Nothing like hearing the wail of a steam engine whistle across a valley!  I have noticed all these steam fan trips now include a diesel in the consist.  I guess the diesel is freewheeling so to speak, but that has got to be adding some serious tonnage to the steam engine's haul.  I realize the steam engine can handle it, but how would it run if the diesel were left out of the consist?

Den

Two things must be noted: first, the Heritage NKP unit was dead power, being delivered as part of the agreement with NS to their facility in Bellevue, OH for adding to its roster there. Heritage units are working the areas where the former railroad existed. This is part of a PR promotion by NS and others. 

Secondly, the engine was under a speed restriction on certain parts of the line. Notably, she did not need a helper over the Curve and was later "at full bore" through trackage in Ohio (65 mph). 

One other possible reason for the presence of a diesel would be to provide HEP (Head End Power) for the passenger cars.  Although that would require an HEP-equipped passenger locomotive, not a freight locomotive.

When I rode behind the 765 during an excursion last year out of the Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum, I believe the passenger consist included a generator car.  It looked like a baggage car, but had the sound of a diesel engine coming out it.

I've posted video of that day on YouTube...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vn2-JwRl4sc

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rXU43tkF1Es

Sorry for the poor color quality, it was shot with my old camera which (I didn't realize until later) had a broken white balance.

Thanks,

Damin.

In the UK (where I live) I believe it is a rule that any steam locomotive  running on the same line as regular trains has to have a diesel in the consist in case of failure of the steam engine. That way, no possible disruption to scheduled trains.

Perhaps the same in US?