Re: Will it clear or not? Don't know about this one Ron, but....
> I don't know, and can't seem to find much in a quick and diry on-line about the clearance/wire height on Caltrain...
Try here: [
ia.cpuc.ca.gov]
> All of the RR electrification studies I worked on, in the late 80's and 90's, assumed full FRA maximum height clearances below the wire,
Clearances are regulated by each State, see above reply.
> However, with the strange history of the HSR fiasco and this strange relationship with Caltrain, anything is possible.
Nothing strange about the requirements of GO 95, which applies to the HSR.
> 16.0 feet
in the tunnels
> 23.0 feet
Everywhere else.
> Interesting that SD&IY operates on San Diego Trolley tracks. Not sure what the wire height is,
While 23 feet is GO 95's preferred height, it can be a minimum of 21 feet, and the San Diego trolleys work just fine with 21 foot wire. Possibly the SDMTS feels 21 feet precludes double stacks. There can be variances (lower wire) under certain conditions for existing bridges over the track.
> However, with the strange history of the HSR fiasco and this strange relationship with Caltrain, anything is possible.
Only as long as those possibilities are in compliance with GO 95. I expect some sort of waiver has been issued for the wire in the tunnels, and it precludes operating freight cars through them which are taller than certain height.