As per the OR Manual x4220 (Page 13) the difference between the two explores are:
If you select - Explore Route - (first entry under Activity
, you will also have to select the consist, the
path, the starting time, the season and the weather with the relevant buttons.
If you select + Explore in activity mode + (second entry under Activity:, you will have to select same
items as with Explore route, but in this case the game will automatically generate an activity (with the
player train only) and will execute it. By exploring the route in this mode you will able to switch to autopilot
mode if you like and you will have access to some other activity features like randomized weather
if selected.
I ran the route between those 2 locations and I haven't experience any red signals between Cle Elum & Renton in explore mode, I ran both electric (Bi-Polars, Little Joes) & diesel (F Units, U Boats) locomotives too. Not once did I have to go into Manual [CNTL+M] to get permission. I am puzzled.
I guess time to rework my spare time priorities now.... - Mark -