Hi Mr. McGowan, the DPU going into a emergency explains it, it's funny, my wife is named Jennifer, she loves rail fanning, she's the 1st one in the truck, and the 1st one in coming home, she's 5 years older than me, i'm 47, i love her with all of my heart, and she knows it too, we do like videos that are an hour long, no complaints from us.
Really enjoyed the video! I appreciate that you show the whole trains, not just the locomotives. When I'm looking for historical photos, it seems like the "traditional" front-three-quarters shots of engines are a dime a dozen, and photos that show what a whole typical train looked like are as rare as hen's teeth. That makes it a bit difficult to build a model train that feels like a real train rather than just a collection of random cars.
That's why I am fond of manifest trains. Varied cars and colors! I don't know if you saw this video that I made, by request, just for modelers. ruclips.net/video/ssIB2pIvHAc/видео.html
Happy New Year.. Just want to say how much we appreciate your channel. Your style is OK by me (that means I like it) and the length is ok to (which means all are good) the mix between trains, the depot, the trips you guys take, the bike rides.. they are all ok and I really want you to know that we look forward to your work. thanks again.
Keep making your videos as long as you want if I don't have the time to watch the hole video I will watch it in segments. Happy new and God bless you and your family.
Quick catch of another derailment at Rowen. As for video length I watch all your railroad videos regardless of length. Keep the videos coming. Many thanks Mark. 🤠
Thanks for the summary at the end. Long, short, wide, narrow, ideal closing for a relaxed day. Happy New Year, and good news for the crew and the railroad.
I'm so glad to see this! I really wanted to get down there but wasn't able to due to work and other commitments. You did a great job showing it, and I'm really glad to hear there were no injuries and that no one got in trouble. 17:58 Wow, that's a lot of locos, plus two at the end! Must have been a heavy train. 34:18 New Ferromex paint scheme! (Is it considered new still? The first time I saw it was awhile ago by now!) Also I like both long and short format videos. Some videos I can put on and just listen to while I drive or do chores, but yours I have to sit and watch. I love watching the trains and seeing the scenery.
Thank u for the update !!! Keep the videos coming!! Please. If ur videos get to long I just come back n watch the rest later !! Happy New Year. Stay safe out there !!!
I prefer 15 to 20 minutes but as someone else said longer ones I can come back to later on. So don’t change how you do videos because of me. I can always take a break and come back if I need to. You have never made a bad video that I have seen great job
Happy New Year Mark! Its a toss up between Hot Brakes and the smell of freshly layed asphalt that gets it for me 😂. Great videos! Thanks for posting from the ole stomping grounds! As far as tripods you should give monopods a try I like Manfrotto they're quickly maneuvered into position and you'll always be steady. Be careful out there on those cowpaths we aren't getting any younger that's for sure! Any length of video is always a plus. Thank you, Michael
Hi Mark thanks for your dedication. I like the long videos. I like to watch the videos from 7idea productions they’re often 2 hours long with great shots and interesting history like yours I let em play while I work in my garage keep up the good work
I, personally , like the longer videos as long as you change locations. It adds the change of scenery to the filming. I like the shorter videos when you are like working at the Depot as the same viewpoint does get a little boring over time. Happy New Year, Mark!
Good video thank you looks like a perfect string line I like all your videos it doesn't make a difference as long as it got trains in them have a good new year mark
I am always glad to see you sir. The first time I saw you on YT is during the pandemicc and you were extremely ill; as in, "holy $#@(". SO glad for you, sir. Happy New Year to you and yours.
Like you said Mark, everyone seems to jump to stringline. A stringline is not the CAUSE of a derailment, but usually the RESULT of something else taking place in the train.
shmoop2481 is correct. A stringline is a result of other problems, not the cause. It's the same with empty centerbeam cars. They don't cause derailments (if they did, there would be thousands more derailments), they are just more susceptible to coming off when things go sideways. These derailments were happening long before they started running longer trains, but up here, both roads tend to limit trains to under 9,000' so they will fit in the shortest siding (Rowen) if needed. Thanks for checking it out!
@marioxerxescastelancastro8019 The reason why I say that is because prior to my statement, I have not heard anything about Centerbeams causing trouble. Ever since those accidents that occurred 2 years ago is when I started to see that comment over and over. And yes, I think I did start that. And if those cars are causing so much trouble throughout the years, they would have been either modified or eliminated by now, and there's your dinner.
