Transformer loads.

[ChevelleSSguy]

Has anyone scratchbuild thier own transformer load for use on an heavy duty depressed center flat car? Looking into doing this for a few Walthers cars I have picked up. I did go through the old thread with various pictures of loads. I would be instrested in seeing some pics and maybe some explaination on what you used and how?

 

[UP2CSX]

I haven't modeled a transformer load in a long time but transformers were shipped on almost every type of flat car made. Modelers tend to think of transformers as all being huge, heavy, and requiring depressed center flat cars, but that's not true. Transformers come in all different sizes and shapes and are shipped on a variety of different flat cars, depending on their weight and dimensions. There's a real good site at http://southern.railfan.net/shippers/milpitas/milpitas.html with lots of pictures of prototype transformer loads and flat cars.

 

[jbaakko]

IHC makes a decent, cheap, one.

 

[ChevelleSSguy]

I haven't modeled a transformer load in a long time but transformers were shipped on almost every type of flat car made. Modelers tend to think of transformers as all being huge, heavy, and requiring depressed center flat cars, but that's not true. Transformers come in all different sizes and shapes and are shipped on a variety of different flat cars, depending on their weight and dimensions. There's a real good site at http://southern.railfan.net/shippers/milpitas/milpitas.html with lots of pictures of prototype transformer loads and flat cars.

I know exactly what your saying. Im mainly intrested in the heavier units that are just too big and heavy to be carried on anything else other then a depressed center car.

 

[Rico]

Well crap I did have a pic of a transformer load I made from scratch but I can't find it. It was in an issue of CRM awhile ago tho.
All I can show you is a blower load I made from an old computer fan.
I know it's not what you're looking for, but it's an idea if you want something "for now".

 

[Littlefoot14]

There was a whole issue of Model Railroader devoted to transformer and high wide loads, ill dig it out this afternoon and check it out for you.

 

[vato loco]

Not sure if this would help? http://www.modelrailroadforums.com/forum/showthread.php?t=9492&highlight=transformer

 

[ChevelleSSguy]

Well crap I did have a pic of a transformer load I made from scratch but I can't find it. It was in an issue of CRM awhile ago tho.
All I can show you is a blower load I made from an old computer fan.
I know it's not what you're looking for, but it's an idea if you want something "for now".

I remember seeing your computer fan picture in the other load thread and thought about trying that as well. That load kind of reminds me of this actually.

http://www.railcarphotos.com/PhotoDetails.php?PhotoID=48400

There was a whole issue of Model Railroader devoted to transformer and high wide loads, ill dig it out this afternoon and check it out for you.

Yup. Im already aware of the article your refereing to. Super sized loads article, July 2008. Even have the page numbers. 38-43. Its a helpfull article.

Not sure if this would help? http://www.modelrailroadforums.com/forum/showthread.php?t=9492&highlight=transformer

I did see that thread a while back and its intresting to see how they got that thing off there.

 

[UP2CSX]

Chris, transformers are actually pretty simple to make. Just make a rectangular box out of styrene to match your overall dimensions. Add some cooling fins along the sides with strip styrene and add some electrical connections on the top using some tapers made from plastic sprues. Paint the whole thing in the appropriate color for the company that made it (light blue for Westinghouse, for example) and maybe a company decal. Once it's straped down on the flatcar, it will plenty good enough for the three foot test.

 

[JDL56]

Here's a transformer project I am working on, using an old print cartridge. I have no idea what make or model it was for--I suspect it is one of the older type, since I've had it for a long time. As I get time and inspiration, I've been adding bits and pieces to it; eventually I will paint it a more suitable colour.

John Longhurst, Winnipeg

 

[Larry]

You could use an actual transformer. The ones like in an old TV or radio or printer. Enough weight to hold it on the tracks. LOL It would have to be narrow enough for the width of the car.

 

[ChevelleSSguy]

You could use an actual transformer. The ones like in an old TV or radio or printer. Enough weight to hold it on the tracks. LOL It would have to be narrow enough for the width of the car.

Im thinking they may be too heavy though wouldnt they?