Atlas, 50006768, N Scale, 42' Coil Steel Car with Fishbelly Side Sill, GTW, CN web address, #187411
- Low stock - 1 item left
42' Coil Steel Car with Fishbelly Side Sill
About the Prototype
The 42-foot Coil Steel Car with Fishbelly Side Sill was developed to efficiently transport coiled steel, a critical material used in automotive, construction, and manufacturing industries. Before its introduction, coiled steel was often carried in modified gondola cars, which lacked specialized features for securing and protecting the cargo. In the 1960s, railroads began adopting purpose-built coil cars with integral troughs, designed to cradle steel coils securely while minimizing movement during transit. The fish belly side sill design provided additional structural reinforcement, ensuring the car could handle the heavy loads while maintaining stability. Over time, this car type gained popularity, with over 17,000 units built to meet the growing demand for steel transportation.
Railroads such as Norfolk Southern, CSX, and Union Pacific widely utilized these coil cars, often equipping them with removable hoods to protect the steel from weather exposure. The cars featured see-through walkways, detailed floor structures, and cushioned underframes, enhancing both safety and durability. By the 1990s, newer variations of the 42-foot Coil Steel Car emerged, incorporating modern braking systems and improved load-securing mechanisms to meet evolving industry standards. Today, these cars remain a staple in steel mill operations, ensuring the efficient movement of raw materials across North America.
About the Model
- Crisp painting and lettering
- See-through walks
- Removable hood
- Inside floor detail