks for the information! I can't wait to see what neat finds you bring to us next. This is surprisingly efficient considering the slow speeds and ridiculous amounts of crossings, not to mention turning the entire train around hahaha.
Thank you so much for this video. I used to take the 91, 97, 92 or 98 trains, depending on when I had to be back north, to Winter Park. Always wondered how they turned around in Tampa. Very interesting.
Danny, another great one. You're videos teach so much, bring often wondered subjects into focus, all while being completely entertaining and fun. Please keep going, doing what you do and sharing your time w us.
Can't thank you enough for your quality videos and comments about good local food. You always have new information to share. Turning on a "Y" is really an eye opener for the novice. Thank you so m
Love your videos Danny. Went with a friend 2 weeks ago to Moore Haven and Clewiston for the sugar cane train. What a great day with near perfect shots.
I rode Amtrak from Denver to Reno over the summer. Denver was very similar to Tampa. To get into the Denver Union Station, the train had to back up. I don't know how far it was, but it was a pretty long back. The fun thing in Reno is that about a decade ago, Union Pacific lowered the tracks to go through the, "trench" which actually goes under downtown Reno. The Amtrak stops at the station and when you disembark, you look up about 45 feet, enter the historic train station from track level, and go up to ground level.
The original CZ did the same-westbound the CB&Q crew would take the CZ across the “buck main” onto the DRGW. Then reverse into Denver Union Station. The cars traveled throwaway car/window wash rack that had special brushes to clean the dome cars. Amtrak 5&6 still use the buck main. Now it’s BNSF to UP.
Awesome video of Amtrak’s Sliver Star making the reversing move into TUS aka Tampa Union Station and I am always looking forward to another Danny Harmon video and your narration is always top notch! From a fan of this channel and I thank you very much Danny Harmon @Distant Signal for posting this and this video makes me happy!
WOW Danny, i've watched that entire operation in person several times and my favorite part was standing down by the "now gone" TN signal house and watching him leaving Tampa and crossing the diamond at speed, thanks Danny for bringing back some great memories. Thanks for all the information and education as usual. I'm really liking the restaurant reviews at the end of your videos, thanks for the latest, ill definitely be stopping by to try that Cuban Sandwich the next time I get back down your way. Sooner rather than later, I hope.
Being a train buff all my life I really enjoy your videos which are well researched and very entertaining. Living over here in Largo I don’t get to see much freight traffic so depend on your videos for insight as to what’s going on. I’m of the age that I rode many steam trains both here in the US and in Scotland and England with lots of fond memories. Keep up the great work and I look forward to your next productions
I love how I was able to randomly come across a local content producer. Been going to school at USF for the last few years and always look for some interesting places and things to do in my off time.
Love it! Danny's train and exquisite little-known foodie spot videos! You know, one of the first things you learn as a Freight Conductor is all the places you can stop without blocking crossings, so you can get a bite to eat. But most of those places have you running to the second unit about two hours later. On the other hand, these gems of food bites you share make up for it. Edit: I don't know if it's worth mentioning here or in a future video, but this ride makes a perfect day trip for anyone who wants to see what riding on Amtrak is like. Pick up the train at any point North of TUS, coming South. Then as long as the trains are close to being on time, the layover in Tampa is about 2.5 hours. The only drawback is the hike from TUS to anywhere reasonable to eat, drink and shop. It's about 4 blocks to the nearest TECO trolley station which will haul you up to Ybor City. Then be sure to get back to the station in time for the Northbound Superstar and get off at the station you boarded coming South. My stepsons loved it when they were 11 years old. Their little eyeballs were fixated on the windows from Winter Park all the way to the Wye.
Always so very, very interesting, and learn so much. I’ve always loved trains and the RI ran passed end of our street as a kid. Even though I work for a major US air carrier, I still love being the first one at a railroad crossing to watch trains! Be safe!
Having done several cross country trips on Amtrak I love it when you cover them. As a rider you aren't fully aware of what is happening and why. I seem to recall a similar backing move required in Denver maybe? Can't remember exactly, but I remember standing down on the lower deck of the sleeper car talking to the porter about what was going on, the safety stop before finishing the back-in, and so on. The employees on Amtrak tend to be really nice people and fun to talk to sometimes. On a cross country trip you are trapped in there with them for two days or so, so it pays for everyone to be nice. I've seen them stop the train in the middle of the night and get the Amtrak police to come eject troublemaking passengers (drunks, etc.) and that's kind of funny.
@@johnkerrison6698 At DC it's usually a locomotive change, the NE corridor to NY/Boston uses electric and the rest of the route south or west of DC uses diesel.
At least they don't just throw the troublemaker(s) off the train while it's moving. To me, I think it would serve the troublemaker's justice to stop the train, kick them off wherever the train is, and then go on. Contact the local sheriff to pick them up so they can make a visit to the jail.
I'm sure glad I found your videos. You have the best commentary. I enjoy history of many subjects and your supply of the local history where ever you are recording makes the story so much more personal. Thanks, Danny.
You are tops, Danny, in originality, clarity of what you are doing, extremely informative, and super educational. Thanks for the top quality of all your videos. Ne plus ultra.
Your Florida train videos are very interesting. I have learned so much train history. El Segundo crab cake, check . Who would ever known about that switch if you hadn't pointed it out. Thanks for pointing out historic Ybor City, virtually unknown to most people outside of Florida.
