One of the coolest things about a train layout is when you have pieces that actually work like the prototype they model. Or at least kind of, sort of, work like the prototype...
Lionel was big into these types of accessories, but when HO took the model train world by storm in the '50s, the accessories were scaled down as well.
Our little item this week is from the '70s. Tyco was the king of entry grade HO model trains back then, and they offered several accessories to spice up a young modeler's layout. I picked this one up off off Facebook Marketplace a few years ago. The Tyco Freight Unloading Boxcar!
Here is the box, in all it's brown border glory! Tyco collectors love the brown border box era. As you see, it states that you can unload the crates by remote control!
And there you have it! My example of this set is pretty much mint, so I'm fairly sure it wasn't played with much. And actually, even as cool as this idea seems at first, I don't think someone is going to sit there are run it over and over and over...
By the way, there is apparently another version of this kit that features a U.S. Mail car.
Until next time, keep searching for treasure!
Neat! The coolness factor is maxing out with this train accessory! I've always been fascinated by model train setups with animated scenery.
ReplyDeleteIn addition to vacuum cleaners and playful puppies, those little crates could also get batted under a sofa by a frisky kitty!
Looking at the open box, it's amazing how styrofoam looks just like stucco when viewed close-up.
Does the push-button get its power from the track/transformer? If not, if it's battery operated, maybe a lower voltage would make the mechanism work more gently, thus saving grandma's china.
I'm guessing the men inside the car slide back and forth, shoving the crates out the door?
Wow, looking at the last picture, there are a whole lot of cool accessories! I would think the crossing gate would be the best-selling of the bunch. The freight unloading depot looks like it would be neat to have!
You have neat stuff! Thanks, Stu.
The track transformer has a side for the track and a side for accessories. The track side has a reostat (and a polarity switch for reverse), but the accessory side is just on all the time. In short (too late) what you get when you hit that button is what you get! Grandma's china be darned!
DeleteYes, the men switch back and forth "tossing" the boxes. Watch out!
One of the things on the back that I have is the signal crossing. Unfortunately mine is broken. I used to have it on my layout (when I had a layout). Maybe next week I'll feature another one!