What is your best train company?

Steve34041 wrote:S Fraser,
you say that 158's could be replaced by 142's because they have bad brakes but the real shocking thing behind that decision is that they are running the Devon/Cornwall locals, and yet it was when they were first introcduced and used down there that the Cornish rebelled against them; and theyre going to do it again! It's also wierd how they get rid of X amount of 158's that were used on Portsouth-Cardiff's and then bring down 142's for Cornwall/Devon workings - that's a mistake by FGW. FGW have wallet's tighter than ducks arses. They're only spending 1% of their yearly turnover on rolling stock! Which, i suppose could explain why the 142s are here. I guess the rest goes on bills & fines for the year !

My favourite company would have been Central Trains (until they were split up into XC & London Midland etc etc) but i think i'm going to say Arrive Cross Country (Although they'll never be as good as Virgin !!)

Steve

i didn't say anything about them having bad brakes, it's because first scotrail needs more 158s? not a clue why but anyway...

Class 142s were originally introduced to Cornwall to try to save money on loss making rural lines and to replace ageing 1st Gen DMMUs. They didnt last long as their long wheelbase and 4 wheels gave excessive rail wear and they were going through wheel sets every 4000 miles. They were sent north and 150s replaced them.

The fact that 142s have returned is because there is no other rolling stock available to lease - everything useful is in traffic with other operators. The DfT ordered the 158s off to pastures new, and the extra ones that ScotRail received are sub-leased from NorthernRail. Surely it is better to have something providing the service than having yet more cancelled services?!

Class 158s do NOT have bad brakes, they are disc braked to cope with braking from higher speeds. I like driving 158s when I get the chance and find the brakes to be just as good as tread brakes - at high speeds they are excellent - they can be light at low speeds (I mean 5mph) but any good driver that knows his traction can compensate this - dont forget we are highly trained professionals!! Until you have driven a real train you cant have a true view on train handling. Travelling in the passenger saloon and driving in the driving cab are two totally different worlds.

Favorite rail company, any that's operated by First. Reason, I get discount rail travel for myself, family and friends

Transpennine express - Why: because i like their color scheme on trains and also ive never seen any or heard of any breaking down plus they used class158 but now have the amazing growling class185