A camera would be great at our 23rd Street location here in Chattanooga, Tn. It's a giant crossover for NS, CSX and theres even a turnout for the TVRM. Its 8 tracks wide and it used to be 60 to 70 trains a days, but.........precision scheduled railroading ????? Thanks for what you do, I saw your camera the last time I was in Cordele, Ga. on my way to Folkston and Danny's beautiful state of Florida of course.
@@distantsignal when I do move to Lakeland Florida soon whenever. I'm not sure when yet. But railfanning can be risky too just like you said. Safety is important for sure.
As a foreigner outside of the states, these videos of yard operations are notably entertaining and informative. Enjoyed your narration behind as well. Keep it going and hope to see more videos like this!
There is no way you were NOT a RR engineer or conductor! Your railroading knowledge is unbelievable! I learned answers to questions I've always wanted to know and also learned answers to questions I didn't even know I had. Thank you Danny!
Luckily for us we don’t have to work on a railroad to learn stuff about railroading. Danny makes these awesome videos. I’ve also learned a bunch of stuff from him.
You may not think about your videos this way, but you are doing something amazing about generation gap and such. It's usually younger people on UA-cam. You are uniting people of all ages under the same hobby and educating in the same time. Huge thank you.
Me Too.!! I took a trip with my Grandson From Pontiac, Michigan to Chicago, then from Chicago to Washington D.C., then down to DeLand Florida, where my daughter picked us up and her home in New Smyrna Beach, Florida. Next either Chicago to San Francisco or Another trip to Florida with another Grandchild.
A long time ago when I was a lot younger my grandparents took me to Sanford to watch this train work. A crew member came over and gave me a spare key to unlock the autorack doors on the end of the cars! Still have it to this day!
As a retired conductor and member of Operation Lifesaver I can't thank you enough for your safety advice concerning track side clearance. Most railfans are safety conscience, but there are a few who are not.
I just took the auto train in late January from Lorton to Sanford and it was awesome!! I had a roomette and it was clean and comfortable. Not cheap but saves on driving time down I-95. It was relaxing and the employees were friendly. They even announced cities and points of interest on the trip. If you are looking for an alternative to driving from the north east coast to FLA, this is the trip you want to experience.
I never thought I would see both a Ferrari and the Corvette coming off the auto train. I guess that means it's a very trustworthy way to move your car!
so back in the day most autoracks were open air (similar to when you see vehicles being delivered on a trailer) but people/kids would throw rocks at the cars and they'd end up with broken windows and scratches so they installed walls onto the autoracks which is why they look how they do today.
Could be trustworthy, or could just be cheap and convenient. Being able to afford a sportscar doesn't automatically make you a good judge of services, or wise. :)
This video should be on a commercial network like the Discovery channel. Premium quality work! Your history shines through. Like a member of the Atlanta Braves playing on a 10-12 year old park league team compared to most other channels. Love your work. Thanks for all you do!
Excellent video! And a great safety message at the end. When I was a teenage railfan in the early 60's I nearly got run over by an NKP freight in the Michigan City yard. The standard routine there was to uncouple the two 400 class GP7s and the ex-LE&W caboose from the arriving train while it was still moving. The engines would run ahead onto the engine track, the train would coast into a yard track, and the caboose (running slower than the train) would coast into the caboose track. I was unaware of this, and while I was focusing on the engines I glanced to my right and saw the lead car of the train silently bearing down on me, about 60 feet away. (I'll never forget the end of that hopper car!) I got out of the way, but my heart was racing and I realized I'd just barely avoided a horrible death. When I got home my mother had been worrying about how long I'd been gone. I never told her or my father what an idiot I'd been. Trains are great, but a moment's inattention and they can kill you.
@@wwhitby While riding Amtrak I spoke to a freight engineer who was deadheading home and he told me that there are no minor injuries on the railroad, you start with amputations and it gets worse from there.
In my youth I've walked on railroad tracks as well, but I always knew when a train was coming, and I got out of the way when they came. I knew better than to think that I'd never be injured or killed.
I was an electrician tech on NJT. The large headed cable being pulled out was a 27 pin connector, there are 2 such cables one on each side. From the engine point of view the engineer side cable allows signaling between the engine and crew, door control trainline and controll voltages to be shared. On the opposite side that cable allows the Cab car engineer to control the engine. The 480 volt 3 phase plugs are about the size of a baseball and must have a continuous path to operate. I enjoy your videos and look forward to more.
@@Charlie-gv3zt While in Dover inspecting a line up i slipped off a platform that had no lights. Dover yard was still under renovation and I landed on a pile of used ties that were not mover offsite. My right lower leg was shattered.
Excellent coverage of Auto Train. Amtrak really seems to care about this one. Liked the overhead shots especially. But the high point of the video was your takeaway from Fred's. Fried chicken, mashed and gravy, lima beans. Yum!
From a viewer across the pond, I often watch the Auto-Train come through Ashland on the rail cam, so it's great to see the operation at the terminus. Thanks for a great video. Regards Steve
They actually bet (but not with real money) on how many passenger cars and how many Autoracks just before it comes through on VR in the comments. It varies according to demand, but it’s fun to guess!
Excellent as usual. I live 24 miles south of the North stop for the auto train. So it was nice to see how operations are conducted to get everything switched out and passengers and their cars or motorcycles safely off loaded. You made me laugh about needing to send flowers to the place that you applied for long ago. And as always your eating well. Thank you again, I am enjoying my journey with you back in time from my chair here at home in Stafford VA. :-)
Thanks for the peek behind the curtain. Back in the late '70s ... I used to pick up one of my UF roommates at the terminal in Sanford after his trip down from Eastern Pennsylvania. I still remember the time he told me that he didn't need a ride this trip because he was brining his car down on the Auto Train. I thought that was the coolest thing ever.
