Just saw my first photo of a P-2, what a monster! ! how big were these things? I like the frame and truck extensions , it gives it a “get out of my way feel” They look like old technology, when were they made? how long were they in service? were models ever made of these behemoths??? Do people have whole layouts with these type of locomotives??.
tatans,
This is probably a question better addressed over on the Prototype forum.
Tom
They were built in 1930 for the Cleveland Union Terminal. When the CUT dieselized, the electric motors were moved from Cleveland to New York. They were rebuilt from 3000 volts DC overhead to 600 V DC outside rail circa 1955. They were scrapped in the early 1970s.
Models were probably made in brass.
Tatans When I was 9 or 10 my father worked for Grand Centeral Station. He was a car knocker. I spent the day on a P-2 We took the cars around the loop. They were electric and to this day and I am 61 When I change my oil in my truck the smell of burnt oil is just like the smell when I was in the cab. And yes they are very big and the powerfull. And the trucks foward was a site to see going around the turn. I had to use the wistell a few times and it was some sound in th estation. tHAT DAY IN MY LIFE WAS ONE i WILL NEVER FORGET .And it wqas with my father that mad it better . Hope I was able to help you out . Wayne Edison New Jersey.
Here is a pic of my O gauge MTH P-2 and it is indeed a diecast beast!
I have never seen those before. Those are truly monsters!
They are a relative of the New Haven’s EP-3 which was the forerunner of the Pennsy GG-1.
One of my uncles (related by marriage) operated these hulks until he left before the Penn Central merger (smart move on his part).
Funny, but for years I felt that these locomotives were hideous (along with the T and S motors) But I have grown to appreciate and like their simple boxy body design and the gut wrenching muscle these reliable giants put out.
HO brass Models of this engine in both its Cleveland configuration (w/pantographs) and later NYC configuration (3rd rail pickup) have been available at one time or another. If you want one and hunt around brass dealers or e-bay you might score.
Like the writer of a previous item on this thread, I too had a cab ride on one once (on the Harlem Div. in the 1960s). What a ride! — although it was a bit discomforting to watch that big “front porch” go into a curve a noticeable interval before the cab did!! I guess the engine crews got used to that.