Atlas HO 20007631 - Master - REA Steel Express Reefer Car "Great Northern" #2223 (REA Leaseback)

Features:
• Welded sides
• 3/3 Improved Dreadnaught Ends
• Arched Roof
• Separate ladders and grabs
• Fully detailed underframe
• Steam, Air & Signal Hoses
• Cut Levers
• Equipped with AccuMate® Knuckle Couplers
• Trucks equipped with free-rolling metal wheels
• Accurate painting and lettering

Overview:
In 1947, REA ordered 500 of these all new steel express reefers from ACF, in an effort to handle express and parcel traffic. During the same time period, Atlantic Coast Line purchased 50. These cars were added to the front of passenger trains traveling coast-to-coast on all major railroads. These new steel express cars utilized welded construction and a new high speed truck design. They were able to carry both refrigerated loads as well as parcel loads due to their collapsible ice bunkers that were stored away when not in use.