Step back in time to the glorious days of model railroading with our ScaleTrains SXT1183 Kit Classics 52’ 6” Gondola. This HO scale model, featuring Dakota Minnesota & Eastern/DM&E #80056 (note: picture might show a different road number), is a dream for model railroad enthusiasts. It's incredibly easy to assemble - all you need is a small Phillips screwdriver and a few minutes. These Kit Classics freight cars are a great way to pass on the timeless tradition of model railroading to the next generation. This model offers many great features. It's an exclusive item from ScaleTrains.com. The 52’ 6” CBQ 2566CF design is very detailed, with finely cast stirrup steps, end ladders, grab irons, underbody, and brake system. The interior floor has molded details, and there's a separately applied handbrake wheel. It comes with Barber S-2 Trucks that have raised lettering and foundry data, 33” machined metal wheels with an accurately profiled .110″ wide wheel tread. The plastic semi-scale Type E knuckle couplers are Kadee compatible, and the body-mounted coupler box can accept Kadee whisker couplers. It's weighted to industry standards and can operate on Code 70, 83, and 100 rail. The packaging is designed to safely store the model when it's assembled, and it has a minimum radius of 18”. In 1967/1968, Burlington’s Havelock Shops outside of Lincoln, Nebraska, built the 200 Class GM-6A 52’ 6” Gondolas. Key features include the top chord between the grab irons and the flat sill plate between the bolsters. Originally for carrying aluminum, steel, and tin coil loads, they later entered general service. Initially numbered CB&Q 83400 - 83599, they became BN 577400 - 577599 and finally BNSF 577400 - 577599.

Using your ScaleTrains HO scale gondola model is a breeze. First, assemble it using a small Phillips screwdriver. It should only take a few minutes. Once assembled, you can place it on Code 70, 83, or 100 rail. Make sure the track has a minimum radius of 18” for smooth operation. When handling the model, be gentle with the finely cast parts like the stirrup steps, end ladders, and grab irons. Avoid pulling on the handbrake wheel too hard as it's separately applied. To maintain your model, keep it in a dry place when not in use. The packaging is designed to safely store the assembled model. If the wheels get dirty, you can use a soft, dry cloth to gently clean them. Periodically check the couplers to ensure they're working properly and are Kadee compatible. With proper care, your gondola model will provide you with years of enjoyment in your model railroad setup.