Post by 4dogsinjersey on Jan 23, 2021 20:46:36 GMT
I picked up a couple used MTH locomotives over the last month. Both are Penn Central electric locomotives.
First is the GE E44. This is the most modern of the electric fleet. These were built for the PRR in the early 1960’s for freight service on the electrified mainlines on the east coast. The were transferred to the Penn Central and finally to Conrail. The were used until CR abandoned it’s catenary system in the early 80’s
Some made it to NJT, but they never ran, being stored until they were scrapped a few years later.
This is a PS3 version ....
Next, is the GE E33. These locomotives have quite a time line, being owned by many railroads over their lifespan. The E33s were built for the Virginian Railway in 1955 as “EL-Cs” then transferred to the N&W after the merger of the two lines. They were used briefly until they were sold to the New Haven and reclassified at EF-4s. They lived on to see the NH taken over by the Penn Central. Finally, they made to Conrail blue before being scrapped after five years.
This engine is a MTH PS2 3v equipped model. It might be a challenge to collect one from each of the five users. My next one will likely be a NH version...
I have included my kitbashed Penn Central E40. It is a K-Line engine with a shaky Lionel/K-Line operating system with TMCC. It is a candidate for an upgrade when I learn how to do that kind of work. These engines were originally built as NH passenger engines. PC converted them to freight only and used them for a time...
My Penn Central fleet includes a GG1 from Williams. These famous engines were used both in passenger and freight service. This is an older/new acquisition that I hope to install TMCC in someday.
Penn Central was a symbol of the decline of industry in the Northeast but it was an interesting period of time that marked the beginning of the end of the railroad industry as it was for over 100 years. The soon-coming technology and corporate climates would make the railroad business a modern and streamlined affair...
Tom
