George Andrews Wrote:
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> A follow - up question : How is it possible to
> have ATS - equipped passenger trains AND non - ATS
> equipped freight trains operate on the same line
> segment ??? I'm guessing it's because the signal
> system itself continues to function with or
> without the ATS shoe being present ???

Correct. The signals operate the same whether or not the locomotive is equipped with ATS. Because of it being ATS territory in the areas mentioned, passenger trains were permitted a Maximum Authorized Speed of 90. Without ATS, they would've been restricted to 79. Maximum Authorized Speed for freight trains was 60. There were, of course, numerous speed restrictions resulting in lower speeds at specific locations.

> As I
> understand it, with an ATC system ALL lead
> locomotives MUST be so equipped. I also recall
> that even though U.P. and C & NW both used a ATC /
> cab - signal system, the 2 systems were not
> compatible, which forced a home road engine to
> lead. Why not ONE system nationwide ???

The C&NW system is a hold-over from pre-merger days. Units with cab signals that have been purchased since the merger are equipped for both the UP and C&NW systems.