BRONX, N.Y. — It’s been three years since the public has had the opportunity to ride New York City Transit’s fleet of vintage subway equipment. That is scheduled to change Friday, April 8, when the century-old Interborough Rapid Transit “Lo-V” cars are slated to operate for opening day at Yankee Stadium.
The Yankees’ opener, originally scheduled for Thursday, April 7, has been postponed because of weather.
It takes extensive preparation to keep these cars running, and my visit to the maintenance shop where the Lo-Vs live shows the work needed to maintain a flawless operation.
The maintenance list has been worked on for weeks. Parts need to be tested, repaired or replaced — time-consuming efforts that need to be completed by a fast-approaching, drop-dead date.
On this day, the maintenance crew has these items to repair or replace: third-rail connectors to power the train; checking compressors that have to work with the propulsion systems; checking the door system for connectivity issues; and a little touch-up paint. This is just one day for one car.
Complicating the situation is that two years of COVID-19 issues have meant new workers had to be recruited to replace experienced maintenance employees. Since the Lo-Vs last ran for the Yankee opener in 2019, new crew members also need orientation with the returning crew.
The New York City Transit Authority is starting as it did in 2002, developing mechanical and operational skills, and engaging in team building between the Car Equipment Department and the Transportation Department. This time, the process is a little easier because some people remain involved with have the leadership and skills necessary to forge ahead.
The accompanying photos will give you a sense of the hard work these men do.
— Updated at 1:45 p.m. CDT to note postponement of Yankee opener.
