Model Trains

Back in the late 1800s, this kind of truck was known as a Rigid Diamond Freight-car Truck. This one was built for the Union Tank Line and drawings of it were published in the 1895 Car Builder's Dictionary. Prototype features included a five-foot wheelbase, 20-ton capacity journals and brake shoes that were hung from the truck.

This swing motion truck was manufactured by the Bettendorf Co. from 1924 to the early 1930s. Railroads that had some cabooses with this truck included ATSF, BN, CB&Q, C&O, Erie, EL, MILW, MKT, MP, NKP, N&W, Pere Marquette and Rock Island. These trucks could be seen under wood double sheathed, single sheathed, all steel, transfer, drovers and even extended vision cabooses. The second image is a data sheet about this truck.

Here is a 40-ton truck from the 1920s. The prototype for this truck was made by the Scullen Steel Co. for the Illinois Central Railroad in 1927 and is now at the Illinois Railway Museum. It features a spring plank and Barber Lateral Motion Device. Other railroads using similar trucks included C&NW, DL&W, NP and SL-SF. Also, late 1920s-built refrigerator cars for North Western Refrigerator Line (NWX) and Western Refrigerator Line (WRX) and some North American Car Corp. refrigerator cars (NADX) and tank cars (NATX) used this truck. The second image is the data sheet about this truck.

The Barber Lateral Motion device used steel rollers and a roller seat between the bolster and springs to provide a little side-to-side movement of the car body to the track, resulting in a smoother ride. U-section trucks with this feature were manufactured from the early 1920s to the late 1930s. Railroads that used this style of truck included ATSF, B&O, CB&Q, CN, CP, CV, CofG, C&NW, C&EI, ERIE, DL&W, GTW, IC, MP, NP, RI, SL-SF, SP, T&NO, T&P, UP, and WP, also PFE and SFRD. The second image is from a trade sheet about this truck.

Car has interior, window glazing, diaphragms and detailed plastic trucks.

1977 run S. Soho & Co. imported model built by Kumata in Japan. Box shows minimal shelf wear. Includes diaphragms (installed). Represents a car built by Budd in 1938. Car was used on the Tulsan, Kansas Cityian, and The San Diegan. Car has been decaled and window glazing has been added. 

Operational Note:

Features:

Operational Note:

Features:

Image Disclaimer: Product image may show a different road number than the actual model. Paint scheme, details, and features will match the listed item.

Expand your intermodal fleet with this highly detailed Rapido HO Scale F30G TOFC flatcar decorated in the classic TTX yellow scheme. Designed for Trailer-On-Flatcar (TOFC) service, the F30G series played a major role in the growth of modern freight transportation by allowing highway trailers to move efficiently by rail across North America.

TTX flatcars became a common sight on railroads throughout the United States and Canada, operating in dedicated intermodal trains as well as mixed freight service. The bright yellow TTX paint scheme quickly became one of the most recognizable freight car designs in modern railroading, making these cars a must-have for contemporary HO Scale layouts.

Rapido has recreated the F30G with exceptional prototype accuracy and fine detailing throughout. From the realistic deck surface and trailer hitches to the detailed underframe and crisp lettering, this model captures the appearance of the real freight car with museum-quality precision. Smooth rolling metal wheelsets and reliable knuckle couplers make it equally suited for operation or display.

Product Features:

• HO Scale (1:87) precision model
• Classic TTX yellow paint scheme
• Highly detailed TOFC flatcar design
• Realistic deck, underframe, and brake detailing
• Fine factory-applied lettering and graphics
• Free-rolling metal wheelsets
• Knuckle couplers compatible with standard HO equipment
• Ideal for modern intermodal and freight operations
• Car Number: #475187

Prototype & Historical Significance:
TOFC service revolutionized freight railroading by combining the flexibility of trucking with the efficiency of rail transport. TTX Corporation developed large fleets of specialized flatcars like the F30G to support the rapid expansion of intermodal shipping during the late 20th century. These cars operated nationwide carrying truck trailers for major freight companies, helping railroads compete in the evolving transportation industry.

Whether used in a dedicated intermodal consist or mixed freight train, this Rapido F30G flatcar adds authentic modern freight service to any HO Scale railroad.

Image Disclaimer: Product image may show a different road number than the actual model. Paint scheme, details, and features will match the listed item

Add classic intermodal freight service to your HO Scale railroad with this highly detailed Rapido F30D TOFC flatcar decorated in the eye-catching early TTX red scheme. These Trailer-On-Flatcar (TOFC) cars played a major role in the evolution of North American freight transportation, helping railroads efficiently move highway trailers across long distances while reducing shipping times and costs.

The F30D flatcar became a common sight throughout the 1970s, 1980s, and beyond as intermodal transportation rapidly expanded. TTX cars in the early red paint scheme are especially popular among modelers recreating transition-to-modern-era freight operations. Whether running in dedicated TOFC trains or mixed freight consists, this car adds authentic intermodal realism to any HO Scale layout.

Rapido’s model captures the appearance of the prototype with exceptional detail including accurate deck surfaces, underbody components, brake rigging, and finely applied lettering. Built for both operators and collectors, the car features smooth rolling performance and high-quality construction throughout.