This is far and away better than any documentary I've seen on The Discovery or Science Channel. It was brilliantly filmed, edited, and narrated. Superb!
Very, very nice job Danny! This is definitely an underrated sight here in Florida. After riding auto train in early March, I can tell ya, it was something I’ll never forget. Great job again!
@@distantsignal Definitely! Glad you mentioned the Dash 8s. I’m my documentary about them they were my favorites. Will you be including the Dade City Railfest anytime soon?
I have had the pleasure of traveling on the Auto-Train when it was an independent railroad painted in white, red, and purple colors. It was great fun traveling with the whole family by train.
@@marinusapeldoorn6631 The old privately run operation closed shop in 1981. I travelled with my family on the train several times in the late 1970s. The Amtrak era began less than two years later on the same route, and using some of the old equipment. At that time there was a greater variety of car types in use. The older cars had been built at mid century and had some curious amenties, such as seating and ashtrays for smoking in the vestabules for some of the bathrooms. During this era a short reel of cartoons would be played for the children during the morning, on the second day of travel. "Dick Tracy" was amongst the offerings. During this early period of the Auto Train's history a rail fan had his home adjacent to the rails. He would sit on his back porch and wave to the passengers with a flashlight as the train passed through during the night . He did this without fail for years. As a child I thought this was wonderful, and I still do.
Excellent video Danny! Thank you sir. Love the production quality of your videos... they never disappoint. Glad you're including safety reminders as well. I see too many people getting too close to the tracks.
Hi CHris. Yes, I've seen quite a few people lately who stand on tracks, stand three feet from passing Amtrak trains and other unsafe stuff. I don't like to preach but I figure I can reach a lot of railfans and maybe help change the culture a little.
@@distantsignal and if it prevents an accident or a death its a win win situation. Common sense dictates be safe around trains. You will not win against a train.
Have taken this train 4 times north and 3 times south, it’s always been a great trip, very enjoyable and meeting new people on the train has been great.
Great idea covering the Auto Train yard. I'm a big Amtrak fan so that was awesome to me. That was also pretty bizarre seeing just how short the Silver Meteor was that day. Back on the topic of the Auto Train, does anyone else wish that there was more than one of those in the US? Maybe a west to east one? And then a second north to south Auto Train for the west coast?
There have been many discussions about the Lexington route that was scrubbed in the 70's and the possibility of bringing it back. But it would take a King's fortune to build the infrastructure and supply the facilities with equipment to power and operate it. Given that Amtrak is government-subsidized and struggles daily with cross-country and inter-city services, there's no chance they will ever be able to afford another route, despite being a profitable service over the long run. What it would take is for someone else, separate and isolated from Amtrak to build and operate it. If it doesn't make any money but enough people rely on the service then the government could force Amtrak to take it over. But that's the closest speculated scenario out there right now.
@@SD40Fan_Jason Similar Thing happened in Germany. The semi-nationalised (private Company but owned by the Government; the worst kind of Service as it combines the Disadvantages of both) Deutsche Bahn abandoned Auto Trains a few Years ago (IIRC 8), shortly before abandoning all Sleeper Trains six Years ago. They were running them at heavy Losses, but the Austrian nationalised ÖBB took over the Sleeper Trains and makes record Profits with them. That just shows how inefficient the Deutsche Bahn is at literally everything, but their ridiculous Bureaucracy and insane Management Salaries explain that. Anyway, it's sort of the same with Auto Trains, although the Difference is not that extreme as with the Sleepers.
❤ I love that video I would love to see that if I ever get to Florida you would need to bring me there I Love Trains you're just a man to take care of that detail and you also have a wealth of information thank you😊
Danny: What a great and smooth production of a video about the Auto Train. I hadn't been aware this was an everyday 24/7/365 operation. In fact, I was under the belief it was only seasonable; I.E., the snowbirds retreating to a warmer climate for the Winter season, and then the return back North the following Spring. What a fun capture you've produced. And, only you, with your 'newsroom' voice delivery would make it so enjoyable. Thank you, it is wonderful.
As usual, excellent. I subscribe to many channels across many disciplines. Distant Signal is, by far, the most well-produced channel out there. The amount of information provided per unit of time is second to none. Thank you Dan. You are a cut (perhaps two cuts) above the rest.
Without a doubt, one of the best informative Amtrak Auto Train videos I have ever seen. Danny you are a consummate professional and you have the voice! I think those folks at that TV station were crazy not to hire you but then again, I'm glad they didn't as your lovely wife has no doubt made up for that misfortune!! I met my bride with some friends in a serendipitous way and have been with her almost 40 years! So blessed. Thanks again from an old train enthusiast and that train is on my bucket list!! Blessings to you my friend, keep em coming!!
Another excellent production, Danny. I especially appreciate the safety message at the end. While I’m working, I see many rail fans out here in St. Louis and for the most part, everyone stays clear and safe. I appreciate them being safe. I enjoy seeing folks out there and when I can, give them a wave or a horn shout out.
This has always been one of my favorite Amtrak trains for years. I would love to take a trip down there and see this in person. I can spend all day there. Great job Danny!
Our family had the opportunity, in 2008, to take the Auto Train to and from Florida. It was an amazing experience with excellent service and onboard crew. Ironically, we arrived in Sanford about thirty minutes ahead of schedule and had to wait aboard the train for the yard crew to arrive that day. Would take the Auto Train again! Thanks for the video. Cheers from Canada!
I really enjoyed this video, your narration is top notch and you really do a great job of directing our point of looking at what you're describing. Many other video makers talk about what they are showing us but not in a way that leads our gaze to the right place on the screen so we are confused about what we are looking at. I moved to Belleview, FL about 4 1/2 years ago and enjoy seeing places I know, like the shot of the crossing gate control box at the SE Robinson St. crossing in Belleview and the Magnolia Street crossing in Ocala in your video on how crossing signals work. Keep up the excellent work.