Love the video as always Danny. Thanks so much for sharing. As a 2 year Davenport, Fl. resident I am trying to collect as much Railroad information as I can from your wonderful videos. I currently live in Providence Golf Club just north of Davenport, Fl. on the CSX line. I have a scanner that I use to try and catch both CSX and Amtrak traffic as they go bye. Love all of your videos. Please continue to add more and thank you so much for an awesome job.
My day was made when I saw a new video from Danny! As always, this fairly new railfan has learned something new! Thank you so much, Danny. I love your stops for lunch. Unfortunately they don't have deviled crab or Cuban sandwiches up here in New Hampshire!
Thank so much for this very interisting video. 2 years ago I had to cancel my reservation on Amtrak to Tampa due to the pandemic. I am looking forward to do that as soon as possible. Best wishes from Germany, Franz
As an Aussie viewer I found this very interesting. We have 'Y's in Australia, but some states more than others. Queensland on its regular narrow 3' 6" gauge has the most 'Y's but not as long as this one at Tampa. Thanks for your informative narration.
Always the absolute tops in railfan videos, great job Danny. Now that the border looks like it might stay open for a while I can plan my next outing to Florida, and someday I hope to run into "railfan Danny" ! Thank you for all the interesting and informative videos, I have learned so much !!
Love those Cuban treats. In Puerto Rico we call them Alcapurrias de Jueyes. Made from seasoned land crab meat and grated green plantains. The most sought after in the entire island come from a town called Piñones. There’s a special allure to eating seafood at a carribean beach town…😂😂🤣 “As always,” thanks for the video!
Thanks for highlighting so many fascinating rail facts in your episodes, Florida has a lot of interesting rail activity. Hope Brightline will eventually help alleviate some interstate congestion between Tampa and Orlando, it's a nightmare driving in that region! Love seeing local eateries! 😋
Hey Danny! That’s really near to see Amtrak 92 do those moves to be able to back into the station! I’m always looking forward to the next video you put out! Have a fantastic day! See you down the line!
Good evening Danny, as an avid rail fan, particularly Amtrak, anything you can share about them would be most appreciated. I was aware of the back in at Tampa but I did not know why, finding out today that it was a dead end was enlightening. Please keep it coming!! Safe rail fanning sir!
Great video as always Danny!! You did an excellent job explaining the interesting Amtrak maneuvers. Also, that devil crab looks really yummy!! I gave you a big like on this one =- ) :D
I live in SWFL and take the Amtrak to NC to see family. I always wondered why Amtrak does this and wonder why it was like this. I am thrilled to see the track configuration on this. Thank You for this video, I enjoyed this.
I've taken the Amtrak from New York to Miami a number of times. Always wondered about the Tampa stop logistics. Thanks for this video that explains it.
As an old signalman on the Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad I really enjoy your east coast videos Danny. Your knowledge of every aspect of railroading is quite remarkable and excellently communicated to your audience. Good job...you make us forget how messed up the world can be at times.. 👍
Another amazing video, love seeing Florida's rails! Perhaps an idea for a future video, the Amtrak station in Miami(Hialeah) and why it never moved to the new station at the Miami international airport. Keep up the great work, from Sanford :)
First, I just have to say, you have a VERY good narrator voice! This video was very informative while pleasing to listen to. I had never even heard of a "jump frog" switch before! That is fascinating, and an ingenious way to reduce wear and sound! I do still have to wonder though....why the turnaround? While you did explain that it's preferrable not to have two running locomotives right up against the station house, I don't see why they couldn't just have the train in a shuttle configuration, with one locomotive on each end. This would avoid both having to turn around and having two tandem locomotives right next to the station house.
@@FreihEitner they don't run cab cars because they don't reverse for long sections, most non long distance lines don't turn around they only face 1 way and run backwards 1/2 the time
Just a layman but always been fascinated by trains. A big freight went through my hometown (Belmont, Mass) every day enroute Boston. My friend and I hung around the tracks often and put pennies on the track (which we rarely found later.. if we did, they were flattened an twice as big). Love these programs. Great explanations for your amateur viewers! Well done!
Very good video about a place I enjoy going into and out of Tampa --- I also enjoy being able to tell folks about the turn-around, who have never been through it ..... Will try to put it on my phone, so I can show it to other travelers while we spend the 15+ minute back-up into TPA..... Thank you!
As usual, an excellent video. I found myself wishing for one of your diagrams. It is an interesting maneuver that makes perfect sense yet is still a littlle weird. I wonder what the passengers must be thinking about going backwards for so long.
They're thinking, "I need to use the restroom now before we get off the train," or "Where's the bag I brought on with me?" but very few of them are actually concerned about the direction. One thing Danny did not mention is that you can take a day trip here from any point North of Tampa. As long as you don't mind the little walk from TUS to any one of the food eateries or the TECO trolley line, it's a good 2.5 hour visit in between trains assuming they are both relatively on time. It's also a PERFECT opportunity to take the kids for a ride, giving them a chance to see what it's like riding on a real passenger train. I think Kissimmee to TUS is about an hour and 10 minutes, with speeds up to 79 mph along the route.
It's very surprising how loud that procedure is. I haven't heard a train horn in years here in Switzerland, they seem to blow the horn here all the time.