First time viewer... I was born and raised in the San Joaquin valley. Obtained 3 engineering degrees and retired from a career and research engineering... Unexpectedly, I have returned to the valley. As an engineer I'm always interested in trains and the technology associated with it. I am constantly frustrated with the insane politics of energy and transportation as it makes absolutely no sense from a technical standpoint. I enjoy your perspective and comments I'm certainly not an expert with trains but I believe that the US in general has really blown it with regards to the potential for trains. It seems that the politicians are solely focused upon the ridiculously high-tech high-speed rails when that is not needed for most locations in the US. Anyone who is concerned with energy and pollution should be extremely supportive up rail service and more importantly support the proper oversight to improve the real system... Both for the Passenger service which Amtrak has all but destroyed over the last 10 years due to total incompetence and greed and the freight service which for the last 70 years has needed tremendous exmention particularly in California to offset the horrific pollution of the trucks traveling from SoCal to the Bay area. As a boy I was horrified to discover that the state had rejected the original plans to run rail along high five over the ridge route which has been a massive disaster! The incompetent city-slickers in Sacramento want to blame the farmers for the increase in air pollution when anyone with a brain knows that the pollution is PRIMARILY caused by Pollution flows from the Bay area and the unbelievable level of trucking primarily along I-5 and highway 99. Of course they unbelievably CORRUPT and WASTEFUL high-speed rail is another part of the PROBLEM because it DETRACTS from the REAL problem of inexpensive and reliable (Standard rail) passenger service and increased freight service between So Cal and the Bay area. Has a total engineering nerd I prefer to avoid the politics but after a career as a science adviser to the highest levels of government and industry I fully realize that politics is the key element of accomplishing anything useful and productive. We need to protect the farmers as they are being driven out of business and real service which is increasingly being corruptedid by evil, destructive forcis in Sacramento and elsewhere. I think that most people realize that maintenance of the rails and real cars has become a critical problem. In addition implementation of simple and inexpensive safety measures has been delayed due to corruption within the industry. [We made critical recommendations over 40 years ago that were supposed to be an implemented at that time! I begin research into train related issues while in graduate school had stand for the university in 1979. I was not that typical Stanford student yes I'd completed my graduate work at Fresno state and came from an extremely impoverished background as a farm boy...Not receiving one penny from my family nor the government to complete my college education. I believe that there are many improvements that could be achieved even in this absurd and illogical political climate. The hypocrisy is overwhelming, but in the end I have faith in the people of the Central Valley. [ The hypocrites city slickers in Sacramento claim to be concerned about pollution but when legitimate and inexpensive options for improvement are propost they always back off and support options that are HYPER-EXPENSIVE, In many cases logistically UNWORKABLE, loaded with CORRUPTION, and absolutely FAIL to achieve the stated goals. We desperately need STANDARD RAIL passenger and freight service along the entire San Joaquin valley That is directly connected to So Cal to Bay area service! [Had they installed the rails along I-5 over the ridge route (And ultimately along I-5 and H 99 to the Bay area) in the 60s, as originally planned, this would have been simple and relatively inexpensive.] But rather than resolve the errors of the past the arrogant, incompetent, and corrupt city slickers in Sacramento are promoting the absurd high-speed rail system rather than actually accomplish something useful and productive. I think that video such as yours support the rgaleties of life in the valley where politics have led to polluting one of the most beautiful and productive landscapes in the world. I thank you for your efforts!
Hey Mark, Happy New Year. Like you, I like the smell of the hot brakes. But I LOVE the smell of diesel exhaust even more. It was better before all the tree hugger emission crap was installed. Nothing like a dirty GE shooting out flames and thick black exhaust. As for video length, I like them all. If it's too long, I'll get back to it later. Just keep doing what you're doing. Thanks for all the great content of a spectacular stretch of railroad, and I hope your channel keeps growing like a weed. 😁
I see 3 or 4 grain trains a day going through Cincinnati yard on cam. And there are several tank trains too. Most of the grain goes to feeding chickens, especially when there are thousands of them in one place.
I remember one Christmas Eve evening when I was driving up 99. The fog was really thick and I was following the taillights of the car in front of me. Right where the Freeway crosses over the SP main north of Kimberlina Ave, the taillights dissappered. I was expecting that and I slowed down. I got to the crossover saw the taillights again and followed the taillights again. But that Tule Fog in the Valley at times can be very bad. My spouse's Grandfather died in an accident due to Tule Fog near Patterson.
Have not been out there in a long time. Last time (Sep.94), Espee had a ditcher workin up there, and i dint have much time to kill, so lotsa trains parked in Bakersfield and Mojave. I'll bet it was a helluva show after dark when nobody could see it.
