The FL9 was a critical locomotive for operations out of Grand Central Terminal in New York City. Originally operated on the former New Haven lines, the operating area for the fleet expanded under Penn Central and Conrail/MTA to include the former New York Central lines north along the Hudson River.

When rebuilt in the 1980s, the upgrades would typically include the addition of HEP (Head End Power) in place of the older steam heat boilers, and upgraded braking systems and electronics. These rebuilds were done in several batches for Metro North and Amtrak.

Notable among these rebuilt units were those which were sold to the Connecticut Department of Transportation and were rebuilt by Chrome Crankshaft in 1984-85. Owned by ConnDot but operated by Metro North, they re-entered service wearing their original “New Haven” black, white and red livery. Metro North later also repainted two units in a fictitious but eye-catching New York Central “Lightning Stripe” scheme to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Hudson River Railroad.

Rebuilt FL9 features:

• All of the amazing detail found on our original FL9
• Modernized details including class lights and rear panel • Nose and rear HEP plugs as well as new rooftop details • Modernized underbody components
• Optional operating ditch lights (where appropriate)
• Correct horns
• Accurate paint schemes