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TRAIN CONSIST DIAGRAM

Why Locomotives Are in the Middle

Distributed power can place remotely controlled locomotives at additional locations in a long train.

LEAD
POWER
FREIGHT CARS
front portion
MID-TRAIN
DP
FREIGHT CARS
rear portion
REAR DP
when used
← power and braking can be distributed through more than one location →

Train forces

Distributed power can reduce extreme coupler forces on long, heavy trains.

Braking

Additional locomotive locations can assist train handling and dynamic braking.

Remote control

The engineer in the lead locomotive controls distributed-power units by radio.

Read the full explanation

HOW RAILROADS WORK • SYSTEM 06DISTRIBUTED POWER

Next: learn how signals and train control govern movement.

Continue the journey →View full system map
EDITORIAL REVIEWReviewed September 2026

Technical and historical claims are checked against authoritative railroad, government, archival or museum material where appropriate.

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