The various responses in this subthread just illustrates my original point, that there is no "clear-cut" solution on how to handle the issue. The problem can even go beyond paint colors. Take ex FEC (Florida East Coast)RY car #136. It was built in 1922 as a heavy-weight coach, no air conditioning, with open clearstory windows. Original colors was the typical Pullman Green. In 1925 it was "modernized" with steamjet airconditioning, the clearstory was closed in and used to run the air ducting, and the windows were sealed shut. During the 1960's, the car was placed into maintenance of way service (for crew transport) and painted a rather sickly shade of blue. You're now handed the task of restoring it for use in a museum's operating train. What color will you paint it? Will you put it back into 1922 apearance, restoring the clearstory, etc.? Will you leave the windows sealed and put the airconditioning back in service? Or will you leave the "newer" equipment in place, and convert the windows to sash-hung, in order to give your passengers a breath of air? Cars can always be repainted. I'm just happy when I see equipment back in operation with parts and methods in keeping with its heritage (my two cents).