Tangent 2nd July Release RI ICC Bay Window Caboose System
Jul 18, 2024 19:28:54 GMT -8
Christian, schroed2, and 9 more like this
Post by tangentsm on Jul 18, 2024 19:28:54 GMT -8
Tangent Scale Models Rock Island Lines International Car Corporation Bay Window System – With Lights!
Live from Asheville, North Carolina: In 2007, Tangent Scale Models started the trend of offering unparalleled railroad freight car replicas in HO scale, the likes of which had never been seen in the market. These highly-detailed replicas have consistently raised the bar for HO scale models with several hallmarks, including precision tooling, hyper-accurate stenciling, true to life colors, and era-specific details. Additionally, our models are designed to operate perfectly by including CNC-machined wheels, correct weights, and correct coupler heights. Simply put: We offer detailed freight cars on a higher level.
Fast forward to today’s release: our fifth “Tangent quality” HO scale caboose offering. The era of “one size fits all” cabooses in HO scale plastic is over. We bring our passion and knowledge for translating real 1:1 railroad equipment from freight cars to cabooses. And we are taking things a step further, where our penchant for operations is accelerated with accurate marker lighting in era-specific versions!
Our fifth caboose model is the HO Scale Rock Island Lines International Car Corporation Bay Window Caboose System. This RI system covers the majority of the ICC bay-window Rock Island fleet -- four different caboose orders between 1966-1971. These bay window cabooses were the primary road cabooses for the final decade and a half of the Rock Island. Built at ICC’s Kenton Ohio facilities, these 130 cabooses are easily-recognizable, with their bright paint schemes, bay windows, and classic Rock Island roof-top tripod marker lights. This Tangent caboose marks the first “high-detail” Rock Island caboose replica in HO scale.
The Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad Company proudly served 14 states, but by the mid-1960s, it was no longer turning a profit. A long, complicated and ultimately unsuccessful dance with Union Pacific as a merger partner had begun. As a result, these 1966, 1967, 1970 and 1971 orders of RI cabooses were purchased by Union Pacific but were leased back to the Rock Island. After the Rock Island bankruptcy in 1980, these cabooses ultimately became the Union Pacific CA-13 fleet, heavily-favored by UP and one of the most relevant post-1981 UP cabooses. These cabooses served widely on RI and UP rails, as well as offline in many instances either via run through operations or trackage rights.
The Rock Island Lines system was just that – a patchwork of lines that seemingly went “everywhere.” Perhaps you are modeling new U28Bs and hot auto parts hustling across the ATSF diamonds at Joliet, across the Mississippi River at the Quad Cities, through Iowa City and Des Moines, across CGW and UP trackage rights in the Council Bluffs/Omaha area, across the UP diamond at Fairbury NE, and across Kansas to Limon towards connections in Denver and Colorado Springs. Perhaps you are interested in a late-era mix of U-boats and EMDs dragging freight from Topeka via the Tucumcari Line across Kansas, Oklahoma, and northwest Texas to the hot SP Sunset Route connection at Santa Rosa, New Mexico. Perhaps you are interested in GP40s dragging freight from the collection of secondary lines in Minnesota, South Dakota, and Iowa, bringing North-South freight down to core markets in Oklahoma City, Dallas-Ft Worth, Houston, and Galveston – with a few miles of MKT and ATSF trackage rights on the way. Perhaps you are interested in the Arkansas Division line from Little Rock to Winnfield, Louisiana (and beyond to L&A, MP, and SP connections) with turbocharged GP35s. And we noted only some of the “core” Rock Island lines, with many more to choose from! In fact – the Rock Island ran trains on short segments of trackage rights over Milwaukee, NP/BN, CNW, CGW, DRINW, UP, MP, KCT, SLSF, MKT, and L&A to complete the system map!
While the 1960s RI was more structured from a loco consist standpoint, modeling the late years of “The Rock” is fascinating with the incredibly varied assortments of paint schemes on locos, cars, and cabooses. And don’t forget the offline run-through train moves with foreign carriers as well. We see you, UP modelers, with Rock Island cabooses being spotted in North Platte, Nebraska! Or Rock Island trains operating into Denver, Kansas City, and the Twin Cities on foreign railroad trackage rights. Rock Island presents an underappreciated assortment of modeling opportunities, and Tangent has the perfect caboose for you, from 1966 well into the 1980s.
And for those modeling the post-Rock era, these cabooses led long lives on Union Pacific as the CA-13 class, where they were used as core cabooses across the entire UP system while earlier high cupola cabooses were phased out. They started out in quickly-applied banditized “patch-out” schemes, and then later received UP armour yellow paint. Also, in 1980-1981, UP leased select ex-Rock bay window cabooses to CNW – they had small stenciling designating the lease. The UP cabooses were seen in other offline services as well, including photos of them on the BN “racetrack” in Chicagoland on the (UP) North Platte to (BN) Cicero merchandise trains, which interchanged at Grand Island, Nebraska. Some of the cabooses remain in service today in special assignments – because UP loved these bay window cabooses and they served the longest in the UP era.
We want to be very clear. The Tangent Rock Island Lines Bay Window Caboose System is not a generic model painted red, like what you may “already have.” This is Tangent-Level execution of 5 different bay window caboose bodies, covering 4 RI ICC Kenton lots and combining for 12 different major build assemblies. These dozen different build options cover multiple eras, paint schemes and modernization programs, all with accurate lighting options plus era and road number specific details.
This system covers these prototype Rock Island ICC lots:
RI 17082-17106 (1966 - 25 Cabooses), assigned UP CA-13 24500-24524 series in 1980.
RI 17107-17181 (1967 - 75 Cabooses), assigned UP CA-13 24525-24599 series in 1980.
RI 17182-17201 (1970 - 20 Cabooses), assigned UP CA-13 24600-24619 series in 1980.
RI 17202-17211 (1971 - 10 Cabooses), assigned UP CA-13 24620-24629 series in 1980.
And now, on to the models! The Tangent Scale Models Rock Island Lines International Car Corporation Bay Window Caboose System is a state of the art, dimensionally-accurate scale replica with highly accurate “true-to-life” colors and precise letter stencils. Designed from meticulous field dimensions, our models include build year and era-specific details such as full brake system details, underframe detail variations, body side/end window variations, and bay window options. The details don’t stop there: Tangent includes a Waugh Cushion Underframe, electrical conduits, roof vents, toilet vent, caboose window treatments accurate for the era of the caboose, plus beautiful see-through steps, end platforms, and running boards all applied to multiple RI/ROCK/UP-specific ICC Bay Window bodies. Inside the models is an accurate Rock Island ICC-applied interior. These cabooses include interior lighting, plus roof-top marker and/or end marker light options that are era-appropriate for the paint scheme of each caboose. These “no fuss” track-powered interior and exterior marker lights are compatible with DC or DCC setups right out of the box (a simple wand included in the box activates the lights). Finally, our ready-to-operate replica includes “near-scale” draft gear box including side “key” detail, coupler lift bars accompanying Kadee® scale couplers, sufficient hidden weights, and CNC-machined wheels to ensure the model operates as good as it looks.