Product Features:

• HO Scale (1:87) precision model
• Highly detailed F30D TOFC flatcar
• Early TTX red paint scheme with authentic lettering
• Detailed underframe and brake components
• Realistic deck detailing
• Free-rolling metal wheelsets
• Knuckle couplers compatible with standard HO equipment
• Suitable for intermodal and mixed freight operations
• 475084

Prototype & Historical Significance:
Trailer-On-Flatcar service revolutionized freight transportation by combining the flexibility of trucking with the efficiency of railroads. TTX Corporation became one of the most recognizable names in intermodal rail service, with its fleet of flatcars operating across nearly every major railroad in North America. The early red TTX scheme remains a favorite among railfans and modelers alike for its bold appearance and historical significance in the growth of modern freight railroading.

Perfect for intermodal enthusiasts, modern freight modelers, and collectors looking to expand their TOFC operations with a highly accurate Rapido model.

Image Disclaimer: Product image may show a different road number than the actual model. Paint scheme, details, and features will match the listed item

Add classic intermodal freight service to your HO Scale railroad with this highly detailed Rapido F30D TOFC flatcar decorated in the eye-catching early TTX red scheme. These Trailer-On-Flatcar (TOFC) cars played a major role in the evolution of North American freight transportation, helping railroads efficiently move highway trailers across long distances while reducing shipping times and costs.

The F30D flatcar became a common sight throughout the 1970s, 1980s, and beyond as intermodal transportation rapidly expanded. TTX cars in the early red paint scheme are especially popular among modelers recreating transition-to-modern-era freight operations. Whether running in dedicated TOFC trains or mixed freight consists, this car adds authentic intermodal realism to any HO Scale layout.

Rapido’s model captures the appearance of the prototype with exceptional detail including accurate deck surfaces, underbody components, brake rigging, and finely applied lettering. Built for both operators and collectors, the car features smooth rolling performance and high-quality construction throughout.

Product Features:

• HO Scale (1:87) precision model
• Highly detailed F30D TOFC flatcar
• Early TTX red paint scheme with authentic lettering
• Detailed underframe and brake components
• Realistic deck detailing
• Free-rolling metal wheelsets
• Knuckle couplers compatible with standard HO equipment
• Suitable for intermodal and mixed freight operations
• 475008

Prototype & Historical Significance:
Trailer-On-Flatcar service revolutionized freight transportation by combining the flexibility of trucking with the efficiency of railroads. TTX Corporation became one of the most recognizable names in intermodal rail service, with its fleet of flatcars operating across nearly every major railroad in North America. The early red TTX scheme remains a favorite among railfans and modelers alike for its bold appearance and historical significance in the growth of modern freight railroading.

Perfect for intermodal enthusiasts, modern freight modelers, and collectors looking to expand their TOFC operations with a highly accurate Rapido model.

Image Disclaimer: Product image may show a different road number than the actual model. Paint scheme, details, and features will match the listed item

Add classic intermodal freight service to your HO Scale railroad with this highly detailed Rapido F30D TOFC flatcar decorated in the eye-catching early TTX red scheme. These Trailer-On-Flatcar (TOFC) cars played a major role in the evolution of North American freight transportation, helping railroads efficiently move highway trailers across long distances while reducing shipping times and costs.

The F30D flatcar became a common sight throughout the 1970s, 1980s, and beyond as intermodal transportation rapidly expanded. TTX cars in the early red paint scheme are especially popular among modelers recreating transition-to-modern-era freight operations. Whether running in dedicated TOFC trains or mixed freight consists, this car adds authentic intermodal realism to any HO Scale layout.

Rapido’s model captures the appearance of the prototype with exceptional detail including accurate deck surfaces, underbody components, brake rigging, and finely applied lettering. Built for both operators and collectors, the car features smooth rolling performance and high-quality construction throughout.

Product Features:

• HO Scale (1:87) precision model
• Highly detailed F30D TOFC flatcar
• Early TTX red paint scheme with authentic lettering
• Detailed underframe and brake components
• Realistic deck detailing
• Free-rolling metal wheelsets
• Knuckle couplers compatible with standard HO equipment
• Suitable for intermodal and mixed freight operations
• Car Number: #475052

Prototype & Historical Significance:
Trailer-On-Flatcar service revolutionized freight transportation by combining the flexibility of trucking with the efficiency of railroads. TTX Corporation became one of the most recognizable names in intermodal rail service, with its fleet of flatcars operating across nearly every major railroad in North America. The early red TTX scheme remains a favorite among railfans and modelers alike for its bold appearance and historical significance in the growth of modern freight railroading.

Perfect for intermodal enthusiasts, modern freight modelers, and collectors looking to expand their TOFC operations with a highly accurate Rapido model.

Image Disclaimer: Product image may show a different road number than the actual model. Paint scheme, details, and features will match the listed item

Add classic intermodal freight service to your HO Scale railroad with this highly detailed Rapido F30D TOFC flatcar decorated in the eye-catching early TTX red scheme. These Trailer-On-Flatcar (TOFC) cars played a major role in the evolution of North American freight transportation, helping railroads efficiently move highway trailers across long distances while reducing shipping times and costs.

The F30D flatcar became a common sight throughout the 1970s, 1980s, and beyond as intermodal transportation rapidly expanded. TTX cars in the early red paint scheme are especially popular among modelers recreating transition-to-modern-era freight operations. Whether running in dedicated TOFC trains or mixed freight consists, this car adds authentic intermodal realism to any HO Scale layout.