I prefer your 30 - 45 minute videos bcos you move around a lot and keeps me interested and entertained 😉 good job although sometimes I'd like if you use the tripod hahaha 😆 I get dizzy from the phone moving or shaking hahaha 😆 great train watching channel 😊
HI Mark. Happy new year to you and your family! Earlier today I rode the Metroliner from Lancastar towards LA Union Station in TrainSimWorld 5. Now I just found out that the Tehachapipass is on the same line further north of Lancaster. Unfortunately that part is not in the TSW route. But ok. How impressive these long freight trains.
I question a slow order when the cars are clearly not blocking the tracks. Hope you can get a little of the rerailing action. Happy New Year from Hutchinson Island, Florida, between Vero Beach and Ft. Pierce. 😎
I don't know that there was a slow order. I heard no communication between trains and the dispatcher, and the tracks looked fine. As you saw, some of the trains were even taking the siding. The max speed is 23mph and they're sometimes going slower uphill if they're heavy. The loaded grain train is a 15-20,000 train and usually doesn't exceed 15-18 mph downhill. It's always empty going up.
Back in the day, a few years as a brakeman would expose one to what to do, and what not to do, an Engineer got behind the control stand thru experience. That doesnt seem to matter now, so they're gettin what they pay for.
Mark, i watch your videos on my desk top. 1 hour or 1 1/2 hour videos are fine. i just stop the video put my puter to sleep and pick up where I left off. I usually watch 3 or 4 videos being 2 to 4 hours at a time.
The east end of Woodford (where Mark was) is a very good place to sit and watch trains. Park on the south side of the tracks. If you park on the north side (like Mark was) and a train gets stuck in the siding you can't get out. I've seen trains stall there and it takes forever to get help up to them. Another good place is Bealville, you can even go back to tunnel 3 and further back to tunnel 5. Caliente and tunnel 2 are good places. I live in Bakersfield and used to go up there every Saturday to the east end of Woodford and sit all day. You can see the loop from there and see if a train is coming down, and with a scanner you can hear the detector at Rowan and know if a train is coming up. It takes them about ten minutes to get there. With a scanner on 161.550 mhz you get the dispatcher 54 and the detectors. The grass (wild oats) should still be green and maybe some wild flowers up around tunnel 2 and Caliente, although it may be a little early for them. Good luck and have fun.
There are a couple of ties laying between the track and the derelicts around 29:30 or so. They looked fairly intact; perhhars no relation to th mishap?
It's funny but I didn't notice those until I was editing the video. I saw no indication of any track work there, but I wasn't really focused on it either, so they may have changed a couple out.
I watched that part of the video again. Now I'm going the specu- guess that there was wheel bumps on the clips and little chippy spots on the ties and a surfacing machine and regulator nearby. If the Roadmaster gets 'First Dibs', there will be nothing left for the Ops or FRA to wag a finger about. And the black box seems to agree. Just don:t wait too long. When the FRA shows up with data and photos that predate current conditions, somebody suddenly has a bunch of throat-clearing and itching of the forehead to deal with. Such was the almost-vareer-ending event on the territory twice removed from mine. Just imagine the focus of the looking glass on everyone for over a year. Trust is a commodity that is as easy to grasp onto as smoke in a whirlwind.
Thanks Mark and Happy New Year! I enjoy your train videos no matter the length. Was the string that went over at the end of the train with the DPU on the tail end? I sometimes wonder if there is a break in communication between the head end and tail what happens with the DPU.
Good video under the circumstances. There was nothing going on at the derailment site, but trains seemed to come rolling along at short intervals. Waiting to see the derailment was worth it, too. Puzzling about lack of rail or roadbed damage. So this longer video provided an overall sense of the dynamics of the Tehachapi Pass rail action. In general, I prefer somewhat shorter videos. I do not always have time to watch longer ones, and if there is no footage other than passing trains, the shorter ones suffice in my opinion. Regardless, your narrative and knowledge shared on these recordings is always appreciated. Happy New Year, Mark.
Hello Mark I see alot of track ballast that looks darker almost black on western railroads compared to east coast where it is more Grey. Do you know why their is such a difference? Great shots from today! Thanks Bill from Ohio
Even out here, BNSF ballast is generally a darker, almost red color. I'm told they have different sources in different places where the rock is easily accessed, so I have to assume it's the same back there.
My brother told me the problem of breaking into vehicles was a lot worse going back decades ago, as back then the cars were transported on open rail cars, similar with tractor/trailer rigs that deliver vehicles to auto dealerships. The car's interior would be trashed, along with an empty gas tank (running the engine for heating) and putting a lot of use to the dashboard's cigarette lighter.