The Tangent Rock Island Lines International Car Corporation Bay Window Caboose System of replicas is AVAILABLE TODAY and include the following seven RTR schemes plus an unprecedented twelve (yes, twelve!) undecorated kit options:
- Rock Island (RI) "Delivery 12-1967" w/ Red-Green Lights replicates the large 1967 order of cabooses in their as-built classic red, yellow and black. This 1967 ICC group was the largest delivered to the railroad, 75 total. RI’s paint jobs are not easy, so there is lots of careful masking and color separations on the model to mimic the prototype. The yellow faces on the bay-windows are a great detail with that reflective red striping. The RI lettering is distinctive and classy due to its block style – this is something RI fans will immediately notice when done correctly. Notice the “POOL” notation on the bay window for this road caboose, reminding everyone that this caboose served the RI system-wide road pool. The models are equipped with a beautiful see-through Apex running board. The roof is packed with details like vents, a nicely detailed smokejack, a sturdy antenna for the radio equipment and the classic RI tripod lights. Underneath, the model features a Waugh cushion underframe with complete brake gear and piping details. It’s all there, from the toilet dump pipe to the battery box to the pivoting release rod for the AB Valve. The model rides on Tangent’s gorgeous 70-Ton Barber Roller Bearing trucks with 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. For lighting, this Tangent RI model is equipped with prototypical red-green roof tripod marker lights and “golden” interior lights, mimicking the incandescent bulbs of the real cabooses. A wand is included to operate the lights – easy with no fuss! Extra parts are included to model the metal flag paddles/flag holders on the body corners. We are offering our RI Delivery scheme in 12 numbers! SKU 60410
- Rock Island (RI) "Delivery 1971" w/ Red-Green Lights & Rockwell Trucks illustrates the final order of ten ICC cabooses delivered to Rock Island. This group is most often noticed by RI (and later UP) modelers because of application of distinctive Rockwell “Express” trucks. These trucks were being tested by railroads in this era and provided additional stability at high speed. The prototype cabooses from this 1971 lot rode on these Rockwell trucks for their entire RI service lives. The models are painted in the as-delivered red, yellow and black scheme but differs from the 1967 scheme we are offering because the ROCK ISLAND is spelled out with slanted “speed” lettering. The silver roof is finished with a gorgeous red overspray pattern, duplicating the look of the cabooses when delivered from ICC Kenton. This order has a slightly taller body than the 1966 and 1967 Rock Island orders. Notice the extra vertical body space above the bay window. The side corner sealed windows have changed to rounded aluminum frames, compared to earlier orders with gasketed windows. The conductor’s desk window has an accurate framed sash/screened window, just like the prototype. Each RI ICC order is distinctive, and Tangent does its homework to get these details correct! These models feature all those interesting roof details, with the tripod marker lights, antenna and stand, roof vents and smokejack all present. Notice the lack of a roof walkway – these cabooses were built this way since this feature had fallen out of favor with the RI and ICC by the 1971 build date. The steps and end walkways on the model are beautiful Apex pattern etch metal. The end railings are classic ICC style, with careful paint masking for RI. RI used a very light gray/aluminum color for end railings and step edges. Underneath, the model features a 1971 variation of the Waugh cushion underframe with complete brake gear and piping details. The gravity dump toilet pipe is gone in this era, replaced with a closed, capped pipe for draining at the service points. The1971 style battery box is there, properly located, along with accurate conduit piping and the axle generator pulley. The model rides on Tangent’s All-New 50-Ton Rockwell Express Roller Bearing trucks with 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. For lighting, this Tangent RI model is equipped with prototypical red-green roof tripod lights and “golden” interior lights, mimicking the incandescent bulbs of the real cabooses. A wand is included to operate the lights – easy with no fuss! Extra parts are included to model the metal flag paddles/flag holders on the body corners. We are offering our RI 1971 Delivery scheme with Rockwell trucks in 6 numbers! SKU 60411
- Rock Island (ROCK) "Route Rock White Repaint 1979" w/ Red-Green Lights gives modelers two examples of late repainted cabooses in the ROUTE ROCK “white repaint” scheme. These replica numbers are pulled from the RI’s 1970 group of ICC Bay Window Cabooses. In fact, they are the only two known white repaints from the 1970 20-car class. This order had a slightly taller body than 1966 and 1967 Rock Island orders. Notice the extra vertical body space above the bay window. The side corner sealed windows changed to rounded aluminum frames, compared to earlier orders with gasketed windows. The conductor’s desk window has an accurate framed sash/screened window, just like the prototype. These models feature all those interesting roof details, with tripod marker lights, antenna and stand, roof vents and smokejack all present. Notice the lack of a roof walkway – these cabooses were built this way since this feature had fallen out of favor with the RI and ICC by the 1970 build date. The steps and end walkways on the model are beautiful Apex pattern etch metal. The end railings are classic ICC style, with air release and brake wheel details. Underneath, the model features a 1970 variation of the Waugh cushion underframe with complete brake gear and piping details. For those paying attention, it has a reversed orientation of the Waugh cushion unit and return spring when compared to the later 1971 order. Each RI ICC order is distinctive, and Tangent does its homework to get these differences correct! A later “plain” style battery box is there, properly located, along the axle generator pulley. The gravity dump toilet pipe is still on car number 17184 but has been replaced on car number 17187 with a closed, capped pipe for draining at the service points. Yes, that means road number specific caboose detailing! The model rides on Tangent’s gorgeous 70-Ton Barber Roller Bearing trucks with 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. For lighting, this Tangent RI model is equipped with prototypical red-green roof tripod lights and “golden” interior lights, mimicking the incandescent bulbs of the real cabooses. A wand is included to operate the lights – easy with no fuss! Extra parts are included to model the metal flag paddles/flag holders on the body corners. We are offering our RI Route Rock White Repaint 1979 scheme in 2 accurate numbers, each with car-number-specific paint and details! SKU 60412
- Union Pacific (UP) "Ex-Route Rock White Patch 1980+" w/Red-Green Lights shows off the post-apocalyptic life of a ROCK caboose. In April 1980, the UP retrieved all UP-owned cabooses from the bankrupt and shut-down RI. This included all of the ICC 1967, 1968, 1970 and 1971-built cars -- remember, they actually owned all of these RI cabooses! The renumbering started immediately, including this example, patched and renumbered by UP Omaha in May of 1980. This Tangent offering is painted in off-white color with fresh UP-applied white patches covering the ROUTE ROCK lettering and reporting marks. UP also applied black reporting marks on the bay window and ends. This model car number is part of the RI’s 1970 group of ICC Bay Window Cabooses. This order had a slightly taller body than 1966 and 1967 Rock Island orders. Notice the extra vertical body space above the bay window. The side corner sealed windows changed to rounded aluminum frames, compared to earlier orders with gasketed windows. The conductor’s desk window has an accurate framed sash/screened window, just like the prototype. These models feature all of those interesting roof details, with the tripod marker lights, antenna and stand, roof vents and smokejack all present. Notice the lack of a roof walkway – these cabooses were built this way since this feature had fallen out of favor with the RI and ICC by the 1970 build date. The steps and end walkways on the model are beautiful Apex pattern etch metal. The end railings are late ICC style, with air release and brake wheel details. Underneath, the model features a 1970 variation of the Waugh cushion underframe with complete brake gear and piping details. For those paying attention, it has a reversed orientation of the Waugh cushion unit and return spring when compared to the later 1971 order. Each RI ICC order is distinctive, and Tangent does its homework to get these differences correct! A later “plain” style battery box is there, properly located, along the axle generator pulley. The gravity dump toilet pipe has been replaced on this model with a closed, capped pipe for draining at the service points. The model rides on Tangent’s gorgeous 70-Ton Barber Roller Bearing trucks with 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. For lighting, this Tangent UP model is equipped with prototypical red-green roof tripod lights and “golden” interior lights, mimicking the incandescent bulbs of the real cabooses. This prototype never received an FRA red end light before acquisition by the UP. A wand is included to operate the lights – easy with no fuss! Extra parts are included to model the metal flag paddles/flag holders on the body corners. We are offering our UP Ex-Route Rock White Patch 1980+ scheme in one accurate number. SKU 60413
