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On weekends a private car is attached to selected Surfliner runs; a premium is charged for tickets to ride. Last week I noticed the car was coupled immediately behind the engine on a southbound train operating in "push" mode...I would think that would result in a lot of exhaust going into the car...has anyone ridden this?
CZowner Member # 985
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Exhaust is not a problem, except in tunnels. It travels over the top of the car. Also, unless an engine is tired, they don't usually throw oil, either.
It's also surprisingly quiet if the vestibule/platform is coupled to the locomotive, unless it's one of the F40's that are showing up again.
The locomotives don't ride very well, and can horse the car around somewhat.
MattAtTrainWebDotCom Member # 14
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I should clarify that you don't pay any "premium" through Amtrak -- you deal entirely with the private car owner. And there is no set schedule for public excursions. They tend to occur more during the summer, though many of the runs you see are private charters, not open to the public. For more information, visit RAILcharter.com .
------------------ -Matthew J. Melzer matt@trainweb.com
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