I don't care on size of or length of video but when the trains are all intermodal I tend to not watch it completely through. I realize its all random. Will they be scrapping those derailed cars?
During my research in the 70s we had promoted a concept of distributing the engines throughout the train rather than having now simply in the front. This would add tremendous stability and control to the entire drain and quickly reduce the possibility oupd realments during emergency stops. In addition we developed control systems to properly evacuate and emergency stop has to reduce the potential for derailments. No people need to realize that we developed this at a time where we only had simple microprocessors available to effectuate control. With today's computer systems and Communication between engines this could easily and inexpensively be achieved! [ Instead because of the absurd and dangerous border strategies over the last 4 years, rail service is dealing with "Wild West style robberies" rather than improving safety and quality of rail service! As I said earlier, I greatly dislike politics, but when the City-slicker politicians are so INCOMPETENT and CORRUPT that they greatly distract from our "Quality of life" (Polluting our air, stealing our water, and economically destroying our family farms!!!...in addition to the destruction of rail service) and WASTE BILLIONS of taxpayer dollars, we have NO CHOICE but to engage.]
That's gotta be disconcerting for the crews. Would a seized truck bolster on a car cause it to pop off like that on a corner? I thought it'd be cool to do railroad work after working in aviation for 20 years. Nothing romantic about it though, looks like with crews getting squeezed and the public caring far, far less about railroad accidents I could see it being difficult if you wanted to do things the most efficient (right) way.
Thanks for the closure summary. It’s nice to hear that it was just a mechanical problem and everyone followed procedures with no injuries
Hi Mr. McGowan, the DPU going into a emergency explains it, it's funny, my wife is named Jennifer, she loves rail fanning, she's the 1st one in the truck, and the 1st one in coming home, she's 5 years older than me, i'm 47, i love her with all of my heart, and she knows it too, we do like videos that are an hour long, no complaints from us.
Really enjoyed the video! I appreciate that you show the whole trains, not just the locomotives. When I'm looking for historical photos, it seems like the "traditional" front-three-quarters shots of engines are a dime a dozen, and photos that show what a whole typical train looked like are as rare as hen's teeth. That makes it a bit difficult to build a model train that feels like a real train rather than just a collection of random cars.
That's why I am fond of manifest trains. Varied cars and colors! I don't know if you saw this video that I made, by request, just for modelers.
ruclips.net/video/ssIB2pIvHAc/видео.html
@@MarkClayMcGowan I hadn't seen that one; thank you for the link! Watching it now.
Happy New Year.. Just want to say how much we appreciate your channel. Your style is OK by me (that means I like it) and the length is ok to (which means all are good) the mix between trains, the depot, the trips you guys take, the bike rides.. they are all ok and I really want you to know that we look forward to your work. thanks again.
Thank you so much for the kind words! I appreciate you watching! Here's to more cool stuff in 2025!
Keep making your videos as long as you want if I don't have the time to watch the hole video I will watch it in segments. Happy new and God bless you and your family.
Yes, thank you for the Videos you’ve shown in the past. They’re great to watch and learn what’s happening with the railroads. I love seeing them!
Always love the videos. I also shoot videos on the CN and CPKC in southern Ontario. Nice to see more and more railfans.
Quick catch of another derailment at Rowen. As for video length I watch all your railroad videos regardless of length. Keep the videos coming. Many thanks Mark. 🤠
The longer the better when it comes to train vidoes
Hey Mark, it was nice meeting you in the Tehachapi Museum this afternoon! Great video.
Take care,
Robert
As it meeting you! Maybe we'll bump into each other again.
@@MarkClayMcGowan That would be cool! Thanks again,
Robert in Cucamonga
Thanks for the summary at the end. Long, short, wide, narrow, ideal closing for a relaxed day. Happy New Year, and good news for the crew and the railroad.
Great videos. Perfect angles and sound. Thanks for sharing.
I'm so glad to see this! I really wanted to get down there but wasn't able to due to work and other commitments. You did a great job showing it, and I'm really glad to hear there were no injuries and that no one got in trouble. 17:58 Wow, that's a lot of locos, plus two at the end! Must have been a heavy train. 34:18 New Ferromex paint scheme! (Is it considered new still? The first time I saw it was awhile ago by now!) Also I like both long and short format videos. Some videos I can put on and just listen to while I drive or do chores, but yours I have to sit and watch. I love watching the trains and seeing the scenery.
Thank u for the update !!! Keep the videos coming!! Please. If ur videos get to long I just come back n watch the rest later !! Happy New Year. Stay safe out there !!!
