The little caboose that could. That's probably the best way to describe the Northeastern Design Caboose. Just about every northeastern railroad owned a variety of this neat caboose. Now you might say, "But there's multiple versions of the NE Caboose - you can't possibly be producing all of them!" Oh, yes, we can! (Keep reading, it gets better!)

The Reading Railroad was the champion of the Northeastern Design, having built 285 examples through several classes. The early cars had solid underframes, but later ones were built on Duryea cushion underframes. This added a much smoother ride for the crews.

Upon seeing the success, the Reading had with these cabooses, other roads soon followed with their own examples, such as: Central Railroad of New Jersey, Lehigh & New England, the Lehigh Valley, Pittsburgh & West Virginia, the Western Maryland and more. Some were even built by the Reading. This led to many variations - something we paid close attention to when designing this caboose!

No detail left behind! We took blueprints, field measurements and used photos to develop the Northeastern Design Caboose. The model features details and variations that cover the early builds right through to the end of their service lives.

Lehigh Valley version with lots of detail options! And something to keep in mind is many of these lasted well into the 80s, 90s and even today. Some found their way onto shortlines, others as privately-owned cars and even some as motels!

Now, enough jibber jabber. It's time to check out the collage of schemes for the Northeastern Design Caboose! Scroll down to see every scheme we will be offering on the first run.

Ten schemes, although I think Lehigh & New England is the best. (Sorry CNJ fans!) Plus undecorated for everyone impatient to wait. All of that plus more info and item and road numbers can be found by clicking the photo below to view the catalog.

Once the Northeastern Design Caboose is ready for production, we will announce the order deadline. So, get your orders in on these beauts! Click here for more info or to order direct!

NEW! HO Scale ATSF RR56 Reefer!

In 1955, Gasoline was 23 cents a gallon, new cars were under $2,000, the Brooklyn Dodgers won the World Series (Making my father proud) and Santa Fe introduced the RR-56 Reefer Car. Talk about a wild year. Of course, the highlight of all that was the reefer!

The RR-56 class of refrigerator cars were "all purpose" Mechanical Temperature Control (MTC) style cars. They carried diesel generators to keep the inside perishables cool, but also had insulated sides. These were delivered in two groups, the 2000-2188 series and the 2500 series. The major difference was the earlier series carried Trane Detroit Diesel generators while the latter had Thermo-King Diesel generators. Externally, there were no differences.

In 1958, the RR-56 design proved to be highly successful that two more classes were added: The RR-60 and 61 reefers. These did not have any external differences, but were built with different insulation, which was identified as "Super Insulated All Purpose Mechanical Temperature Controlled" cars. That's a real tongue twister!

That's enough technical speak. Let's look at those details!

Now did we mention the RR Reefers have optional sound? Yes! You can have a fleet of reefers with that unmistakable buzzing of the diesel generator grinding away. The speaker and soundboard are sold separately. Check out the catalog below or click here to learn more.

The Rapido RR-56/60/61 Reefers feature:

OK, I want to know about those paint schemes! For a single railroad-owned car, there's LOTS of schemes to pick from. Maybe I should say "Get your slogan on." (Scroll down)

Need those item and road numbers? Maybe you just want to scan over the pretty catalog. You can do all that and more by clicking the photo below to download the RR56 Reefer catalog.

Once we have everything buttoned up with the tooling and have shown a few samples, we'll send the RR56 Reefer off to production. Keep posted with future newsletters for an exact date.

Please click here for more info or to order direct!

Remember those days when your parents would threaten with coal for Christmas if you were misbehaving? (My parents actually had to change it to broccoli, since I would have welcomed coal!) Well guess what? Now you don't have to be on the naughty list to fill up your GLa Hopper Cars with a realistic looking Coal Load.

Following the announcement of our HO Scale GLa hopper cars, we’ve received many requests for coal loads to fit them. We’re happy to oblige!

Introducing the new Rapido HO Scale Coal Loads, specifically designed to fit our GLa hoppers. Each package contains two beautifully detailed cast resin loads, so your GLa hoppers won’t have to leave the mine empty! These can also be adapted to fit other 2-bay hoppers.

These loads will be available at the same time as the GLa hoppers. Be sure to reserve yours now! Click the photo below to have a look at the Coal Load catalog. But seriously, there isn't much else to tell you about this....

Already ordered your GLas? Click here to head back to our web site to order your coal loads too!

Here's some news about our big HO scale E8 project.

It’s amazing the number of small detail transformations undergone over just a few years by Union Pacific’s fleet of E-units! Our initial rendering of these units proved to have a bit of a mix of details, so with the help of several UP experts we’ve now modified those renders to be a little more accurate. Our model will represent units painted between June 1956 and January of 1959. (Of course, not all units were painted at once, so it is likely that many continued after this date with these features intact). So, what has changed? Well, based on information provided to us:

We apologize for any confusion that the earlier renders may have caused. Please also note that these are not yet final production artworks, so we still have time to make small corrections as needed.

