Thanks ! The company of today is much better than back then. Management is, in My opinion, the best I have ever seen it. You can discuss things with them instead of the old "sign here" mentality.

Trackage is much more improved. When I switched in San Diego the speed limit was just to creep along rocking and weaving on old 1944 ties that had seen years of rain, moisture, etc. Barstow yard was built using ties that could not hold up to the hot, dry heat. There were many derailments. Since the merger that has all changed drastically.

Power, even though very cool (F and FP-45s, old GEs, geeps, etc.) went down constantly. Almost every trip You had to troubleshoot them or "override" things using fusees and water cartons. Some of You know what I am talking about here.

Generally You just had to make things work. Now You just tone mechanical or call a rapid responder.