A few years ago, Amtrak introduced its ‘Phase VII’ paint scheme that features two-tone blue/navy body with a bold red, white and navy nose section. As applied to the common P42 Genesis diesels this represents a pleasant and colorful contrast to the old ‘Phase V’ scheme that had predominated for the last two-decades.

In recent months, several of these repainted locomotives have made an appearance on Amtrak’s Pennsylvanian (New York-Pittsburgh) which have made for photographic opportunity.

Toward the end of October, I caught Train 42 (eastward Pennsylvania) winding through the curves at Gap, Pa., with engine 112 in the lead.

I find it fascinating to see these relatively old locomotives dressed in a modern scheme. It is approaching 33 years since the Genesis body style came on the scene with the 800-call P40, and many of the P42s are now approaching 30 years years of service.

Tracking the Light explores railroad photography