Another top-of-the-line production. Don't expect anything less. Some of these up and coming young UA-camrs do really want to do it the right way need look no further than one of your videos.
Outstanding video! Two questions… 1. Has Amtrak ever tried using a Non-Powered Control Unit for the side closest to the train station (instead of turning the consist along the wye)? 2. Could Amtrak use electric plug-in stations so that the locomotives do not idle (and make noise in the station) with the new ALC-42 Charger fleet?
I'm not sure if Amtrak has ever tried a NPCU on this train, but their long term fleet plans indicate they plan to eventually acquire Siemens Venture cab coaches, which will pair with the chargers to make bi-directional trainsets for both local and long distance travel. Time will tell if they actually end up using them on the long distance routes. A selection of the new charger orders are supposed to be bimodal, so in theory they could electrify the station for to allow engine shutdown while still providing HEP. However as this stop is only about 10-20 minutes, I suspect they have little interest in doing so unless traffic was enough to justify electrifying the entire line.
I've received quite a number of comments asking "Why don't they just put an engine on either end?" It's because these are long distance trains. They run two locomotives at the head end, pointed forward. This provides for all needed on-board power, plus a backup engine in case one fails en route. The cabling and other mods that would be needed to run a push-pull setup wouldn't make sense to merely save 15 - 18 minutes on the turn at Tampa over a 31 -hour trip. Also, there is no drone footage in this video because my new DJI Air 2s had some flight restrictions built in that I couldn't override at that location. It was apparently under the approach to a nearby Class D airport.
Also the California Zephyr makes the same Maneuver pulling into Denver for the same reasons. Denver is also a stub end station
Additionally, the Amfleet carriages have seating that only faces one direction. Amtrak runs them forward for passenger comfort (running "backwards" can lead to motion sickness for more sensitive passengers). Even if you could run locomotives on both ends, you'd still end up with cars running the wrong way around.
@@jamesmurphy9577 do they turn each carriage for the return leg?
Yes, you were under Tampa’s rwy 28 approach…
@@pjotrtje0NL the carriages are pointing in the correct direction. As he said Tampa is the end of the line that's why the train backs into the station so everything is pointing in the right direction
My dad died of natural causes while working on a railroad track crew he loved his job. I miss him, we used to take the train Maine to Florida and back the Pullman cars and the porters were always a treat , Had many rail adventures with my dad , Got train rides nobody gets . Like in the Snowplow pushed by a steam locomotive from Bartlett, NH through Crawfords Notch over Frankinstein Trestle , The last Steam powered passenger train Portland Maine to Boston Mass the sound of a steam whistle makes me cry to this day , a sound that marked time in a time past the whistle at the Sawmill its 5 AM , One on the morning train 5:40AM , the Woollen mill 7AM and you best be in your seat at school when you hear it .
I appreciate that your video wasn't just about trains. You also managed to provide a history lesson, demonstrate respectful cultural exploration, and support a local business!
Its the right thing to do support mom.and pop businesses. I hate walmart for how they treat employees and hurt mom and pop businesses. Local food usually is best too. Where i railfan there a many small buisnesses i eat at and support. I get gas at an independent station at my fav spot hes a bit more than big oil but its better service and im helping a family and the owners a veteran.
What Kent speak
Agreed, you get a feel for the location too. It's almost like a travel show inside a railroad show lol
@@spamcan9208 yeah everyone just railfan and it’s just trains.
And he explains what’s in the food
I'm an Ybor city native and my grandmother's house backed up to those same railroad tracks. Fond memories of running outside to wave to the train . Sometimes they would throw us candy when they passed.🙂
When it was safe to get candy from strangers! 👊🏼
We live in Winter Park, about two hours north of Tampa, where the tracks go right through our downtown shopping and park district. My son was in love with trains from a very early age, so we used to stand in the park close to the tracks and watch trains go by all the time. One day while picking up passengers, a conductor waved us over to the doorway, stepped down, took an Amtrak pin off his lapel, and handed it to me for my son. One of my best memories of his childhood.
@@donaldstanfield8862 Back in my day, we didn't have psychopaths or evil people!
My dad started with Atlantic Coast Line in Tampa. Purple engines. We left Tampa Union on vacation, heading to Ohio. Rode on many railroad cars during his career. I remember him talking about the Silver Star. I still have his old lantern when he switched the tracks. Also have his blue hat he wore working there passenger runs. Lots of memories riding this train. Remember our luggage being put on the carts and rolled to baggage car. Loved the video. My dad is still
Living and is 97.
Terri your dad would love the old switching engine in Davenport for the rock plant. It's the ACL 100 painted up just as you say in purple and silver livery. I am certain you can find dozens of photos of it online but it's neat to see in person as well.
My dad was a railroad man. He started with Central of Georgia, then later with Southern Railway (later known as Norfolk Southern). We lived in rural Georgia and then moved to Atlanta when he went to work for Norfolk Southern. Every other weekend he would come home to rural GA and then on alternating weekends we would come to Atlanta on the Nancy Hanks II which ran from Savannah to Atlanta. This craziness went on for about a year.
My mom would get us kids up early Saturday, feed us breakfast, drive to Millen, GA to get on the train arriving in Atlanta about 1 pm. Then we would be house hunting until leaving on Sunday evening about 6 pm, arriving back in Millen about 11 pm. She would then drive us sleeping kids home and get us in bed to be in school the next day.
