On July 23, 1966, New York Central set a new U.S. railroad speed record when jet-powered RDC M-497, dubbed the Pride of the New York Central, hit 183.85 mph on a 24-mile tangent section of 26-year-old joined rail between Butler, Ind. and Stryker, Ohio. The RDC sported cylindrical wheels in place of normal tapered-tread wheels, skirting, an additional set of shock absorbers, and a sloped nose with F-unit number boards for windshields. The modifications reportedly cost just $35,000.
The Central said the jet RDC was a scientific experiment to determine the capabilities of standard equipment to run at ultra-high speed. But some observers darkly suggested that it was an attempt to generate good publicity even as the railroad was plotting to murder its passenger trains – this same year, 1966, the NYC would seek permission to end its legendary 20th Century Limited.
Whatever the reason, the jet RDC was a fascinating mix of old and new technology and bold innovation.
