Introducing the Rapido 169012A HO Scale AutoFlood III Coal Hopper! This model might show a different road number in the picture. Coal, often called 'Black Diamonds', is best shipped across the country by rail, and the AutoFlood III rapid - discharge hopper car is the ideal solution. Starting production in 2004, thousands of the all - aluminum body prototypes have traveled all over North America. With millions of tons of coal mined and hauled annually, you're likely to spot these cars in modern coal trains. This 4200 - cubic - foot exterior post prototype (not to be confused with other exterior or interior post models) can quickly unload its payload in seconds through the bottom bay doors. It can also be equipped with a rotary coupler at the end(s) of the car, as shown by the color blocks, for different unloading methods based on the destination's infrastructure. The Rapido Trains HO scale AutoFlood III Coal Hopper comes with many great features: a die - cast frame and floor for the right weight, full interior rivet and K - member details, super - detailed end cages with separate air and brake piping, Barber S - 2 100 - ton trucks with metal wheels, highly - detailed outlet gates in the hopper bays, etched see - through end cross - over platforms, full end detail including uncoupling levers, factory - installed separate grab irons, accurate paint and lettering, a removable coal load, and multiple road numbers for each scheme.

Using your Rapido HO Scale AutoFlood III Coal Hopper is easy. Just place it on your model train track and let it roll with the rest of your train set. If you want to unload the coal, you can either use the bottom bay doors for a quick discharge or, if the car has a rotary coupler, follow the infrastructure at the destination for rotary unloading. When handling the model, be gentle to avoid damaging the detailed parts like the grab irons and the end cages. To keep it in good condition, store it in a dry place away from direct sunlight. Clean it occasionally with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust. Don't use any harsh chemicals as they may damage the paint and details. Also, make sure the wheels are clean and free - moving for smooth operation.