The Southwest Cheif has a pretty good track record. I've even witnessed it pulling into LAX as much as an hour early or more. It's rarely more than a couple hour late into Los Angeles. Train travel gives you a little more of a relaxed environment. The Sleepers are nice-clean for the most part. I've only been on the Southwest Chief once and it was so long ago, I can't remember. If the onboard service is anything like the Coast Starlight though, you'll find any moderate delay as tollerable.Now, I don't remember if you mentioned whether or not your a first time train rider or not. The motion of a train is something that for some takes some getting used to. It's no worse than a car or airplane, but VERY DIFFERENT. It's more of a side to side motion rather than up and down. I've had some uncomfortable nights in sleepers with this motion. Everybody's different though. I actually choose to sleep sitting up in coach. I actually think it's easier on your body. The Superliners' long distance seat arrangement is unrivaled by plane of bus. It has plenty of leg room and reclines back a surprising distance-and they usually have a retractable anke/foot rest that pulls out from under the seat.
Please somebody tell me I'm not too strange for preferring to sleep in couch than in sleeper. You will find though that sleeper passengers are offered certain ammentities not offered to coach passengers.
Sometimes, within reason, a good train trip is in the eyes of the beholder/traveler. Expect moderate delays (2-3 hours) and just enjoy yourself as though this is a cruise on rails (except there's no swimming pool).
Keys to a pleasurable train trip:
1. Arrive at the station early.
2. Once your settled in familiarize yourself with the train. Walk around and explore the train. The wonderful thing about train travel (especially long-distance) is that you have the freedom to move around and mingle.
3. Get plenty of rest the night before the Big Trip. Mood affects your outlook and especially your stress levels-yes I know easier said than done with a 22 month old.
4. During the day time, find out about some of the scenery or interesting sites you'll be going by en-route. About five minutes or so before you're do to pass by it, stake out a spot in the sightseer lounge, if your train has one. Most Southwest Chiefs do. The train offers some spectacular views that you cannot get from 30,000 feet above the earth's surface or from a speeding vehicle.
5. Take advantage of what is usually good food onboard and good service from what I understand.
6. Expect delays-make good of that extra time onboard.
7. Relax!
8. Bring your whole medicine cabinet in case-they sell some stuff on board but usually at a heafty price (this is from personal experience)