Description:

      The Bachmann O Scale 47003 40' Box Car Pennsylvania models the standard 40' box car. By the 1920s North American railroads began replacing their 36' and smaller box cars with new 40' designs. With the need for economy and improved track infrastructure, heavier freight cars were needed. The Great Depression suppressed new box car purchases, and the 40' car became the standard. After World War II, with a booming economy and manufacturing restrictions lifted, new box cars were usually of the 50' size.

Historic Fact: In 1942 the 40' box car dominated North American railroads. At that time over 750,000 40' box cars were in service!

Road Name and History:

Pennsylvania Railroad:    This huge Eastern trunk line began as a trans-Pennsylvania railroad in 1846. With outstanding leaders such as J. Edgar Thomson and Tom Scott the railroad expanded throughout the East, with main lines reaching to Chicago and St. Louis. For many years the largest US railroad and very proud of it, the Pennsylvania billed itself "The Standard Railroad of the World".  Major engineering projects such as the Hudson River Tunnels, Penn Station(1910), and Eastern line electrification (1920s-30s) solidified Pennsylvania's reputation as a great American institution. An overbuilt Northeast rail network, a declining industrial base, and huge passenger train losses pushed the PRR to merge with arch-rival New York Central in 1968.

Hobbyist Tip: The Pennsylvania Railroad Technical and Historical Society has an online magazine called The Keystone Modeler which has detailed information on modeling "The Standard Railroad of the World".

Features:

• Durable ABS plastic shell
• Diecast trucks
• Metal wheels
• Accurate paint scheme and markings per Road Name
• Metal floor, brake wheel , and door guides
• Operating couplers

Recommended for Ages 14 and Up.

Specifications:    

Length:      10"      

Height:       3 1/2"  

Navigates O-27 curves