RDCs

When the predecessors to the PRSL began operating in the mid-1800s they planned to be primarily passenger lines transporting folks to the Jersey Shore for recreational purposes. South Jersey was largely undeveloped except for farming communities and small businesses. Passenger service was a boom business for them until the 1930s when automobiles started eating into ridership. It was no longer profitable for both the Reading and Pennsy to be fighting for ridership. Basically the state forced a merger and the PRSL took over the dwindling passenger business. By post World War II, passenger business was a big cost drain to the railroad. They sought, with great difficulty, to get approval to abandon many branches.

In the area I’m modeling, Baldwin road switchers would usually handle 1-2 P70 coaches for commuter service (longer race track specials were also handled on other portions of the line).

Budd came out with their innovative RDCs (Rail Diesel Cars) to more cost effectively handle declining passenger service and the PRSL quickly snatched up 6 units in 1950 and another 6 in 1951. They certainly were a shiny, flashy replacement for the well-worn P70s. Budd built a total of 398 RDCs in 5 configurations. The PRSL ordered all RDC-1s.

I have 2 ConCor PRR RDCs and 2 Kato Budd demo RDCs (1 more than Budd had) available. Now I just have to get them re-lettered (when I figure out how).