Re: Grade up Cumbres

Thanks Earl, Your information will make train watching/riding more interesting knowing what is going on at the head end. I would suppose that after a few years you can really anticipate what is going to happen. You know that coming around the corner into the shade there will be some dew on the rails and it will be slippery so you are prepared.
I understand what you mean about Hog Mauler, some have "soft hands" and can feel a machine, others haven't a clue. There is more to being an engineer on a mountain RR than open the throttle in Chama, close the throttle at Cumbres.
Thanks again for the information.
Jim