Why is it that some train engines are put on backwards?

Question

They put 3 train rail engines together in front and one is most likely facing backwards, why?

Answer 1

The "backwards" engine is simply so that, should the train need to reverse, it can be coupled to the rear (now front) end of the train and be pointing in the right direction.

Many countries have engines with cabs at both ends to avoid this sort of situation.

Answer 2

Number of reasons. Many times, there are multiple engines pulling at the front, but, for example, only 2 of the 3 will be running. Once coupled, all power and braking is slaved to the front engine through the cables that connect each one on the front and rear. When one engine receives power, all the other engines that are running receive power or when the brake is applied, air runs through the air hoses all the way back the train, and all the engines and cars receive air to apply the brakes. Engines are transported between rail yards just like normals freight cars. When one is needed at another rail yard, it is put on the freight roster and shipped to its destination, or if it is being loaned to another rail company, same thing happens, it gets transported to its destination. Other reasons could be that the rail yard didn't have a turntable to pull the engine onto and reverse its direction. Sometimes, it helps even out the load on the other engines.

Answer 3

Emergency purposes. If the head car/s loses control or breaks down, the rear can act as backup until help arrives.

Also if the train needs to switch travel direction.