Here’s the scoop on the LIRR Budd RDCs:
RDC1, #3101, was built by Budd in 8/55 and given LIRR modernization #49.
RDC2, #3121 (with baggage compartment), was built by Budd in 3/55 and given LIRR modernization #1
When they first arrived on the LIRR, they had the logo “East Ender” painted in script on their orange end doors.
The LIRR voided their warranty with the Budd Company as a result of the practice of coupling a “ping-pong” car to the RDC.
The “Budd Cars,” as most people called them, were usually seen coupled together in later years in Patchogue-Babylon “Scoot” service.
They were also used in Greenport service. It was during one of those trips that #3101 was destroyed in a grade crossing accident on 10/18/67 while headed eastbound along the Main Line. It hit a LIZZA sand truck at the Blue Point Road grade crossing just east of the Holtsville station. The truck was being used in the construction of the LIE in that stretch between Holbrook and Calverton.
Engineer Patsy Molese was killed. He was about 72 years of age and just about ready to retire.
#3101 was taken out of service as the entire front end was crushed in. #3121 was salvaged and stored.
#3101 was sold in 12/71 to Sarnelli Brothers and scrapped at the LIRR’s Corona Yard.
#3121 was traded to the B&O for their closed-end observation car “Napannee” in 7/68.
Dave Keller