Due to the elimination of the Mail and Express business, Trains 3/4, The Southwest Chief, will now regularly operate with only two (2) P42 locomotives. This locomotive requirement is based on the standard consist of 9 cars (which includes 2 sleepers and 3 coaches). An additional three (3) loaded Expresstrak cars may be operated before a third locomotive is required. Also, the baggage car on Train 3 will now originate off the yard at Chicago rather than running thru off Train 29 (see Train 29 below).

Due to a projected expansion of the Expresstrak business at Wenatchee (WEN), this train has been placed back into direct release braking.

Note: Due to the elimination of the Mail and Express business, the mechanical forces at MSP have been eliminated. Therefore, private cars must have their 10 C Daily Inspection Form with the car from their last terminal inspection.

Beginning with Train 29(10/20), the baggage car on Train 29 will operate on the head end of the train between the locomotives and first coach. On arrival at CHI, this baggage car will be cut with the road power before the equipment is set over for Train 3. The baggage car for Train 3 will be made-up off the yard with the locomotives. Expresstrak cars will still operate on these trains. The new consist of Train 29 will be as follows:

There will be no changes to the consist of Train 30 at this time.

Due to the elimination of the Mail and Express business, Trains 40/41, The Three Rivers, will now regularly operate with only one (1) P42 locomotive PHL-CHI. Also, Expresstrak cars will still operate on these trains.

Note: I personally addressed this issue with the CNIC and they stated that due to operational concerns about reliability, they would not consider changing this policy. I was hoping to have better information for you but, I wanted you to know as soon as I got word.

Direct/Graduated Release Train List

At this time the following trains are now operating in direct release: