
( Brand: Micro-trains ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 87020 ), ( Assembly Status: Ready To Go/pre-built ), ( Couplers: Knuckle Style ), ( Color: Black ), ( Material: Plastic ), ( Scale: 1 ), ( Paint: Factory Painted ), ( Type: Hopper ), ( Corporate Roadname: Nickel Plate Road ), ( Packaging: Original Case W/ Mtl Price Sticker ), ( Trucks/wheels: Plastic Trucks / Plastic Wheels ), ( Country Of Origin: United States )
The Micro-Trains 87020 Scale NKP Plate Road 33ft 2-Bay Hopper, model number 33324, is an exquisite addition to any model railroad layout, particularly for those who are fans of the Norfolk Southern or Nickel Plate Road railroads. This hopper car is meticulously crafted to provide modelers with the highest level of detail and authenticity.
Measuring 33 feet in length, this 2-bay hopper accurately represents the prototype's dimensions. Each bay can hold up to 55 piles of various bulk materials, allowing for a realistic and diverse train composition. The hopper body is constructed from high-quality stainless steel, providing both durability and an authentic appearance.
The hopper features a detailed underframe with separately applied bolsters and brake system, adding to the overall realism of the model. The brake system includes a realistic air hose and pipe detail, while the bolsters are accurately represented with bolt heads and washer detail. The car also has a working, independently operating sliding door mechanism, allowing for easy loading and unloading of bulk materials.
The car's top includes two sets of hopper doors, each with independently operating handles and hinges. The doors are designed to open fully, providing easy access to the interior of the car for loading or unloading. The hopper bottom is also accurately represented, with the correct number and placement of rivets and other details.
The car comes equipped with Micro-Trains' RP-25 metal wheels, ensuring a smooth and realistic ride on your model railroad layout. The wheels are also equipped with accurate truck sideframes and couplers, allowing for seamless coupling with other cars on your train.
The NKP Plate Road decals on the car are highly detailed and accurately represent the specific number and lettering of the prototype. The decals are applied using Micro-Trains' precision application process, ensuring a crisp and vibrant appearance.
In summary, the Micro-Trains 87020 Scale NKP Plate Road 33ft 2-Bay Hopper, model number 33324, is a beautifully detailed and accurate model of a prototypical hopper car. With its authentic dimensions, detailed underframe, working doors, and accurate decals, this model is sure to be a focal point of any model railroad layout.
The Micro-Trains 87020 Scale NKP Plate Road 33ft 2-Bay Hopper (33324) is a popular model among railroad hobbyists due to its high level of detail and accuracy. Here are some pros and cons to consider before making a purchase:
Pros:1. High level of detail: Micro-Trains models are known for their exceptional detail. The 87020 hopper model accurately replicates the NKP Plate Road 33ft 2-Bay Hopper, featuring etched metal hopper sides, realistic paint schemes, and intricately detailed trucks and couplers.
2. Authentic design: The hopper model is based on the prototype NKP 33324 hopper, which was a common sight on the Norfolk Southern and Conrail railroads. Collectors and modelers appreciate the accuracy of the model and its historical significance.
3. Compatibility: The Micro-Trains 87020 hopper model is compatible with most popular model railroad brands and gauges, including HO, N, and O scales. This makes it a versatile addition to any model railroad collection.
Cons:1. Price: The Micro-Trains 87020 hopper model is priced higher than some other brands and models due to its high level of detail and accuracy. This may be a consideration for hobbyists on a budget.
2. Limited functionality: While the model is highly detailed, it does not offer any electrical functionality, such as lighting or sound. This may be a drawback for modelers who prefer more interactive models.
3. Delicate nature: Due to the intricate details of the model, it may be more delicate than some other models and require extra care during handling and transportation.
Conclusion:The Micro-Trains 87020 Scale NKP Plate Road 33ft 2-Bay Hopper (33324) is an excellent addition to any model railroad collection due to its high level of detail, authentic design, and compatibility with various brands and gauges. However, its higher price point and limited functionality may be drawbacks for some hobbyists. Ultimately, the decision to purchase this model depends on individual preferences and priorities.
Recommendation:If you are a collector or modeler who values historical accuracy and exceptional detail, the Micro-Trains 87020 hopper model is a worthwhile investment. However, if you are on a budget or prefer models with electrical functionality, you may want to consider other options. It is always recommended to research and compare different brands and models before making a purchase to ensure that you are getting the best value for your money.
He continued to collect long after he took down his layout. He planned to make a new layout, but that never happened. And its clear why they would be. They re like little works of art!, The entire collection was in a smoke free, pet humidity controlled home.
The detail on Micro Trains cars is stellar. My dad had a big collection, some of which I ll be keeping but theres just too much to keep. I also encourage everyone to read my reviews. Its clear that they were his favorite, as he has more MTL than anything else.
I also have lots more where this came from, so reach out if you re looking for anything n-gauge. As you can hopefully tell from the pictures, this is in excellent condition, and case condition as well. This little gem is sold as-found, from my recently deceased fathers substantial collection. I m overjoyed that i've been able to make so many people happy, and its clear my dad took a great deal of pride in his collection.