Rapido’s model captures the appearance of the prototype with exceptional detail including accurate deck surfaces, underbody components, brake rigging, and finely applied lettering. Built for both operators and collectors, the car features smooth rolling performance and high-quality construction throughout.

Product Features:

• HO Scale (1:87) precision model
• Highly detailed F30D TOFC flatcar
• Early TTX red paint scheme with authentic lettering
• Detailed underframe and brake components
• Realistic deck detailing
• Free-rolling metal wheelsets
• Knuckle couplers compatible with standard HO equipment
• Suitable for intermodal and mixed freight operations
• Car Number: #435079

Prototype & Historical Significance:
Trailer-On-Flatcar service revolutionized freight transportation by combining the flexibility of trucking with the efficiency of railroads. TTX Corporation became one of the most recognizable names in intermodal rail service, with its fleet of flatcars operating across nearly every major railroad in North America. The early red TTX scheme remains a favorite among railfans and modelers alike for its bold appearance and historical significance in the growth of modern freight railroading.

Perfect for intermodal enthusiasts, modern freight modelers, and collectors looking to expand their TOFC operations with a highly accurate Rapido model.

Image Disclaimer: Product image may show a different road number than the actual model. Paint scheme, details, and features will match the listed item

Add a bold and historically rich freight car to your roster with this Rapido HO Scale PC&F Class B-100-40 plug-door box car, representing Golden West Service in a patched Southern Pacific scheme. Car #656434 features the eye-catching blue, yellow, and red Golden West paint, combined with authentic Southern Pacific reporting marks, capturing a unique moment in West Coast railroading history.

Golden West Service was a joint venture between Southern Pacific and Santa Fe designed to provide fast, high-quality freight service using upgraded and repainted boxcars. Many of these cars, like this one, retained or were patched with their original reporting marks, making them especially interesting for modelers focused on realistic consists and transitional repaint eras.

Built by Pacific Car & Foundry (PC&F), the Class B-100-40 boxcars were designed for efficient loading and unloading, featuring large plug doors ideal for protecting sensitive or palletized freight. This ready-to-run (RTR) model from Rapido captures those details with exceptional accuracy, from the precise paint application to the finely rendered underframe and door hardware.

Product Features:

• HO Scale (1:87) ready-to-run model
• Prototype: PC&F Class B-100-40 plug-door box car
• Golden West Service paint scheme with Southern Pacific patch
• Car Number: SP #656434
• Striking blue, yellow, and red livery
• Highly detailed body with accurate lettering and graphics
• Detailed underframe, brake rigging, and plug-door hardware
• Free-rolling metal wheelsets
• Knuckle couplers compatible with standard HO equipment

Prototype & Historical Significance:
Golden West Service cars were introduced in the late 1970s and 1980s as part of an effort by Southern Pacific and Santa Fe to compete with trucking by offering premium rail service. These brightly painted cars became iconic across the western United States, often appearing in mixed consists with patched or legacy markings—just like SP #656434.

Perfect for modern-era HO layouts or collectors of unique and colorful freight equipment, this Rapido boxcar stands out both in operation and on display.

Image Disclaimer: Product image may show a different road number than the actual model. Paint scheme, details, and features will match the listed item

Add a bold and historically rich freight car to your roster with this Rapido HO Scale PC&F Class B-100-40 plug-door box car, representing Golden West Service in a patched Southern Pacific scheme. Car #656254 features the eye-catching blue, yellow, and red Golden West paint, combined with authentic Southern Pacific reporting marks, capturing a unique moment in West Coast railroading history.

Golden West Service was a joint venture between Southern Pacific and Santa Fe designed to provide fast, high-quality freight service using upgraded and repainted boxcars. Many of these cars, like this one, retained or were patched with their original reporting marks, making them especially interesting for modelers focused on realistic consists and transitional repaint eras.

Built by Pacific Car & Foundry (PC&F), the Class B-100-40 boxcars were designed for efficient loading and unloading, featuring large plug doors ideal for protecting sensitive or palletized freight. This ready-to-run (RTR) model from Rapido captures those details with exceptional accuracy, from the precise paint application to the finely rendered underframe and door hardware.

Product Features:

• HO Scale (1:87) ready-to-run model
• Prototype: PC&F Class B-100-40 plug-door box car
• Golden West Service paint scheme with Southern Pacific patch
• Car Number: SP #656254
• Striking blue, yellow, and red livery
• Highly detailed body with accurate lettering and graphics
• Detailed underframe, brake rigging, and plug-door hardware
• Free-rolling metal wheelsets
• Knuckle couplers compatible with standard HO equipment

Prototype & Historical Significance:
Golden West Service cars were introduced in the late 1970s and 1980s as part of an effort by Southern Pacific and Santa Fe to compete with trucking by offering premium rail service. These brightly painted cars became iconic across the western United States, often appearing in mixed consists with patched or legacy markings—just like SP #656254.

Perfect for modern-era HO layouts or collectors of unique and colorful freight equipment, this Rapido boxcar stands out both in operation and on display.

Image Disclaimer: Product image may show a different road number than the actual model. Paint scheme, details, and features will match the listed item

Add a bold and historically rich freight car to your roster with this Rapido HO Scale PC&F Class B-100-40 plug-door box car, representing Golden West Service in a patched Southern Pacific scheme. Car #656253 features the eye-catching blue, yellow, and red Golden West paint, combined with authentic Southern Pacific reporting marks, capturing a unique moment in West Coast railroading history.