- UP Chicago & North Western (CNW) Lease 1980+ w/Red-Green Lights and FRA Red Light replicates a pair of interesting lease examples of ex-RI equipment. In 1980, the C&NW took control of significant ex-RI track miles in Iowa/Minnesota and was also planning the rebuild of its own caboose fleet. The C&NW needed road cabooses fast. The UP leased several dozen ex-RI ICC Bay Window cabooses to the C&NW through 1981. These cabooses can be identified by tiny 1” “LEASED TO CNW” stenciling on the body or bay window, but retained their UP bandit paint jobs. When returned in 1981, the cabooses continued to serve the UP with intact CNW stenciling (UP Modelers take note!) These two specific numbers are chosen from RI’s 1966 ICC order of 25 cabooses. The 1966 order features end brake wheel supports in a “zigzag” upright style, different from the 1967 order. These Ex-RI CNW Lease models feature an incredible story of paint and details; while originally built in 1966, the RI modernized the cabooses in the mid-1970s, resulting in removal of the running boards and cut-down ladders on the ends. The walkway brackets remained on the roof. The RI also added an FRA red light on each end in 1979, as part of the marker light updates for the era. All of these features are carefully duplicated in HO. The model is painted a faded red, mimicking RI’s now-faded 1966 solid red scheme, and each specific number features photo-accurate patches and data. Caboose UP 24503 features a patched bay window but kept the large “ROCK ISLAND” body lettering. Caboose UP 24506 received extensive patches, obliterating the large “ROCK ISLAND” lettering. Each caboose features accurate ACI (or patched ACI), COTS, U-1 inspection dot and other data per photos. The models ride on Tangent’s gorgeous 70-Ton Barber Roller Bearing trucks with 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. For lighting, this Tangent RI model is equipped with prototypical red-green roof tripod lights, red FRA flashing end lights and “golden” interior lights, mimicking the incandescent bulbs of the real cabooses. A wand is included to operate the lights – easy with no fuss! Extra parts are included to model the metal flag paddles/flag holders on the body corners. We are offering our CNW Lease 1980+ scheme in 2 different numbers, each with photo-specific paint patches and lettering! SKU 60414
- Union Pacific (UP) "1981+ Equal Opportunity For All" w/ Red-Green Lights gives UP modelers a distinctive caboose model. After patching Ex-RI cabooses with UP reporting marks in 1980, the UP’s Omaha Shops went on to refurbish at least three dozen ICC Bay Window cabooses and repaint them into the CA-13 Armour Yellow class. For this pair, we have selected two cabooses that were repainted in 1981 and received the “Equal Opportunity For All” slogan. The cabooses received UP-style sliding screens and tracks on the bay windows. The roof was modified with the removal of the tripod light stand (only the base remains), and a firecracker antenna has replaced the long RI-style antenna. The ends changed – UP added their distinctive horizontal mount red-green marker light. These features are all duplicated on the model. Underneath, eagle-eyed modelers will notice the UP-applied knuckle holders on one side and step lights (non-working) over the stepwell areas on the body top chord. The 1967 RI ICC features are present, including gasketed windows and Waugh cushion underframe. The model rides on Tangent’s gorgeous 70-Ton Barber Roller Bearing trucks with 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. For lighting, this Tangent UP model is equipped with prototypical red-green roof horizontal end lights and “golden” interior lights, mimicking the incandescent bulbs of the real cabooses. A wand is included to operate the lights – easy with no fuss! Extra parts are included to model the metal flag paddles/flag holders on the body corners and the sliding bay window screens. We are offering our UP “1981+ Equal Opportunity For All” scheme in 2 numbers, each with varying data placement based on prototype photos! SKU 60415
- Union Pacific (UP) "1981+ What do We do? We Work for You" w/ Red-Green Lights gives UP modelers another Armour Yellow CA-13 variation. After patching Ex-RI cabooses with UP reporting marks in 1980, the UP’s Omaha Shops went on to refurbish at least three dozen ICC Bay Window cabooses and repaint them into Armour Yellow with various employee-submitted slogans. For this pair, we have selected two cabooses that were repainted in 1981 and received the “What do We do? We Work for You” slogan. The cabooses received UP-style sliding screens and tracks on the bay windows. The roof was modified, with the removal of the tripod light stand (only the base remains) and a firecracker antenna has replaced the long RI-style antenna. The ends changed – UP added their distinctive horizontal mount red-green marker light. These features are all duplicated on the model. Underneath, the model features UP-applied knuckle holders on one side and step lights (non-working) over the stepwell areas on the body top chord. The 1967 RI ICC features are present, including gasketed windows and Waugh cushion underframe. The model rides on Tangent’s gorgeous 70-Ton Barber Roller Bearing trucks with 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. For lighting, this Tangent UP model is equipped with prototypical red-green roof horizontal end lights and “golden” interior lights, mimicking the incandescent bulbs of the real cabooses. A wand is included to operate the lights – easy with no fuss! Extra parts are included to model the metal flag paddles/flag holders on the body corners and the sliding bay window screens. We are offering our UP “1981+ What do We do? We Work for You” scheme in 2 numbers, each with varying data placement based on prototype photos! SKU 60416
- Undecorated KIT “RI 1966 Delivery Body” is an unassembled kit version of the RI 1966 ICC Bay Window Caboose in its as-delivered 1966 configuration. This kit matches RI 17082-17106. This kit is UNLIT -- no electronics are included. It is perfect for those who want to build their own cars or want to customize their own lighting circuit options. Ready for building, painting, and lettering for a favorite prototype or your own private road. This kit includes Tangent’s 70T roller bearing caboose trucks with power-pickup and 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. You supply your own favorite couplers. SKU 60400-01
- Undecorated KIT “RI 1966 Modernized Body 1974+ Era” is an unassembled kit version of the RI 1966 ICC Bay Window Caboose in its modernized configuration. This means no running board and late style end railings. This kit matches RI 17082-17106. This kit is UNLIT -- no electronics are included. It is perfect for those who want to build their own cars or want to customize their own lighting circuit options. Ready for building, painting, and lettering for a favorite prototype or your own private road. This kit includes Tangent’s 70T roller bearing caboose trucks with power-pickup and 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. You supply your own favorite couplers. SKU 60400-02
- Undecorated KIT “RI 1966 FRA Light Body 1980+ Era” is an unassembled kit version of the RI 1966 ICC Bay Window Caboose in its modernized 1980 configuration at the very end of RI. This means no running board and late style end railings with the FRA red light on the end. This kit matches RI 17082-17106. This kit is UNLIT -- no electronics are included. It is perfect for those who want to build their own cars or want to customize their own lighting circuit options. Ready for building, painting, and lettering for a favorite prototype or your own private road. This kit includes Tangent’s 70T roller bearing caboose trucks with power-pickup and 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. You supply your own favorite couplers. SKU 60400-03
- Undecorated KIT “RI 1966 UP Body 1980+ Era” is an unassembled kit version of the RI 1966 ICC Bay Window Caboose with UP 1980+ features. This means no running board, UP refurb bay window and underframe features with UP red-green end marker lights. This kit matches UP 24500-24524 (Ex- RI 17082-17106). This kit is UNLIT -- no electronics are included. It is perfect for those who want to build their own cars or want to customize their own lighting circuit options. Ready for building, painting, and lettering for a favorite prototype or your own private road. This kit includes Tangent’s 70T roller bearing caboose trucks with power-pickup and 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. You supply your own favorite couplers. SKU 60400-04
- Undecorated KIT “RI 1967 Delivery Body” is an unassembled kit version of the RI 1967 ICC Bay Window Caboose in its as-delivered 1967 configuration. This kit matches RI 17107-17181. This kit is UNLIT -- no electronics are included. It is perfect for those who want to build their own cars or want to customize their own lighting circuit options. Ready for building, painting, and lettering for a favorite prototype or your own private road. This kit includes Tangent’s 70T roller bearing caboose trucks with power-pickup and 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. You supply your own favorite couplers. SKU 60401-01
