Atlas N Trinity PD5000 Covered Hoppers

[kiwi_bnsf]

The upgraded ex-Walthers Trinity PD5000 covered hoppers are shipping from Atlas.

Apparently these have re-tooled end ladders and etched roof walks, but in typical Atlas fashion there are zero product photos available online (just artwork).

https://shop.atlasrr.com/c-1670-n241.aspx

Has anybody seen these in the wild? If so, a photo / opinion would be greatly appreciated.

(I realise that The Railwire is not my private army, but as I'm based in New Zealand, Atlas is not making my life any easier).

Cheers

[basementcalling]

Lombard Hobbies has them listed as in stock, but only artwork for photos on their website.

https://lombardhobby.com/n-trains/

[kiwi_bnsf]

I bugged Atlas via email, and a week later they have posted photos — kudos!

Unfortunately I'm not sure I can bring myself to purchase any of the these — the end cage and stirrups are still quite crude. The etched metal roof walks seem to be the major change but I don't think these are deserving of "Master Line" pricing…

[learmoia]

But they come with metal wheels and a fancy new jewel case..

https://www.ebay.com/itm/174705822935

[mu26aeh]

I seen these in person today, the end cages are not terrible in my opinion, but the major drawback I see as it being a Master Line car, they put plastic wheels on it.  If this car was retooled to do the etched walkway etc etc, why are they still putting plastic wheels on a new to them car ? 

[eja]

....  If this car was retooled to do the etched walkway etc etc, why are they still putting plastic wheels on a new to them car ?

So they can sell you wheels, maybe ??

[mu26aeh]

So they can sell you wheels, maybe ??

In that case, dont charge me Master Line prices.  Other master line cars have metal whhels