Rod,
Tank car differences have been ignored, not acknowledged, not understood
or whatever by modelers and even railroad historians for years. Domes differed
widely and even the shape of tanks of the same capacity, in addition to their
construction, differed somewhat from one builder to another. As the number of
builders became fewer with consolidation in the industry, the variances became
less noticeable to those who didn't look closely. But they were still there. My
old friend, and very serious freight car modeler, Bob Witbeck, first brought
this to my attention some fifteen years ago when he called me on something he
had just discovered with tank cars. That is that many have a ladder, and the
small wood plank step at its top, only on one side! This previously unknown
fact, to us at least, became obvious when viewing a few photos of strings of
tank cars that Bob had found. While the Railroad Prototype Cyclopedias have
delved into this topic a bit since, even they have
barely scratched the surface. Having a copius supply of Car Builders
Cyclopedias, or access to same, is also of value. But I suspect one would
still have to be retired to have enough time to do this subject justice.
Don Valentine
Rob Kirkham <rdkirkham@xxxxxxx> wrote:
Actually, as I look at this photo further, it is remarkable for the
diversity of the rolling stock evident. Perhaps with help we can identify
the various cars shown? If only we had a decent quality scan!
For example, I am pretty comfortable saying the nearest box car is from the
230000 series cars, sometimes called USRA clones, (though that is not
completely accurate). These were interesting cars with hopper bottom floors
located at the side doors. As a modeller, I note the paint missing from the
roof - an interesting detail I am not used to seeing on older CPR equipment.
The nearest "tank car" I've commented on separately. Beyond it are two more
tank cars. I have the impression the nearer car has a taller dome than the
far car. The far car may be larger diameter and require a stouter looking
dome? Not sure about that.
The gondola next in line is a mystery to me. Anyone out there want to
venture some well informed speculation?
Above the far end of the gon is a "Dominion" or Fowler box car - and I'd say
there are quite a few in view - especially at far right in the distance.
Past the two tracks of boxcars is a string of gondola's - these are the type
with doors - either in the floor or sides. I am not sure whether the
nearest of these is a CPR car or from another line?
Near the tail end of that string of cars, and just back of them is a longer
car - with its door open and an end door. Speculation as to what that might
be?
Beyond those gons on the same track is a string of 5 (?) stock cars.
Perhaps empties brought in from L yard by the short country crew after the
stock were unloaded at Burns. If so, the cars will be placed onto the next
transfer run out to Coquitlam, and on to other destinations. Or perhaps
they are loaded with coal, and heading the same place as the gons?
An enjoyable photo...
Rob Kirkham
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