The Athearn ATH88209 High-Cube DD Plug Box in HO Scale, featuring NS Norfolk Southern #57, is a remarkable model.
Detailed Information
Model Features:
- A separately applied brake wheel adds to the realism.
- The underbody shows off brake system details.
- Machined metal wheels with RP25 contours ensure smooth running.
- It's weighted for top - notch performance.
- Body - mounted McHenry® operating scale knuckle couplers make connections easy.
- The highly - detailed, injection - molded body looks amazing.
- Realistic decoration is achieved through painting and printing.
- It can handle a minimum radius of 18”.
Prototype and Background Info:
Railroad boxcars are iconic symbols of the railway industry. In the early days, freight was carried on simple flatcars or gondolas. Over time, boxcars evolved, switching from basic wood to steel - braced construction. In 1968, for crew safety, the AAR required the removal of roof walks, and boxcars had to be modernized by 1978 for interchange service. Some cars had ladders cut down and brake wheels lowered. What makes boxcars great is their ability to haul almost anything, which helps railroads operate more efficiently.

Using this Athearn ATH88209 HO Scale boxcar model is easy. Just connect it to your train using the McHenry® operating scale knuckle couplers. It can run smoothly on tracks with a minimum radius of 18 inches. When handling the model, be gentle with the separately applied brake wheel as it's delicate. For maintenance, you can use a soft, dry cloth to clean the body. Avoid getting the metal wheels wet as it may cause rust. Keep it in a dry place when not in use to ensure its long - term performance.