Heritage Fleet
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Amtrak's Heritage Fleet program was started in 1977 to equip older cars from Amtrak's predecessor railroads to head end power (HEP). Head end power is the source of electricity for lights, heat and air conditioning for the railcars, produced by generators in the locomotives. HEP conversions were performed at Amtrak's heavy repair center in Beech Grove, Indiana, outside of Indianapolis. The program was completed by the mid 1980s.
Most Heritage Fleet cars are retired from Amtrak service, but some remain, mostly baggage cars. Others include the "Pacific Parlour" Hi-Level lounges, Hi-Level coaches, diners and crew dorms. One "great dome" is still active, used only on special occasions.