Tangent Scale Models kicked off 2024 with a splash by releasing a new HO scale four-bay hopper. The model, based on an Illinois Central (IC) Centralia Shops 3,834-cubic-foot capacity prototype, features injection-molded plastic construction, wire grab irons and uncoupling levers, and road-specific details.
Paint schemes
Paint schemes on the initial release of the Centralia Shops 3,834-cubic-foot capacity hopper include Illinois Central (1968 as-delivered black), Illinois Central Gulf (1972 as-delivered black), and Inland Steel (June 1968 as-delivered black). The IC and ICG cars are offered in 24 road numbers each. The IC cars are available in 12 numbers each with 8-68 and 9-68 build dates. The ICG cars are similarly split with 9-72 and 10-72 build dates. The Inland Steel car is offered in 12 road numbers with varying capacity and date-related data.
In addition, the manufacturer offers ready-to-run 3834 quad hopper painted black but unlettered in four versions: IC 1968 body, IC 1969 body, ICG 1972 body, and ICG 1977 body.
The new HO hopper from Tangent Scale Models is priced at $52.95, with quantity discounts on models ordered direct from the manufacturer.
Product features
The Tangent Scale Models HO scale 3,834-cubic-foot capacity four-bay hopper is based on prototype plans that were verified with field measurements. The car is offered in four body styles (1968, 1969, 1972, and 1977) and has a see-through brake step platform; road-specific details for each scheme, including six brake wheel housing options and two route board styles; and factory-installed flexible rubber air hoses. In addition, the hopper is fitted with Kadee scale couplers, near scale draft-gear boxes with side “key” detail, and 100-ton Barber S-2 trucks with prototype-specific rotating bearing caps (four options) and separate brake beam part (two options).
The IC and ICG cars include a tipple-style coal load, while the Inland Steel cars have a flood-style coal load. The injection-molded plastic loads are removable. Tangent offers separate sale coal loads in two-packs for $6.95.
In 1973, large grain crops in Iowa and Minnesota forced ICG to supplement its covered hopper fleet with quad hoppers. Initially, tarps were used to protect the grain. Then Proform Inc. of Minneapolis designed Fiberglas covers, dubbed “hopper toppers,” that could be bolted to the four-bay hoppers to protect the grain from the elements. In addition to grain, the quad hoppers were also used to transport corn, soybeans, and wheat.
The Tangent Scale Models hopper toppers, designed specifically to fit its 3834 quad hopper, feature injection-molded plastic construction, etched-metal Morton running boards, and wire grab irons. Three-packs are priced at $44.95.
