In the fall of 2018, through a generous loan by the chairman of our Board of Directors, Michael J. Patrick, Northern Central Railway of York was able to purchase an original Ex-PRR GP 9 diesel engine. It took a full year, until fall of 2019, for the engine to be made mechanically correct, “blue carded” (certified and inspected), and moved to New Freedom, Pennsylvania.
Thanks to a Delaplaine Foundation grant in the amount of $4,000, a Stock & Leader donation of $5,000, and private donations in the amount of $3,600, NCR was able to initiate the first phase of the cosmetic restoration. The first phase of the restoration project included fabrication of two equipment doors, rust removal, dent repair, and priming done by NCR staff. For a total cost of $12,600. This phase of the project is complete.
In 2024, Northern Central Railway received a $1,000 grant from the Amherst Railway Society for the start of the final and second phase of the cosmetic restoration. This phase included some additional fabrication work and the purchase and application of paint to the exterior of the engine.
NCR’s budget for the “NCR Restoration of Ex-PRR GP 9 Diesel Engine Final Phase” of the initiative is:
NCR staff will be working on the body repair components of the project, including fabrication of two equipment doors, rust removal, dent repair, and priming. During this time the engine will be in use as part of NCR’s rolling stock. During the 2025 season, the final touches of fabrication will be completed, and the painting (a four-week process) will be undertaken.
Northern Central Railway is still fundraising for this the completion of this project.
