| PRR and TTX F39 Class Flatcar Decals |
Thank you for buying this decal sheet. This set was produced to re-introduce an accurate set for these classes due to
other manufacturers ceasing production.
During the early 1950’s, truck trailer on flatcar or TOFC service began being developed as an easier logistical method
of moving freight in less time from origin to destination. The PRR had started doing this by using their F30 flatcars,
however they could only carry one trailer, so a more efficient design was created. In 1955 Bethlehem Steel built 200 F39
class flatcars. These were 75 feet long and could carry two trailers. TOFC service proved to be very successful. In total,
the PRR owned 500 F39 type flatcars for TOFC service. Additionally, in 1957 the PRR built 300 F39c flatcars at their
Sam Rea shops for the Trailer Train Company.
In 1956 the Trailer Train Company was formed, to allow for easier interchange of TOFC flatcars between railroads.
To begin its operation, all 500 of the PRR’s F39 fleet was transferred to the company, with the Pennsylvania being
replaced with TTX on the sides of the cars. These cars lasted in this service until longer trailers were built, requiring longer
flatcars to haul them.
This sheet contains enough data for lettering 3 cars with either PRR or TTX reporting marks. There is 1 each of the
F39 family of cars, F39, F39a, F39b, and F39c. The Pennsy TrucTrain slogan was applied to a display sign on the F39s
and was used for display and promotional purposes only before being removed and placed in regular revenue service.
The F39 class flatcar has been imported in brass by Overland and also produced in plastic by Walthers.
other manufacturers ceasing production.
During the early 1950’s, truck trailer on flatcar or TOFC service began being developed as an easier logistical method
of moving freight in less time from origin to destination. The PRR had started doing this by using their F30 flatcars,
however they could only carry one trailer, so a more efficient design was created. In 1955 Bethlehem Steel built 200 F39
class flatcars. These were 75 feet long and could carry two trailers. TOFC service proved to be very successful. In total,
the PRR owned 500 F39 type flatcars for TOFC service. Additionally, in 1957 the PRR built 300 F39c flatcars at their
Sam Rea shops for the Trailer Train Company.
In 1956 the Trailer Train Company was formed, to allow for easier interchange of TOFC flatcars between railroads.
To begin its operation, all 500 of the PRR’s F39 fleet was transferred to the company, with the Pennsylvania being
replaced with TTX on the sides of the cars. These cars lasted in this service until longer trailers were built, requiring longer
flatcars to haul them.
This sheet contains enough data for lettering 3 cars with either PRR or TTX reporting marks. There is 1 each of the
F39 family of cars, F39, F39a, F39b, and F39c. The Pennsy TrucTrain slogan was applied to a display sign on the F39s
and was used for display and promotional purposes only before being removed and placed in regular revenue service.
The F39 class flatcar has been imported in brass by Overland and also produced in plastic by Walthers.
F39c builders photo. Photo from Collection of Bill Lane.
| PRR and TTX F39 Class Flatcar Decals Stock #HO-F39 Original Release Date: 11/2011 Price: $9.00 Order! |
| HO - Now Available! |
For references in regard to the PRR's F39 flatcar fleet please consult Pennsylvania Railroad Flat Car: Revenue & Work
Equipment, 1881 to 1968 by Elden Gatwood and Al Buchan, and The Keystone, Volume 25 No. 3, both published by the
PRRT&HS.
Equipment, 1881 to 1968 by Elden Gatwood and Al Buchan, and The Keystone, Volume 25 No. 3, both published by the
PRRT&HS.
Shown below are prototype photos, and the decal artwork.
F39b builders photo. Photo from Collection of Bill Lane.