As always a superb job Danny! I especially appreciate the safety message at the end, as my best friend was killed by an Amtrak train while troubleshooting a problem with a car on one of his consists. He was only 20 working as a conductor for CSX. Hope you’re doing well, and I look forward to the next one!
Sir,thanks for this new brilliant video. It's a pleasure to hear your very enjoyable voice, very easy to understand even as a fan from Europ,especially Germany.Thanks for the outstanding informations and pictures.I prechuade the work and the time you spend for us railfans whole over the world.I can imagine how much work such a Video takes. Thanks for that, and have a nice weekend. Greatings from a German fan 👍🇺🇲🇩🇪🚂😄
A BIG Thank You. For many years I wondered how this all was done and thanks to you now I understand! Thanks again for all you do and for doing all this work so we all have a better understanding of this! By the way, on the Lehigh Valley RR back in the day they had a passenger train named John Wilkes!
Hi Danny. From the UK. I loved your video and the very comprehensive narrative that you gave with it. As a Retired Railwayman myself I heard your warnings regarding trespassing and being far too close to any passing train. Unfortunately you missed out that other category of people vulnerable of shock and that's the train crew. As a person next to the track knows they're not going to get hurt- hopefully but the train driver can't always tell what's in a person's mind. A near miss can put train crew off work for months or longer with the shock of nearly hitting someone etc. So to you great American rail fans please spare a thought for the drivers and don't scare them into sick leave. Thanks Danny I hope you don't mind my sticking my experienced thoughts into your comments bag. But other than that I always wondered how the cars were despatched on and off and now I do thanks again. Best wishes Brian.
Jaw Tooth learned his lesson the other day about standing too close. A train was inbound but he didn't notice that the sides of the train were spraying weed killer. The only reason he didn't get sprayed is because the operator noticed him and shut it off at the last second. After the car that was doing the spraying cleared him - the operator turned the spraying back on.
Really enjoy the professional manner you exhibit with all your videos. Thanks for the entertainment and all your efforts! Live in Columbus, Ohio but spend the winter in Zephyrhills and have watched your videos for a couple of years.
Not only can stuff come off the train, but the metal banding material they use for some loads can break if the load shifts. Then you have what is basically a knife blade hanging off the side of the car, even though it's not sharp, that thin strip of metal can cut you in half if you get hit by it as the train passes by at speed.
I've actually seen pictures of coiled steel that was supposed to be tightly wound flapping off the side of the car because the banding holding it together broke. At speed, it would quite literally cut someone standing too close to the tracks in two.
@@joncalon7508 I’ve seen it several times while walking to the head end of trains to work on one of the locomotives. I ran into a band in the dark, it wasn’t sharp, so no injury, but we cut it off behind the sill of the flat car it was on so it wouldn’t / couldn’t hurt anybody.
I’ve been designing wireless control and stopping systems for the past 10 odd years now. Couldn’t tell you how many yards I’ve been too or how many locos I’ve been on but it’s nice to stumble across a channel such as this and see people that are interested/passionate about locomotives. Puts a new spin on how to look at my work.
Wow, this video was so well put together and I learned a lot about how they operate the Auto Train. Thank you for sharing. I actually passed by the Lorton, VA location a couple of days ago during a work trip in DC. A much smaller operation than the one in Sanford, FL for sure! haha
Kudos Danny on another fantastic video! Thank you so much for the bit on the end about safety around active tracks. This video was difficult for me because my Good friend David Felts was an engineer for the Auto Train for a very long time. He had considered retiring for about two years but just couldn't shake the idea of leaving what he considered the best job in the world! Sadly he passed away suddenly at his home in Central Florida a few years ago. When I was just a kid, he let me ride in the cab of the CF-7 they used to switch the yard out with. I got to ride thru that washer a bunch of times and I've got to tell you it's even neater seeing it from the inside. Dave was also a history buff and could show you where all the old railroads used to line up there. I think I remember his details pretty well. He used to tell me about his time before the Auto train working as a crew for the Seaboard Coast Line out of Sanford and down to Groveland on the old ACL / Orange belt line. When I was just 21 years old and working in IT, Dave pushed me to pursue my dream of working for the railroad if that was what I wanted to do and, 21 years later I have no regrets about the choice! The only thing I wished I could have done was worked with him on Amtrak. But now that I am retired I think back and have some really fond memories of my career and also of Dave's. Most of mine with Dave are there in the Sanford yard. Thanks again Danny!
Thank You!! I didn't know David, but the name is sure familiar. I love talking to those old SCL guys. It was real railroading back then. Sorry to hear he went like that. I think Amtrak should let kids who were on the train ride through that washer. That would be a serious attraction. Thanks for your compliments.
@@distantsignal I have heard Dave on your videos in Folkston as he's calling signals. In fact he has pointed himself out to me on some of your videos, ha! He always took great joy in seeing the railfans at the Folkston platform.
What a great video! I knew a little about the loading in Virginia, but never had seen the unloading. Thank you for the comprehensive and well made video. And for making us all hungry with your lunch lol
Literally like two days ago I was looking to see if there are any videos of the handling of the auto train so I can safely say it was a nice surprise to wake up to this video.
Your videos are so informative and your voice just keeps me listening. Trying to go where you have made video's so I can feel the joy. Fantastic job sir!
Danny, You have a new big fan out west. Working my way through your previous videos. They are all first rate. I am also sure I heard you on an Ad last nite. Thank you for the many hours filming and editing a great part of this nation. Rich Northern Nevada
When I was last rail fanning the auto train at Sanford visiting from the U.K. , the switching guys invited my son and I into their sun shelter to watch close-up and shared their drinks with us. Great guys.
