I have a list of alpha codes for UP, and I have a question. There's this train that comes through Butler, WI every Sunday with the symbol "PRITA". On my list, the "PR" stands for "Proviso", but I'm not sure where to go from there. Is the train from Proviso(PR) to Itasca, Wi(IT), or is it something else? If it is, what does the "A" stand for? Could someone help me learn how to read these train symbols. Thanks! P.S. If you see a train, is there any way you can tell what the symbol of that train is? ------------------ What's that? A train horn? Sorry, gotta go!
Based on what I have read about UP train symbols, the letters you gave don't match up. UP train symbols are as follows: First letter is the train type (A=Automotive, C=Coal, etc...), next two letters is the originating terminal code and the last two letters are the destination terminal code. Is it possible that the symbol would be APRIT, which would be the Proviso-Itasca Automotive train? The only other possibility I could think of is: IPRTA (Proviso to Tacoma would probably not go through Milw). As for seeing a train and knowing the symbol, you would probably need to hear the train referred to by its symbol on the radio. Another way is to be observant about the type and regular makeup of the train (an easy one on the Pacific Coast is UP's RoadRailer, which is symbolled IBRCI/ICIBR) ------------------ Kevin Stevens www.trainweb.org/KernJunction
Thanks Kevin. This train can't be called "PRITA", because "TA" would stand for either Tacoma, WA or Taylor, TX, which are both incorrect becuase this train is always headed to Duluth, MN. I know It consists mostly of grain hoppers, so it would satrt with either GD(grain dedicated) GO(grain orphan) what does orphan and dedicated mean? Next it would be PR for proviso, but then there's no symbol for Duluth, MN, or nearby Superior, WI. Wow, this is tough! ------------------ What's that? A train horn? Sorry, gotta go!
This symbol is a holdover from the CNW. It is Proviso-Itasca. PR - Proviso, IT - Itasca, A - General Merchandise. Wouldn't be surprised if this train has been/will be re-named to M PRIT. How old is your list, and can you e-mail me a copy? ------------------ Corey Lynch Pres - Rensselaer Model RR Society NEB&W RR http://www.rpi.edu/~lynchc/Railfanning/railfanning.htm - My Site http://www.union.rpi.edu/railroad/ - NEB&W [This message has been edited by Harron (edited 22 October 2000).]
thanks for the info. I emailed you and gave the internet address where i found the train symbols. I think they're up to date. ------------------ What's that? A train horn? Sorry, gotta go!
Wow! So I am posting 8 years later... I, too, am interested in UP's symbols around Butler WI. Anybody have a current list?
