A Boston & Maine GP7 working in MBTA commuter service approaches Boston's North Station with a train of depowered RDCs. These GP7/RDC combinations were common for a couple years after 1978 as the MBTA's solution to mechanical failures in its aging RDC fleet.
The 70's and 80's were a transition period for the MBTA characterized by an eclectic mix of equipment including Budd RDC's, ex-New Haven stainless steel coaches, and a mix of motive power acquired from various railroads.
