> What is wrong with the recently released IM/Red Caboose car (it
seems to match data in my 1949 ORER)?
Bill,
The prototype
series were as follows:
45001-45385, 385 cars built 1945 through 1946
from Youngstown steel body parts. They featured a 7'/8' door combination,
Universal 200W hand brakes, with Miner draft gear. The cars also featured
alternate center riveting on the sides of the car, and were 10'6" interior
height with 4/4 IDE ends. In 1962 and again in 1965, the cars were
renumbered into 2400-2599 and 2600-2749. I could not locate any of the as
constructed photos online, however, there are several examples of detail
photos of the car features. The most glaring error is that the Red Caboose
is a 10'0" IH car whereas the prototype is 10'6" IH. The side sill needs to
be extended further so that it is deeper, and the ACR pattern
applied.
http://www.rr-fallenflags.org/mkt/mkt2697akg.jpg
http://www.rr-fallenflags.org/mkt/mkt2709abp.jpg
http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/archiveThumbs.aspx?id=93479&Page=2
http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=3888766
http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=2385682
A
better alternative to this car would be to use an older Front Range 4090 40'
double door series kit, replace the ends with Branchline 4-4 IDE ends, shape
the side sill using styrene, replace the roof with a Murphy panel roof,
apply Archer ACR rivet decals, and other specific details, then letter with
the new Speedwitch MKT decals.
Justin May