I always said you had that golden radio voice, Danny. As surprised as I am that station never hired you, I'm glad you got to meet your Wife instead. Big thanks for this video, too. I operate trains on the A line from Rice Yard and Waycross to the Stanton Connection (MP799.8) in a simulator called "Run 8", and having this demonstration about PO53 and its switching duties in Sanford is invaluable to me as well.
Just rode the auto train southbound in late August. Fabulous trip. Terrific train crew. The roomette was a little cramped for 2 seniors but not bad. We left early but were trailing behing a slower southbound freight which put us into Sanford about an hour late. Our car was delivered within 30 minutes of our arrival (we did not pay extra for express unloading - just lucky!) Our attendant said they have been very busy thru the C-19 epidemic and have lowered their coach seating capacity. They did a great job of cleaning and keeping people safe. Lots of college students returning to school. I was surprised to find out how many folks did NOT know about the Auto Train - considering it has been operating for over 30 years. Thanks for the yard tour.
Thanks William! Two points in your post struck me: 1. That CSX would let a freight train get out in front of Auto Train. and 2. That college students are wealthy enough to take a $500+ trip to return to college!
On the Auto Train now. Looked out the window and saw the scenery at the 8:47 mark. I immediately thought of this video. We will soon be arriving in Sanford. Had a great trip. Thank you Danny for this video.
Thanks, Danny…very well done. Have taken the auto train many times and always enjoyed the ride. Your video brings back pleasant memories. Stay well. Sam Franklin Callawassie Island, SC
Another great informative video Danny as I never knew that there was such a train myself. I guess when you have money like those people do then you can take your own favorite car with you thus creating the need for such a train. I love listening to how you have all the good eating joints scoped out and the way you ended it. “Delicious”!
So glad when I saw the alert you posted a video me and my wife finished the cardinal from dc to Chicago and your videos help us understand the stops and the crossings please keep it up
Fabulous video showcasing quite a unique operation! Keep em coming!
Hello! @Virtual Railfan! I’ve met you at La plata RR days you gave me the Awesome items at the gas station!
Many thanks, Virtual! Maybe you can get a camera on Persimmon Ave.
A camera would be great at our 23rd Street location here in Chattanooga, Tn. It's a giant crossover for NS, CSX and theres even a turnout for the TVRM. Its 8 tracks wide and it used to be 60 to 70 trains a days, but.........precision scheduled railroading ????? Thanks for what you do, I saw your camera the last time I was in Cordele, Ga. on my way to Folkston and Danny's beautiful state of Florida of course.
@@distantsignal when I do move to Lakeland Florida soon whenever. I'm not sure when yet. But railfanning can be risky too just like you said. Safety is important for sure.
I mean Very Fabulous!
Best rail fan channel on the internet hands down. The level of detail and knowledge is top notch. Well done
Argee I go here for all my research
As a foreigner outside of the states, these videos of yard operations are notably entertaining and informative. Enjoyed your narration behind as well. Keep it going and hope to see more videos like this!
Glad you enjoyed it
Your work is so outstanding in every way, shooting, editing, narration, just fantastic. Thanks for your incredible work.
Thank you for such a nice compliment.
@Jumpingoffthecliff I have to agree he is absolutely amazing with the work he does.
There is no way you were NOT a RR engineer or conductor! Your railroading knowledge is unbelievable!
I learned answers to questions I've always wanted to know and also learned answers to questions I didn't even know I had.
Thank you Danny!
Luckily for us we don’t have to work on a railroad to learn stuff about railroading. Danny makes these awesome videos. I’ve also learned a bunch of stuff from him.
He does voice overs at a tv station i think.
Great Video.
You may not think about your videos this way, but you are doing something amazing about generation gap and such. It's usually younger people on UA-cam. You are uniting people of all ages under the same hobby and educating in the same time. Huge thank you.
This is one of the nicest compliments I've ever gotten, Richardo. Many thanks!
This is one of the trains that are on my bucket list.
Me Too.!! I took a trip with my Grandson From Pontiac, Michigan to Chicago, then from Chicago to Washington D.C., then down to DeLand Florida, where my daughter picked us up and her home in New Smyrna Beach, Florida. Next either Chicago to San Francisco or Another trip to Florida with another Grandchild.
A long time ago when I was a lot younger my grandparents took me to Sanford to watch this train work. A crew member came over and gave me a spare key to unlock the autorack doors on the end of the cars! Still have it to this day!
As a retired conductor and member of Operation Lifesaver I can't thank you enough for your safety advice concerning track side clearance. Most railfans are safety conscience, but there are a few who are not.
Gary, looking at your last name you must have dutch ancestors. Regards from the Netherlands
I just took the auto train in late January from Lorton to Sanford and it was awesome!! I had a roomette and it was clean and comfortable. Not cheap but saves on driving time down I-95. It was relaxing and the employees were friendly. They even announced cities and points of interest on the trip. If you are looking for an alternative to driving from the north east coast to FLA, this is the trip you want to experience.
I never thought I would see both a Ferrari and the Corvette coming off the auto train. I guess that means it's a very trustworthy way to move your car!
I wonder if it's the cheapest way to transport a Ferrari from NY to FL, and if that was the only reason it was on the train? :-)
Indeed I think it could be a very safe way to move your sports car. It is protected by let's say 2000 tons of steel 😁
@@jonglass Probably cheaper than gas to drive it down. Fuel efficiency isn't at the top of the priorities list for most sports cars...
so back in the day most autoracks were open air (similar to when you see vehicles being delivered on a trailer) but people/kids would throw rocks at the cars and they'd end up with broken windows and scratches so they installed walls onto the autoracks which is why they look how they do today.
Could be trustworthy, or could just be cheap and convenient. Being able to afford a sportscar doesn't automatically make you a good judge of services, or wise. :)
This video should be on a commercial network like the Discovery channel. Premium quality work! Your history shines through. Like a member of the Atlanta Braves playing on a 10-12 year old park league team compared to most other channels. Love your work. Thanks for all you do!
