CSX Sand Patch Grade June 1989 Part 1 

Our first visit to Sand Patch grade was in June of 1989. Using the information from an issue of RAILPACE Magazine we were able to navigate very well. First we see helper locomotives descending the grade. Of note is an 8 unit lash-up (they were all running, check out the exhaust) leading a trailer train. Later we move to the West slope where a train has just passed under the former Western Maryland viaduct at Meyersdale. Next is a train which appears to have mid-train helpers, but is actually being pushed by another train (the video shows them separating at the top of the grade). Lastly, back on the East slope we do find a train with mid-train helpers, just East of Mance.