I prefer 15 to 20 minutes but as someone else said longer ones I can come back to later on. So don’t change how you do videos because of me. I can always take a break and come back if I need to. You have never made a bad video that I have seen great job
Thanks Cory. I really appreciate that!
THX4 being our eyes and ears Mark. Blessings!
Happy New Year Mark! Its a toss up between Hot Brakes and the smell of freshly layed asphalt that gets it for me 😂. Great videos! Thanks for posting from the ole stomping grounds! As far as tripods you should give monopods a try I like Manfrotto they're quickly maneuvered into position and you'll always be steady. Be careful out there on those cowpaths we aren't getting any younger that's for sure! Any length of video is always a plus.
Thank you,
Michael
Love all your videos. Train video’s to me are like shoes to my wife, you can never have too many.
Great captures and viewing areas there 👍 Awesome share happy RailFanning. Cool footage through out the video. Thanks for sharing the adventure
Hi Mark thanks for your dedication. I like the long videos. I like to watch the videos from 7idea productions they’re often 2 hours long with great shots and interesting history like yours I let em play while I work in my garage keep up the good work
I watch your videos until the end, no matter how long it is. I appreciate what you put into them.
Happy New Year Mark! Love the nice long train videos! Keep em coming.
I, personally , like the longer videos as long as you change locations. It adds the change of scenery to the filming. I like the shorter videos when you are like working at the Depot as the same viewpoint does get a little boring over time. Happy New Year, Mark!
Thank Mark going out and being eyewitness news and covering the story!!!! Very interesting ..maybe more facts to come..
Great video Mark. Some great catches. That one engineer gave you a horn salute. Pretty cool. You all have a Happy New Year. 👍❤️
I like the long videos! And, wishing you a Happy New Year!
Hey Mark: hope that you are well. I enjoy your channel. Best wishes for a super new years.
Good video thank you looks like a perfect string line I like all your videos it doesn't make a difference as long as it got trains in them have a good new year mark
Happy New Year Mark! Videos around a half hour work best for me. I know sometimes they have to be longer and I do watch them. Thank you.
I have watched 3 hour videos, so yours at 32 minutes are fine. The viewer can always break it up. Thanks for the epilogue at the end.
I am always glad to see you sir. The first time I saw you on YT is during the pandemicc and you were extremely ill; as in, "holy $#@(". SO glad for you, sir. Happy New Year to you and yours.
Nice catch 👍🏻😎 cleaned up well 👍🏻 great video mark . 👍🏻😎
The longer videos are great, if i don't have time to watch I'll stop it and come back later to finish. Happy New Year
Happy New Year, keep em coming.
Like you said Mark, everyone seems to jump to stringline. A stringline is not the CAUSE of a derailment, but usually the RESULT of something else taking place in the train.
Not the case , 99% of the derailments up there caused from string lining too long of Trains to lightweight and sharp curves
shmoop2481 is correct. A stringline is a result of other problems, not the cause. It's the same with empty centerbeam cars. They don't cause derailments (if they did, there would be thousands more derailments), they are just more susceptible to coming off when things go sideways. These derailments were happening long before they started running longer trains, but up here, both roads tend to limit trains to under 9,000' so they will fit in the shortest siding (Rowen) if needed. Thanks for checking it out!
HAPPY NEW YEAR MARK.
THANKS FOR THE EFFORTS YOU PUT INTO YOUR VIDEO'S VIDEO'S
Wow excellent great video my friend. Love it
I think I'm the one who started with the "Centerbeam" craze after seeing many crash videos involving them and stating how troublesome they are. Lol
You started nothing. This has always been common knowledge.
@marioxerxescastelancastro8019
The reason why I say that is because prior to my statement, I have not heard anything about Centerbeams causing trouble. Ever since those accidents that occurred 2 years ago is when I started to see that comment over and over.
And yes, I think I did start that.
And if those cars are causing so much trouble throughout the years, they would have been either modified or eliminated by now, and there's your dinner.