- Undecorated KIT “RI 1967 Modernized Body 1974+ Era” is an unassembled kit version of the RI 1967 ICC Bay Window Caboose in its modernized configuration. This means no running board and late style end railings. This kit matches RI 17107-17181. This kit is UNLIT -- no electronics are included. It is perfect for those who want to build their own cars or want to customize their own lighting circuit options. Ready for building, painting, and lettering for a favorite prototype or your own private road. This kit includes Tangent’s 70T roller bearing caboose trucks with power-pickup and 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. You supply your own favorite couplers. SKU 60401-02
- Undecorated KIT “RI 1967 FRA Light Body 1980+ Era” is an unassembled kit version of the RI 1967 ICC Bay Window Caboose in its modernized 1980 configuration at the very end of RI. This means no running board and late style end railings with the FRA red light on the end. This kit matches RI 17107-17181. This kit is UNLIT -- no electronics are included. It is perfect for those who want to build their own cars or want to customize their own lighting circuit options. Ready for building, painting, and lettering for a favorite prototype or your own private road. This kit includes Tangent’s 70T roller bearing caboose trucks with power-pickup and 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. You supply your own favorite couplers. SKU 60401-03
- Undecorated KIT “RI 1967 UP Body 1980+ Era” is an unassembled kit version of the RI 1967 ICC Bay Window Caboose with UP 1980+ features. This means no running board, UP refurb bay window and underframe features with UP red-green end marker lights. This kit matches UP 24525-24599 (Ex- RI 17107-17181). This kit is UNLIT -- no electronics are included. It is perfect for those who want to build their own cars or want to customize their own lighting circuit options. Ready for building, painting, and lettering for a favorite prototype or your own private road. This kit includes Tangent’s 70T roller bearing caboose trucks with power-pickup and 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. You supply your own favorite couplers. SKU 60401-04
- Undecorated KIT “RI 1970 Delivery Body” is an unassembled kit version of the RI 1970 ICC Bay Window Caboose in its as-delivered 1970 body configuration. This kit matches RI 17182-17201. This kit is UNLIT -- no electronics are included. It is perfect for those who want to build their own cars or want to customize their own lighting circuit options. Ready for building, painting, and lettering for a favorite prototype or your own private road. This kit includes Tangent’s 70T roller bearing caboose trucks with power-pickup and 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. You supply your own favorite couplers. SKU 60402-01
- Undecorated KIT “RI 1970 FRA Light Body 1980+ Era” is an unassembled kit version of the RI 1970 ICC Bay Window Caboose in its modernized 1980+ configuration, matching the very end of RI and UP use through late 1985. This means it has the FRA red light on the end. This kit matches RI 17182-17201 (UP 24600-24619). This kit is UNLIT -- no electronics are included. It is perfect for those who want to build their own cars or want to customize their own lighting circuit options. Ready for building, painting, and lettering for a favorite prototype or your own private road. This kit includes Tangent’s 70T roller bearing caboose trucks with power-pickup and 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. You supply your own favorite couplers. SKU 60402-02
- Undecorated KIT “RI 1971 Delivery Body” is an unassembled kit version of the RI 1971 ICC Bay Window Caboose in its as-delivered 1971 body configuration. This kit matches RI 17182-17201 (UP 24620-UP 24629) – and yes, this is the series that had Rockwell Trucks! This kit is UNLIT -- no electronics are included. It is perfect for those who want to build their own cars or want to customize their own lighting circuit options. Ready for building, painting, and lettering for a favorite prototype or your own private road. This kit includes Tangent’s 50T Rockwell “Express” roller bearing caboose trucks with power-pickup and 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. You supply your own favorite couplers. SKU 60403-01
- Undecorated KIT “RI 1971 FRA Light Body 1980+ Era” is an unassembled kit version of the RI 1971 ICC Bay Window Caboose in its modernized 1980+ configuration. This means it has the FRA red light on the end. This kit matches RI 17182-17201 (UP 24620-UP 24629) – and yes, this is the series that had Rockwell Trucks! This kit is UNLIT -- no electronics are included. It is perfect for those who want to build their own cars or want to customize their own lighting circuit options. Ready for building, painting, and lettering for a favorite prototype or your own private road. This kit includes Tangent’s 50T Rockwell “Express” roller bearing caboose trucks with power-pickup and 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. You supply your own favorite couplers. SKU 60403-02
All of these models can be seen at www.tangentscalemodels.com!
These cabooses are shipping today! Features for these replicas include:
- Dimensional accuracy - designed from meticulous field dimensions using real tape measures of four real RI cabooses (usually located near BBQ joints).
- Highly correct “true to life” colors
- “Hyper-Accurate” lettering including exact fonts and lettering placement
- Genuine Kadee® scale couplers
- “Near-scale” draft gear box with beautifully-rendered side “key” detail
- Multiple road numbers for each scheme, as appropriate
- Road and Era-specific details for each RTR scheme, including multiple body, roof, bay window, underframe detail, truck and side window combinations
- Five different road and era-specific bay window body options
- Four different era-specific bay window options
- Four different roof options
- Apex “see through” running board
- Accurate Waugh Cushion Underframe – 2 configurations
- Railroad and era-specific underframe details to match as-built ICC and modified configurations
- Multiple roof configurations for different radio antenna and vent mounting locations
- End steps and walkways that carefully replicate the prototype Apex walkway pattern
- Unapologetically fine etch metal side and end window screens, where appropriate
- Underframe and truck axle drive generator options
- Ten different end railing/marker light options, based on ICC lot and era
- Wire “coupler lift bar” detail per prototype application
- RI-specific interior – chairs, bunk, desk, lockers, ice chest, sink, oil bunker and the most detailed Vapor Corporation TCHA55 Caban heater in HO Scale! The interior is fully painted with era-specific colors
- Full underbody details – brake system with brake rods and piping, release rod and more – all based on the prototype and era!
- Beautiful side wire curved grab irons, intricate ICC end railings in plastic with accurate wire top ladder hoops
- Consumer applied optional metal red/green “flag” paddle parts included for appropriate eras
- Consumer applied optional metal bay window screens on UP models for appropriate eras
- LED illuminated RI rooftop tripod marker lights that can be controlled red/green/off – on each end – independently, where appropriate
- LED illuminated UP Red/Green end marker lights that can be controlled red/green/off – on each end – independently, where appropriate
- LED illuminated FRA end lights with a proper “decaying” flash that can be controlled on or off – on each end – independently, where appropriate
- LED illuminated interior lighting “warm” lights to replicate incandescent bulbs that can be controlled on or off
- No complicated decoder. No complicated programming. No complicated electronics. DC/DCC compatible track-powered “no fuss” interior and marker light lighting – simple and easy to operate with included wand
- CNC-machined standard RP25 .110” tread 33” wheels (Yes, semi-scale .088” wheels are available separately!)
- All-New precision Tangent Scale Models Rockwell 50-ton Barber roller bearing trucks with separate brake beam part, or 70-ton Barber roller bearing trucks with separate brake beam parts, as appropriate for each paint scheme
- Recommended age 14 years and older
A big “thank you” to:
- The RailsWest Museum and their staff in Council Bluffs, Iowa for allowing us to spend an entire day measuring RI 17130, one of the 1967 builds. A real RI caboose, in front of a real RI depot. That’s hard to beat.
- The City of Schuyler, Nebraska for allowing us access to measure the RI 17202, one of the 1971 builds. Rockwell trucks, a beautiful sunny day, and the roaring UP mainline.
- The town of Cheyenne Wells, Colorado for unknowingly waiting to repaint their UP 24598 (Ex RI 17180) from its 1980 bandit white ROCK scheme until after our visit. A quiet rural Colorado sunrise and the final moments of original ROCK lettering – so worth it.
- The Great Plains Transportation Museum in Wichita, Kansas for their operating UP 24538 (Ex-RI 17120). Looking just like the day it came off the railroad -- Layers of RI, UP and even some CNW lease lettering (!) to enjoy.
Don’t miss out on the Tangent Scale Models Rock Island Lines International Car Corporation Bay Window Caboose System, our fifth release in the Tangent caboose line. Pricing for RTR models is $124.95, with quantity discounts for direct purchases from Tangent Scale Models.
