Ertl 2637DA 1/50 scale CAT 5080 Front Shovel (Excavator)

Here is the O scale flatcar model that will transport the ERTL CAT 5080 excavator model on my layout.

This is a KRL #300360 heavy duty depressed center 12-axle flatcar. The KRL Red n Ready flatcar has a load limit of 651,000 pounds.  The car has a 36 foot depressed center deck. The car length is 107 feet 6 inches over strikers. 

The Ertl models are well detailed and make very heavy but well detailed flat car loads or as background models. Have  few different ones.

Tks for pics and details, looks good.

This model has metal segmented tracks.  Other very similar Ertl models of this same type have a "rubber" track.

Note: If purchasing this model be certain to verify which track type is supplied with the model since they are identical in all other respects.  The "all metal" track version is very detailed and realistic.

Below is a photo of the same excavator model with rubber tracks

In truth, the CAT 5080 is too wide for standard rail transport.

Width Over Tracks13.5 ft in

That would have to be a special load and require advance clearance from the railroad, not to mention restricting traffic on adjacent tracks.  Tunnels would probably be an issue as well.

I considered that, probably the most expedient way to ship it.  I'm sure that Cat has to think of stuff like that for their equipment, given the limitations of rail or road shipment.

This matter of extra wide shipments over rail would be a good Forum topic for discussion. Are there any railroad "experts" that would know if this type of shipment is possible.  Obviously the rail route would have to be considered due to the many possible immovable obstructions along the way.

See this link: http://www.oversizedshipping.com/case.php