Track Plan:   / pfbid026qpobpmoxe5d99dsqw7rpesenht2tpfkksq...  
Layout Operations: Coal Train    • Layout Operations: Coal Train  
Layout Operations: Manned Helpers Part 2    • Layout Operations: Manned Helpers  P...  

The keystone of mainline operations on my layout is the use of manned helpers. On my layout, the scene of Essex is about halfway up the grade on the western slope of Marias Pass, just like the real thing. There, a pair of GE locomotives (ET44C4 and ES44C4) are stationed to help heavy trains, such as the loaded coal train from the previous video (link above), to the top of the pass at the continental divide. The coal train features 26 cars, each weighing 9 ounces, which is quite heavy for an HO Scale car. The steepest part of the mainline grade is east (to the left) of Essex, so manned helpers are physically necessary even on my model railroad to lift the heavy train over the pass.

Though not shown in this video, the helpers are also used to help heavy EB mixed freights and the intermodal train, depending on weight and power.

In the next operations video, we'll look at another aspect of the manned helper ops: providing dynamic brake assistance in the opposite direction for loaded grain and oil trains.

Enjoy!
Cam