Please click here or contact your hobby shop to order your E8 A and B units. And thank you again to our knowledgeable customers who share prototype information with us!

April is just around the corner, which means we have two VERY HUGE order deadlines looming. This is the HO scale PA/B-1 and 2 Locomotives and the HO Scale PC&F B-100-40 Boxcars. Let's take a closer look at these models below.

Last month we debuted a new hand-painted PA/B-1 and 2 Locomotive sample as well as discussed the change to ESU LokSound. We're gearing up for production now, and the order deadline has finally been announced.

The PA/B Locomotives are often considered to be the most attractive diesel locomotives ever built. Not going to lie, it certainly is a beauty! Now add that famous Alco chug and rattle and you have yourself one fine looking and sounding locomotive!

We're working on a new video to show off the model features. If you haven't yet seen our video showing the 3D scan of the real engine, please click here or on the link below. Because we did a 3D scan, you can rest assured that the contours of our Alco PA will be 100% accurate.

The PA and B Locomotives were built as direct competition with EMD's E-series locomotives (Which we also happen to offer - click here!) Most were retired by the 1970s, but three were bought by the Delaware & Hudson. These three eventually wound up in Mexico, but two have since been brought back to the States for restoration. We were able to 3D scan and take measurements of Doyle McCormack's restored NKP PA in Portland, Oregon in 2019. What an awesome event that was and the most exciting part is being able to have an operating sample in HO. Just check out all that beautiful detail in the photos.

Here are the PA/B-1 and 2 Locomotive features:

Available as single powered A-units or in A+B powered sets

Don't forget, some road names are offered both as single locomotives and as a PA and B set. This means you can build that power-centric consist for the ATSF Mail trains or have a 3-pack of SPs on a passenger train over Donner Pass. Now, for more information, check out the catalog below by clicking the photo!

We're getting closer to the moment everyone's been waiting for. The PA/B-1 and 2 Locomotives are just about to head into production. So don't wait, get your orders in for the first run of these gorgeous locomotives! Also, please subscribe to our YouTube page: we'll have a new video AND sample appearing soon!

Hello, hello, in a place called vertigo... To say this car caused all sorts of the vertigo for the project manager (...that may or may not be the person writing right now) would be an understatement. The PC&F B-100-40 Boxcar might be one of the most intricate projects we have worked on, since we were not happy with parts of the roof components and have since redesigned it from scratch. In fact, as I type, I am also looking over the latest drawings of this car from the factory. We also created a short video combining the B-100 and X72. Click here or the photo above to watch. Then come on back and check out the car!

This new roof is being tooled next week. Below is the new design.

In 1976, Southern Pacific ordered 250 B-100-40 Boxcars from Pacific Car & Foundry. These featured a capacity of 5195-cubic feet, a large 12' door, Car-Pac loaders, the infamous "Hydra-Cushion" underframe and the iconic half-height waffle protrusions on the sides. They could be found all across North America, including Canada. Many still exist in SP, UP or Golden West paint, while some have gone on to new owners.

In the mid 1990s, Amtrak purchased several examples for use in express service. These had a few differences, which included: removal of the Hydra-Cushion, addition of door wheel handle, struts on the tucks for extra stability at higher speeds as well as EOT brackets on the ends. Of course, we just had to tool these variations, as well! Now as a reminder, the roofs on the samples seen here have the OLD ROOF. The newly designed one is the 3D drawing above. So, now you can check out the photos!

Our B-100-40 model features the following details:

Did I mention that the x-panel roof was a real job to work on?

Before you jump to the catalog, let's take a look at the schemes being offered. The patched SP might be one of the neater schemes we've offered on freight cars. (And a factory painting nightmare!)

Lots of good schemes to pick from. In fact, you could justify buying an entire fleet! Note that if you want unnumbered models, you can always order them direct from Rapido in batches of six. Just send us a note to get that started.

Full information can be found by clicking on the catalog below!

You probably know what's coming next: something about an order deadline, order these cars, etc. YES! Get your orders in soon for the B-100-40 Boxcars so you don't miss out on these exceptional boxcars! Heck, I didn't stay up till 1 and 2am working on this car for nothing!

The order deadline is April 15th.

This month we have two freight cars closing on March 15th. This is the HO Scale HO Scale Evans X72 and X72A Boxcar and the HO Scale GLa Hopper. Quite different, but each car has carved itself into railroad history. Lets take a look at the X72 Boxcars first.

We've told you all about the Evans X72 and X72A before. If you have these models on your layout, they are 30 years old! (Or they are from 30-year-old tooling!) Now in case you didn't already watch the combined X72 -B-100 video, click here or the photo above to take a look.

