RP210 Lightweight Streamlined Locomotives
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 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 10/56
NH 3001 - c/n 76110, b/d 10/56
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 Maybach hydraulic transmission. A second smaller Maybach diesel was located in the car body to provide auxiliary power.
NYC 20
photo by: Ed Novak
- collection of Tim Darnell
NH 3001
photo by: Unknown
- collection of Tim Darnell
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 acquired by Pickens Railroad to run excursions. Both were eventually scrapped.
