FVM 10143 Trinity RD-4 Coal Hopper, UP Union Pacific/Building America #503783 Fox Valley Models N Scale

The FVM 10143 Trinity RD-4 Coal Hopper from Fox Valley Models is an N scale model representing the UP Union Pacific's Building America #503783. Note that the picture might show a different road number. The Trinity RD-4 Coal hopper, a 4200-cubic-foot modern car built since the mid-1990s and still in use today, is used by railroads and public utilities in unit trains to transport coal from fields to power plants or ports for export. This FVM RD-4 Hopper - UP offers new road numbers, spanning from 2003 to the present. It belongs to the series 503600 - 503959, built from Oct 03 to Jan 04. It comes fully assembled with a detailed plastic body and a die-cast weight with interior detail. You can apply interior braces as a modeler. The removable coal load adds to the fun. It has detailed free-rolling trucks, 36” machined metal wheels, and body-mounted operating knuckle couplers compatible with Micro-Trains®. The printing and lettering are clear even under magnification. Weighted to industry standards, it operates smoothly on Code 55, 70, and 80 rail. It comes in a clear jewel box for safe storage. The minimum radius is 9 ¾”, and the recommended radius is 11”. Coal has been transported by train since the start of railroads, evolving from single-car loads to modern unit trains. Cars have developed from early wood and composite types to standard steel hoppers and then to modern aluminum ones like the Trinity RD-4, which has a high capacity and can be emptied quickly through various methods.

Using your Fox Valley Models N Scale FVM 10143 Trinity RD-4 Coal Hopper is easy. Just place it on Code 55, 70, or 80 rail and let it roll. Remember, the minimum radius for operation is 9 ¾”, but for better performance, use a 11” radius track. The removable coal load allows you to customize the look of your hopper. You can also add the modeler-applied interior braces to make it more detailed. When it comes to maintenance, keep it clean. You can gently wipe the plastic body with a soft cloth. Check the trucks and wheels regularly to make sure they roll freely. If the couplers get a bit sticky, you can give them a light clean too. Store your model in the clear jewel box when not in use to protect it from dust and damage.