It's about time someone brought this car into the 21st century.

While the sides of the car were smooth, they packed a lot of underbody details. We simply couldn't resist bringing out a highly detailed model of one.

This isn't some 30-year old tooled car, this is the ULTIMATE X72 boxcar!

Many forget the WP and CN both got a handful of the X72 Boxcars. While CN choose a more utilitarian look, WP put the iconic yellow wordmark on the right side. They sure looked sharp! I better go order one...or five. In fact, I'll need to reference the catalog for all of the item and road numbers, which can be found below by clicking on the photo.

March 15th is just a few days away, so in case you have that order sitting on the shelf, make sure you get it in on-time! The X72 Boxcars will look right at home on any layout!

GLa, that could stand for "Great Looking Accessory." Though I have my doubts. In all seriousness, the HO Scale GLa Hoppers sure are one great looking hopper car. They even have rivets on the inside walls!

High detail combined with two different styles of brake rigging. O-la-la! To watch a video with Bill, click here, or on the photo above or below.

These cars started production in the early 1900s, but many lasted well into the 50s and 60s, with some even making it as far as the Penn Central era. Talk about a run! Did I mention that PRR built nearly 30,000 cars?

Now how could we make this better? Well, if you remember from a few paragraphs above, we will now be offering a 2-Pack of coal loads for separate sale! In case you missed this part, scroll back up to the "Coal Load" section to read more.

Here is a nice shot of the interior wall rivets:

With the addition of the coal loads, the GLa Hopper Car is certainly one nice all-around car for any layout. But what if you don't model the PRR? Well, I'm glad you asked! Here's a list of all of the schemes we are offering. I remember I said way back in December that Cambria & Indiana was my favorite. But there's plenty to pick from - even CN!

Check out the paint schemes being offered:

Yes, the hoseheads even get CN out of this run. No excuse now to say it's a nice car, but I don't need it! Although I guess if you're running a CN intermodal, you may not need one...

Before we move on, check out the catalog below by clicking the photo.

Whether you want a solid block of the GLa Hopper Cars or just need a few for the team track, don't forget that the order deadline is March 15th.

We're hiring... again!

Rapido's email inbox is causing Jordan, Dan and Lystra some serious sleepless nights. Some weekends we can get 200 emails and then by the time they have caught up, there are 200 more.

We're looking for a new customer service person to help the team with those emails. But once you're here, we want you to do SO. MUCH. MORE.

Here's the job description:

Please click here to submit your resume and cover letter.

Back in late 2020, we discussed a few F59PH locomotive schemes that were in trouble with preorders. Since then, we have seen a good push, and everyone has responded except for some dudes in LA.

The two schemes still at risk are:

(If you're curious about TRE - as of right now, it's good to go!)

Hey Surfer Dudes! Come ashore for a minute and reserve your engines! We've sold about ten times as many GO Transit F59PHs as Metrolink. You guys have more people AND more paint schemes. Please order some. Please?

Remember we also announced the Bilevel Commuter Cars? I have just one question for anyone not ordering those two Metrolink schemes: What do you plan on using to pull these cars? In fact, just to hammer home the message, below is a photo by our very own Craig Walker of a Metrolink F59PH in the as-delivered scheme.

Lots of neat stuff packed into that photo: ATSF signal bridge, Fullerton Station, Santa Fe engines on the left and palm trees! Oh, and that gorgeous Metrolink F59PH in the as-delivered scheme. So, if you want to take another look at the catalog, please click the photo below.

We'll be announcing an order deadline soon as the tooling is ready to go into production. We'll give it another push when we have our first samples of the bilevel cars next month.

Please click here to reserve your F59PH models or contact your dealer.

Every day we get many emails asking us if we can make this locomotive or that freight car. The suggestions are great, but we wanted to add a better way to categorize each submission as well as free up our email inbox. So, we set out to create a form and filing system that could adequately handle this. Voila! Out popped the Product Suggestion Form.

Now remember, when filling out a request, make sure to fill in each box with as much info you can think of and if you have drawings, files or photos that would be helpful, add those as well!

We look at every request. We look forward to hearing from you!

After a few weeks off for Chinese New Year, the factories are coming back and they are rolling! Ahead is a section packed with factory photos of stuff in production! Come along and see the progress.

First up is the HO Scale SW1200 Locomotive. Get excited! These are currently on the assembly line, most have been painted and are in the detail and parts application phase. In fact, by the time you read this, they'll be even closer to leaving the factory. One thing to keep in mind: the photos do not do the models justice. Because of the low quality of the lighting, colors may be misrepresented. (Yes, we're adding that disclaimer before we get 1,000,000 angry emails!)

The photo below of the SW1200 chassis should give you an idea of just how large this project was. That's trays and trays of SW1200 Locomotives as far as one can see! It is our largest locomotive production run ever.