Don't know how they managed that for a year. I remember we had 2 phones growing up (back then there was no call waiting, etc.), one phone being for his work, because he worked crazy hours and was always on call. Sometimes we might see him a couple times a week because of his schedule.
He was the man in the caboose radioing to the engineer. He actually died while at work on the train, massive heart attack many decades ago.
Sorry about your dad. Nice story.
The ' JUMP FROG ' is something I've never seen . I was a rail train operator on the Union Pacific and rode the loaded rail trains and worked in 18 states . I unloaded 18 strings of rail that was welded for the ' AAR ' Test Facility just outside of Pueblo , Colorado . The pieces of rail varied from as short as 30 feet to several hundred feet and we spent 4 days unloading the rail according to a very detailed list of where each piece was unloaded . Everything from the sub grade to the signal systems of the railroads is tested at the facility . At the time I was there they had 3 tracks 4 , 7 and 11 miles long and trains of all types of rail cars were run for hours and some that ran 24 hours . It's a ' FRA ' facility and highly regulated . Extremely interesting facility. Without a doubt the most enjoyable place I worked in my railroad career . I enjoy your videos a lot and look forward to each that you post . Great video .
What you call jump-frog is actually an old invention. It used to be common on crossings where a narrow-gauge or light railway crossed a standard gauge line. Recently it's gained popularity in turnouts on tram networks where the diverging line is far less frequently used.
It isn't much fun because the wheels on the secondary line must climb on, roll across and run off the railhead of the primary line. The flange on the railhead is a bad omen, isn't it? If you're a railwayman, you can imagine the wear & tear it comes with and the permanent speed restriction on the secondary line. After a few derailments they get replaced by traditional "frogs". Until somebody re-discovers the hole in the pipe and nobody remembers whey they fell out of use previously.
@@szabados1980 Good information. Too often, people don't look into the history of why things are done the way they are so they "change" things. Years go by and then they find there is a problem. Sometimes progress means relearning what happened in the past so you don't make the same mistake.
@@szabados1980 As a railroader the first thing I thought about the Jump-Frog was its a perfect example of a track device to cause a derailment . The cost of the jump-Frog vs a regular frog must have been the reason for it's use . Walking speed of the train should be in the rules during movements .
Never even heard of a "Jump Frog"! Somewhat different than the setup for a diamond and vey useful I imagine. I've seen "replicas" of a jump frog on some poorly constructed MODEL railroads!! 😛 Now we can say they are prototypical!! 😁
Amtrak’s back in move into Tampa is really unique and I feel like a lot of us railfans in the area take it for granted. Great video on it Danny!
I used to love taking Amtrak, such a shame certain people are now regulars on said train and ruin it for everyone….
Toots…
I used to take it for granted.. Until I saw this video.
It’s crazy expensive compared to a air travel tho.
@@Gfysimpletons what do you mean by this?
New Orleans same thing but it's a terminal
Earlier today I was thinking," Its been awhile since Danny putout a video." And here itis, thanks!
NO JOKE ME TOO!
That makes three of us. 👍😃
Now 4
5 of us!
That's funny that you all should say that. When I got the notification for this upload, I thought to myself 'I've just been notified of Danny's upload'. The funny part is that I was exactly right. Spooky, eh?
It’s on my bucket 🪣 list to take the wife on a Amtrak trip. Recently retired from law enforcement seven years ago and after having an heart attack in October I’m afraid I better get on that bucket list. I’m doing awesome and feel great but time just gets away from you and I don’t want no regrets. Thanks for sharing your passion Danny. You bring sunshine to those rainy days.
As a former freight conductor and track worker its a very through explanation for those who are totally clueless in the world of railroading. brake lights, shove moves, signals, etc. nice job
I love that you include your lunch stops in the videos! Makes it feel more like we're there with you experiencing the fun!
It adds that little bit of local color which makes his videos unique.
I'm a 3rd generation rail fan and have lived in Tampa for over 27 years... never get tired of seeing rail videos showing off the local action! Excellent job, sir...
Thanks very much! Glad you found the channel!
The history, the narration, the videos…. All very professional. Thank you Danny! 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏
I recently took the train to Tampa and was wondering why we entered the station backwards. This video explained it perfectly! Thanks Danny!
Fond memories! About 30 years ago my wife, 2 young sons (2 & 4) & I took this train (Silver Meteor) from Kingston, RI to Tampa. & back a week later..
A fascinating experience.. Civilized Travel!!! Had a "roomette" (a weird "L" shaped bunkhouse made so they could fit twice as many travelers in the same space) on the way down for my wife and the little one, and a real stateroom (with delivered coffee, newspaper & a few other amenities..) for the 2 of them on the way back.
Sitting in the last car when coming into Tampa, NOT expecting the reverse, a little, quite old conductor almost hobbled to the end of the train with this 9 or 10 inch long brass thing in his hand (What was it???) and proceeded to insert it into the end of a rubber hose tied to the end railing.. We turned around in our rear seats and enjoyed a tweeting whistle punctuated view of a slow back up into Tampa. When we got there, the tracks spread out and no less than 3 other complete train sets were there rumbling and waiting to leave. One of the most indelible experiences of that train trip... along with the splitting of the 2 trains in Jacksonville.. one engine going to Miami with half the train and one engine going to Tampa. Of course, the reverse coupling of the 2 trains on the way back was rather awesome also. (Too many more experiences for this post!!)
