NYC publicity photo by Ed Nowak
- collection of Tim Darnell
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In 1955 the New York Central and New Haven each ordered a set of Pullman lightweight,
single axle, "Train X" passenger cars. Baldwin was contracted to build the locomotives.
The NYC train would have one locomotive while the NH train would have a locomotive
at each end, so three units were ordered, they were completed in 1956. NYC 20 - c/n 76108, b/d 05/56 NH 3000 - c/n 76109, b/d 9/56 NH 3001 - c/n 76110, b/d 9/56 |
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The RP210 locomotive was powered by a Maybach V12 diesel producing 1000hp. This engine was mounted on
the front trucks and powered both axles through a Mechydro hydraulic transmission. A second
smaller Maybach diesel was located in the car body to provide auxiliary power. New Haven units also had additional electric traction motors to be powered by third rail or overhead power. |
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NYC 20 NYC publicity photo by Ed Nowak - collection of Tim Darnell |
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NH 3001 photo by: Unknown - collection of Tim Darnell |
photo by: Richard Caig - this plate is in his collection |
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The NYC train, called the Xplorer, entered service in 1956 and the NH train called the
Dan'l Webster entered service in 1957. Both trains were retired in 1960, due largely to the rough ride
of the single axle passenger cars. Both trains were sold to a subsidiary of the Pickens Railroad called Jones Tours (see below photos) to run excursions. Both trains were eventually scrapped around 1970. |
| "... slides I took with my instamatic camera when I was a student at Furman University in Greenville, SC back when I was a senior (1969). These shots were taken an a abandoned track a little north of the campus in Travelers Rest." |