dkdkrd posted:I've advocated creation of a 'fast mail' set in past threads re ideas for the manufacturers for new products. A lot of them have tooling already for the types of cars/mix in a fast mail train.
But one car that would be a nice production addition would be an appropriate tail end passenger car. For instance, a heavyweight coach...but with some added features: Working marker lights, a scissors-style tail gate at the vestibule diaphragm, some modest ridership.
Some of the mail trains had one, maybe two, passenger cars at the tail end for those hardy folks who were willing to tolerate a different ride, maybe even at a reduced ticket price, lengthy schedule, more frequent stops for drops and adds, etc.
An eclectic mix of flags/colors/styles on the mail car mix was somewhat a hallmark of those trains at their best. What an opportunity for manufacturers, retailers, consumers......IMHO, of course. Why, catalogs could have a special 'mail train' category featuring new releases/additions specifically targeting this important rail service in our history. In fact, changes could be as subtle/significant as a correct set of trucks (e.g., Allied Full Cushion) on a mail train release of a boxcar for that sort of service, along with correct paint/lettering, etc..
I know, I know.....not as flashy and glamorous as the crack passenger trains. But rather overlooked considering their scheduled importance.
Again,......IMHO, only.
KD
I really think this is something that can be easily put together by most hobbyists through the internet/train shows. Since the trains are so mixed you can just buy pieces here and there till something is assembled, hence where there probably isn't much interest in packaging something as a set. The components are available, they just have to be put together.
Adding marker lights to the last car should be pretty easy. Just some LEDs and a few castings and you're good to go. That's my plan whenever I get this train put together.
