AGHRMatt posted:The diesels aren't necessarily for assistance. Out here, they're very handy for dynamic braking going through the Cajon pass. Also, when 3751 makes a run, the diesels are handy for HEP for the passenger cars.
Which diesels? Non of the BNSF diesel are equipped for HEP. Amtrak diesel do also supply HEP.
UP handles that aspect with a generator car.
Correct, but since 2011 the steam crew have been using more and more diesel "help", and NOT just for dynamic brake.