Golden West Service was a joint venture between Southern Pacific and Santa Fe designed to provide fast, high-quality freight service using upgraded and repainted boxcars. Many of these cars, like this one, retained or were patched with their original reporting marks, making them especially interesting for modelers focused on realistic consists and transitional repaint eras.

Built by Pacific Car & Foundry (PC&F), the Class B-100-40 boxcars were designed for efficient loading and unloading, featuring large plug doors ideal for protecting sensitive or palletized freight. This ready-to-run (RTR) model from Rapido captures those details with exceptional accuracy, from the precise paint application to the finely rendered underframe and door hardware.

Product Features:

• HO Scale (1:87) ready-to-run model
• Prototype: PC&F Class B-100-40 plug-door box car
• Golden West Service paint scheme with Southern Pacific patch
• Car Number: SP #656253
• Striking blue, yellow, and red livery
• Highly detailed body with accurate lettering and graphics
• Detailed underframe, brake rigging, and plug-door hardware
• Free-rolling metal wheelsets
• Knuckle couplers compatible with standard HO equipment

Prototype & Historical Significance:
Golden West Service cars were introduced in the late 1970s and 1980s as part of an effort by Southern Pacific and Santa Fe to compete with trucking by offering premium rail service. These brightly painted cars became iconic across the western United States, often appearing in mixed consists with patched or legacy markings—just like SP #656253.

Perfect for modern-era HO layouts or collectors of unique and colorful freight equipment, this Rapido boxcar stands out both in operation and on display.

Image Disclaimer: Product image may show a different road number than the actual model. Paint scheme, details, and features will match the listed item

Add a bold and historically rich freight car to your roster with this Rapido HO Scale PC&F Class B-100-40 plug-door box car, representing Golden West Service in a patched Southern Pacific scheme. Car #656229 features the eye-catching blue, yellow, and red Golden West paint, combined with authentic Southern Pacific reporting marks, capturing a unique moment in West Coast railroading history.

Golden West Service was a joint venture between Southern Pacific and Santa Fe designed to provide fast, high-quality freight service using upgraded and repainted boxcars. Many of these cars, like this one, retained or were patched with their original reporting marks, making them especially interesting for modelers focused on realistic consists and transitional repaint eras.

Built by Pacific Car & Foundry (PC&F), the Class B-100-40 boxcars were designed for efficient loading and unloading, featuring large plug doors ideal for protecting sensitive or palletized freight. This ready-to-run (RTR) model from Rapido captures those details with exceptional accuracy, from the precise paint application to the finely rendered underframe and door hardware.

Product Features:

• HO Scale (1:87) ready-to-run model
• Prototype: PC&F Class B-100-40 plug-door box car
• Golden West Service paint scheme with Southern Pacific patch
• Car Number: SP #656229
• Striking blue, yellow, and red livery
• Highly detailed body with accurate lettering and graphics
• Detailed underframe, brake rigging, and plug-door hardware
• Free-rolling metal wheelsets
• Knuckle couplers compatible with standard HO equipment

Prototype & Historical Significance:
Golden West Service cars were introduced in the late 1970s and 1980s as part of an effort by Southern Pacific and Santa Fe to compete with trucking by offering premium rail service. These brightly painted cars became iconic across the western United States, often appearing in mixed consists with patched or legacy markings—just like SP #656229.

Perfect for modern-era HO layouts or collectors of unique and colorful freight equipment, this Rapido boxcar stands out both in operation and on display.

Image Disclaimer: Product image may show a different road number than the actual model. Paint scheme, details, and features will match the listed item

Add a bold and historically rich freight car to your roster with this Rapido HO Scale PC&F Class B-100-40 plug-door box car, representing Golden West Service in a patched Southern Pacific scheme. Car #656208 features the eye-catching blue, yellow, and red Golden West paint, combined with authentic Southern Pacific reporting marks, capturing a unique moment in West Coast railroading history.

Golden West Service was a joint venture between Southern Pacific and Santa Fe designed to provide fast, high-quality freight service using upgraded and repainted boxcars. Many of these cars, like this one, retained or were patched with their original reporting marks, making them especially interesting for modelers focused on realistic consists and transitional repaint eras.

Built by Pacific Car & Foundry (PC&F), the Class B-100-40 boxcars were designed for efficient loading and unloading, featuring large plug doors ideal for protecting sensitive or palletized freight. This ready-to-run (RTR) model from Rapido captures those details with exceptional accuracy, from the precise paint application to the finely rendered underframe and door hardware.

Product Features:

• HO Scale (1:87) ready-to-run model
• Prototype: PC&F Class B-100-40 plug-door box car
• Golden West Service paint scheme with Southern Pacific patch
• Car Number: SP #656208
• Striking blue, yellow, and red livery
• Highly detailed body with accurate lettering and graphics
• Detailed underframe, brake rigging, and plug-door hardware
• Free-rolling metal wheelsets
• Knuckle couplers compatible with standard HO equipment

Prototype & Historical Significance:
Golden West Service cars were introduced in the late 1970s and 1980s as part of an effort by Southern Pacific and Santa Fe to compete with trucking by offering premium rail service. These brightly painted cars became iconic across the western United States, often appearing in mixed consists with patched or legacy markings—just like SP #656208.

Perfect for modern-era HO layouts or collectors of unique and colorful freight equipment, this Rapido boxcar stands out both in operation and on display.

