Ceiling height on 1967 Santa Fe Hi-Level lounge car

[workman]

I'm helping a model railroad club recreate a 1967 Santa Fe Hi-Level Lounge Car and need to know the ceiling heights on both levels. I've looked through several schematics online, but nothing lists exact numbers. Any railfans or restorers here have the specs or know where I can find them?

 

[Fr3ightRunn3r]

If you're curious about Santa Fe Hi-Level cars, you've got some interesting dimensions to look into. The main level has about a 7'6" ceiling, which is pretty spacious, while the upper level comes in at around 6'6". It's worth checking out the Santa Fe Railway Historical Society or the California State Railroad Museum if you want to dive deep into the exact Budd Company blueprints.

 

[jameson41straight]

I couldnt find exact ceiling heights for the 1967 Santa Fe Hi-Level Lounge Car, but i think the whole car stood about 15'6" tall with the upper passenger floor roughly 8'7" above the rails. Unfortunately, the detailed interior clearances don't seem to be published online, so your best bet is to check Budd's original blueprints or reach out to museums or restoration groups that may have measured an actual car.