Kato Amtrak Material Handling Cars Phase III, Set C2, 1508,1553, #106-3506

Kato Amtrak Material Handling Cars Phase III, Set C2, 1508,1553, #106-3506 Prototype Information: Amtrak rosters two types of MHC cars, or Material Handling Cars. They are known by modelers as MHC-1 or MHC-2. The original 1400-series MHC-1 cars were built by Thrall in 1986 utilizing rebuilt trucks from former REA express cars with a short wheelbase. In 1989 Amtrak began receiving a second version of the MHC, the MHC-2, which carry road numbers in the 1500-series. These cars differed in some notable ways. The trucks were a new design that had a longer wheelbase than the earlier cars. Further, there was a body snubber anchor mounted on the sides of the car above each truck. These two details are the most obvious differences between the two car series, however the body and roof are entirely different from the earlier cars Model Features: Trucks have electrical pickup for installation of aftermarket End of Train/Flashing Rear End Devices (Note: Kato does not manufacture EoT/FRED kits) Finely detailed with prototype accurate painting and lettering Free and smooth rolling trucks for maximum performance All cars are equipped with Kato semi-automatic knuckle couplers Designed to be pulled by Kato’s EMD F40PH or GE P42 “Genesis” Locomotives This item is from the collection of Jim Hediger, retired Model Railroader magazine editor. It is believed to be new in box, considered pre-owned.