I took the Calf. Zep. from Chi. to Emeryville 2 weeks ago. I had a sleeper in the first passenger car. Ahead of the double level sleeper was a one single level baggage/buffer car. They elimiated the "transition/crew car" and put the staff in the first passenger sleeper. It is a cost savings.

The problem is:

Strong fumes from the engines travel down the top of the engines and one baggage care right into the door of the high level sleeper that is about 3 feet or so above the level of the single level equipment in front.

At first I though it was because of the train being in the Chicago station. I asked to be switched to the second sleeper where the fumes were less but still present. I found the front door of the first high level sleeper to be duct taped shut. The duct tape got wet and was just flapping in the diesl fumed 79 mph wind - absolutly useless.

I can see Amtrak's saving cost by elimianting the crew/transision car but the transision car has no upper level door on the engine end so the passenger area of the car and the rest of the train is protected from the fumes.

The passengers were upset as there was no other space. The crew at first didn't acknowlege the problem but after two days of getting to know each other they agreed that the duct tape they put up was ineffective.

I was wondering if anyone else has noticed this? For me, I won't ride any train that has this train set configuation. I can see the cost savings benifit but if they are going to elimate the transition car they MUST completly seal the font door of the lead high level car

A Gassed-Out Sassy!