New Bluford Shops announcement for May, 2026.

[Bluford Craig]

Hello everyone,
We have just announced a new run of our USRA 2-Bay hopper cars. It's been awhile since we've run these and we have tooled an all-new Andrews truck that resolves the rolling issues we had off and on in the past. This group of 15 road names includes schemes from late in the war to the 1960s. Have a look here: https://www.bluford-shops.com/bluford_93_040.htm

Thanks,
Craig
Bluford Shops

[thomasjmdavis]

I'm gonna need another coal mine kit....

[Dave V]

Oh hell yeah...

[R L Smith]

Uh-oh. Mr. Wallet will not be happy...

[reinhardtjh]

Looks like I have to find a new place for pre-orders...

[Dave V]

@Bluford Craig ,

How are the wheelsets on these? The PRR ones I got had an issue with the axles rubbing on the couple pocket screws.

[garethashenden]

@Bluford Craig ,

How are the wheelsets on these? The PRR ones I got had an issue with the axles rubbing on the couple pocket screws.

This is probably what he meant by designing new Andrews trucks.

[Dave V]

This is probably what he meant by designing new Andrews trucks.

   I suppose I need a remedial reading class. Do'h! And yes, he specifically addressed the rolling problem.

[Chris333]

Was it the trucks or the screw head to sitting flat?

[Bluford Craig]

Was it the trucks or the screw head to sitting flat?

The original Andrews truck sat a bit too low and when the factory switched from a flush screw to one with more of a pan head, the combination caused the axel to rub on the screw. The new truck fixes that, plus I will be requesting the factory use the original screw.
Craig

[Ngineer]

We have just announced a new run of our USRA 2-Bay hopper cars. It's been awhile since we've run these and we have tooled an all-new Andrews truck that resolves the rolling issues we had off and on in the past.

Hello,

will you offer them as spare parts to retrofit our older models?

Javier

[Bluford Craig]

Hello,

will you offer them as spare parts to retrofit our older models?

Javier

That's a good idea. I'll see to it.
Craig
Bluford Shops

[delamaize]

Ugh. Why did you show me these...... Those NP ones..... My Wallet isn't going to be happy.