Image Disclaimer: Product image may show a different road number than the actual model. Paint scheme, details, and features will match the listed item

Add a bold and historically rich freight car to your roster with this Rapido HO Scale PC&F Class B-100-40 plug-door box car, representing Golden West Service in a patched Southern Pacific scheme. Car #656200 features the eye-catching blue, yellow, and red Golden West paint, combined with authentic Southern Pacific reporting marks, capturing a unique moment in West Coast railroading history.

Golden West Service was a joint venture between Southern Pacific and Santa Fe designed to provide fast, high-quality freight service using upgraded and repainted boxcars. Many of these cars, like this one, retained or were patched with their original reporting marks, making them especially interesting for modelers focused on realistic consists and transitional repaint eras.

Built by Pacific Car & Foundry (PC&F), the Class B-100-40 boxcars were designed for efficient loading and unloading, featuring large plug doors ideal for protecting sensitive or palletized freight. This ready-to-run (RTR) model from Rapido captures those details with exceptional accuracy, from the precise paint application to the finely rendered underframe and door hardware.

Product Features:

• HO Scale (1:87) ready-to-run model
• Prototype: PC&F Class B-100-40 plug-door box car
• Golden West Service paint scheme with Southern Pacific patch
• Car Number: SP #656200
• Striking blue, yellow, and red livery
• Highly detailed body with accurate lettering and graphics
• Detailed underframe, brake rigging, and plug-door hardware
• Free-rolling metal wheelsets
• Knuckle couplers compatible with standard HO equipment

Prototype & Historical Significance:
Golden West Service cars were introduced in the late 1970s and 1980s as part of an effort by Southern Pacific and Santa Fe to compete with trucking by offering premium rail service. These brightly painted cars became iconic across the western United States, often appearing in mixed consists with patched or legacy markings—just like SP #656200.

Perfect for modern-era HO layouts or collectors of unique and colorful freight equipment, this Rapido boxcar stands out both in operation and on display.

Bring a unique piece of American railroad and wartime history to your layout with this beautifully detailed Rapido HO Scale 37’ GARX meat reefer decorated for Swift’s iconic “War Bonds” campaign. During World War II, companies like Swift & Company used freight cars as rolling advertisements to promote the purchase of war bonds, making these reefers both functional and historically significant.

This 37-foot General American Refrigerator Express (GARX) reefer represents the specialized cars used to transport perishable goods such as meat across the country. Featuring the bold Swift “War Bonds” lettering, Car #6307 stands out as a striking example of mid-20th century railroading and patriotic marketing.

Rapido is known for museum-quality accuracy, and this model delivers with crisp paint, finely applied lettering, and highly detailed components that replicate the prototype. From the underframe detailing to the roof and door hardware, every element is crafted for realism, making it ideal for collectors and operators alike.

Product Features:

• HO Scale (1:87) precision model
• Prototype: 37’ GARX meat refrigerator car
• Swift “War Bonds” advertising scheme – Car #6307
• Highly detailed body with accurate paint and lettering
• Detailed underframe, brake rigging, and roof components
• Free-rolling metal wheelsets for smooth operation
• Knuckle couplers compatible with standard HO equipment
• Ideal for WWII-era and transition-era layouts

Prototype & Historical Significance:
Swift & Company was one of the largest meatpacking firms in the United States, relying heavily on refrigerated railcars to distribute products nationwide. During WWII, these cars doubled as mobile billboards encouraging Americans to support the war effort by purchasing war bonds. Cars like #6307 are a perfect representation of how industry and patriotism intersected on the rails.

Please note: Image is a stock/representative photo. While the model, brand, and condition are identical, the specific train (road) number may be different. This model is from the year 2024 run.

The Union Pacific Challengers were simple articulated 4-6-6-4 steam locomotives built by American Locomotive Company for the Union Pacific.  Union Pacific built 105 of these locomotives between 1936 and 1943. The Challengers were 122 ft (37 m) long, weighed 284,800 kg, and operated over most of the Union Pacific system, primarily in freight service.  The excellent Challenger design allowed for increased speed on mountain grades compared to UP’s previous articulated steam locomotives. 

This BLI model is of the Class CSA-2 Challenger, commonly called an “early challenger”.  Our models have a post-1947 appearance, after the locomotives were renumbered from 3900 to 3800 series.We are offering three locomotive variations: four road numbers with the as-delivered front engine, four road numbers with a rebuilt front engine, and two road numbers with an integral cast cylinder front engine.All of our models are oil-burners with 19,000 gallon cylindrical tenders.  We are also offering one painted but unlettered model of each variation, and we will build a small quantity of one model with all parts either varnished brass or painted brass.This model will have the as-delivered front engine. 

Broadway Limited Imports is proud to introduce Paragon4: The new benchmark for premium HO sound-equipped locomotives. These DC and DCC-Sound equipped locomotives feature the ALL-NEW Paragon4 sound and control system. Each Paragon4 locomotive comes with BLI’s own integral DCC Decoder factory installed.  Paragon4 locomotives offer Dual Mode DC and DCC operation with superb back EMF motor control, improved DC motor control, built-in capacitor pack for more reliable electrical pick-up, industry best on-board sound with Rolling Thunder functionality, Pro Lighting Mode for prototypical light control, Switcher model for precise low speed control, recordable DCC operation for automated playback, and the same excellent detail level as Broadway Limited’s Paragon3 Series models. 

