07/16/2026
EXCURSION #562 CANCELLED
National Forum will NOT run to San Diego/Los Angeles, August 1st.
The Pacific Railroad Society attempted to obtain a current PC-1 [Air Brake Certificate] for our Pullman car, National Forum. Our contract car Inspector worked on and tested our car at Amtrak's Eighth Street facility on July 13 and 14.
Unfortunately, our car failed the Amtrak required "Single Car Air Test. This was a surprise since the car had previously been operating properly. Our contractor did a comprehensive analysis. Unfortunately, we were not able to diagnose the problem. We tried to fix the problem by changing out the main control valve with a new one. The same problem persisted.
Because of the nature of the problem, the only way to fix it for sure, is to perform a complete COT&S [Clean, Oil, Test & Stencil] which will involve changing all brake valve components, all brake cylinders, connecting hoses, and charging of the system with technicians underneath the car actively inspecting every part of the brake system to eliminate any possibility for leakage. This procedure will take more time than is possible to complete before the Excursion date of August 1.
We are forced to withdraw our request for a trip using the National Forum on August 1.
When we have completed the COT&S (which will also include a current PC-1), we will contact you again about possibly running these trips to San Diego.
Rest easy, REFUNDS WILL BE ISSUED. We will contact you shortly. The officers and directors of the PRS are deeply sorry to get your hopes up and then dash them. We are just as disappointed as you are. Your understanding is appreciated.