I enjoy your videos long or short thank you
Great video Mark. I need to get out that way and film
Hi Mark & it's is Randy and i like yours video is Cool & Thanks Mark & Friends Randy
First time viewer... I was born and raised in the San Joaquin valley. Obtained 3 engineering degrees and retired from a career and research engineering... Unexpectedly, I have returned to the valley. As an engineer I'm always interested in trains and the technology associated with it. I am constantly frustrated with the insane politics of energy and transportation as it makes absolutely no sense from a technical standpoint. I enjoy your perspective and comments I'm certainly not an expert with trains but I believe that the US in general has really blown it with regards to the potential for trains. It seems that the politicians are solely focused upon the ridiculously high-tech high-speed rails when that is not needed for most locations in the US. Anyone who is concerned with energy and pollution should be extremely supportive up rail service and more importantly support the proper oversight to improve the real system... Both for the Passenger service which Amtrak has all but destroyed over the last 10 years due to total incompetence and greed and the freight service which for the last 70 years has needed tremendous exmention particularly in California to offset the horrific pollution of the trucks traveling from SoCal to the Bay area. As a boy I was horrified to discover that the state had rejected the original plans to run rail along high five over the ridge route which has been a massive disaster! The incompetent city-slickers in Sacramento want to blame the farmers for the increase in air pollution when anyone with a brain knows that the pollution is PRIMARILY caused by Pollution flows from the Bay area and the unbelievable level of trucking primarily along I-5 and highway 99. Of course they unbelievably CORRUPT and WASTEFUL high-speed rail is another part of the PROBLEM because it DETRACTS from the REAL problem of inexpensive and reliable (Standard rail) passenger service and increased freight service between So Cal and the Bay area. Has a total engineering nerd I prefer to avoid the politics but after a career as a science adviser to the highest levels of government and industry I fully realize that politics is the key element of accomplishing anything useful and productive. We need to protect the farmers as they are being driven out of business and real service which is increasingly being corruptedid by evil, destructive forcis in Sacramento and elsewhere. I think that most people realize that maintenance of the rails and real cars has become a critical problem. In addition implementation of simple and inexpensive safety measures has been delayed due to corruption within the industry. [We made critical recommendations over 40 years ago that were supposed to be an implemented at that time! I begin research into train related issues while in graduate school had stand for the university in 1979. I was not that typical Stanford student yes I'd completed my graduate work at Fresno state and came from an extremely impoverished background as a farm boy...Not receiving one penny from my family nor the government to complete my college education. I believe that there are many improvements that could be achieved even in this absurd and illogical political climate. The hypocrisy is overwhelming, but in the end I have faith in the people of the Central Valley. [ The hypocrites city slickers in Sacramento claim to be concerned about pollution but when legitimate and inexpensive options for improvement are propost they always back off and support options that are HYPER-EXPENSIVE, In many cases logistically UNWORKABLE, loaded with CORRUPTION, and absolutely FAIL to achieve the stated goals. We desperately need STANDARD RAIL passenger and freight service along the entire San Joaquin valley That is directly connected to So Cal to Bay area service! [Had they installed the rails along I-5 over the ridge route (And ultimately along I-5 and H 99 to the Bay area) in the 60s, as originally planned, this would have been simple and relatively inexpensive.] But rather than resolve the errors of the past the arrogant, incompetent, and corrupt city slickers in Sacramento are promoting the absurd high-speed rail system rather than actually accomplish something useful and productive. I think that video such as yours support the rgaleties of life in the valley where politics have led to polluting one of the most beautiful and productive landscapes in the world. I thank you for your efforts!
That quite a read, nd I agree with it! Thanks for checking it out!
Hey Mark, Happy New Year. Like you, I like the smell of the hot brakes. But I LOVE the smell of diesel exhaust even more. It was better before all the tree hugger emission crap was installed. Nothing like a dirty GE shooting out flames and thick black exhaust. As for video length, I like them all. If it's too long, I'll get back to it later. Just keep doing what you're doing. Thanks for all the great content of a spectacular stretch of railroad, and I hope your channel keeps growing like a weed. 😁
Thank you Mark and happy New Year!
I like all your videos!
I see 3 or 4 grain trains a day going through Cincinnati yard on cam. And there are several tank trains too. Most of the grain goes to feeding chickens, especially when there are thousands of them in one place.
I remember one Christmas Eve evening when I was driving up 99. The fog was really thick and I was following the taillights of the car in front of me. Right where the Freeway crosses over the SP main north of Kimberlina Ave, the taillights dissappered. I was expecting that and I slowed down. I got to the crossover saw the taillights again and followed the taillights again. But that Tule Fog in the Valley at times can be very bad. My spouse's Grandfather died in an accident due to Tule Fog near Patterson.
Have not been out there in a long time. Last time (Sep.94), Espee had a ditcher workin up there, and i dint have much time to kill, so lotsa trains parked in Bakersfield and Mojave. I'll bet it was a helluva show after dark when nobody could see it.