That wraps up our update for today, and thank you for supporting the family-owned businesses in our industry!
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Live from Asheville, North Carolina: In 2007, Tangent Scale Models started the trend of offering unparalleled railroad freight car replicas in HO scale, the likes of which had never been seen in the market. These highly-detailed replicas have consistently raised the bar for HO scale models with several hallmarks, including precision tooling, hyper-accurate stenciling, true to life colors, and era-specific details. Additionally, our models are designed to operate perfectly by including CNC-machined wheels, correct weights, and correct coupler heights. Simply put: We offer detailed freight cars on a higher level.
Fast forward to today’s release: our fifth “Tangent quality” HO scale caboose offering. The era of “one size fits all” cabooses in HO scale plastic is over. We bring our passion and knowledge for translating real 1:1 railroad equipment from freight cars to cabooses. And we are taking things a step further, where our penchant for operations is accelerated with accurate marker lighting in era-specific versions!
Our fifth caboose model is the HO Scale Rock Island Lines International Car Corporation Bay Window Caboose System. This RI system covers the majority of the ICC bay-window Rock Island fleet -- four different caboose orders between 1966-1971. These bay window cabooses were the primary road cabooses for the final decade and a half of the Rock Island. Built at ICC’s Kenton Ohio facilities, these 130 cabooses are easily-recognizable, with their bright paint schemes, bay windows, and classic Rock Island roof-top tripod marker lights. This Tangent caboose marks the first “high-detail” Rock Island caboose replica in HO scale.
The Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad Company proudly served 14 states, but by the mid-1960s, it was no longer turning a profit. A long, complicated and ultimately unsuccessful dance with Union Pacific as a merger partner had begun. As a result, these 1966, 1967, 1970 and 1971 orders of RI cabooses were purchased by Union Pacific but were leased back to the Rock Island. After the Rock Island bankruptcy in 1980, these cabooses ultimately became the Union Pacific CA-13 fleet, heavily-favored by UP and one of the most relevant post-1981 UP cabooses. These cabooses served widely on RI and UP rails, as well as offline in many instances either via run through operations or trackage rights.
The Rock Island Lines system was just that – a patchwork of lines that seemingly went “everywhere.” Perhaps you are modeling new U28Bs and hot auto parts hustling across the ATSF diamonds at Joliet, across the Mississippi River at the Quad Cities, through Iowa City and Des Moines, across CGW and UP trackage rights in the Council Bluffs/Omaha area, across the UP diamond at Fairbury NE, and across Kansas to Limon towards connections in Denver and Colorado Springs. Perhaps you are interested in a late-era mix of U-boats and EMDs dragging freight from Topeka via the Tucumcari Line across Kansas, Oklahoma, and northwest Texas to the hot SP Sunset Route connection at Santa Rosa, New Mexico. Perhaps you are interested in GP40s dragging freight from the collection of secondary lines in Minnesota, South Dakota, and Iowa, bringing North-South freight down to core markets in Oklahoma City, Dallas-Ft Worth, Houston, and Galveston – with a few miles of MKT and ATSF trackage rights on the way. Perhaps you are interested in the Arkansas Division line from Little Rock to Winnfield, Louisiana (and beyond to L&A, MP, and SP connections) with turbocharged GP35s. And we noted only some of the “core” Rock Island lines, with many more to choose from! In fact – the Rock Island ran trains on short segments of trackage rights over Milwaukee, NP/BN, CNW, CGW, DRINW, UP, MP, KCT, SLSF, MKT, and L&A to complete the system map!
While the 1960s RI was more structured from a loco consist standpoint, modeling the late years of “The Rock” is fascinating with the incredibly varied assortments of paint schemes on locos, cars, and cabooses. And don’t forget the offline run-through train moves with foreign carriers as well. We see you, UP modelers, with Rock Island cabooses being spotted in North Platte, Nebraska! Or Rock Island trains operating into Denver, Kansas City, and the Twin Cities on foreign railroad trackage rights. Rock Island presents an underappreciated assortment of modeling opportunities, and Tangent has the perfect caboose for you, from 1966 well into the 1980s.
And for those modeling the post-Rock era, these cabooses led long lives on Union Pacific as the CA-13 class, where they were used as core cabooses across the entire UP system while earlier high cupola cabooses were phased out. They started out in quickly-applied banditized “patch-out” schemes, and then later received UP armour yellow paint. Also, in 1980-1981, UP leased select ex-Rock bay window cabooses to CNW – they had small stenciling designating the lease. The UP cabooses were seen in other offline services as well, including photos of them on the BN “racetrack” in Chicagoland on the (UP) North Platte to (BN) Cicero merchandise trains, which interchanged at Grand Island, Nebraska. Some of the cabooses remain in service today in special assignments – because UP loved these bay window cabooses and they served the longest in the UP era.
We want to be very clear. The Tangent Rock Island Lines Bay Window Caboose System is not a generic model painted red, like what you may “already have.” This is Tangent-Level execution of 5 different bay window caboose bodies, covering 4 RI ICC Kenton lots and combining for 12 different major build assemblies. These dozen different build options cover multiple eras, paint schemes and modernization programs, all with accurate lighting options plus era and road number specific details.
This system covers these prototype Rock Island ICC lots:
RI 17082-17106 (1966 - 25 Cabooses), assigned UP CA-13 24500-24524 series in 1980.
RI 17107-17181 (1967 - 75 Cabooses), assigned UP CA-13 24525-24599 series in 1980.
RI 17182-17201 (1970 - 20 Cabooses), assigned UP CA-13 24600-24619 series in 1980.
RI 17202-17211 (1971 - 10 Cabooses), assigned UP CA-13 24620-24629 series in 1980.
And now, on to the models! The Tangent Scale Models Rock Island Lines International Car Corporation Bay Window Caboose System is a state of the art, dimensionally-accurate scale replica with highly accurate “true-to-life” colors and precise letter stencils. Designed from meticulous field dimensions, our models include build year and era-specific details such as full brake system details, underframe detail variations, body side/end window variations, and bay window options. The details don’t stop there: Tangent includes a Waugh Cushion Underframe, electrical conduits, roof vents, toilet vent, caboose window treatments accurate for the era of the caboose, plus beautiful see-through steps, end platforms, and running boards all applied to multiple RI/ROCK/UP-specific ICC Bay Window bodies. Inside the models is an accurate Rock Island ICC-applied interior. These cabooses include interior lighting, plus roof-top marker and/or end marker light options that are era-appropriate for the paint scheme of each caboose. These “no fuss” track-powered interior and exterior marker lights are compatible with DC or DCC setups right out of the box (a simple wand included in the box activates the lights). Finally, our ready-to-operate replica includes “near-scale” draft gear box including side “key” detail, coupler lift bars accompanying Kadee® scale couplers, sufficient hidden weights, and CNC-machined wheels to ensure the model operates as good as it looks.
