SP 5131 is just over 72'
long and one of SP class 70-BP-30-1 cars built to
Specification CSP-224. The car was delivered in 1923 by
Standard Steel Car based on an order placed by the Southern
Pacific on March 22, 1923. Originally weighing 128,350
pounds the car contained a 40' baggage section and 30'
postal section.
SP 5131 was renumbered to SP MW 7082 to
serve as a relief tender in work train service. It was
placed into work train service sometime after June 1957.
Many of the original interior fixtures were
removed by the railroad when the car entered work train
service. Restoration plans include a cosmetic restoration of
the exterior to Southern Pacific livery of the late 1940's.
Interior restoration plans include a
functional restoration with the interior becoming a crew
area as well as support area for the operation of the other
cars and steam locomotive.
Text by Roy Wullich