Paragon4 Sound & Control System Features:

• Operates in DC & DCC with improved DC speed control (use DCMaster for DC Sound)

• Built-In capacitor pack to navigate imperfect track

• Capacitor Pack automatically disabled on program track for full compatibility with JMRI Decoder Pro

• Pro Lighting Mode offers individual control of all lights on model

• Switcher Mode for precise low speed control.

• Record & Play Operation – Records and plays back sounds and movements once or repeatedly for automatic operation

• High Resolution Audio

• Quillable Whistle for various whistle lengths and patterns

• Choice of 3 selectable Horns

• Alternate Whistle / Horn where applicable for locomotive with air horn and steam whistle – both the main whistle and alternate can be easily played

• Adjustable bell ringing interval for faster or slower bell

• Numerous user-mappable functions with available keys

• Johnson Bar Sound at Direction Change

• Multiple realistic passenger and crew sounds play on command

• Grade Crossing Automatic Signal

• Automatic Forward / Reverse Signal – When activated, stopping triggers and stop whistle toot.  When moving forward from a stopped position, toots twice.  When moving in reverse. toots three times.

• Chuff sound intensity varies with load

• Individually adjustable sound volumes for each effect

• EZ Reset Button for quick return to factory default settings

The Union Pacific Challengers were simple articulated 4-6-6-4 steam locomotives built by American Locomotive Company for the Union Pacific.  Union Pacific built 105 of these locomotives between 1936 and 1943. The Challengers were 122 ft (37 m) long, weighed 284,800 kg, and operated over most of the Union Pacific system, primarily in freight service.  The excellent Challenger design allowed for increased speed on mountain grades compared to UP’s previous articulated steam locomotives. 

This BLI model is of the Class CSA-2 Challenger, commonly called an “early challenger”.  Our models have a post-1947 appearance, after the locomotives were renumbered from 3900 to 3800 series.We are offering three locomotive variations: four road numbers with the as-delivered front engine, four road numbers with a rebuilt front engine, and two road numbers with an integral cast cylinder front engine.All of our models are oil-burners with 19,000 gallon cylindrical tenders.  We are also offering one painted but unlettered model of each variation, and we will build a small quantity of one model with all parts either varnished brass or painted brass.This model will have the as-delivered front engine. 

Broadway Limited Imports is proud to introduce Paragon4: The new benchmark for premium HO sound-equipped locomotives. These DC and DCC-Sound equipped locomotives feature the ALL-NEW Paragon4 sound and control system. Each Paragon4 locomotive comes with BLI’s own integral DCC Decoder factory installed.  Paragon4 locomotives offer Dual Mode DC and DCC operation with superb back EMF motor control, improved DC motor control, built-in capacitor pack for more reliable electrical pick-up, industry best on-board sound with Rolling Thunder functionality, Pro Lighting Mode for prototypical light control, Switcher model for precise low speed control, recordable DCC operation for automated playback, and the same excellent detail level as Broadway Limited’s Paragon3 Series models. 

Paragon4 Sound & Control System Features:

• Operates in DC & DCC with improved DC speed control (use DCMaster for DC Sound)

• Built-In capacitor pack to navigate imperfect track

• Capacitor Pack automatically disabled on program track for full compatibility with JMRI Decoder Pro

• Pro Lighting Mode offers individual control of all lights on model

• Switcher Mode for precise low speed control.

• Record & Play Operation – Records and plays back sounds and movements once or repeatedly for automatic operation

• High Resolution Audio

• Quillable Whistle for various whistle lengths and patterns

• Choice of 3 selectable Horns

• Alternate Whistle / Horn where applicable for locomotive with air horn and steam whistle – both the main whistle and alternate can be easily played

• Adjustable bell ringing interval for faster or slower bell

• Numerous user-mappable functions with available keys

• Johnson Bar Sound at Direction Change

• Multiple realistic passenger and crew sounds play on command

• Grade Crossing Automatic Signal

• Automatic Forward / Reverse Signal – When activated, stopping triggers and stop whistle toot.  When moving forward from a stopped position, toots twice.  When moving in reverse. toots three times.

• Chuff sound intensity varies with load

• Individually adjustable sound volumes for each effect

• EZ Reset Button for quick return to factory default settings

The E1 was an early passenger-train diesel locomotive sporting 1800 HP, with an A1A-A1A wheel arrangement, manufactured by Electro-Motive Corporation of La Grange, Illinois. They were built during 1937 and 1938 for the ATSF Railway for a new generation of diesel-powered streamlined trains. Eight cab-equipped lead A-units and three cabless booster B-units were built. The initial three locomotives were AB pairs built to haul the Santa Fe's Super Chief diesel streamliners, while the others were built as single A-units to haul shorter trains. The locomotives were diesel-electrics with two 900 hp (670kW) Winton 201-A engines each, with each engine driving its own generator to power the traction motors. The E1 was the second model in a long line of passenger diesels of similar design known as EMD E-units. All Winton 201A-engined Santa Fe passenger units, including the E1s, were extensively rebuilt into the 80-class E8M engines in 1952-53. These were similar to production E8 models but reduced to 2000 hp so as not to burn out the early traction (axle) motors (which were reused).

