FVM 10053 Trinity RD-4 Coal Hopper, BNSF/Heritage III #651484 Fox Valley Models N Scale

The FVM 10053 Trinity RD - 4 Coal Hopper from Fox Valley Models in N Scale is a must - have for model train enthusiasts. The picture might show a different road number. The Trinity RD - 4 is a 4200 - cubic - foot modern aluminum coal hopper built from the mid - 1990s and still in service today. Railroads and public utilities use these cars in unit trains to transport coal from fields to power plants or export ports. This FVM RD - 4 Hopper for BNSF features new road numbers, representing the era from 2005 to the present. It belongs to the series 651400 - 652574, built from June to December 2005. It comes fully assembled with a detailed plastic body and a die - cast weight with interior details. You can apply interior braces yourself. The removable coal load adds to the fun. The detailed free - rolling trucks and 36” machined metal wheels ensure smooth operation. It has body - mounted operating knuckle couplers compatible with Micro - Trains®. The printing and lettering are clear even under magnification. Weighted to industry standards, it operates on Code 55, 70, and 80 rail. It comes in a clear jewel box for safe storage. The minimum radius for operation is 9 ¾”, and the recommended radius is 11”. Coal has long been transported by train, evolving from single - car loads to modern unit trains. The Trinity RD - 4 represents the modern solution for high - capacity, low - weight coal transport, with a rapid - discharge design and a variety of paint schemes.

Using your FVM 10053 Trinity RD - 4 Coal Hopper is easy. First, make sure you have the right track with a minimum radius of 9 ¾” or better, a recommended 11”. Place the hopper on the track and connect it to other cars using the body - mounted operating knuckle couplers. You can add or remove the coal load as you like for different scenarios. When it comes to maintenance, keep the 36” machined metal wheels clean. You can use a soft cloth to wipe off any dust or dirt. If you notice the free - rolling trucks aren't moving smoothly, a little lubricant can help. Store the model in the clear jewel box when not in use to protect it from damage. Be careful when handling the model to avoid any breakage, especially the detailed plastic body and the modeler - applied interior braces.