Page Updated:
Dec 20, 2005
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The May 1980 Railroad Model Craftsman article listed on the X58 References page uses an Athearn 50' plug door, rib-sided boxcar kit (#140-1336 Undec) to represent a PRR X58A and a PC X58. (Athearn does not currently offer this car predecorated for CR/PC/PRR modelers but does offer undecorated.) You can use this model as a stand-in for the X58 and subclasses, but there are some noticeable discrepancies between the model and the prototype:The end ribs on the prototype extend all the way to the sill, while on the model they stop short. The Athearn plug door is 11' wide, while the prototype door is only 10'6". It also looks as if the Athearn model's height is shorter that the prototype, but I haven't matched the model to a diagram yet.
If you do decide to use the Athearn model, which appears to be closest model of the X58, remember that the full-height ladders and brake piping are molded onto the car. If you decide to model a modernized car to run with Conrail or Penn Central trains, these details will need to be chiseled off and replaced with the proper-height end ladders and brake wheel (various manufactures make these parts), and side ladder rungs from individual wire grabs. Otherwise, the ladders are fine. (See the X58 Prototype Info page for details.)
The cars ride on 70-ton roller bearing trucks with 33" wheels.
Other than a few discrepancies, the Athearn model captures the overall feel of the X58 and offers good value for the dollar. So what are you waiting for? Start modeling your X58 fleet today!
December 2005 Update: Since I wrote this brief article back in 2000, Rail Yard Models has produced a detailed X58 kit. While three times as expensive as the Athearn model, the RYM car is an exact Conrail replica. See the Boxcar index page for more info.
Photos for personal use only. All rights reserved by original owner of image.
Reproduction or redistribution in any form without express written permission is prohibited.