Comments on: Back in the summer of 1980, word got around that VIA was testing a new paint scheme. And on this overcast August day the opportunity to capture an image of this one-of-a-kind made itself presentable. So here we have VIA 6532,6630 on an eastbound VIA #72, the leader in my opinion looking as nondescript as the weather. I don’t know how long this scheme adorned 6532, but I never saw it again. Photo taken in the company of fellow Railpictures contributor James Adeney, who also captured this scene, next to the old John Ave overpass in Paris, Ont., gasp, over 32 years ago already.

By: awmooney

awmooney — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 05:38:10 +0000

Apparently this experimental paint scheme was unveiled at Point St. Charles shop on July 4, 1980. VIA 6532 and coaches 5558 and 5590. No more were ever done.

By: Cdntrainphotog

Cdntrainphotog — Sat, 03 May 2014 16:34:00 +0000

I’m sorry I wasn’t taking Train Pictures back then. There was so much more variety.

By: James Adeney

James Adeney — Sun, 09 Dec 2012 17:59:14 +0000

I remember that day Arnold. I’ll have to dig my shot up and post it. So much of that can’t be seen today because of the growth.

If you look closely at the nose you’ll see it was never completely painted. It’s as if they were applying the second coat and halfway through had to return the unit to service.