Wow! That's a NICE compliment, Rick. Many thanks!
Excellent video! And a great safety message at the end. When I was a teenage railfan in the early 60's I nearly got run over by an NKP freight in the Michigan City yard. The standard routine there was to uncouple the two 400 class GP7s and the ex-LE&W caboose from the arriving train while it was still moving. The engines would run ahead onto the engine track, the train would coast into a yard track, and the caboose (running slower than the train) would coast into the caboose track. I was unaware of this, and while I was focusing on the engines I glanced to my right and saw the lead car of the train silently bearing down on me, about 60 feet away. (I'll never forget the end of that hopper car!) I got out of the way, but my heart was racing and I realized I'd just barely avoided a horrible death. When I got home my mother had been worrying about how long I'd been gone. I never told her or my father what an idiot I'd been. Trains are great, but a moment's inattention and they can kill you.
An old-head conductor friend of mine always used to say that you only get one mistake on the railroad, and that's the one that kills you.
@@wwhitby I was stupid, but lucky, eh?
@@wwhitby While riding Amtrak I spoke to a freight engineer who was deadheading home and he told me that there are no minor injuries on the railroad, you start with amputations and it gets worse from there.
In my youth I've walked on railroad tracks as well, but I always knew when a train was coming, and I got out of the way when they came. I knew better than to think that I'd never be injured or killed.
I was an electrician tech on NJT. The large headed cable being pulled out was a 27 pin connector, there are 2 such cables one on each side. From the engine point of view the engineer side cable allows signaling between the engine and crew, door control trainline and controll voltages to be shared. On the opposite side that cable allows the Cab car engineer to control the engine. The 480 volt 3 phase plugs are about the size of a baseball and must have a continuous path to operate. I enjoy your videos and look forward to more.
I was an assistant conductor for NJT from 2005-2007. What years did you work there?
@@Charlie-gv3zt '88 - '95,shop,Dover, County Yard, Long Branch (first crew) Port Jervis and yard at Lake Hopacong
@@larryclark5355 Wow, why did you leave? I left in 2007 to go work for the LIRR.
@@Charlie-gv3zt While in Dover inspecting a line up i slipped off a platform that had no lights. Dover yard was still under renovation and I landed on a pile of used ties that were not mover offsite. My right lower leg was shattered.
@@larryclark5355 Wow, I am sorry to hear that😔. I hope you got railroad retirement!
Excellent coverage of Auto Train. Amtrak really seems to care about this one. Liked the overhead shots especially. But the high point of the video was your takeaway from Fred's. Fried chicken, mashed and gravy, lima beans. Yum!
From a viewer across the pond, I often watch the Auto-Train come through Ashland on the rail cam, so it's great to see the operation at the terminus. Thanks for a great video.
Regards
Steve
What time of the day does AT come through Ashland?
@@distantsignal I think it can vary but according to their log, one at 07.30 and the other at 17.00
They actually bet (but not with real money) on how many passenger cars and how many Autoracks just before it comes through on VR in the comments. It varies according to demand, but it’s fun to guess!
@@davidsimmons9763 yes, I do notice in the comments that.
I love that he knows every detail about the locomotives … and, he describes the automobile as “red”.
Yeah. Not a car guy.
I like cars more than trains and you cracked me up at that point!!!
@@distantsignal the new C8 Corvette
It was hard to see the difference between the Ferrari and the Corvette.🤠 This would have been less difficult 25 years ago
Excellent as usual. I live 24 miles south of the North stop for the auto train. So it was nice to see how operations are conducted to get everything switched out and passengers and their cars or motorcycles safely off loaded. You made me laugh about needing to send flowers to the place that you applied for long ago. And as always your eating well. Thank you again, I am enjoying my journey with you back in time from my chair here at home in Stafford VA. :-)
The train wash is really cool. They need to run the Amtrak Silver Star through that! Great video!
Add that train wash for the Amtrak California Zephyr -- I went out on a stop and cleaned my own window.
Qqq+
Thanks for the peek behind the curtain. Back in the late '70s ... I used to pick up one of my UF roommates at the terminal in Sanford after his trip down from Eastern Pennsylvania. I still remember the time he told me that he didn't need a ride this trip because he was brining his car down on the Auto Train. I thought that was the coolest thing ever.
Now we know how 511 is so clean, goes through that washer so much.
True. You should see the P32s where I am(706 and 708 are not in great condition)
This is far and away better than any documentary I've seen on The Discovery or Science Channel.
It was brilliantly filmed, edited, and narrated. Superb!
Many thanks!
Very, very nice job Danny! This is definitely an underrated sight here in Florida. After riding auto train in early March, I can tell ya, it was something I’ll never forget. Great job again!
Thanks. Yes, it's definitely one of Amtrak's best services.
@@distantsignal Definitely! Glad you mentioned the Dash 8s. I’m my documentary about them they were my favorites. Will you be including the Dade City Railfest anytime soon?
I really didn't shoot anything much at Dade City. What I got wasn't really worth using. Hopefully next time.
@@distantsignal ok let’s hope’
Awesome Danny. Yes that was a C8 Corvette. Aka “the red car”
Danny, you never fail to produce TOP SHELF video! Will be patiently waiting for your next production! Ted in AZ
I 2nd that
Amazing story as told by a true professional. Thank you!
25 Feet is what UP Steam & Ed Dickens are saying too! Great message & Great Video as usual!
I have had the pleasure of traveling on the Auto-Train when it was an independent railroad painted in white, red, and purple colors. It was great fun traveling with the whole family by train.
