GP30 5513
Reading Company EMD GP30 Class RSE-14, 5513 (3613)
Background & History
GP30 #5513, was built as part of an order of 20 such locomotives for the Reading. To present a new image along with a new locomotive, the Reading used this model to introduce a bright new “imitation gold and green” paint scheme. One of the series of locomotives was even placed on display for commuters inside Reading Terminal. An important milestone in diesel locomotive technology, 5513 was the very first of 946 production GP30’s built.
The Reading used its GP30’s all over the system, usually on fast freights and ore trains. They were also pressed into service during emergencies on the electrified commuter lines, and could sometimes be seen in Reading Terminal in Philadelphia. In 1964, the Reading renumbered its GP30’s into the 3600 series, to fit in with a possible merger with the B&O Railroad: this unit became 3613. The B&O merger never happened, and the locomotive remained 3613 until the Readings merger into Conrail in 1976. Conrail renumbered the unit 2181, but never repainted it from the yellow and green Reading paint scheme.
GP30 # 5513 at the R&N Leesport Yard. (photo courtesy Mike Shirk)
Above, rusted cab side panels being replaced by MP&RE personnel. (Photo Courtesy Don Crabtree)
#5513 also represents another milestone in that it is the first locomotive purchased by the RCT&HS. We acquired the locomotive from Conrail in 1985, after a lengthy period of storage at Rutherford Yard in Harrisburg. It was restored to its original appearance at the former Reading Locomotive Shops in 1985, making it one of only a handful of GP30’s preserved around the country. Soon after it was used in freight and passenger service on the Blue Mountain & Reading Railroad often paired with ALCO C630 5308. Unfortunately in 1991, this engine experienced problems with an ailing turbocharger clutch pack and was taken out of service before a catastrophic failure could occur. 5513 was moved to Leesport Yard, then to Hamburg where it sat untouched for several years.
A fair amount of overhaul work has been performed on the 5513. Rusted cab side panels have been replaced, holes in the nose have been fixed, and a rebuilt turbocharger has been installed. Two power assemblies remain to be installed in the engine. After returning it to operation, plans are for a full restoration of its body and paint.
The damaged turbocharger is being removed for overhaul. (Photo courtesy Don Crabtree)