Fallen leaves can pose a serious traction and braking problem on the railroad, particularly when wet. In order to combat this issue, the LIRR, like many other railroads, applies sandite to the rails on several branches to improve wheel traction and to prevent leaves from sticking. The two cars used to accomplish this are modified Budd M1s, renumbered from 9401 and 9581 to E401 and E581 respectively. Shortly after finishing work on the Oyster Bay Branch, 9401 is seen here in Mineola, where the crew will change ends before proceeding east to Huntington.
