
( Brand: Mdc ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 3522 ), ( Type: Covered Hopper ), ( Assembly Status: Ready To Go/pre-built ), ( Corporate Roadname: Rio Grande ), ( Color: Orange ), ( Material: Plastic ), ( Scale: 1 ), ( Gauge: Ho )
Introducing the MDC 3522 HO Scale Roundhouse Rio Grande 50ft FMC Covered Hopper, a must-have addition for any model railroad enthusiast seeking to add authenticity to their Rio Grande Southern Railway layout. This intricately detailed hopper replicates the prototype's distinctive features, transporting you back in time to the golden era of railroading.
The MDC 3522 HO Scale model boasts a 50-foot overall length, faithfully reproducing the original's dimensions. This covered hopper, manufactured by the Federal-Mogul Corporation (FMC), is easily identifiable by its unique ribbed sides and large, round hopper ends. The ribbed construction was a cost-effective design utilized by FMC for their covered hoppers, making them a common sight on many North American railroads.
Each MDC 3522 HO Scale hopper model features a detailed underframe, with separately applied brake gear, couplers, and piping. The metal underframe provides improved strength and durability, ensuring that your model can withstand the rigors of model railroading while maintaining its authentic appearance.
The model's ribbed steel hopper shell is crafted from a high-quality injection-molded plastic, ensuring a consistent and accurate finish. The hopper's covers are intricately detailed, with separately applied metal handles, ladders, and vents. The model comes with separately applied metal grab irons, providing an added layer of realism.
The Rio Grande Southern Railway's distinctive red and black paint scheme is faithfully replicated on the MDC 3522 HO Scale hopper. The model includes authentic RGS logos and reporting marks, further enhancing its authenticity. The model's paint finish is expertly applied, providing a smooth and even appearance that accurately reflects the prototype.
Whether you're a seasoned model railroader or just starting out, the MDC 3522 HO Scale Roundhouse Rio Grande 50ft FMC Covered Hopper is an excellent addition to your HO Scale collection. Its intricate detailing, authentic paint scheme, and sturdy construction ensure that it will be a cherished piece of your model railroad layout for years to come.
The MDC 3522 HO Scale Roundhouse Rio Grande 50ft FMC Covered Hopper is a popular model among HO scale railroad enthusiasts. Here are some pros and cons to help you make an informed decision before purchasing:
Pros:1. Authentic Design: This model is based on the prototypical 50ft FMC covered hopper that was used by the Rio Grande Railroad. The accurate details and paint scheme make it a great addition to any HO scale layout.
2. Detailed Construction: The MDC 3522 features a well-engineered and detailed construction. It includes etched metal side sills, separately applied handrails, and realistic loading doors.
3. Operational Features: The hopper comes with operating couplers and a detailed underframe. This allows for more realistic and interactive operation on your layout.
4. Availability: The MDC 3522 is widely available from various hobby shops and online retailers, making it relatively easy to obtain.
5. Price: Compared to other high-end HO scale models, the MDC 3522 is relatively affordable, offering good value for the features and level of detail it provides.
Cons:1. Delicate Parts: Some collectors have reported that certain parts, such as the handrails and etched metal sills, can be delicate and prone to damage during handling or transportation.
2. Tight Fit: Some users have noted that the hopper cars can have a tight fit on the tracks, which may require some adjustments or modifications to ensure proper operation.
3. Painting and Decaling: While the model comes with accurate and detailed paint and decals, some collectors may prefer to customize their models with their own paint schemes or decals. This can add additional time and cost to the project.
Conclusion:The MDC 3522 HO Scale Roundhouse Rio Grande 50ft FMC Covered Hopper offers a great balance of detail, authenticity, and affordability. While there are some minor drawbacks, such as delicate parts and a tight fit, the overall value and enjoyment gained from owning and operating this model make it a worthwhile investment for HO scale railroad enthusiasts.
Recommendation:If you are looking for an accurate and detailed HO scale model of a prototypical covered hopper, the MDC 3522 is an excellent choice. Its operational features, availability, and relatively affordable price make it a solid addition to any HO scale railroad layout. However, be sure to handle the model with care during transport and handling to avoid damaging any delicate parts.
For sale is an HO scale MDC Roundhouse Products 50' FMC covered hopper decorated for Rio Grande. There is a glue mark one of the discharge chutes. Jade #5 couplets are included.