HO RTR 40' Fruehauf Trailer, PC/PCTZ #297396 (ATH16133)

The 40' Fruehauf Z-Van Trailer is fully assembled and ready to use right out of the box. It features a highly-detailed, injection-molded body with separately applied mud flaps, rubber tires, and options for either 2 or 4 door rods per prototype. Customers can choose between wheeled or shoe-style landing gear depending on the prototype's requirements. This model represents a realistic addition to both road and rail scenes from the 1970s to the 2000s.

In the 1970s and 1980s, the Fruehauf Corporation became known for producing semi-trailers specifically designed for intermodal service. The Z-Van designation comes from the fact that trailer equipment intended for transport on flatcars for rail operations carried the letter "œZ" as part of the reporting mark. The Z-Van was built to withstand the challenges of both road and rail travel, leading to higher durability standards. Initially available in a 40' length, the Z-van was later offered in a 45' option, with many 40' trailers subsequently extended. The range included refrigeration equipment and various configurations for landing gear and door rods. The transition in construction methods is evident, starting with ribbed-side versions, moving to beaded-side designs, and culminating in smooth side versions as the modern approach.