8:30 The Pennsylvanian does an interesting backup move of its own, but it’s a dead head move after passengers are dropped off in Pittsburgh. The train backs out of the station and travels about 5 miles to a wye off the Norfolk Southern Pittsburgh Line (former Pennsylvania Railroad main line), reverses onto the wye, and then after clearing the switch goes forward onto the Pittsburgh Line facing eastbound. It then reverses again for the 5 miles back to the Pittsburgh station and is now positioned for the next eastbound run to New York City.
Came here to say this. The train reverses east out of Pittsburgh Station to CP Home, and stops a few car lengths short of the signal. There, a hand throw switch leads to an industrial line that used to connect to the Low Grade freight line, now known as the Conemaugh Line. After shoving back into this industrial line several hundred yards, there is another switch that then leads back to the Pittsburgh Line via CP Home. Now turned around, the train gets the signal at CP Home, and reverses back for the Amtrak Station for the night. This train will become the eastbound train the following morning.
I know very little about trains and railways, but as a Tampa resident for three years I am so happy to know of this unique and quirky rail maneuver so close to home! Thank you for the lovely video!!
My dad retired from CSX after a career that started with Atlantic Coast Line. He loved the railroad dearly and even helped move the train to the train museum in our town of Waycross, GA. I have wanted to ride Amtrak but haven’t had a chance yet.
Waycross? I used to have family there! Is that museum where the dog got stuck in the tree?
Had a great grandfather who I never met, work on the ACl as well
@@YeOldeGeezer I don’t know anything about a dog although it could have happened since I left Waycross in December, 2003.
@@YeOldeGeezer what was his name? My father worked for the railroad from the 40’s until 1982. He loved the railroad.
@@johnjoiner18 name was Charles Westberry Sr. I’m the 4th in a line of Charles
I just came across this and loved it. A rail fan by birth as my dad retired with 49 years with the B&O, my Uncle Bill 51 years.
What makes these videos so fun to watch is just how pleasant and educational they are, no flashy editing or unnecessary add-ons that could annoy someone. It's just useful train and eatery related info.
Also historical tidbits.
Stumbled across this on my newsfeed, don't normally view this type video. Am a retired rail: Tower Operator, Yardmaster, Dispatcher and Locomotive Engineer and I find this very well done. Thank you for the memories; wish you continued success!
Another excellent video Danny, thank you. As an enthusiast here in Scotland, I've got a decent understanding of how our railways work but the U.S. system is very different. Your descriptions of the various equipment and operations may be obvious to your North American audience but they're a great help to the rest of us. I learn a lot from your easy-going narration and thoroughly enjoy your work.
Cheers for now, Dougie.
Thanks, Danny - As usual, a fascinating, well-shot, engagingly narrated piece, and the culinary suggestions added a nice touch. One can sure work up an appetite chasing those trains!
As you asked for suggestions...I recently re-posted a 1977 photo I'd taken of Reading No. 2101 pulling a Chessie Steam Special out of the tunnel and across the bridge over the Potomac into Harpers Ferry, and a friend quickly let me know "The #2101 is about to go back into service and will pull Reading Rambles excursions in 2022 on the Reading and Northern RR." Wow- I'd had no idea that handsome machine would run again! I can imagine how fascinating a video program or two by you would be. Hopefully, it's not too far off your beaten path. Don't know how good (or existent!) the Cuban food might be up there, but I know I'd enjoy seeing your coverage of a Reading Ramble!
Thank you from a resident and train buff in Tampa since 1969
I grew up in Tampa, and my dad was a Passenger Service Agent on the Silver Meteor from St. Pete to NYC. I rode the train with him many times throughout my childhood. This video brought back many memories for me.
Glad you liked it, Dorothy!
This was fascinating for us non-Floridians who don't get to see this stuff on a regular basis. Thanks, Danny!
That wye takes up a lot of real estate! Would be great to see drone video of this operation from up high for a perspective of the magnitude of the wye area. Interesting video, thanks!
A drone view, like the channel that covers Brughtline, would be so awesome!
Wonderful video! I always love your style and presentation, very well narrated with superb information and great filming, I love coming back to your channel time and again! Also, as I spent a lot of time in Florida during the late 1990s, especially around Tampa and Clearwater, seeing those sunkissed views again brings back some lovely memories of visiting the old Clearwater Depot and the short section of street running. Keep up the great work! 😁
Danny. another train home run! As a tv producer, I appreciate that you included the comment about several trips to get the needed variety of angles! Awesome sir!! You make railfanning come alive!! Joe Carleo - Retired PBS international producer.
Thanks so much, Joe! That's means a lot coming from someone in the business. Glad you enjoyed it.
Lots of good food in Ybor! I've never seen or heard of those Jump Frog switches, but they're quite clever! Another excellent video!
Wow, great video! Have been a RAIL FAN longer then I can remember. You sound as though you were in radio or a professional announcer which really made this stand out as one of the better videos on UA-cam. Thank you
Danny has a great voice.