How long ago was this Patrick? Was it before the Amtrak area? (Question from the Netherlands)
@@marinusapeldoorn6631 The old privately run operation closed shop in 1981. I travelled with my family on the train several times in the late 1970s. The Amtrak era began less than two years later on the same route, and using some of the old equipment. At that time there was a greater variety of car types in use. The older cars had been built at mid century and had some curious amenties, such as seating and ashtrays for smoking in the vestabules for some of the bathrooms. During this era a short reel of cartoons would be played for the children during the morning, on the second day of travel. "Dick Tracy" was amongst the offerings.
During this early period of the Auto Train's history a rail fan had his home adjacent to the rails. He would sit on his back porch and wave to the passengers with a flashlight as the train passed through during the night . He did this without fail for years. As a child I thought this was wonderful, and I still do.
Excellent video Danny! Thank you sir. Love the production quality of your videos... they never disappoint. Glad you're including safety reminders as well. I see too many people getting too close to the tracks.
Hi CHris. Yes, I've seen quite a few people lately who stand on tracks, stand three feet from passing Amtrak trains and other unsafe stuff. I don't like to preach but I figure I can reach a lot of railfans and maybe help change the culture a little.
The railroaders say safety is no accident.
@@distantsignal and if it prevents an accident or a death its a win win situation. Common sense dictates be safe around trains. You will not win against a train.
The engineers don't wave from the trains anymore, not like they did BACK in 1954, still get a tear in eye when I hear an old train in the night.
Have taken this train 4 times north and 3 times south, it’s always been a great trip, very enjoyable and meeting new people on the train has been great.
I've often wondered how the autotrain worked. Thanks for making this
Great idea covering the Auto Train yard. I'm a big Amtrak fan so that was awesome to me. That was also pretty bizarre seeing just how short the Silver Meteor was that day.
Back on the topic of the Auto Train, does anyone else wish that there was more than one of those in the US? Maybe a west to east one? And then a second north to south Auto Train for the west coast?
There have been many discussions about the Lexington route that was scrubbed in the 70's and the possibility of bringing it back. But it would take a King's fortune to build the infrastructure and supply the facilities with equipment to power and operate it. Given that Amtrak is government-subsidized and struggles daily with cross-country and inter-city services, there's no chance they will ever be able to afford another route, despite being a profitable service over the long run.
What it would take is for someone else, separate and isolated from Amtrak to build and operate it. If it doesn't make any money but enough people rely on the service then the government could force Amtrak to take it over. But that's the closest speculated scenario out there right now.
@@SD40Fan_Jason Similar Thing happened in Germany. The semi-nationalised (private Company but owned by the Government; the worst kind of Service as it combines the Disadvantages of both) Deutsche Bahn abandoned Auto Trains a few Years ago (IIRC 8), shortly before abandoning all Sleeper Trains six Years ago. They were running them at heavy Losses, but the Austrian nationalised ÖBB took over the Sleeper Trains and makes record Profits with them. That just shows how inefficient the Deutsche Bahn is at literally everything, but their ridiculous Bureaucracy and insane Management Salaries explain that. Anyway, it's sort of the same with Auto Trains, although the Difference is not that extreme as with the Sleepers.
❤ I love that video I would love to see that if I ever get to Florida you would need to bring me there I Love Trains you're just a man to take care of that detail and you also have a wealth of information thank you😊
Danny: What a great and smooth production of a video about the Auto Train. I hadn't been aware this was an everyday 24/7/365 operation. In fact, I was under the belief it was only seasonable; I.E., the snowbirds retreating to a warmer climate for the Winter season, and then the return back North the following Spring. What a fun capture you've produced. And, only you, with your 'newsroom' voice delivery would make it so enjoyable. Thank you, it is wonderful.
Lots of people take it for lots of reasons. I have family in the Shenandoah Valley and use Autotrain often. Of course the snowbirds keep it rolling.
You are such a perfect narrator. Love your insight view of the Florida railroads. Regards from the Netherlands
Glad you enjoyed it!
Hoe gaat het ermee
@@distantsignal I enjoyed it, thanks. Highly appreciate your culinary twists in lunch & diner choices 😄
@@louisdekoster2670 Het gaat uitstekend Louis. En bij jou?
I took the Auto Train back in 2019. It was a really great trip and the crew and staff where fantastic.
Very cool train. I'd take that instead of flying and renting a car. I can't stand flying.
@@volvo09 if you do it get a sleeper as dinner comes with and you have privacy
Excellent! Really cool to see this in action. Thanks much as usual!😊👍👍
As usual, excellent. I subscribe to many channels across many disciplines. Distant Signal is, by far, the most well-produced channel out there. The amount of information provided per unit of time is second to none. Thank you Dan. You are a cut (perhaps two cuts) above the rest.
Many thanks!
I agree.
Without a doubt, one of the best informative Amtrak Auto Train videos I have ever seen. Danny you are a consummate professional and you have the voice! I think those folks at that TV station were crazy not to hire you but then again, I'm glad they didn't as your lovely wife has no doubt made up for that misfortune!! I met my bride with some friends in a serendipitous way and have been with her almost 40 years! So blessed. Thanks again from an old train enthusiast and that train is on my bucket list!! Blessings to you my friend, keep em coming!!
Another excellent production, Danny. I especially appreciate the safety message at the end. While I’m working, I see many rail fans out here in St. Louis and for the most part, everyone stays clear and safe. I appreciate them being safe. I enjoy seeing folks out there and when I can, give them a wave or a horn shout out.
AutoTrain is even more fun if you're a Railfan! ..If I'm awake I'm lookin' out the train window at the beautiful USA as it breezes by, day or night.
This has always been one of my favorite Amtrak trains for years. I would love to take a trip down there and see this in person. I can spend all day there. Great job Danny!
I am a true railfan and your video is so interesting!! Thank you for sharing this!!
Great showing that end of the auto-train.
Had seen the front end and how they start before so thanks.
Loved the train wash.
Take care and God Bless.
