I was always under the assumption (yes, I know what happens when one assumes) that the coaches presently on the Bel-Del tugged behind ex-NYS&W 142 came from the LIRR. Is this correct? Are there any more coaches of their kind left in the world and what would be their classification(s)?

I've not been to the Bel-Del but have seen pictures. The coaches I have seen are ex-LIRR class P-72's also referred to as 2900's because of their numbering while on the LIRR.

When the LIRR retired these coaches in 1999 Ken Bitten bought nearly the entire lot. His add for the cars is here http://classicrail.com/cars/index.html. While a handful have been preserved on the Island many have been sold far and wide, almost becoming this generations Ping-Pong cars. A few did make it off the Island before the fleet retirement so there are some cars around that have been in service at their new homes before '99.

Roger

LIRR commuter coach 2937 has been undergoing a rather lengthy restoration at the Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum in North Judson, Indiana. It is privately owned, and leased to the museum.

Les