Thanks Danny, I've sat in my car at those same locations, at the wye, to see Amtrak 91 and 92 do this turn, and rode back from Orlando on board twice. The 17 crossings through Ybor City still are unlike any place that I've see.... backwards!
Super interesting, Danny! I've also been wondering for a couple of years now about that baggage car whistle-I could've sworn I heard one in Chicago one time, but I couldn't find really much of anything about them, and so I started to think I was just going crazy haha. Thanks for the information! I can't wait to see what neat finds you bring to us next. This is surprisingly efficient considering the slow speeds and ridiculous amounts of crossings, not to mention turning the entire train around hahaha.
Narrator has a perfect 90's educational/instructional/training video voice.
So much information makes for a very good show.and i always get hungry after your food stop!!.🚂🇺🇸👷 thanks 👍:😎 just catching up with you.
Thank you so much for this video. I used to take the 91, 97, 92 or 98 trains, depending on when I had to be back north, to Winter Park. Always wondered how they turned around in Tampa. Very interesting.
That was absolutely fascinating! Never gave it a thought as to how Amtrak would turn around. Thanks for a great instructional and entertaining video!
Danny, another great one. You're videos teach so much, bring often wondered subjects into focus, all while being completely entertaining and fun. Please keep going, doing what you do and sharing your time w us.
Plus, the best voice & most impeccable diction of any UA-camr I’ve ever heard.
Can't thank you enough for your quality videos and comments about good local food. You always have new information to share. Turning on a "Y" is really an eye opener for the novice.
Thank you so m
Love your videos Danny. Went with a friend 2 weeks ago to Moore Haven and Clewiston for the sugar cane train. What a great day with near perfect shots.
Every time one of your videos comes out I learn something new! I appreciate all of your work in your videos! Great work, Danny!
I rode Amtrak from Denver to Reno over the summer. Denver was very similar to Tampa. To get into the Denver Union Station, the train had to back up. I don't know how far it was, but it was a pretty long back. The fun thing in Reno is that about a decade ago, Union Pacific lowered the tracks to go through the, "trench" which actually goes under downtown Reno. The Amtrak stops at the station and when you disembark, you look up about 45 feet, enter the historic train station from track level, and go up to ground level.
The original CZ did the same-westbound the CB&Q crew would take the CZ across the “buck main” onto the DRGW. Then reverse into Denver Union Station. The cars traveled throwaway car/window wash rack that had special brushes to clean the dome cars. Amtrak 5&6 still use the buck main. Now it’s BNSF to UP.
Awesome video of Amtrak’s Sliver Star making the reversing move into TUS aka Tampa Union Station and I am always looking forward to another Danny Harmon video and your narration is always top notch! From a fan of this channel and I thank you very much Danny Harmon @Distant Signal for posting this and this video makes me happy!
Very interesting video since I was one of a passenger of AMTRAK .
Enjoyed it. Still like watching local freight switching, shoving, spotting and the logic of it all the best. thanks.
Need more videos! You got a natural talent for history and it’s refreshing listening to it
Wooo Hoooo! A new Distant Signal video! Awesome as usual Mr. Harmon! Always look forward to your next video.
Thanks again!
WOW Danny, i've watched that entire operation in person several times and my favorite part was standing down by the "now gone" TN signal house and watching him leaving Tampa and crossing the diamond at speed, thanks Danny for bringing back some great memories. Thanks for all the information and education as usual.
I'm really liking the restaurant reviews at the end of your videos, thanks for the latest, ill definitely be stopping by to try that Cuban Sandwich the next time I get back down your way. Sooner rather than later,
I hope.
Being a train buff all my life I really enjoy your videos which are well researched and very entertaining. Living over here in Largo I don’t get to see much freight traffic so depend on your videos for insight as to what’s going on. I’m of the age that I rode many steam trains both here in the US and in Scotland and England with lots of fond memories. Keep up the great work and I look forward to your next productions
I love how I was able to randomly come across a local content producer. Been going to school at USF for the last few years and always look for some interesting places and things to do in my off time.
Great filming of this Amazing Amtrak spur. Great shots, nice video. 👍✅🚦👋👋👋👋👋👋
Love it! Danny's train and exquisite little-known foodie spot videos! You know, one of the first things you learn as a Freight Conductor is all the places you can stop without blocking crossings, so you can get a bite to eat. But most of those places have you running to the second unit about two hours later. On the other hand, these gems of food bites you share make up for it.
Edit: I don't know if it's worth mentioning here or in a future video, but this ride makes a perfect day trip for anyone who wants to see what riding on Amtrak is like. Pick up the train at any point North of TUS, coming South. Then as long as the trains are close to being on time, the layover in Tampa is about 2.5 hours. The only drawback is the hike from TUS to anywhere reasonable to eat, drink and shop. It's about 4 blocks to the nearest TECO trolley station which will haul you up to Ybor City. Then be sure to get back to the station in time for the Northbound Superstar and get off at the station you boarded coming South. My stepsons loved it when they were 11 years old. Their little eyeballs were fixated on the windows from Winter Park all the way to the Wye.
Always so very, very interesting, and learn so much. I’ve always loved trains and the RI ran passed end of our street as a kid. Even though I work for a major US air carrier, I still love being the first one at a railroad crossing to watch trains! Be safe!
