NS Engineer / Conductor Question

[NSyorktown]

Just curious, for all the NS engineers and conductors on the Board :

When you are assigned a train out of a yard, do you have any say as to the type and orientation of the power?  For example, say you get a northbound and it needs three locomotives, can you ask for a newer unit to be placed on the head end versus two older models in the consist?  Or,  can you ask that a locomotive be turned  so that you are going either long- or short-hood forward?  How about requesting that a unit you have driven before (and didn't like!) be moved back in the consist in favor of another lead unit?

Basically, I was just wondering if you had to take the assigned train as assembled, or if crews got to pick their order of NS units?  TIA

[Michael Knight]

No, crews in general don't get to pick and choose their power. However, there are exceptions where a crew may request that their power be turned, or lead engine swicthed back in the consist. For example, a crew may not wish to depart with a locomotive facing long hood foward, due to visability concerns. Other instances include lead units with strong odors orginating from the toilet compartment, and swicthing out a non-airconditoned unit to trailing status- although this request can be denied.

Of course there are many obvious reasons why a crew may wish to swicth their engine consist that are not listed above, such as mechanical problems, etc. Also, at outlying locations crews may be asked pick a certain number of the available units for their train.

[John D]

Hi Rich... glad to see you on this board!  I knew one of these NS guys would be able to answer your question.  You all getting ready for the NMRA show in April?

John D

[NSyorktown]

Hi John!  Yep, I'm on here . . . .

I thought I'd ask about the consists among those on this Board.  I have train after train roll by the house, with what appears to be "ancient" power on the head end and brand new power following.  If I were on an NS crew, I'd try to get the more modern locomotives right up front (and enjoy the comfort cab, etc.).

I never thought about the comment (see above) about turning the lead units so you wouldn't have to smell the lavatory.  Not an appealing scenario!

And, yes, I'm getting the CNO&TP Layout ready for April . . . we have TOP BILLING on the CID / NMRA site:  http://cid.railfan.net/