The Westerfield HO 1913 PRR Reefer is a model kit that captures the essence of the Pennsylvania Railroad’s R7 class refrigerator cars, which were an essential part of freight transportation in the early 20th century. This model is a must-have for serious railroad modelers and enthusiasts interested in preserving the rich history of the Pennsylvania Railroad and its pivotal role in the transportation of perishable goods. In this article, we will explore the key features, benefits, and applications of the Westerfield HO 1913 PRR Reefer, providing a comprehensive guide for both novice and experienced modelers.
What is the Westerfield HO 1913 PRR Reefer?
The Westerfield HO 1913 PRR Reefer is a high-quality resin model kit designed to replicate the R7 class refrigerator cars used by the Pennsylvania Railroad in the early 1900s. These cars were instrumental in the transportation of perishable goods, such as meats, dairy, and produce, by providing refrigerated space to preserve these products during long-distance shipments.
The kit is produced by Westerfield Models, known for its historically accurate model kits, and is available in HO scale. It’s perfect for adding period-specific details to a model railroad, especially if you’re focusing on freight operations from the early to mid-20th century.
Key Features of the Westerfield HO 1913 PRR Reefer:
- HO Scale: The kit is made in HO scale, allowing it to fit seamlessly into your existing model railroad layout.
- Detailed Resin Construction: Made from durable resin, the model is perfect for displaying intricate details such as wood grain texture, detailed rivets, and accurate lettering.
- Custom Decals: It comes with authentic decals that replicate the distinctive livery of the Pennsylvania Railroad, ensuring historical accuracy.
- Roof Options: The kit includes options for both original and modern roof designs, allowing for customization based on the era you wish to depict.
Why Choose the Westerfield HO 1913 PRR Reefer?
There are several reasons why the Westerfield HO 1913 PRR Reefer is a valuable addition to any model railroad collection:
1. Historical Accuracy
The Westerfield HO 1913 PRR Reefer is a highly detailed model that stays true to the design of the original cars. This makes it perfect for modelers looking to build historically accurate layouts. The Pennsylvania Railroad was one of the largest and most influential railroad companies in the U.S. during the early 1900s, and these reefer cars played a crucial role in their operations.
2. Customizable Design
Whether you want to model the cars from the original design or show later modifications, the Westerfield HO 1913 PRR Reefer kit allows for customization with both original and modern roof variations.
3. Durability and Ease of Assembly
Made with urethane resin, the model is both durable and easy to assemble. Resin construction is known for its fine details and sturdy structure, making it ideal for both display and use on model railroads.
How to Assemble the Westerfield HO 1913 PRR Reefer
The Westerfield HO 1913 PRR Reefer kit is designed for modelers who have some experience with building model kits. The assembly process is straightforward but requires attention to detail to ensure the final product is accurate and well-built.
Assembly Steps:
- Prepare the Components: Carefully remove all parts from the resin molds, using a sharp hobby knife to trim any excess material.
- Assembly of the Body: Begin by attaching the sides, ends, and floor of the reefer. Use model glue that is specifically designed for resin materials.
- Apply the Decals: After assembling the body, apply the custom decals provided with the kit. These decals feature the correct Pennsylvania Railroad livery, ensuring your model is historically accurate.
- Attach the Roof: Choose whether to use the original or modern roof option, and then glue it to the body of the reefer.
- Install the Trucks and Couplers: The trucks and couplers are sold separately, so you will need to purchase them according to your preference and install them after assembly.
Benefits of the Westerfield HO 1913 PRR Reefer
Here are the main benefits of choosing the Westerfield HO 1913 PRR Reefer for your model railroad:
- Realistic Detailing: The model features exceptional detailing, including accurate wood grain and rivet textures, making it a realistic addition to any collection.
- Historical Relevance: The PRR Reefer cars were key in the transportation of perishables, and adding them to your layout brings historical accuracy to your model railroad.
- Customizable Options: The kit includes roof variations and allows for flexibility in your model’s design, enabling customization based on the era you wish to depict.
Summary Table of Key Features:
| Feature | Details |
| Material | Urethane resin construction |
| Scale | HO Scale (1:87 ratio) |
| Roof Options | Original and modern roof styles |
| Decals | Accurate Pennsylvania Railroad livery |
| Assembly Difficulty | Moderate (requires model-building skills) |
| Trucks and Couplers | Sold separately |
Conclusion
The Westerfield HO 1913 PRR Reefer is a must-have for any serious railroad modeler interested in creating a historically accurate and detailed layout. Whether you’re adding it to an existing collection or starting a new one, this model kit offers everything you need to replicate the look and feel of early 20th-century freight operations. With its durable construction, accurate detailing, and customizable options, the Westerfield HO 1913 PRR Reefer will undoubtedly enhance the realism of your model railroad.
FAQs about Westerfield HO 1913 PRR Reefer
What is the Westerfield HO 1913 PRR Reefer?
The Westerfield HO 1913 PRR Reefer is a detailed resin model kit representing the Pennsylvania Railroad’s R7 class refrigerator cars, used for transporting perishable goods.
What scale is the Westerfield HO 1913 PRR Reefer?
The Westerfield HO 1913 PRR Reefer is designed in HO scale, which is a 1:87 ratio of the actual size, making it perfect for model railroads.
What materials are used to make the Westerfield HO 1913 PRR Reefer?
The Westerfield HO 1913 PRR Reefer is made of durable urethane resin, ensuring both high-quality detailing and long-lasting durability.
How can I customize the Westerfield HO 1913 PRR Reefer?
The Westerfield HO 1913 PRR Reefer comes with options for original and modern roof styles and includes accurate Pennsylvania Railroad decals for customization.
What additional components are needed for the Westerfield HO 1913 PRR Reefer?
The Westerfield HO 1913 PRR Reefer kit requires the purchase of trucks and couplers, which are sold separately, to complete the assembly of the model.
