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It seems to me that Amtrak has an issue with equipment shortage. This is especially the case for Superliners. Is Amtrak doing anything to remedy the situation? Shouldn't this be a budgetary priority?
When equipment is in the shop (whether it be Coaches, Locomotives, or what not) it seems to hold up the whole show. I even heard on one of these boards that that is one of the primary reasons that the Sunset only runs 3x per wk.
Is it time to stop fixing (duct taping) the old equipment and start purchasing new? Comments anyone?
------------------ Patrick
TheBriz09 Member # 3166
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First of all, Amtrak can't afford new equipment at the current time.
Depends on your definition of "shortage" of course, Amtrak could certainly utilize additional cars but, at least for Superliner trains, I don't think they are currently in danger of annulling trains because of equipment shortage. Plus the aggressive rebuild program at Beech Grove has helped alot.
I think Viewliners have been more of a concern for Amtrak lately because of the harsh Northeastern winter and because Amtrak only owns 50 Viewliner sleepers. Mr. Gunn has gone on record saying that the next rolling stock acquisition will probably be new Viewliner lounge/diners and sleepers, to alleviate Eastern car shortages and to phase out the remaining Heritage cars. (Trains magazine, May '04).
Mr. Toy Member # 311
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How many Superliners have now been repaired and returned to service? Last I heard it was twenty, but that was awhile ago. Of course, we lost half a dozen Superliners last week so the net gain as of now is less than 20.
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