"Remote Control Engines" on the Union Pacific
The Union Pacific has taken old engines and completely removed the power train. They kept the batteries and used the engines as slave engines outfitted with GE Transportation remote radio control computers. These engines were then coupled to powered switch engines and connected via cables to the slave engine. Then yard crews with hand held radio controllers would control the 2 units and used them for car makeup and switching duties.
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Sorry but, they are NOT referred to as "Dummy Engines". When the entire prime mover and generator is removed, the "Slug" is then electrically connected to a fully powered unit, which is modified to provide the high current/voltage power for the traction motors on the "Slug". The whole set-up can then me modified for radio remote control by an operator on the ground.
I always thought they were called slugs because of the big slug of concrete ballast they put in them for traction. 
Sorry but, they are NOT referred to as "Dummy Engines". When the entire prime mover and generator is removed, the "Slug" is then electrically connected to a fully powered unit, which is modified to provide the high current/voltage power for the traction motors on the "Slug". The whole set-up can then me modified for radio remote control by an operator on the ground.
The original poster refered to them as "Non Powered Engines" NOT "Dummy Engines"
Sorry but, they are NOT referred to as "Dummy Engines". When the entire prime mover and generator is removed, the "Slug" is then electrically connected to a fully powered unit, which is modified to provide the high current/voltage power for the traction motors on the "Slug". The whole set-up can then me modified for radio remote control by an operator on the ground.
The original poster refered to them as "Non Powered Engines" NOT "Dummy Engines"
If you will look closely you will see that the original poster edited his post and title, AFTER I corrected him. He did indeed refers to them as "Dummy Engines" in the original title and post. I guess I should have "copied" his original post; Live & learn.
Besides, he is STILL incorrect in his current terminology anyway. Those slugs are certainly NOT "non-powered engines", since the slug receives its electrical traction motor current/voltage from the main units. The slug man not have a prime mover, i.e. diesel engine, but it certainly IS powered!
Those slugs are certainly NOT "non-powered engines", since the slug receives its electrical traction motor current/voltage from the main units. The slug man not have a prime mover, i.e. diesel engine, but it certainly IS powered!
Makes perfect sense. Otherwise, what would be the point of it?
THIS is a non-powered locomotive:
But then, it really isn't a locomotive anymore because it can't move by itself. (Unless one releases the hand brake or pulls wheel chocks and it rolls downhill...)
This could almost pass as a non-powered locomotive:
It's Alco/MLW heritage is obvious, but it is merely a vessel containing Locotrol equipment in the early days (1979) of radio-controlled helper locomotives.
Rusty
Thanks for the info, Wyhog.
THIS is a non-powered locomotive:
But then, it really isn't a locomotive anymore because it can't move by itself. (Unless one releases the hand brake or pulls wheel chocks and it rolls downhill...)
...
Rusty
Amtrak had a similar F40PH on the San Diegan that was a baggage/parcel car with the cab controls still in place for the return trip.
The LIRR used several FA's with the engine either derated or a power pack installed to provide the power for lights/AC on former electric MUs when they converted them to push-pull operation. The powered unit on the other end and controls in the FA so no need to turn the equipment. Replaced the old P-54s with much newer but redundant MU cars.
Scotie
Of course the Cascades cab/baggage unit is a "Cabbage". I'd keep the slugs away from it....
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