Our family had the opportunity, in 2008, to take the Auto Train to and from Florida. It was an amazing experience with excellent service and onboard crew. Ironically, we arrived in Sanford about thirty minutes ahead of schedule and had to wait aboard the train for the yard crew to arrive that day. Would take the Auto Train again! Thanks for the video. Cheers from Canada!
My friend, your speaking voice is absolutely wonderful and comforting. Thank you for your videos.
Totally agree
I really enjoyed this video, your narration is top notch and you really do a great job of directing our point of looking at what you're describing. Many other video makers talk about what they are showing us but not in a way that leads our gaze to the right place on the screen so we are confused about what we are looking at. I moved to Belleview, FL about 4 1/2 years ago and enjoy seeing places I know, like the shot of the crossing gate control box at the SE Robinson St. crossing in Belleview and the Magnolia Street crossing in Ocala in your video on how crossing signals work. Keep up the excellent work.
So very cool to see and know what goes on with something folks take for granted :) I like that train wash! Excellent education as always, Danny!
Excellent photography and narration! Super informative and fun to watch!
Thank you.
As always a superb job Danny! I especially appreciate the safety message at the end, as my best friend was killed by an Amtrak train while troubleshooting a problem with a car on one of his consists. He was only 20 working as a conductor for CSX. Hope you’re doing well, and I look forward to the next one!
Very sorry to hear about your friend!
Sir,thanks for this new brilliant video. It's a pleasure to hear your very enjoyable voice, very easy to understand even as a fan from Europ,especially Germany.Thanks for the outstanding informations and pictures.I prechuade the work and the time you spend for us railfans whole over the world.I can imagine how much work such a Video takes. Thanks for that, and have a nice weekend. Greatings from a German fan 👍🇺🇲🇩🇪🚂😄
A BIG Thank You. For many years I wondered how this all was done and thanks to you now I understand! Thanks again for all you do and for doing all this work so we all have a better understanding of this! By the way, on the Lehigh Valley RR back in the day they had a passenger train named John Wilkes!
Hi Danny. From the UK. I loved your video and the very comprehensive narrative that you gave with it. As a Retired Railwayman myself I heard your warnings regarding trespassing and being far too close to any passing train. Unfortunately you missed out that other category of people vulnerable of shock and that's the train crew. As a person next to the track knows they're not going to get hurt- hopefully but the train driver can't always tell what's in a person's mind. A near miss can put train crew off work for months or longer with the shock of nearly hitting someone etc. So to you great American rail fans please spare a thought for the drivers and don't scare them into sick leave. Thanks Danny I hope you don't mind my sticking my experienced thoughts into your comments bag. But other than that I always wondered how the cars were despatched on and off and now I do thanks again. Best wishes Brian.
Jaw Tooth learned his lesson the other day about standing too close. A train was inbound but he didn't notice that the sides of the train were spraying weed killer. The only reason he didn't get sprayed is because the operator noticed him and shut it off at the last second. After the car that was doing the spraying cleared him - the operator turned the spraying back on.
You're on point, I saw that video! I like his videos too as he has that easy-going terrific Danny Harmon demeanour.
Jaw tooth is a joke
Saw the same with the Baltimore&ohio UA-cam channel. Only they kept on spraying.
Jaw tooth was in Thurmond West Virginia
Great video! I never knew that this was available. I always learn something when I watch your videos. Thanks for all your efforts!
Very interesting and informative. Rode the original AutoTrain back in the 70s, looking forward to ride this one soon.
Really enjoy the professional manner you exhibit with all your videos. Thanks for the entertainment and all your efforts! Live in Columbus, Ohio but spend the winter in Zephyrhills and have watched your videos for a couple of years.
Thank you very much!
Not only can stuff come off the train, but the metal banding material they use for some loads can break if the load shifts. Then you have what is basically a knife blade hanging off the side of the car, even though it's not sharp, that thin strip of metal can cut you in half if you get hit by it as the train passes by at speed.
I've actually seen pictures of coiled steel that was supposed to be tightly wound flapping off the side of the car because the banding holding it together broke. At speed, it would quite literally cut someone standing too close to the tracks in two.
@@joncalon7508
I’ve seen it several times while walking to the head end of trains to work on one of the locomotives. I ran into a band in the dark, it wasn’t sharp, so no injury, but we cut it off behind the sill of the flat car it was on so it wouldn’t / couldn’t hurt anybody.
I love how you always highlight these local places to eat. Nice touch!
I’ve been designing wireless control and stopping systems for the past 10 odd years now. Couldn’t tell you how many yards I’ve been too or how many locos I’ve been on but it’s nice to stumble across a channel such as this and see people that are interested/passionate about locomotives. Puts a new spin on how to look at my work.
When I’m stoned this channel is a must. Love it!
As always this was a great video Danny. You’re second to none when it comes to educating us all on how and why trains and train systems work. Thanks!
Betcha Danny used to be a teacher!
Wow, this video was so well put together and I learned a lot about how they operate the Auto Train.
Thank you for sharing.
I actually passed by the Lorton, VA location a couple of days ago during a work trip in DC. A much smaller operation than the one in Sanford, FL for sure! haha
I had a motorcycle on the AutoTrain in 2008. Had a Superliner Roomette sleeper. Bikes came off first in both Lorton and Sanford.
Well there is your answer DH, That is WHY 511 looks so clean lol.
FANTASTIC and beautiful video!!!
Thanks, Brylon! Hope you're doing well.
As a frequent traveler on at AT, I thoroughly enjoyed watching this video. Looking forward to Thanksgiving :) Thanks!!
Great video and timely safety talk. Please keep them coming.
This is way underrated channel. Should have millions more subs.
Loved this. Best video i've seen of yours. Loved the help from the community too.
This was an extremely interesting video. I had no idea that the auto train was such a complicated and efficient operation. Great job as usual.
