I’ve seen pics of 40’ double stacks with cars longer containers on the top, but what is the maximum lengh for top containers on Maxi I 40’ cars, 45’, 48’, or even 53’? I assume this also applies to the Athearn Maxi I model as well.
The photograph shows a 53’ container. However, it looks like if the container on the next unit were to be any longer, the 53’ container would not fit. Due to the size of the curves on many, if not most, model railroads, I think a 53’ container might not fit.
From observation of stack trains on the BNSF in Northern Arizona, there was probably a ‘match for clearance’ situation, just as is shown in the photo you posted. 53 foot containers were usually loaded on the ends of a 5-well unit, with all 40s or possibly a 48 or 53 in the center. 48s could be loaded over all five - but the clearance was close and might be too close for model railroad use.
If I was running double stacks, I’d try one loaded with a 53 on one end, with a 40, then a 48, then a 40, with another 53 at the other end. Run it VERY slowly, and be prepared to yank the 53s if it becomes obvious that they are having, or about to have, clearance problems. Your curves might limit that end unit to a 48.
During the time I model, my prototype ran single-level container cars, with 3.5 meter containers five to a 20-meter car.
Chuck (modeling Central Japan in September, 1964)