PRR H21 Hopper Extension (Now H22A hopper)

[Missaberoad]

The cars were always that height. The h22a extentions replaced the original "extentions" that the cars were built with. Bowser made models of the as built h22 hoppers aswell.

https://www.flickr.com/photos/lionel682/8336894241/in/photolist-dGGLcT

As to why build the cars that way in the first place, this Elden Gatwood post from the RealStmfc list sheds some light

Responding to demand, some roads like the PRR chose to manufacture exclusive coke "racks", like the H22, which had a high capacity (for the time) and also exhibited gaps in the top panels for insertion of slats. 
The theory is that existing loading docks had a certain height (about equal to the top of a gondola?), and that these cars were made to accommodate wheelbarrow loading of most of the interior, with final loading taking place after the openings were filled in and loads dumped in over the "extended" sides to top it off. 

Source: https://realstmfc.groups.io/g/main/message/35001

[Jesse6669]

I'm sorry (not sorry) but I figured since I had the top of the H22A done, I might as well do the bottom of it.  This is about 75% complete, still a day or so work is still needed.  I should have a test model in a few days.  This is N scale, but I will probably re-scale it to Z as well even though I don't model that era.

 

[garethashenden]

Is that still to fit the Bowser H21? 

[rail_nut]

Just a thought. If they were rebuilt could this be to replace damage caused by a "mechanical car shaker" or just heavier side plate to prevent future damage?

[Jesse6669]

Is that still to fit the Bowser H21? 

It'll fit nicely on top.  Seriously, about all that I intend to use from the original are the trucks and maybe the couplers.     

[garethashenden]

It'll fit nicely on top.  Seriously, about all that I intend to use from the original are the trucks and maybe the couplers.   

Keystone Details used to make the correct trucks. Maybe John can be persuaded to relaunch them for these.

[Lemosteam]

Aye, after this weekend’s testing, ALL 30+ of my truck designs will be available, see the weekend update.

[Jesse6669]

Keystone Details used to make the correct trucks. Maybe John can be persuaded to relaunch them for these.

The 2E-F2 trucks that Bowser had on the H21 is accurate, no?

[Lemosteam]

The 2E-F2 trucks that Bowser had on the H21 is accurate, no?

I can tell you unequivocally, their plastic formula sucks.  I have broken their trucks and bolster pins just trying to pull them off using a screwdriver between the truck and frame.  You can break off a stirrup by looking t it.

One of the reasons I designed my own.

This link is very handy to see what PRR truck class was used on what rolling stock class.
http://prr.railfan.net/freight/PRRTruckTypes-C422800.html

[Jesse6669]

I can tell you unequivocally, their plastic formula sucks.  I have broken their trucks and bolster pins just trying to pull them off using a screwdriver between the truck and frame.  You can break off a stirrup by looking t it.

I found this out removing one of the pins from the donor H21.. still the trucks look ok but I'll see about getting some of your 2E-F2 trucks.   

So here's first test print.  In my hurry to see how it looked I didn't let it fully dry or cure yet.  Some things needed better support--the door latches, brake wheel platform.. but that's easily fixed.  The handrails should straighten out as they dry more.  Need to figure out the coupler mounting but that's not hard.  A couple more details are needed-- pulling loops, tack board.. but it's mostly done.   And I left the stiffener on the top chord although most of the pics don't have it--but it is on the drawings from 1956.

[Jesse6669]

Final version.  Lowered the ride slightly (as much as possible within the limits of the wheelsets) per prototype.  Added pulling loops, tack boards, door latches, and made some 2E-F2 trucks.  Calling this one done (more or less), and will be making a Z scale version for my own layout.  And a set of circle logo decals.   As for weight, there are gaps under the end slopes and I'm going to pack them with tungsten putty and see what the weight is.  Of course loaded you can put some weight in the hopper.