Kudos Danny on another fantastic video! Thank you so much for the bit on the end about safety around active tracks.
This video was difficult for me because my Good friend David Felts was an engineer for the Auto Train for a very long time. He had considered retiring for about two years but just couldn't shake the idea of leaving what he considered the best job in the world! Sadly he passed away suddenly at his home in Central Florida a few years ago. When I was just a kid, he let me ride in the cab of the CF-7 they used to switch the yard out with. I got to ride thru that washer a bunch of times and I've got to tell you it's even neater seeing it from the inside. Dave was also a history buff and could show you where all the old railroads used to line up there. I think I remember his details pretty well. He used to tell me about his time before the Auto train working as a crew for the Seaboard Coast Line out of Sanford and down to Groveland on the old ACL / Orange belt line. When I was just 21 years old and working in IT, Dave pushed me to pursue my dream of working for the railroad if that was what I wanted to do and, 21 years later I have no regrets about the choice! The only thing I wished I could have done was worked with him on Amtrak. But now that I am retired I think back and have some really fond memories of my career and also of Dave's. Most of mine with Dave are there in the Sanford yard.
Thanks again Danny!
Thank You!! I didn't know David, but the name is sure familiar. I love talking to those old SCL guys. It was real railroading back then. Sorry to hear he went like that. I think Amtrak should let kids who were on the train ride through that washer. That would be a serious attraction. Thanks for your compliments.
@@distantsignal I have heard Dave on your videos in Folkston as he's calling signals. In fact he has pointed himself out to me on some of your videos, ha!
He always took great joy in seeing the railfans at the Folkston platform.
Another great job Danny, been a Rail fan since I was eight years old. Got to ride in the engine in 1955 in New Jersey. Great videos my friend !!!
As a non-full-time-railfan, but still a fan, I found this very educational and entertaining. Thanks!
So, you're really a part-time railfan. Nice.
This is a fantastic video, I only recently found out about the auto train and wondered about the logistics, this helped a lot! Thank you!
Tio
What a great video! I knew a little about the loading in Virginia, but never had seen the unloading. Thank you for the comprehensive and well made video. And for making us all hungry with your lunch lol
A great way to start my day!
I always learn a great deal from your videos. It is also a pleasure listening to your million-dollar voice!
Another Danny video! Awesome!
Literally like two days ago I was looking to see if there are any videos of the handling of the auto train so I can safely say it was a nice surprise to wake up to this video.
Glad I could help!
great video bro
Great video as usual Danny. Thanks from Auckland New Zealand 🇳🇿.
This is absolutely one of the coolest videos ever! 🔥🔥
Your videos are so informative and your voice just keeps me listening. Trying to go where you have made video's so I can feel the joy. Fantastic job sir!
Danny,
You have a new big fan out west.
Working my way through your previous videos. They are all first rate.
I am also sure I heard you on an Ad last nite.
Thank you for the many hours filming and editing a great part of this nation.
Rich
Northern Nevada
Ha! Could be. Welcome aboard.
When I was last rail fanning the auto train at Sanford visiting from the U.K. , the switching guys invited my son and I into their sun shelter to watch close-up and shared their drinks with us. Great guys.
Very cool!
All I know is soon as I hit the lottery you're going to be my tour guide I want to see that yard where the Auto racks it looks really interesting
You are making me a train fan. Thanks.
I always said you had that golden radio voice, Danny. As surprised as I am that station never hired you, I'm glad you got to meet your Wife instead. Big thanks for this video, too. I operate trains on the A line from Rice Yard and Waycross to the Stanton Connection (MP799.8) in a simulator called "Run 8", and having this demonstration about PO53 and its switching duties in Sanford is invaluable to me as well.
Just rode the auto train southbound in late August. Fabulous trip. Terrific train crew. The roomette was a little cramped for 2 seniors but not bad. We left early but were trailing behing a slower southbound freight which put us into Sanford about an hour late. Our car was delivered within 30 minutes of our arrival (we did not pay extra for express unloading - just lucky!)
Our attendant said they have been very busy thru the C-19 epidemic and have lowered their coach seating capacity. They did a great job of cleaning and keeping people safe. Lots of college students returning to school. I was surprised to find out how many folks did NOT know about the Auto Train - considering it has been operating for over 30 years.
Thanks for the yard tour.
Thanks William! Two points in your post struck me: 1. That CSX would let a freight train get out in front of Auto Train. and 2. That college students are wealthy enough to take a $500+ trip to return to college!
Thank you for such a very interesting video. Definitely one of my favourites of yours. Very well compiled. Greetings from South Africa.
Thanks and welcome aboard!
On the Auto Train now. Looked out the window and saw the scenery at the 8:47 mark. I immediately thought of this video. We will soon be arriving in Sanford. Had a great trip. Thank you Danny for this video.
Thanks, Danny…very well done. Have taken the auto train many times and always enjoyed the ride. Your video brings back pleasant memories. Stay well.
Sam Franklin
Callawassie Island, SC
Good to have connections in the yard. Good to get a refresher on rail fan safety. Thanks again for a great video Danny
Another great informative video Danny as I never knew that there was such a train myself. I guess when you have money like those people do then you can take your own favorite car with you thus creating the need for such a train. I love listening to how you have all the good eating joints scoped out and the way you ended it. “Delicious”!
Always enjoy your videos, love your sense of humor. Thanks Danny
Love your voice Danny, and your delivery. Thanks for a most interesting topic; The AUTOTRAIN who would have known. Bless you.
Excellent whole production from Narration, knowledge and POV. You sir are a true professional, Thank you Danny for the great video.
Thank you!
So glad when I saw the alert you posted a video me and my wife finished the cardinal from dc to Chicago and your videos help us understand the stops and the crossings please keep it up
So much more interesting than I was expecting. What an orchestra... loved watching the efficiency of an experienced crew!
Glad you enjoyed it!