Category Archives: Freight Car Kits

Another take on the RPM Chicagoland IC mini-kit

Freight Car Kits, ,

George Toman wrapped up an Illinois Central HO scale boxcar and filed a report. George started with a mini-kit that was given to many RPM Chicagoland registrants. The parts are seen in the lead image. Here’s George with the details.

Each year at the RPM Chicagoland meet the first 100 registrants receive a mini-kit gift. The 2019 mini-kit prototype was an Illinois Central single-sheathed boxcar from the 16000-16975 series. The mini-kit included a set of resin parts and proper decals along with a list of other recommend parts. I always enjoy receiving mine and look forward for ways to improve upon the basic kit and instructions to build a more accurate model.

Continue reading Another take on the RPM Chicagoland IC mini-kit →

Building a CB&Q FM-11 flat car

Freight Car Kits,
Bob’s Photo from the collection of Jerry Hamsmith

George Toman sent photos and information on his latest model. Here’s George with the story.

While attending the 2019 RPM Chicagoland, I caught up with Jerry Hamsmith who showed me the latest resin kit he and Ed Rethwisch produced. I was fortunate to get one of the three kits remaining for sale at the RPM Meet. Ed Rethwisch made the gorgeous patterns and the parts were cast by Westerfield.

Continue reading Building a CB&Q FM-11 flat car →

C&NW gondola upgrades

Freight Car Kits, , , ,

About the time John Golden’s gondola post appeared, Clark Propst was finishing up a gondola for his fleet. Here’s Clark with notes and photos.

I got this C&NW Accurail gondola kit decorated by 5th Avenue Car Shops in a trade a few years ago and finally decided to assemble it. After a quick look around, it appeared to match the C&NW prototype close enough.

Continue reading C&NW gondola upgrades →

Building a Chicago & Illinois Midland USRA-type coal gondola

Freight Car Kits, , , ,

John Golden has wrapped up work on a coal gondola that reflects an interesting prototype. Here’s John with the details.

The Chicago & Illinois Midland Railway was a fascinating 100-mile, heavyweight coal-hauling railroad located in central Illinois. The railroad was assembled in 1905 by industrial giant Commonwealth Edison and was famous for operating long coal drags and overhead freight with second-hand steam engines from NYC, ACL and, DL&W through 1955.

Continue reading Building a Chicago & Illinois Midland USRA-type coal gondola →