Posted 4 years ago
fortapache
(3379 items)
This is an HO scale (or gauge) refrigerator car made by Athearn. It is a simulated wood car. Wood is a pretty good insulator although they were eventually replaced by metal body cars. Oh yes these are referred to as Reefers.
This seems to be the type of cars used from the 1930s to the 1960s. Doubt if many were left by the 1960s as one like this was cooled by ice. See fig. 3 for the ice doors on the roof which open. There used to be large ice crews which refilled the cars with ice. The melting ice would damage the wood cars.
This was a an easy to put together kit car that the same price but much more detailed cars by other model train makers. Now the hobby moved away from kids and most cars are super detailed with super prices.
One last feature is the detailed underside. It can be seen from a side view but a derailed view makes it easier to see. But their is a wood plank underside that would not normally be seen. That is a nice touch.
Got a few more cars left to post including one I put together with before and after photos.
