The Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society’s (FWRHS) Nickel Plate Road 765 steam locomotive is a marvel of engineering and a testament to preservation efforts. But behind this majestic engine operates a less glamorous, yet equally crucial component: the 765 Tool Car, RPCX 701. This car, with its unique history and vital function, ensures the 765’s continued operation on the mainline.
From Kitchen Car to Essential Tool Carrier: The History of RPCX 701
RPCX 701 began its life far from the railroad, as a US Army kitchen car (No. 89665) built by the St. Louis Car Company in 1953. Ironically, it arrived too late to serve in the Korean War and was subsequently stored in Toole, Utah, for two decades along with numerous other surplus Army kitchen and hospital cars.
Eventually, the car was acquired by the State of Kentucky and transferred to the Kentucky Railway Museum, where it served as a food car for excursions pulled by a BL-2 locomotive. Its journey took another turn when it was purchased by FWRHS founders Glenn Brendel, Larry Randolph, and Wayne York.
Initially, the car fulfilled its original purpose as a food car during the July 1980 Fort Wayne Argos excursions behind the 765. However, its destiny lay elsewhere. It was soon repurposed as a dedicated tool car for the 765, initially numbered “711.” With the resurgence of the 765 and the start of its “third career,” the car was renamed in honor of Glenn Brendel, a key figure in the FWRHS and the 765’s revival. The car now bears his name and the motto “WHATEVER IT TAKES,” reflecting the dedication required to keep a steam locomotive operating decades after the end of the steam era.
RPCX 701, the dedicated tool car for NKP 765, coupled behind the locomotive.
The Importance of the 765 Tool Car
The 765 tool car carries a wide array of specialized equipment and parts essential for maintaining and repairing the locomotive during its excursions. This includes tools for mechanical adjustments, lubrication, and emergency repairs. The car’s presence ensures that any issues arising during operation can be addressed quickly and efficiently, minimizing downtime and ensuring the safety and success of the excursion.
A well-organized tool car interior ensures quick access to necessary equipment for maintaining a steam locomotive like the 765.
A Supporting Role with a Significant Impact
While the 765 locomotive often takes center stage, the 765 tool car, RPCX 701, plays a critical behind-the-scenes role. Its transformation from a Korean War-era kitchen car to a vital component of mainline steam operations is a story of adaptation and dedication. The car stands as a symbol of the resourcefulness and commitment required to preserve and operate historic steam locomotives like the Nickel Plate Road 765.
NKP 765 on an excursion with RPCX 701 closely behind, highlighting the essential support role the tool car provides.
