I hate to ask a question like this because I KNOW I should already know, but.... What commodities generally rode in 40 foot high cube box cars? IO know the NP had some for appliances, but what else? I really like these cars and own a bunch, but now I'm getting to where I need to build some industries for them to go to. Thanks in advance.
CT, Generally speaking high cube XLs, hauled a variety of freight, automotive parts- such as engine assemblies, frames, brake assemblies, and so on, but these were usually moved in a stronger silled type car thus a 60' length was used. To add to the mix are the Southern 85' Hogshead cars, initially used to haul bales of tobacco, then later used in appliance service and at last report in tire service. What you've been told about these 40' cars is correct, most were used in appliance service. I suspect you are looking at the Athearn model, based off a DRGW model IIRC, and also correct for UP, SP, and SSW, all were used in appliance service throughout their careers. Of late the only known sightings on these cars, are the SP cars being used to haul copper fittings for a company in AZ. Hope this answers some of your questions and have a good one, Justin May
I believe Hi-Cubes were also used to ship large rolls of paper, specifically newsprint and kraft paper.
