55-ton "fishbelly" hoppers

Model Railroader Prototype information for the modeler
1

What are the differences between USRA 55-ton hoppers and a 55-ton “fishbelly” hoppers? Thanks.

Tom

2

Tom.

The ‘fishbelly’ car has a dip in the frame starting at the bolster and dropping to the first hopper outlet. Look at the Bowser web page:

http://www.bowser-trains.com/In%20Stock%20Pages/55%20Ton%20Hopper%20Cars%20Complete.htm#Fishbelly

Jim

3

The fishbelly hoppers were primarily used by the eastern coal roads, espeicailly the anthracite roads.

4

Stewart (Bowser) fishbelly hopper:

Accurail USRA hopper:

Wayne

5

Jim, Dave, and Wayne -

Thanks for the info and pictures! [:D]

Tom