Industry News
2023 National N Scale Convention Report - Reno, NV
June 18, 2023
The National N Scale Convention in Sparks/Reno Nevada is now in our rearview mirror. This was the first convention we have been able to attend since the 2018 convention in Salt Lake City, and we can definitely say we thoroughly enjoyed attending it. We have also expanded the N Scale Vehicle Association’s “convention display” to include more than 470 N scale vehicle models!
While we did not see or hear of any “official” new N scale vehicle announcements at the convention, we did get to preview some pre-production models that the manufacturers are likely to release later this year.
First, Peter Harris of N Scale Kits loaned us the test “etch and build” of a new auto carrier to display at the NSVA tables. This carrier is appropriate for those whose modeling era can be described as modern. In fact, we met two examples of prototype auto carriers very similar to the N Scale Kits model along I-80 as we headed home from the convention.
N Scale Kits auto carrier being pulled by a Showcase Miniatures’ KW T600
Next, Steven Campbell and Stan Brooks of Jacksonville Terminal Company had some pre-production models of JTC’s new injection molded trucks. The models are based on Hino XL 7 and XL 8 prototypes, which went into production in 2019. The initial tooling consists of more than 40 parts, including both Hino and International grilles. The addition of the International grilles allow JTC to produce models that can be used as stand-ins for International trucks dating back to approximately 2005.
Pre-production sample of JTC semi-tractor with the Hino grille
Pre-production sample of JTC semi-tractor with the International grille
That’s all we can show you for now; however, we did get some hints that some development work for more N scale vehicle models is underway.
Showcase Miniatures Announces Ford N-750 Farm Truck
January 27, 2023
Showcase Miniatures’ new farm truck (SKU 152) comes with three bed options. The kit can be built as a grain truck with two grain doors for unloading, or a “high side” stake bed truck, or a “low side” stake bed/flatbed truck.
Ford built this style of N Series truck from 1963-69. They were succeeded by the Louisville Line LN Series trucks in 1970. For more details, go to Showcase Miniatures’ N scale vehicles page.
Showcase Miniatures Releases Mack R Model Tractor Kits
December 29, 2022
Showcase Miniatures has their new Mack Model R semi-tractor kit with Monroe Trucking decals available now.
You can also add this sleeper designed specifically for the Mack Model R.
And for those not wanting to build kits, Showcase is now offering ready to place (assembled and painted) vehicles for your layout or collection. In addition to the vehicle models being built from their extensive line of N scale vehicle kits, the ready to place models include a structure and Shay locomotives. Click here to see which “ready to place” models are currently available.
Showcase Miniatures Update
December 8, 2022
Showcase Miniatures is now offering ready to place vehicles (assembled and painted) for your layout or collection. These models are being built from their extensive line of N scale vehicle kits. Click here to see which “ready to place” models are currently available.
And if you followed the link above, you will see these Mack Model R semi-tractors.
Showcase tells us that kits for the Mack Model R trucks will be coming soon.
Atlas Announces New Releases of Ford F-Series Trucks and Fairmont Sedans
November 30, 2022
Atlas has officially announced their second release of the Ford F-250 crew cab pickups and F-350 service truck sets, as well another release of their Ford Fairmont sedans. Atlas sent a preview of this announcement on November 12, 2022 for those attending Trainfest.
Pre-orders are due January 18, 2023. More information for these models can be found here on the Atlas web site.
Athearn Announces New Tooling For 45' Fruehauf Z Van
November 25, 2022
Athearn will be releasing 45-ft Fruehauf Z van trailers in four paint schemes with two numbers for each paint scheme.
The pre-order deadline is December 23, 2022.
Athearn Announces Another Run of Their Intercity Bus
July 29, 2022
Pre-orders for the fifth release of Athearn’s N scale model of the intercity bus are now open!
While the prototype buses were built in the 1950s, many were still in regularly scheduled service well into the 1970s. And, the original release of this N scale bus was voted the New N Scale Vehicle of the Year in 2010. Click here to download the PDF version of the announcement.
Showcase Miniatures Announces Peterbilt 362 Day Cab
March 24, 2022
Walter and Debbie Vail of Showcase Miniatures have announced a day cab version for their Peterbilt 362 semi-tractor. The new kit (SKU #145) features a new high resolution resin cab plus stainless steel photo-etched detail parts, along with decals and a vacuum-formed windshield.
In addition to the 362 day cab, Showcase has been updating many of their other N Scale vehicle kits. They are also in the process of converting all of their truck kits to include more detailed cabs with photo-etched stainless steel details such as grilles and mirrors. The Kenworth T800 dump truck shown below was built from an updated Showcase kit (SKU #76).