The EA/EB and E1 featured nearly identical and innovative styling showing the influence of the EMC's new buyer General Motors. While they had much mechanically in common with previous experimental EMC locomotives, GM understood the importance of looking new and exciting, not merely being technically innovative. This basic "slant nose" style was continued in the subsequent E3, E4, E5, and E6 models, while a more "bulldog nose" style was tried in the E2 and a style somewhere in between was used in the E7, E8, and E9, as well as the freight diesel cab units. It could fairly be said that the overall styling influenced passenger locomotives around the world.

At more or less the same time, EMC built the EMC EA/EB locomotives for the B&O Railroad. These hauled the Royal Blue, the Capitol Limited, and the National Limited, in addition to others. B&O #52 was sold to Alton in 1940 and became a GM&O locomotive in 1947. These EA/EB locomotives were quite similar in appearance to the ATSF E1 models.

In this production, Broadway Limited will offer two detail arrangements of the ATSF E1 (pre-1946 and post-war), and they are offering three ATSF paint schemes: a 1940 version with the as-delivered red-orange color in place of the traditional red, a pre-1946 version with the traditional red, and a post-war version. They are also offering models of the ATSF E1s painted for the B&O Railroad and a single unit painted as GM&O #100A.

Broadway Limited Imports is proud to introduce Paragon4: The new benchmark for premium HO sound-equipped locomotives. These DC and DCC-Sound equipped locomotives feature the ALL-NEW Paragon4 sound and control system. Each Paragon4 locomotive comes with BLI's own integral DCC Decoder factory installed. Paragon4 locomotives offer Dual Mode DC and DCC operation with superb back EMF motor control, improved DC motor control, built-in capacitor pack for more reliable electrical pick-up, industry best on-board sound with Rolling Thunder functionality, Pro Lighting Mode for prototypical light control, Switcher model for precise low speed control, recordable DCC operation for automated playback, and the same excellent detail level as Broadway Limited's Paragon3 Series models.

FEATURES:

• Paragon4 Sound & Control System featuring ROLLING THUNDER
• Integral Dual-Mode Decoder with Back EMF for Superb Slow Speed Operation in DC and DCC
• Precision Drive Mechanism Engineered for Heavy Towing and Smooth Slow Speed Operation
• All Wheel Electrical Pick-up
• ABS Body with Die Cast Chassis for Maximum Tractive Effort
• Premium Caliber Painting
• Prototypically Accurate Paint Schemes and Road Numbers
• Many Separately Applied Details such as Handrails, Grab Irons, Horn, Bell, Wipers, and Etched Metal Grills
• Prototypical Light Operation
• Prototypically Accurate Sounds for the EMD E1 Diesel Locomotive
• Metal Kadee-compatible Couplers (2)
• Will Operate on Code 70, Code 83, and Code 100 Rail
• Minimum Operating Radius: 18 inches
• Paragon4 Sound & Control System Features:
  • Operates in DC & DCC with improved DC speed control (use DCMaster for DC Sound)
  • Built-In extra capacitance to navigate imperfect track
  • Pro Lighting Mode offers individual control of all lights on model
  • Switcher Mode for precise low speed control
  • Record & Play Operation - Records and plays back sounds and movements once or repeatedly for automatic operation
  • High Resolution Audio
  • Quillable Horn for various whistle lengths and patterns
  • Choice of 3 selectable Horns
  • Alternate Whistle / Horn where applicable for locomotive with air horn and steam whistle - both the main whistle and alternate can be easily played
  • Adjustable bell ringing interval for faster or slower bell
  • Numerous user-mappable functions with available keys
  • Multiple realistic passenger and crew sounds play on command
  • Grade Crossing Automatic Signal
  • Automatic Forward / Reverse Signal
  • Prime Mover sound intensity varies with load
  • Individually adjustable sound volumes for each effect
  • EZ Reset Button for quick return to factory default settings

This is a Broadway Limited 6893 HO ATSF E1 A/B Diesel Locomotive Sound/DC/DCC #2L/2A. Features: Unpowered B-Unit, Paragon4 Sound & Control System featuring Rolling Thunder, Integral Dual-Mode Decoder with Back EMF for Superb Slow Speed Operation in DC and DCC, Precision Drive Mechanism Engineered for Heavy Towing and Smooth Slow Speed Operation, All Wheel Electrical Pick-up, ABS Body with Die Cast Chassis for Maximum Tractive Effort, Premium Caliber Painting, Prototypically Accurate Paint Schemes and Road Numbers, Many Separately Applied Details such as Handrails, Grab Irons, Horn, Bell, Wipers, and Etched Metal Grills, Prototypical Light Operation, Prototypically Accurate Sounds for the EMD E1 Diesel Locomotive, Metal Kadee-compatible Couplers (2), Will Operate on Code 70, Code 83, and Code 100 Rail, Minimum Operating Radius: 18 inches.

The E1 was an early passenger-train diesel locomotive sporting 1800 HP, with an A1A-A1A wheel arrangement, manufactured by Electro-Motive Corporation of La Grange, Illinois. They were built during 1937 and 1938 for the ATSF Railway for a new generation of diesel-powered streamlined trains. Eight cab-equipped lead A-units and three cabless booster B-units were built. The initial three locomotives were AB pairs built to haul the Santa Fe’s Super Chief diesel streamliners, while the others were built as single A-units to haul shorter trains. The locomotives were diesel-electrics with two 900 hp (670kW) Winton 201-A engines each, with each engine driving its own generator to power the traction motors. The E1 was the second model in a long line of passenger diesels of similar design known as EMD E-units. All Winton 201A-engined Santa Fe passenger units, including the E1s, were extensively rebuilt into the 80-class E8M engines in 1952-53. These were similar to production E8 models, but reduced to 2000 hp so as not to burn out the early traction (axle) motors (which were reused).

