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The EM1s were fitted with two pantographs. The original plan was to only use the rear pantograph, and keep the front one incase of damage. The Woodhead route was plagued by serious ice problems, soot from steam engines, and unusual atmospheric conditions; all of which contributed to poor and often intermittent pickup from the overhead line. This experience quickly led to the use of both pantographs simultaneously. This greatly improved the pickup and is thought to have also significantly lengthened the life of the overhead wire.
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