I prefer your 30 - 45 minute videos bcos you move around a lot and keeps me interested and entertained 😉 good job although sometimes I'd like if you use the tripod hahaha 😆 I get dizzy from the phone moving or shaking hahaha 😆 great train watching channel 😊
Happy New Year Mark.
Happy New Year!
HI Mark. Happy new year to you and your family! Earlier today I rode the Metroliner from Lancastar towards LA Union Station in TrainSimWorld 5. Now I just found out that the Tehachapipass is on the same line further north of Lancaster. Unfortunately that part is not in the TSW route. But ok. How impressive these long freight trains.
Happy Properous New Year 2025 Mark
Those Pinkerton trucks are also all over in the Cajon Pass to
I spoke with him for awhile. Pretty cool guy and will have no issues if he sees me out there.
The 20 minute videos usually work better for me. I often don’t have time to watch the longer ones.
Longer, or what ever U decide. Thanks.
That UP train was the MRVLB with the annulled EL paso power on it.
thanks for the video mark. happy new year
7:15 that UP must be the RVWC. Bringing lumber to SoCal from Portland via Roseville
I question a slow order when the cars are clearly not blocking the tracks. Hope you can get a little of the rerailing action. Happy New Year from Hutchinson Island, Florida, between Vero Beach and Ft. Pierce. 😎
I don't know that there was a slow order. I heard no communication between trains and the dispatcher, and the tracks looked fine. As you saw, some of the trains were even taking the siding. The max speed is 23mph and they're sometimes going slower uphill if they're heavy. The loaded grain train is a 15-20,000 train and usually doesn't exceed 15-18 mph downhill. It's always empty going up.
ayy we were there that day, we were the 4 in the silver toyota truck at the derailment site. you also gave us your card!
I hope you got in some good ralfanning on your trip!
Good catch on that Ferromex engine. I watch FXE 4010's channel and there are about as many BNSF engines in Mexico as there are Ferromex.
Back in the day, a few years as a brakeman would expose one to what to do, and what not to do, an Engineer got behind the control stand thru experience. That doesnt seem to matter now, so they're gettin what they pay for.
Happy wild New Years Eve Mark
Happy New Year Mark. Video length was ok to me.
Yes my wife thinks this is horrible to watch. I love it
23:34 that’s a nice string line!
great spot
Mark, i watch your videos on my desk top. 1 hour or 1 1/2 hour videos are fine. i just stop the video put my puter to sleep and pick up where I left off. I usually watch 3 or 4 videos being 2 to 4 hours at a time.
Looks like they shoestring on the curve.
I'm going to visit the Mojave Sub in about a month's time. Where along the pass do you think is the best place to watch trains (other than the loop)?
The east end of Woodford (where Mark was) is a very good place to sit and watch trains. Park on the south side of the tracks. If you park on the north side (like Mark was) and a train gets stuck in the siding you can't get out. I've seen trains stall there and it takes forever to get help up to them. Another good place is Bealville, you can even go back to tunnel 3 and further back to tunnel 5. Caliente and tunnel 2 are good places. I live in Bakersfield and used to go up there every Saturday to the east end of Woodford and sit all day. You can see the loop from there and see if a train is coming down, and with a scanner you can hear the detector at Rowan and know if a train is coming up. It takes them about ten minutes to get there. With a scanner on 161.550 mhz you get the dispatcher 54 and the detectors. The grass (wild oats) should still be green and maybe some wild flowers up around tunnel 2 and Caliente, although it may be a little early for them. Good luck and have fun.
Nice shot of the taco
I guess I missed the taco
@ ferromex
I like train videos on RUclips 👍
If the DPU went into emergency dident that mean it wasent connect properly?
not necessarily. There are a few thing that can trigger that.
Probably a computer issue disconnect issues, normally they would go into neutral to prevent this from happening
There are a couple of ties laying between the track and the derelicts around 29:30 or so. They looked fairly intact; perhhars no relation to th mishap?
It's funny but I didn't notice those until I was editing the video. I saw no indication of any track work there, but I wasn't really focused on it either, so they may have changed a couple out.
I watched that part of the video again. Now I'm going the specu- guess that there was wheel bumps on the clips and little chippy spots on the ties and a surfacing machine and regulator nearby. If the Roadmaster gets 'First Dibs', there will be nothing left for the Ops or FRA to wag a finger about. And the black box seems to agree.
Just don:t wait too long. When the FRA shows up with data and photos that predate current conditions, somebody suddenly has a bunch of throat-clearing and itching of the forehead to deal with. Such was the almost-vareer-ending event on the territory twice removed from mine.