The Tangent Rock Island Lines International Car Corporation Bay Window Caboose System of replicas is AVAILABLE TODAY and include the following seven RTR schemes plus an unprecedented twelve (yes, twelve!) undecorated kit options:
- Rock Island (RI) "Delivery 12-1967" w/ Red-Green Lights replicates the large 1967 order of cabooses in their as-built classic red, yellow and black. This 1967 ICC group was the largest delivered to the railroad, 75 total. RI’s paint jobs are not easy, so there is lots of careful masking and color separations on the model to mimic the prototype. The yellow faces on the bay-windows are a great detail with that reflective red striping. The RI lettering is distinctive and classy due to its block style – this is something RI fans will immediately notice when done correctly. Notice the “POOL” notation on the bay window for this road caboose, reminding everyone that this caboose served the RI system-wide road pool. The models are equipped with a beautiful see-through Apex running board. The roof is packed with details like vents, a nicely detailed smokejack, a sturdy antenna for the radio equipment and the classic RI tripod lights. Underneath, the model features a Waugh cushion underframe with complete brake gear and piping details. It’s all there, from the toilet dump pipe to the battery box to the pivoting release rod for the AB Valve. The model rides on Tangent’s gorgeous 70-Ton Barber Roller Bearing trucks with 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. For lighting, this Tangent RI model is equipped with prototypical red-green roof tripod marker lights and “golden” interior lights, mimicking the incandescent bulbs of the real cabooses. A wand is included to operate the lights – easy with no fuss! Extra parts are included to model the metal flag paddles/flag holders on the body corners. We are offering our RI Delivery scheme in 12 numbers! SKU 60410
- Rock Island (RI) "Delivery 1971" w/ Red-Green Lights & Rockwell Trucks illustrates the final order of ten ICC cabooses delivered to Rock Island. This group is most often noticed by RI (and later UP) modelers because of application of distinctive Rockwell “Express” trucks. These trucks were being tested by railroads in this era and provided additional stability at high speed. The prototype cabooses from this 1971 lot rode on these Rockwell trucks for their entire RI service lives. The models are painted in the as-delivered red, yellow and black scheme but differs from the 1967 scheme we are offering because the ROCK ISLAND is spelled out with slanted “speed” lettering. The silver roof is finished with a gorgeous red overspray pattern, duplicating the look of the cabooses when delivered from ICC Kenton. This order has a slightly taller body than the 1966 and 1967 Rock Island orders. Notice the extra vertical body space above the bay window. The side corner sealed windows have changed to rounded aluminum frames, compared to earlier orders with gasketed windows. The conductor’s desk window has an accurate framed sash/screened window, just like the prototype. Each RI ICC order is distinctive, and Tangent does its homework to get these details correct! These models feature all those interesting roof details, with the tripod marker lights, antenna and stand, roof vents and smokejack all present. Notice the lack of a roof walkway – these cabooses were built this way since this feature had fallen out of favor with the RI and ICC by the 1971 build date. The steps and end walkways on the model are beautiful Apex pattern etch metal. The end railings are classic ICC style, with careful paint masking for RI. RI used a very light gray/aluminum color for end railings and step edges. Underneath, the model features a 1971 variation of the Waugh cushion underframe with complete brake gear and piping details. The gravity dump toilet pipe is gone in this era, replaced with a closed, capped pipe for draining at the service points. The1971 style battery box is there, properly located, along with accurate conduit piping and the axle generator pulley. The model rides on Tangent’s All-New 50-Ton Rockwell Express Roller Bearing trucks with 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. For lighting, this Tangent RI model is equipped with prototypical red-green roof tripod lights and “golden” interior lights, mimicking the incandescent bulbs of the real cabooses. A wand is included to operate the lights – easy with no fuss! Extra parts are included to model the metal flag paddles/flag holders on the body corners. We are offering our RI 1971 Delivery scheme with Rockwell trucks in 6 numbers! SKU 60411
- Rock Island (ROCK) "Route Rock White Repaint 1979" w/ Red-Green Lights gives modelers two examples of late repainted cabooses in the ROUTE ROCK “white repaint” scheme. These replica numbers are pulled from the RI’s 1970 group of ICC Bay Window Cabooses. In fact, they are the only two known white repaints from the 1970 20-car class. This order had a slightly taller body than 1966 and 1967 Rock Island orders. Notice the extra vertical body space above the bay window. The side corner sealed windows changed to rounded aluminum frames, compared to earlier orders with gasketed windows. The conductor’s desk window has an accurate framed sash/screened window, just like the prototype. These models feature all those interesting roof details, with tripod marker lights, antenna and stand, roof vents and smokejack all present. Notice the lack of a roof walkway – these cabooses were built this way since this feature had fallen out of favor with the RI and ICC by the 1970 build date. The steps and end walkways on the model are beautiful Apex pattern etch metal. The end railings are classic ICC style, with air release and brake wheel details. Underneath, the model features a 1970 variation of the Waugh cushion underframe with complete brake gear and piping details. For those paying attention, it has a reversed orientation of the Waugh cushion unit and return spring when compared to the later 1971 order. Each RI ICC order is distinctive, and Tangent does its homework to get these differences correct! A later “plain” style battery box is there, properly located, along the axle generator pulley. The gravity dump toilet pipe is still on car number 17184 but has been replaced on car number 17187 with a closed, capped pipe for draining at the service points. Yes, that means road number specific caboose detailing! The model rides on Tangent’s gorgeous 70-Ton Barber Roller Bearing trucks with 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. For lighting, this Tangent RI model is equipped with prototypical red-green roof tripod lights and “golden” interior lights, mimicking the incandescent bulbs of the real cabooses. A wand is included to operate the lights – easy with no fuss! Extra parts are included to model the metal flag paddles/flag holders on the body corners. We are offering our RI Route Rock White Repaint 1979 scheme in 2 accurate numbers, each with car-number-specific paint and details! SKU 60412
- Union Pacific (UP) "Ex-Route Rock White Patch 1980+" w/Red-Green Lights shows off the post-apocalyptic life of a ROCK caboose. In April 1980, the UP retrieved all UP-owned cabooses from the bankrupt and shut-down RI. This included all of the ICC 1967, 1968, 1970 and 1971-built cars -- remember, they actually owned all of these RI cabooses! The renumbering started immediately, including this example, patched and renumbered by UP Omaha in May of 1980. This Tangent offering is painted in off-white color with fresh UP-applied white patches covering the ROUTE ROCK lettering and reporting marks. UP also applied black reporting marks on the bay window and ends. This model car number is part of the RI’s 1970 group of ICC Bay Window Cabooses. This order had a slightly taller body than 1966 and 1967 Rock Island orders. Notice the extra vertical body space above the bay window. The side corner sealed windows changed to rounded aluminum frames, compared to earlier orders with gasketed windows. The conductor’s desk window has an accurate framed sash/screened window, just like the prototype. These models feature all of those interesting roof details, with the tripod marker lights, antenna and stand, roof vents and smokejack all present. Notice the lack of a roof walkway – these cabooses were built this way since this feature had fallen out of favor with the RI and ICC by the 1970 build date. The steps and end walkways on the model are beautiful Apex pattern etch metal. The end railings are late ICC style, with air release and brake wheel details. Underneath, the model features a 1970 variation of the Waugh cushion underframe with complete brake gear and piping details. For those paying attention, it has a reversed orientation of the Waugh cushion unit and return spring when compared to the later 1971 order. Each RI ICC order is distinctive, and Tangent does its homework to get these differences correct! A later “plain” style battery box is there, properly located, along the axle generator pulley. The gravity dump toilet pipe has been replaced on this model with a closed, capped pipe for draining at the service points. The model rides on Tangent’s gorgeous 70-Ton Barber Roller Bearing trucks with 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. For lighting, this Tangent UP model is equipped with prototypical red-green roof tripod lights and “golden” interior lights, mimicking the incandescent bulbs of the real cabooses. This prototype never received an FRA red end light before acquisition by the UP. A wand is included to operate the lights – easy with no fuss! Extra parts are included to model the metal flag paddles/flag holders on the body corners. We are offering our UP Ex-Route Rock White Patch 1980+ scheme in one accurate number. SKU 60413
