Those Weird Freight Cars

[Chessie8638]

ATSF "Super Hopper." 5-unit articulated grain hopper. Two units were built (390000 and 390001). The idea never caught on, both are still in service today, albeit covered in graffiti.




BN "Trough Train." This was a 13-unit articulated coal hopper (278 feet 5 inches long). Again never really caught on (Southern had some 4 unit sets), only 23 sets were built; all scrapped.



Video of the "Trough Train": http://www.rail-videos.net/video/view.php?id=625

[mapitts]

I always thought that the Super Hopper was not a good idea. A problem with one part makes and awful long bad order car.

[micaelcorleone]

Generally a good idea. The only problem is flexibility what is very important today.

[harryadkins]

The real problem was maintenance. They are a nightmare for the repair shop because you have to disconnect the permanent couplings and brace the side that doesn't have wheels. Too much trouble!!!

[Chessie8638]

CN 2-unit articulated hopper. There are only two examples. One for grain and one for potash. They were built to be used on the branch lines in Manitoba that had light rail (75lbs - 90lbs per yard). Supposed to be a bigger order, but never happened.

- Grain: CN #398000


- Potash: CN #399000