The EA/EB and E1 featured nearly identical and innovative styling showing the influence of the EMC’s new buyer General Motors. While they had much mechanically in common with previous experimental EMC locomotives, GM understood the importance of looking new and exciting, not merely being technically innovative. This basic “slant nose” style was continued in the subsequent E3, E4, E5, and E6 models, while a more “bulldog nose” style was tried in the E2 and a style somewhere in between was used in the E7, E8, and E9, as well as the freight diesel cab units. It could fairly be said that the overall styling influenced passenger locomotives around the world.

At more or less the same time, EMC built the EMC EA/EB locomotives for the B&O Railroad. These hauled the Royal Blue, the Capitol Limited, and the National Limited, in addition to others. B&O #52 was sold to Alton in 1940, and became a GM&O locomotive in 1947. These EA/EB locomotives were quite similar in appearance to the ATSF E1 models. In this production, Broadway Limited will offer two detail arrangements of the ATSF E1 (pre-1946 and post-war), and we are offering three ATSF paint schemes: a 1940 version with the as-delivered red-orange color in place of the traditional red, a pre-1946 version with the traditional red, and a post-war version. We are also offering models of the ATSF E1s painted for the B&O Railroad and a single unit painted as GM&O #100A.

Industry-leading Model Features:

Paragon4 Sound & Control System featuring ROLLING THUNDER

Integral Dual-Mode Decoder with Back EMF for Superb Slow Speed Operation in DC and DCC

Precision Drive Mechanism Engineered for Heavy Towing and Smooth Slow Speed Operation

All Wheel Electrical Pick-up

ABS Body with Die Cast Chassis for Maximum Tractive Effort

Premium Caliber Painting

Prototypically Accurate Paint Schemes and Road Numbers

Many Separately Applied Details such as Handrails, Grab Irons, Horn, Bell, Wipers, and Etched Metal Grills

Prototypical Light Operation

Prototypically Accurate Sounds for the EMD E1 Diesel Locomotive

Metal Kadee-compatible Couplers (2)

Will Operate on Code 70, Code 83, and Code 100 Rail

Minimum Operating Radius: 18 inches

Broadway Limited Imports is proud to introduce Paragon4: The new benchmark for premium HO sound-equipped locomotives. These DC and DCC-Sound equipped locomotives feature the ALL-NEW Paragon4 sound and control system. Each Paragon4 locomotive comes with BLI’s own integral DCC Decoder factory installed. Paragon4 locomotives offer Dual Mode DC and DCC operation with superb back EMF motor control, improved DC motor control, built-in capacitor pack for more reliable electrical pick-up, industry best on-board sound with Rolling Thunder functionality, Pro Lighting Mode for prototypical light control, Switcher model for precise low speed control, recordable DCC operation for automated playback, and the same excellent detail level as Broadway Limited’s Paragon3 Series models.

Paragon4 Sound & Control System Features:

Operates in DC & DCC with improved DC speed control (use DCMaster for DC Sound)

Built-In extra capacitance to navigate imperfect track

Pro Lighting Mode offers individual control of all lights on model

Switcher Mode for precise low speed control

Record & Play Operation – Records and plays back sounds and movements once or repeatedly for automatic operation

High Resolution Audio

Quillable Horn for various whistle lengths and patterns

Choice of 3 selectable Horns

Alternate Whistle / Horn where applicable for locomotive with air horn and steam whistle – both the main whistle and alternate can be easily played

Adjustable bell ringing interval for faster or slower bell

Numerous user-mappable functions with available keys

Multiple realistic passenger and crew sounds play on command

Grade Crossing Automatic Signal

Automatic Forward / Reverse Signal

Prime Mover sound intensity varies with load

Individually adjustable sound volumes for each effect

EZ Reset Button for quick return to factory default settings

"Self-Aligning Spring-Plank-less Double Truss Truck" is the full name for this truck design. Introduced in early 1936, it quickly became popular for new freight cars built up into the mid 1940s. The Double Truss feature strengthened the spring seat area allowing room for more springs.

This truck was manufactured by the Buckeye Steel Castings Company from the late 1920s until the late 1940s. Conventional trucks, such as this one, complied with American Railway Association standards, and prototype features included a spring plank spanning across both side frames and, in each side frame, four coil springs grouped close together. Field research was conducted at the Niles Canyon Railway at Sunol, California.

This version of the swing motion caboose truck was manufactured from 1935 to the late 1950s. Originally a proprietary product of the Bettendorf Co., in 1942 the manufacturing rights were acquired by Standard Car Truck Co., who then added their trade name Barber to this truck's name. The prototype had 4¼ X 8 in. axle journals (30-ton capacity), plain bearings and a 5'-6" wheelbase. Over forty railroads used this caboose truck. The second image is the data sheet about this truck.

This swing motion truck was manufactured by the Bettendorf Co. from 1924 to the early 1930s. Railroads that had some cabooses with this truck included ATSF, BN, CB&Q, C&O, Erie, EL, MILW, MKT, MP, NKP, N&W, Pere Marquette and Rock Island. These trucks could be seen under wood double sheathed, single sheathed, all steel, transfer, drovers and even extended vision cabooses. The second image is the data sheet about this truck.