- UP Chicago & North Western (CNW) Lease 1980+ w/Red-Green Lights and FRA Red Light replicates a pair of interesting lease examples of ex-RI equipment. In 1980, the C&NW took control of significant ex-RI track miles in Iowa/Minnesota and was also planning the rebuild of its own caboose fleet. The C&NW needed road cabooses fast. The UP leased several dozen ex-RI ICC Bay Window cabooses to the C&NW through 1981. These cabooses can be identified by tiny 1” “LEASED TO CNW” stenciling on the body or bay window, but retained their UP bandit paint jobs. When returned in 1981, the cabooses continued to serve the UP with intact CNW stenciling (UP Modelers take note!) These two specific numbers are chosen from RI’s 1966 ICC order of 25 cabooses. The 1966 order features end brake wheel supports in a “zigzag” upright style, different from the 1967 order. These Ex-RI CNW Lease models feature an incredible story of paint and details; while originally built in 1966, the RI modernized the cabooses in the mid-1970s, resulting in removal of the running boards and cut-down ladders on the ends. The walkway brackets remained on the roof. The RI also added an FRA red light on each end in 1979, as part of the marker light updates for the era. All of these features are carefully duplicated in HO. The model is painted a faded red, mimicking RI’s now-faded 1966 solid red scheme, and each specific number features photo-accurate patches and data. Caboose UP 24503 features a patched bay window but kept the large “ROCK ISLAND” body lettering. Caboose UP 24506 received extensive patches, obliterating the large “ROCK ISLAND” lettering. Each caboose features accurate ACI (or patched ACI), COTS, U-1 inspection dot and other data per photos. The models ride on Tangent’s gorgeous 70-Ton Barber Roller Bearing trucks with 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. For lighting, this Tangent RI model is equipped with prototypical red-green roof tripod lights, red FRA flashing end lights and “golden” interior lights, mimicking the incandescent bulbs of the real cabooses. A wand is included to operate the lights – easy with no fuss! Extra parts are included to model the metal flag paddles/flag holders on the body corners. We are offering our CNW Lease 1980+ scheme in 2 different numbers, each with photo-specific paint patches and lettering! SKU 60414
- Union Pacific (UP) "1981+ Equal Opportunity For All" w/ Red-Green Lights gives UP modelers a distinctive caboose model. After patching Ex-RI cabooses with UP reporting marks in 1980, the UP’s Omaha Shops went on to refurbish at least three dozen ICC Bay Window cabooses and repaint them into the CA-13 Armour Yellow class. For this pair, we have selected two cabooses that were repainted in 1981 and received the “Equal Opportunity For All” slogan. The cabooses received UP-style sliding screens and tracks on the bay windows. The roof was modified with the removal of the tripod light stand (only the base remains), and a firecracker antenna has replaced the long RI-style antenna. The ends changed – UP added their distinctive horizontal mount red-green marker light. These features are all duplicated on the model. Underneath, eagle-eyed modelers will notice the UP-applied knuckle holders on one side and step lights (non-working) over the stepwell areas on the body top chord. The 1967 RI ICC features are present, including gasketed windows and Waugh cushion underframe. The model rides on Tangent’s gorgeous 70-Ton Barber Roller Bearing trucks with 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. For lighting, this Tangent UP model is equipped with prototypical red-green roof horizontal end lights and “golden” interior lights, mimicking the incandescent bulbs of the real cabooses. A wand is included to operate the lights – easy with no fuss! Extra parts are included to model the metal flag paddles/flag holders on the body corners and the sliding bay window screens. We are offering our UP “1981+ Equal Opportunity For All” scheme in 2 numbers, each with varying data placement based on prototype photos! SKU 60415
- Union Pacific (UP) "1981+ What do We do? We Work for You" w/ Red-Green Lights gives UP modelers another Armour Yellow CA-13 variation. After patching Ex-RI cabooses with UP reporting marks in 1980, the UP’s Omaha Shops went on to refurbish at least three dozen ICC Bay Window cabooses and repaint them into Armour Yellow with various employee-submitted slogans. For this pair, we have selected two cabooses that were repainted in 1981 and received the “What do We do? We Work for You” slogan. The cabooses received UP-style sliding screens and tracks on the bay windows. The roof was modified, with the removal of the tripod light stand (only the base remains) and a firecracker antenna has replaced the long RI-style antenna. The ends changed – UP added their distinctive horizontal mount red-green marker light. These features are all duplicated on the model. Underneath, the model features UP-applied knuckle holders on one side and step lights (non-working) over the stepwell areas on the body top chord. The 1967 RI ICC features are present, including gasketed windows and Waugh cushion underframe. The model rides on Tangent’s gorgeous 70-Ton Barber Roller Bearing trucks with 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. For lighting, this Tangent UP model is equipped with prototypical red-green roof horizontal end lights and “golden” interior lights, mimicking the incandescent bulbs of the real cabooses. A wand is included to operate the lights – easy with no fuss! Extra parts are included to model the metal flag paddles/flag holders on the body corners and the sliding bay window screens. We are offering our UP “1981+ What do We do? We Work for You” scheme in 2 numbers, each with varying data placement based on prototype photos! SKU 60416
- Undecorated KIT “RI 1966 Delivery Body” is an unassembled kit version of the RI 1966 ICC Bay Window Caboose in its as-delivered 1966 configuration. This kit matches RI 17082-17106. This kit is UNLIT -- no electronics are included. It is perfect for those who want to build their own cars or want to customize their own lighting circuit options. Ready for building, painting, and lettering for a favorite prototype or your own private road. This kit includes Tangent’s 70T roller bearing caboose trucks with power-pickup and 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. You supply your own favorite couplers. SKU 60400-01
- Undecorated KIT “RI 1966 Modernized Body 1974+ Era” is an unassembled kit version of the RI 1966 ICC Bay Window Caboose in its modernized configuration. This means no running board and late style end railings. This kit matches RI 17082-17106. This kit is UNLIT -- no electronics are included. It is perfect for those who want to build their own cars or want to customize their own lighting circuit options. Ready for building, painting, and lettering for a favorite prototype or your own private road. This kit includes Tangent’s 70T roller bearing caboose trucks with power-pickup and 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. You supply your own favorite couplers. SKU 60400-02
- Undecorated KIT “RI 1966 FRA Light Body 1980+ Era” is an unassembled kit version of the RI 1966 ICC Bay Window Caboose in its modernized 1980 configuration at the very end of RI. This means no running board and late style end railings with the FRA red light on the end. This kit matches RI 17082-17106. This kit is UNLIT -- no electronics are included. It is perfect for those who want to build their own cars or want to customize their own lighting circuit options. Ready for building, painting, and lettering for a favorite prototype or your own private road. This kit includes Tangent’s 70T roller bearing caboose trucks with power-pickup and 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. You supply your own favorite couplers. SKU 60400-03
- Undecorated KIT “RI 1966 UP Body 1980+ Era” is an unassembled kit version of the RI 1966 ICC Bay Window Caboose with UP 1980+ features. This means no running board, UP refurb bay window and underframe features with UP red-green end marker lights. This kit matches UP 24500-24524 (Ex- RI 17082-17106). This kit is UNLIT -- no electronics are included. It is perfect for those who want to build their own cars or want to customize their own lighting circuit options. Ready for building, painting, and lettering for a favorite prototype or your own private road. This kit includes Tangent’s 70T roller bearing caboose trucks with power-pickup and 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. You supply your own favorite couplers. SKU 60400-04
- Undecorated KIT “RI 1967 Delivery Body” is an unassembled kit version of the RI 1967 ICC Bay Window Caboose in its as-delivered 1967 configuration. This kit matches RI 17107-17181. This kit is UNLIT -- no electronics are included. It is perfect for those who want to build their own cars or want to customize their own lighting circuit options. Ready for building, painting, and lettering for a favorite prototype or your own private road. This kit includes Tangent’s 70T roller bearing caboose trucks with power-pickup and 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. You supply your own favorite couplers. SKU 60401-01
