Can someone explain the difference in the braking system? When should I use direct and automatic brake?
Direct brake only applies brake pressure to the loco (or engine) whereas the automatic brake applies brake pressure to both the loco and the whole consist. Also in the case of the GP38 and GP40 you have a third option, a dynamic brake. This brake applies resistance through the motors which is ideal for shaving off a little speed on downhill section of track. Hope this helps.
