October 8, 2024 - M.T.H. Electric Trains will be releasing the 2025 RailKing O Gauge 40’ Double Door Box Cars in six unique liveries this Winter. Each of these offerings will be available in authentic car numbers. All will be limited in production and expected to begin shipping to M.T.H. Authorized Retailers in February 2025.
Check out each of the offerings below!
PROTOTYPE HISTORY
While usually referred to as an insulated boxcar, the prototype for this car, according to the Association of American Railroads (AAR), is technically a bunkerless refrigerator car, class RBL. Built by Evans Products Company at Blue Island, Illinois from 1969-1977, these cars were designed for shipments that need protection from temperature extremes but do not require refrigeration. They have hardwood floors and at least 3” of insulation in their sides, ends and roofs. Produce is a common cargo. The cars’ length and wide 16’ door openings have also made them popular with plywood and lumber shippers.
In contrast with typical sliding doors, the plug doors on these cars are pulled into the door opening when the door is latched. This produces a nearly watertight and airtight seal, protecting the load and helping to keep a more constant inside temperature. A cushioned underframe also helps protect the load from shock, hence the “DF” (for “damage free”) logo found on some of these cars.
Evans Products built nearly 4.400 of these cars, selling or leasing them to a large number of North American railroads and private owners. Although the last of these cars are nearing the end of their allowable 40-year service life, they can still be found in U.S. freight trains today.