More information for the Peterbilt 362 day cab can be found on Showcase Miniatures’ N Scale Vehicles page. You can also find out which cabs have been updated (and you can order to replace the original cast pewter cabs) on Showcase Miniatures’ N Scale Vehicle Details page.
Showcase Miniatures Announces New Pumper Truck
July 2, 2021
Walter and Debbie Vail of Showcase Miniatures have announced a new crew cab pumper truck. The pumper body is based on a Pierce design, and the cab is based on the Business Class M2. The kit features a cast resin cab and body with cast lead-free pewter chassis, wheels and detail parts. Plus, the ladders, doors, mirrors and grille are photo-etched stainless steel. The kit even includes a vacuum formed windshield and decal sheet! The truck can be built with the tool doors closed, or leave the doors off to display the shelves full of firefighting equipment.
More technical information and ordering instructions can be found on the Showcase Miniatures website. You can even download the instruction sheet to see all of the parts you will get before you order!
Atlas Acquires River Point Station N Scale Tooling For Ford Trucks
April 17, 2021
Atlas Model Railroad Company announced today that they have purchased the molds for River Point Station's N scale Ford service trucks and crew cab pickups. An announcement listing the new paint schemes for Atlas’ initial release of these fine models is expected soon.
While most are aware that the styling of the prototype trucks was introduced for the 1992 model year, Ford continued to manufacture Heavy Duty F-250 and F-350 trucks with this body style into the spring of 1998. The Heavy Duty F-250 and F-350 trucks with body style were replaced with the Super Duty trucks introduced in the spring of 1998 as early 1999 models.
If you have a favorite railroad MOW paint scheme that would be appropriate for these trucks, you may send your color photos to info@nscalevehicles.org, and we will pass that information on to Atlas for consideration!
Rapido Trains Announces N Scale Version of GM New Look Bus
February 11, 2021
Rapido Newsletter Vol. 135 was received today, and it contained a surprise announcement that their popular HO GM New Look bus will now have an N scale sibling. Pre-orders are open now!
The photo shown above is of an actual pre-production model of the N scale bus. The initial release will feature a dozen different paint schemes, including four generic paint schemes ready for your decals. More information can be found on the Rapido Trains website. And be sure to check out the video to see the working headlights and taillights!
Trainworx Announces Another Run of Corrugated Trailers
January 13, 2021
Pat Sanders of Trainworx has announced another run of 40-foot corrugated trailers in paint schemes typical of the trailers used in piggyback service during the 1960s and 1970s. This release includes both dry vans and reefers. Paint scheme included are: Northern Pacific, Kansas City Southern, Fruit Growers Express, Ferrocarril del Pacifico, Sonora-Baja California, and a decorated but unlettered trailer ready for your decals!
Pre-orders are due February 28, 2021 for scheduled delivery in 2021 Q4. Click here to download the full color PDF flyer for this release.
Athearn Announces New Production Run of Popular Ford C Canopy Cab Fire Pumper
December 28, 2020
Athearn ushered out 2020 with the announcement of another release of their Ford C canopy cab pumper in six paint schemes. The original release of this fire truck was winner of the First Annual N Scale Vehicle of the Year Award.
Expected delivery is next December. Click hereto download the PDF flyer.
Trainworx Announces Multiple Fleets of Over the Road (OTR) Tractors & Trailers
November 14, 2020
Pat Sanders of Trainworx surprised us with an afternoon email on Friday the 13th 2020 that included tractors and trailers in a variety of paint schemes that can best described as “never before seen” for N scale. And, the Friday email was followed up with another on Saturday announcing three additional trucks. With 100 plus new part numbers for the trucks and trailers, here is a summary of what is coming our way. There will be 35 different paint schemes/configurations for the Freightliner Cascadia tractors, five different paint schemes/configurations for the Peterbilt 379 tractors, three different paint schemes/configurations for the Kenworth K100 tractors, and one paint scheme for the Kenworth W900 tractor. Also, this will be the initial release of the Trainworx International cabover tractors. There will be four paint schemes for the International 9670, two paint schemes for the International 9800 and one paint scheme for the International 9700.
Moving on to the trailers to be pulled by these trucks, there will be 67 different paint schemes and/or trailer numbers for the 53-foot dry vans and reefers, six paint schemes for the 40-foot dry vans and reefers, one paint with two trailer numbers for the 28-foot pup trailers with convertor dollies, and three paint schemes for the 40-foot flatbed trailers. Plus, the first release of the 40-foot tank trailer in ready to use form will be available in two paint schemes. Finally, the dry bulk pneumatic trailer will be available in one paint scheme. If we did the math correctly, that is an incredible 132 new N scale truck and trailer models!