How about another N Scale Canadian update? The last time we saw the N Canadian cars, they were just out of the mould shop and headed for paint. Now they're into final assembly. This is another large project, and the factory is moving swiftly to complete production and get these sent. In the meantime, let's take a look at the progress.

These should be here in the next few weeks, so get ready N Scalers! The N Scale Canadian is almost here!

Here's even more stuff!

The New Look Buses are rolling along. Here's Minneapolis MTC - an exclusive from Carrera Designs.

Can I just say our buses look awesome?

HO scale Bilevels! A Series IV coach. Get excited!

But these bilevels are gonna be awesome!

Note those neat triangular cut-bars. Those are from the new HO scale RS-18u.

Check out the iconic A-1-A trucks! These are from our new HO scale RSC-14!

Since February's Newsletter, we've been hard at work on a few new videos plus a few virtual train shows. Ready for the B-team?

I love it when a plan comes together! Enjoy the B Team exploding a few HO Scale F7/F9B Units on Jason's Kingston Sub Layout. It's high on energy! Click here or the photo above to watch this insanity.

(Disclaimer: No, B.A. Baracus does not make an appearance. neither does Jordan... he spent an hour filming just to be cut out of the video!)

David Gunn, MMR, has built a beauty of a layout in the transition era of Canadian railroading. Come along for a brief but detailed view of his operations of Canadian National in Ontario. You'll see many scratch-built structures, stunning scenery and even a few Rapido products along the way. This is a must-watch video, so click here or the photo above to watch. Thanks again, Dave!

A few weeks ago we hosted another Facebook and YouTube Live, better known as "Rapido Live - Ask Us Anything!" In this episode we discuss March's order deadlines, new products and of course take customer questions. Jordan hosted with Bill and John as his guests. So if you have an hour or so to spare, take a watch by clicking here or the photo above.

On March 20, 2021, we will be participating in the Rocky Mountain Train Show, which is virtual this year. We have two exciting video segments we will show - but we can't tell you yet, so you'll just have to tune in to watch. But since it's Women's History Month, everyone's favorite Rapido employee will be making an appearance!

Watch Rocky Mountain Train Show's Facebook for time segments. You won't want to miss it!

We're proud to report that our fearless leader has his first proper article in Model Railroader magazine. It's a four-page article telling of the trials and tribulations of building the full-size VIA Rail Canada coach in his basement. Well done, Jason. Now we want to see an article about your layout!

(Ed: Hopefully soon. By the way, building the full-size coach was a breeze compared to building the layout...)

What...really?

It’s MY turn to write the essay? Are you sure you want the ‘new’ guy to write the essay? I’ve still got new product ideas!

Oh, yeah. I guess you’re right. I don’t need to give Jason any more products to NOT approve because they didn’t run through Brockville in 1980!

My time with Rapido, as of this writing, has been rather short. But in that short time, I have learned just how different Rapido is compared to my previous background. One would not have thought model train product development could differ so much, but I’m here to tell you – it does!

I really see this as a positive, though: it goes to show that there is more than one way to do things; it utilizes other skills that I am trained for; and this is helping me to learn further what it really takes to bring a product from idea to market release. It will be really useful when I start my new company, reducedsizetrains.com.

So, when friends ask me how it’s going for me at Rapido, I genuinely say “It’s different, but it’s the same.” Otherwise, what else is there to say?

It’s been fun being in the inner workings of this organization.

I really didn’t have any grand ideas of working at Rapido back in November. But when the calls came through and an agreement was made in December, there really was no ‘being the new guy’ – I already knew most of the team! And that’s one of the great things about Rapido, everyone is happy to help everyone else with a project as a team. But I call Dan Darnell so often that sometimes I wonder if he is going to start screening my calls…

As far as projects go, we’re all modelers and therefore all pretty familiar with just about any prototype the Rapido collective pitches. Any project I have had an idea for, so far, has not met a resounding ‘no!’ Maybe a few raised eyebrows, but hey, I kind of expected that. Jason particularly liked my idea of a Canadian-only MLW switcher that operated in Toronto in 1980. I was really surprised by that.

The cool part is that this week, my third project was submitted to the factory for design, and I'm getting started on my fourth. That's three projects in as many months! Only 740 more projects to go as of this exact point in this essay!

I can also say that I have been assigned some other tasks that I wasn’t expecting – stuff that I would never have placed in the category of "product development." I hope everyone will enjoy these when we announce them!

But for now, I think that’s about it without giving everything away. Maybe one day there will be a grand, tell-all interview but not in this newsletter!

And I bet Jason wants me to get back to new product development. So…

Thanks, Matt. You managed to not give anything away at all. And I thought you were going to tell everyone about that SD70M-2 you just sent to the factory.

That's it for another mammoth Rapido News. For the 12 of you still reading, thanks for sticking with us!

Bobby