My favorite railfan channel, always good to see danny has uploaded new videos. I have just about watched them all and learn something new each time.
Your narration style is wonderful. Very clear, organized, and always informative. Thanks for the effort!
Thanks John.
Having done several cross country trips on Amtrak I love it when you cover them. As a rider you aren't fully aware of what is happening and why. I seem to recall a similar backing move required in Denver maybe? Can't remember exactly, but I remember standing down on the lower deck of the sleeper car talking to the porter about what was going on, the safety stop before finishing the back-in, and so on. The employees on Amtrak tend to be really nice people and fun to talk to sometimes. On a cross country trip you are trapped in there with them for two days or so, so it pays for everyone to be nice. I've seen them stop the train in the middle of the night and get the Amtrak police to come eject troublemaking passengers (drunks, etc.) and that's kind of funny.
To answer about Denver; yes. There is a similar move required there, just a little different.
@@PlyingKibbles89 I think the same for Washington DC,if memory serves.
@@johnkerrison6698 At DC it's usually a locomotive change, the NE corridor to NY/Boston uses electric and the rest of the route south or west of DC uses diesel.
At least they don't just throw the troublemaker(s) off the train while it's moving. To me, I think it would serve the troublemaker's justice to stop the train, kick them off wherever the train is, and then go on. Contact the local sheriff to pick them up so they can make a visit to the jail.
Seriously, what's wrong with people these days, sad our society has produced so many inconsiderate bums!
Another great video as always Danny! I love the way you present your information and could listen to you speak about railroading all day.
I'm sure glad I found your videos. You have the best commentary. I enjoy history of many subjects and your supply of the local history where ever you are recording makes the story so much more personal. Thanks, Danny.
Love listening to you narrate, perfect voice. I also love the fact you point out good food stops.
You are tops, Danny, in originality, clarity of what you are doing, extremely informative, and super educational. Thanks for the top quality of all your videos. Ne plus ultra.
Danny, you're a great guy. I really love watching and listening to you describe the railroads. Thanks for the great job. John in Ohio
I second that!
Your Florida train videos are very interesting. I have learned so much train history. El Segundo crab cake, check . Who would ever known about that switch if you hadn't pointed it out. Thanks for pointing out historic Ybor City, virtually unknown to most people outside of Florida.
Love the video as always Danny. Thanks so much for sharing. As a 2 year Davenport, Fl. resident I am trying to collect as much Railroad information as I can from your wonderful videos. I currently live in Providence Golf Club just north of Davenport, Fl. on the CSX line. I have a scanner that I use to try and catch both CSX and Amtrak traffic as they go bye. Love all of your videos. Please continue to add more and thank you so much for an awesome job.
Railfanning, great food and great company. Thanks Danny, these videos really are great stuff. You are awesome.
I love learning via your excellently produced videos and listening to your amazing voice. Thank you for always making such great content.
Man, always look forward to watching your videos. Quality is top notch as always
My day was made when I saw a new video from Danny! As always, this fairly new railfan has learned something new! Thank you so much, Danny.
I love your stops for lunch. Unfortunately they don't have deviled crab or Cuban sandwiches up here in New Hampshire!
Awesome to see you finally document the entire Tampa back in sequence!
I welcome your videos like an old friend. I anticipate each one and thoroughly enjoy viewing them. Thanks for the content and your production effort!
Thank so much for this very interisting video. 2 years ago I had to cancel my reservation on Amtrak to Tampa due to the pandemic. I am looking forward to do that as soon as possible. Best wishes from Germany, Franz
As an Aussie viewer I found this very interesting. We have 'Y's in Australia, but some states more than others. Queensland on its regular narrow 3' 6" gauge has the most 'Y's but not as long as this one at Tampa. Thanks for your informative narration.
I'm an Aussie viewer as well. I live in Albury NSW.
Thanks for the video, Danny. You do a really great job of making railfaning approachable.
Always the absolute tops in railfan videos, great job Danny. Now that the border looks like it might stay open for a while I can plan my next outing to Florida, and someday I hope to run into "railfan Danny" ! Thank you for all the interesting and informative videos, I have learned so much !!
Very informative video. Thanks again for your work on these videos. You set the bar very high for other train Videos.
Love those Cuban treats. In Puerto Rico we call them Alcapurrias de Jueyes. Made from seasoned land crab meat and grated green plantains. The most sought after in the entire island come from a town called Piñones. There’s a special allure to eating seafood at a carribean beach town…😂😂🤣
“As always,” thanks for the video!
Thanks for highlighting so many fascinating rail facts in your episodes, Florida has a lot of interesting rail activity.
Hope Brightline will eventually help alleviate some interstate congestion between Tampa and Orlando, it's a nightmare driving in that region!
Love seeing local eateries! 😋
Hey Danny! That’s really near to see Amtrak 92 do those moves to be able to back into the station! I’m always looking forward to the next video you put out! Have a fantastic day! See you down the line!
Good evening Danny, as an avid rail fan, particularly Amtrak, anything you can share about them would be most appreciated. I was aware of the back in at Tampa but I did not know why, finding out today that it was a dead end was enlightening. Please keep it coming!! Safe rail fanning sir!
Fantastic video! Thanks for the insight on the Amtrak Florida trains.
I love the way you explain so many things which are not obvious to a UK railway fan like myself. Thanks for your videos.
