Former P42 locomotive No. 184 has been transformed into non-powered cab car No. 9700, shown seen here trailing southbound Empire Service train 244 at Garrison, N.Y. Amtrak is beginning to utilize these new conversions instead of aging converted F40 locomotives and ex-Metroliner cab cars, dating from the 1960s, to facilitate push-pull service. Conversion of the locomotives is being done at the Beech Grove Maintenance Facility near Indianapolis. The company reports six conversions are in progress; o.bservers tell News Wire that Nos. 9701 (former P42 No. 166) and 9702 (No. 177) have also been spotted. Amtrak says a total of 18 P42’s are to be converted. Conversions of three HHP8 electric locomotives in to cab cars at the Wilmington, Del., shops are also in progress; none are currently in service.
Naturally, they sound so unnatural without their main engines running….
Dr. Güntürk Üstün
It is a great consolation that some of the unforgettable P42s have somehow found a new lease on life….
Dr. Güntürk Üstün