- Undecorated KIT “RI 1967 Modernized Body 1974+ Era” is an unassembled kit version of the RI 1967 ICC Bay Window Caboose in its modernized configuration. This means no running board and late style end railings. This kit matches RI 17107-17181. This kit is UNLIT -- no electronics are included. It is perfect for those who want to build their own cars or want to customize their own lighting circuit options. Ready for building, painting, and lettering for a favorite prototype or your own private road. This kit includes Tangent’s 70T roller bearing caboose trucks with power-pickup and 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. You supply your own favorite couplers. SKU 60401-02
- Undecorated KIT “RI 1967 FRA Light Body 1980+ Era” is an unassembled kit version of the RI 1967 ICC Bay Window Caboose in its modernized 1980 configuration at the very end of RI. This means no running board and late style end railings with the FRA red light on the end. This kit matches RI 17107-17181. This kit is UNLIT -- no electronics are included. It is perfect for those who want to build their own cars or want to customize their own lighting circuit options. Ready for building, painting, and lettering for a favorite prototype or your own private road. This kit includes Tangent’s 70T roller bearing caboose trucks with power-pickup and 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. You supply your own favorite couplers. SKU 60401-03
- Undecorated KIT “RI 1967 UP Body 1980+ Era” is an unassembled kit version of the RI 1967 ICC Bay Window Caboose with UP 1980+ features. This means no running board, UP refurb bay window and underframe features with UP red-green end marker lights. This kit matches UP 24525-24599 (Ex- RI 17107-17181). This kit is UNLIT -- no electronics are included. It is perfect for those who want to build their own cars or want to customize their own lighting circuit options. Ready for building, painting, and lettering for a favorite prototype or your own private road. This kit includes Tangent’s 70T roller bearing caboose trucks with power-pickup and 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. You supply your own favorite couplers. SKU 60401-04
- Undecorated KIT “RI 1970 Delivery Body” is an unassembled kit version of the RI 1970 ICC Bay Window Caboose in its as-delivered 1970 body configuration. This kit matches RI 17182-17201. This kit is UNLIT -- no electronics are included. It is perfect for those who want to build their own cars or want to customize their own lighting circuit options. Ready for building, painting, and lettering for a favorite prototype or your own private road. This kit includes Tangent’s 70T roller bearing caboose trucks with power-pickup and 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. You supply your own favorite couplers. SKU 60402-01
- Undecorated KIT “RI 1970 FRA Light Body 1980+ Era” is an unassembled kit version of the RI 1970 ICC Bay Window Caboose in its modernized 1980+ configuration, matching the very end of RI and UP use through late 1985. This means it has the FRA red light on the end. This kit matches RI 17182-17201 (UP 24600-24619). This kit is UNLIT -- no electronics are included. It is perfect for those who want to build their own cars or want to customize their own lighting circuit options. Ready for building, painting, and lettering for a favorite prototype or your own private road. This kit includes Tangent’s 70T roller bearing caboose trucks with power-pickup and 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. You supply your own favorite couplers. SKU 60402-02
- Undecorated KIT “RI 1971 Delivery Body” is an unassembled kit version of the RI 1971 ICC Bay Window Caboose in its as-delivered 1971 body configuration. This kit matches RI 17182-17201 (UP 24620-UP 24629) – and yes, this is the series that had Rockwell Trucks! This kit is UNLIT -- no electronics are included. It is perfect for those who want to build their own cars or want to customize their own lighting circuit options. Ready for building, painting, and lettering for a favorite prototype or your own private road. This kit includes Tangent’s 50T Rockwell “Express” roller bearing caboose trucks with power-pickup and 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. You supply your own favorite couplers. SKU 60403-01
- Undecorated KIT “RI 1971 FRA Light Body 1980+ Era” is an unassembled kit version of the RI 1971 ICC Bay Window Caboose in its modernized 1980+ configuration. This means it has the FRA red light on the end. This kit matches RI 17182-17201 (UP 24620-UP 24629) – and yes, this is the series that had Rockwell Trucks! This kit is UNLIT -- no electronics are included. It is perfect for those who want to build their own cars or want to customize their own lighting circuit options. Ready for building, painting, and lettering for a favorite prototype or your own private road. This kit includes Tangent’s 50T Rockwell “Express” roller bearing caboose trucks with power-pickup and 33" standard .110” tread CNC wheels. You supply your own favorite couplers. SKU 60403-02
All of these models can be seen at www.tangentscalemodels.com!
These cabooses are shipping today! Features for these replicas include:
- Dimensional accuracy - designed from meticulous field dimensions using real tape measures of four real RI cabooses (usually located near BBQ joints).
- Highly correct “true to life” colors
- “Hyper-Accurate” lettering including exact fonts and lettering placement
- Genuine Kadee® scale couplers
- “Near-scale” draft gear box with beautifully-rendered side “key” detail
- Multiple road numbers for each scheme, as appropriate
- Road and Era-specific details for each RTR scheme, including multiple body, roof, bay window, underframe detail, truck and side window combinations
- Five different road and era-specific bay window body options
- Four different era-specific bay window options
- Four different roof options
- Apex “see through” running board
- Accurate Waugh Cushion Underframe – 2 configurations
- Railroad and era-specific underframe details to match as-built ICC and modified configurations
- Multiple roof configurations for different radio antenna and vent mounting locations
- End steps and walkways that carefully replicate the prototype Apex walkway pattern
- Unapologetically fine etch metal side and end window screens, where appropriate
- Underframe and truck axle drive generator options
- Ten different end railing/marker light options, based on ICC lot and era
- Wire “coupler lift bar” detail per prototype application
- RI-specific interior – chairs, bunk, desk, lockers, ice chest, sink, oil bunker and the most detailed Vapor Corporation TCHA55 Caban heater in HO Scale! The interior is fully painted with era-specific colors
- Full underbody details – brake system with brake rods and piping, release rod and more – all based on the prototype and era!
- Beautiful side wire curved grab irons, intricate ICC end railings in plastic with accurate wire top ladder hoops
- Consumer applied optional metal red/green “flag” paddle parts included for appropriate eras
- Consumer applied optional metal bay window screens on UP models for appropriate eras
- LED illuminated RI rooftop tripod marker lights that can be controlled red/green/off – on each end – independently, where appropriate
- LED illuminated UP Red/Green end marker lights that can be controlled red/green/off – on each end – independently, where appropriate
- LED illuminated FRA end lights with a proper “decaying” flash that can be controlled on or off – on each end – independently, where appropriate
- LED illuminated interior lighting “warm” lights to replicate incandescent bulbs that can be controlled on or off
- No complicated decoder. No complicated programming. No complicated electronics. DC/DCC compatible track-powered “no fuss” interior and marker light lighting – simple and easy to operate with included wand
- CNC-machined standard RP25 .110” tread 33” wheels (Yes, semi-scale .088” wheels are available separately!)
- All-New precision Tangent Scale Models Rockwell 50-ton Barber roller bearing trucks with separate brake beam part, or 70-ton Barber roller bearing trucks with separate brake beam parts, as appropriate for each paint scheme
- Recommended age 14 years and older
A big “thank you” to:
- The RailsWest Museum and their staff in Council Bluffs, Iowa for allowing us to spend an entire day measuring RI 17130, one of the 1967 builds. A real RI caboose, in front of a real RI depot. That’s hard to beat.
- The City of Schuyler, Nebraska for allowing us access to measure the RI 17202, one of the 1971 builds. Rockwell trucks, a beautiful sunny day, and the roaring UP mainline.
- The town of Cheyenne Wells, Colorado for unknowingly waiting to repaint their UP 24598 (Ex RI 17180) from its 1980 bandit white ROCK scheme until after our visit. A quiet rural Colorado sunrise and the final moments of original ROCK lettering – so worth it.
- The Great Plains Transportation Museum in Wichita, Kansas for their operating UP 24538 (Ex-RI 17120). Looking just like the day it came off the railroad -- Layers of RI, UP and even some CNW lease lettering (!) to enjoy.
Don’t miss out on the Tangent Scale Models Rock Island Lines International Car Corporation Bay Window Caboose System, our fifth release in the Tangent caboose line. Pricing for RTR models is $124.95, with quantity discounts for direct purchases from Tangent Scale Models.
That wraps up our update for today, and thank you for supporting the family-owned businesses in our industry!
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