Today at about 10:30, Amtrak 712 (OAK-BAK) passed through Merced, Calif. with ex- Cal Zephyr round-end observation car Silver Solarium. It was running backwards and between the power and the first car. I was not able to see if it was occupied or not, but in that position, at least the HEP would have to pass through. I've never seen varnish in this class of Amtrak service, and varnish on the Valley is quite rare indeed, save for Operation Lifesaver or Geometry equip. This car may have been set out in Bakersfield, or out on a round-trip test run. If it was out on a test run, I suppose it's possible that it will turn back on the 717, due out of BAK at 15:45 this afternoon, or perhaps 703 due out of same at 17:40