Just imagine the focus of the looking glass on everyone for over a year. Trust is a commodity that is as easy to grasp onto as smoke in a whirlwind.
Mark Three-peaks Mt. is behind the Keene fire dept.
Again?!??
Happy New Year to all from Mike Frame in Florida.
Thanks Mark and Happy New Year! I enjoy your train videos no matter the length. Was the string that went over at the end of the train with the DPU on the tail end? I sometimes wonder if there is a break in communication between the head end and tail what happens with the DPU.
I don't know exactly where the cars were situated in the train. Communication disruptions have caused problems as well. Thanks for checking it out!
Bealville was probably the 4th or 5th most populated town in Cal. That night. 😂
Keep us updated on cleanup and scraping of the wagons.
I prefer videos in the 20-30 minute time frame.
I will be going back up tomorrow (1/3/25, soonest I can make it) and see what's happening
I am a fan of the longer Vids
Good video under the circumstances.
There was nothing going on at the derailment site, but trains seemed to come rolling along at short intervals.
Waiting to see the derailment was worth it, too. Puzzling about lack of rail or roadbed damage.
So this longer video provided an overall sense of the dynamics of the Tehachapi Pass rail action.
In general, I prefer somewhat shorter videos. I do not always have time to watch longer ones, and if there is no footage other than passing trains, the shorter ones suffice in my opinion.
Regardless, your narrative and knowledge shared on these recordings is always appreciated. Happy New Year, Mark.
More trains are always better! Cheers
THANK YOU !
Straight Lining?
Hello Mark
I see alot of track ballast that looks darker almost black on western railroads compared to east coast where it is more Grey.
Do you know why their is such a difference?
Great shots from today!
Thanks Bill from Ohio
Even out here, BNSF ballast is generally a darker, almost red color. I'm told they have different sources in different places where the rock is easily accessed, so I have to assume it's the same back there.
My guess is that those hopper cars are full of grain for cattle and chicken/ turkey which is big business in California
Yes. They are distributed to the mills up the valley
Mark, I prefer longer videos. That being stated, any and all with trains are going to be watched.
We have a problem here of ppl breaking into vehicles on auto racks. They get on and get picked up at the next town or siding. Crazy.
My brother told me the problem of breaking into vehicles was a lot worse going back decades ago, as back then the cars were transported on open rail cars, similar with tractor/trailer rigs that deliver vehicles to auto dealerships. The car's interior would be trashed, along with an empty gas tank (running the engine for heating) and putting a lot of use to the dashboard's cigarette lighter.
I don't care on size of or length of video but when the trains are all intermodal I tend to not watch it completely through. I realize its all random. Will they be scrapping those derailed cars?
Yeah, the IM trains get tedious. I edited out parts of some of the trains so folks wouldn't give up before they got to the derailment!
I don't mind longer or shorter !
What does this make, one a month?
LOL
Not even close. There were three in 2024. Not bad for an average of 10,000 trains annually, especially considering the grade and curves.
@@MarkClayMcGowan That really puts it into perspective.
Those darn kids must still be putting pennies on the tracks, sigh
The Santa Anna’s blew it off the tracks
During my research in the 70s we had promoted a concept of distributing the engines throughout the train rather than having now simply in the front. This would add tremendous stability and control to the entire drain and quickly reduce the possibility oupd realments during emergency stops. In addition we developed control systems to properly evacuate and emergency stop has to reduce the potential for derailments. No people need to realize that we developed this at a time where we only had simple microprocessors available to effectuate control. With today's computer systems and Communication between engines this could easily and inexpensively be achieved! [ Instead because of the absurd and dangerous border strategies over the last 4 years, rail service is dealing with "Wild West style robberies" rather than improving safety and quality of rail service! As I said earlier, I greatly dislike politics, but when the City-slicker politicians are so INCOMPETENT and CORRUPT that they greatly distract from our "Quality of life" (Polluting our air, stealing our water, and economically destroying our family farms!!!...in addition to the destruction of rail service) and WASTE BILLIONS of taxpayer dollars, we have NO CHOICE but to engage.]
Were they loaded
no
All roads should put all empty center beams, & auto-racks on the back of the train to avoid incidents.
Are there automobiles in those auto racks.
no
they should make a creosote scented pine tree air freshener for the hardcore rail fan
That's gotta be disconcerting for the crews. Would a seized truck bolster on a car cause it to pop off like that on a corner? I thought it'd be cool to do railroad work after working in aviation for 20 years. Nothing romantic about it though, looks like with crews getting squeezed and the public caring far, far less about railroad accidents I could see it being difficult if you wanted to do things the most efficient (right) way.