N ATH 57' FGE Mechanical Reefer Model (Yellow) (ATH-1480)

The 57-foot FGE Mechanical Reefer model in yellow is a detailed HO-scale replica designed to add realistic refrigeration-car action to a model railroad. This ready-to-run car faithfully captures the postwar mechanical reefer with an injection-molded body, precisely painted and printed details, and authentic underframe components such as keystone cushioning, an air brake reservoir, a control valve, a brake cylinder, and a fuel tank. Two exhaust-stack styles—straight pipe with a flapper or a T-shaped smokejack—mirror prototype variations, while body-mounted McHenry knuckle couplers keep the car properly aligned with the train. A 100-ton roller bearing truck assembly rides on 36-inch machined metal wheels that perform smoothly on Code 55 and 80 rail, and the entire model is weighted for dependable, trouble-free operation. The car has a minimum turning radius of 9¾ inches, with 11 inches recommended for best tracking around curves.

Optional onboard SoundTraxx sound brings the carriage to life, with sound recorded from an actual reefer unit and a board that lets volume be adjusted while the sound cycles on and off. For weathering enthusiasts, the Primed for grime variant offers the look of aged, in-service equipment—faded base colors matched to the prototype provide an excellent starting point for adding grime, rust, and other patina. Historically, this 57-foot reefer represents the type built for Fruit Growers Express, reflecting the era when mechanical refrigeration enabled nationwide transport of perishables and shaping the development of modern rail freight.