Great video as always Danny!! You did an excellent job explaining the interesting Amtrak maneuvers. Also, that devil crab looks really yummy!! I gave you a big like on this one =- ) :D
Very impressed with the quality of the programme, Danny. It's well researched and very entertaining!
As always, Danny you don't disappoint. So much information and so little time. The dropped signals was really nice.
I live in SWFL and take the Amtrak to NC to see family. I always wondered why Amtrak does this and wonder why it was like this. I am thrilled to see the track configuration on this. Thank You for this video, I enjoyed this.
Love these videos. Educational and entertaining. So dark professional. Love the dining tips! Learning quite a bot watching your channel.
I love that Amtrak has gone back to their Phase III scheme on their cars, such an iconic livery!
How do we know that they were not changed from the phase III paint scheme in the first place?
@@gaffneyrailroading1982 LOL the only cars it is on are brand new
But whatever the case, they're still cool, though.
Great video Danny! You have inspired me to do more railroad related stuff! You are truly a role model to me!
Thank you Christian.
I've taken the Amtrak from New York to Miami a number of times. Always wondered about the Tampa stop logistics. Thanks for this video that explains it.
As an old signalman on the Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad I really enjoy your east coast videos Danny.
Your knowledge of every aspect of railroading is quite remarkable and excellently communicated to your audience. Good job...you make us forget how messed up the world can be at times.. 👍
Another amazing video, love seeing Florida's rails! Perhaps an idea for a future video, the Amtrak station in Miami(Hialeah) and why it never moved to the new station at the Miami international airport.
Keep up the great work, from Sanford :)
First, I just have to say, you have a VERY good narrator voice! This video was very informative while pleasing to listen to.
I had never even heard of a "jump frog" switch before! That is fascinating, and an ingenious way to reduce wear and sound!
I do still have to wonder though....why the turnaround? While you did explain that it's preferrable not to have two running locomotives right up against the station house, I don't see why they couldn't just have the train in a shuttle configuration, with one locomotive on each end. This would avoid both having to turn around and having two tandem locomotives right next to the station house.
I was thinking the same thing. This is the first time I have ever seen an Amtrak train backing into a station without a cab car.
@@FreihEitner they don't run cab cars because they don't reverse for long sections, most non long distance lines don't turn around they only face 1 way and run backwards 1/2 the time
Just a layman but always been fascinated by trains. A big freight went through my hometown (Belmont, Mass) every day enroute Boston. My friend and I hung around the tracks often and put pennies on the track (which we rarely found later.. if we did, they were flattened an twice as big). Love these programs. Great explanations for your amateur viewers! Well done!
Very good video about a place I enjoy going into and out of Tampa --- I also enjoy being able to tell folks about the turn-around, who have never been through it ..... Will try to put it on my phone, so I can show it to other travelers while we spend the 15+ minute back-up into TPA..... Thank you!
As usual, an excellent video. I found myself wishing for one of your diagrams. It is an interesting maneuver that makes perfect sense yet is still a littlle weird. I wonder what the passengers must be thinking about going backwards for so long.
They're thinking, "I need to use the restroom now before we get off the train," or "Where's the bag I brought on with me?" but very few of them are actually concerned about the direction. One thing Danny did not mention is that you can take a day trip here from any point North of Tampa. As long as you don't mind the little walk from TUS to any one of the food eateries or the TECO trolley line, it's a good 2.5 hour visit in between trains assuming they are both relatively on time. It's also a PERFECT opportunity to take the kids for a ride, giving them a chance to see what it's like riding on a real passenger train. I think Kissimmee to TUS is about an hour and 10 minutes, with speeds up to 79 mph along the route.
@@SD40Fan_Jason Thanks for the info, next time I'm down there with the grand kids, that's what I'm going to do!
It's very surprising how loud that procedure is. I haven't heard a train horn in years here in Switzerland, they seem to blow the horn here all the time.
Terrible drivers in America people try to cross over tracks with gates down all the time.
I love to hear the train horns in the distance; not too close, though!
Another top-of-the-line production. Don't expect anything less. Some of these up and coming young UA-camrs do really want to do it the right way need look no further than one of your videos.
I live in Auburndale always see the Amtrak on my evening walks. Great video. Excellent narrator voice. You are good at this.
I've been fascinated with "welded rail" since serving in a U.S. Army rail unit decades ago. How is the rail's heat expansion overcome!
Outstanding video! Two questions…
1. Has Amtrak ever tried using a Non-Powered Control Unit for the side closest to the train station (instead of turning the consist along the wye)?
2. Could Amtrak use electric plug-in stations so that the locomotives do not idle (and make noise in the station) with the new ALC-42 Charger fleet?
I'm not sure if Amtrak has ever tried a NPCU on this train, but their long term fleet plans indicate they plan to eventually acquire Siemens Venture cab coaches, which will pair with the chargers to make bi-directional trainsets for both local and long distance travel. Time will tell if they actually end up using them on the long distance routes.
A selection of the new charger orders are supposed to be bimodal, so in theory they could electrify the station for to allow engine shutdown while still providing HEP. However as this stop is only about 10-20 minutes, I suspect they have little interest in doing so unless traffic was enough to justify electrifying the entire line.
Hi, as a Brit I really enjoy all of your videos. Love the explanations, keep them coming.