Pre-orders are due December 31, 2020. Click on the hotlink below each of the following Trainworx News sheets to download the pdf flyer for that announcement. You can also request an Excel spreadsheet listing each truck and trailer, as well the timeframe they were in use, to assist you in compiling your pre-order. You can scroll down the Trainworx home page to get to the contact form.
C.R. England
J.B. Hunt
J.B. Hunt Day Cabs
Marten
Schneider National - early
Schneider National
Swift
Swift Refrigerated
Walmart
Werner
Wheels of Time Allis-Chalmers HD 21 Crawler With Side Boom
November 5, 2020
Matt Young of Wheels of Time announced another version of their cast resin AC HD 21 crawler tractor. The model will include a 3D printed side boom, and pre-orders are due December 1, 2020. The kit will be available in early 2021, and an assembled, painted, and decorated version of the tractor will be available directly from Wheels of Time approximately 6 to 10 weeks after the release of the kit.
Click here to visit Wheels of Time web page, and click here to down load a pdf flyer.
Trainworx Adds New Paint Schemes to Log Truck Fleet
September 27, 2020
Pat Sanders of Trainworx has responded to modelers’ requests, and has added five more log trucks in three new paint schemes to the pre-order list. Part no. 49086 is for a Boise Cascade Kenworth W900. Part no. 47987 is for a Jack A. Buell Peterbilt 379 and part no. 49087 is for a Jack A. Buell Kenworth W900. Part no. 48088 is for a Robinson Enterprises Kenworth T800 and part no. 49088 is for a Robinson Enterprises Kenworth W900.
In addition to the three new logging company’s paint schemes, Pat is considering printing decals for the previously announced solid color trucks. If you have a favorite logging company that has not been included in any of the announced paint schemes, please let Pat know!
Pre-orders for all of the log trucks are due October 31, 2020. Click here to download the pdf flyer for the most recent announcement.
Trainworx Announces Fleet of New Log Trucks
September 1, 2020
Pat Sanders of Trainworx followed up on last month’s announcement of the Gene Whitaker, Inc. log trucks with a whole fleet of Peterbilt 379, Kenworth T800, and Kenworth W900 log trucks.
Pre-orders are due October 31, 2020. Click on the hotlinks below to download the pdf flyers.
Trainworx Announces More Models For the Legends of the Road Series
August 21, 2020
Logging trucks belonging to Gene Whitaker Inc. are a common sight in Oregon, but they would certainly be at home on any layout that includes a logging operation. Trainworx part #58002 features a Kenworth T800 and Trainworx part # 59002 features a Kenworth W900. Pre-orders are due by October 31, 2020. The pdf version of the flyer can be downloaded here.
Trainworx Vintage Fuel Tankers Now Available!
August 15, 2020
The Peterbilt 350 and 351 fuel tankers have shipped, and they are now arriving at the hobby shops and online retailers. The Peterbilt 350 tankers are available in Esso, Gulf, Mobilgas, Shell and Texaco paint schemes. The Texaco fuel tanker, Trainworx #55019, is shown below.
The Peterbilt 351 tankers are available in Chevron, Phillips 66, Sinclair, Sunoco and Union 76. The Chevron fuel tanker, Trainworx #55120 is shown below.
Like most of the Trainworx tractors and trailers, these will probably sell out quickly, so be sure to check with your favorite supplier of N scale vehicle models!
Trainworx Freightliner Cascadia & 53-foot Trailers Have Shipped
December 26, 2019
Shown below is the new Trainworx Freightliner Cascadia with a 53-foot Xtra Lease trailer.
The trucks and trailers have left Trainworx and should be arriving at your favorite hobby source soon!
Showcase Miniatures Announces Mail Truck
December 24, 2019
Walter and Debbie Vail of Showcase Miniatures announced that a Grumman LLV mail truck kit will be released in January, along with a companion kit for making mailboxes.
Be sure to check the Showcase Miniatures web site after the first of the year for more information!
A First Look - Jacksonville Terminal Company’s 40-foot Container Chassis
November 12, 2019
The first six paint schemes for the new JTC 40-ft container chassis are available now in two 6-packs. Six 2-packs in the same paint schemes will be coming soon!
JTC 142001 - Flexi-Van
JTC 142004 - Transamerica
JTC 142005 - APL
JTC 142007 - Maersk Line
JTC 142010 - TAL
JTC 142011 - OOCL
While the JTC chassis are designed for JTC Model Trains’ extensive line of 40-foot intermodal containers, we have found that the chassis are also compatible with the 40-foot containers from other manufacturers when those containers feature the “tunnel” for the chassis’ gooseneck.
Jacksonville Terminal Company 40' Container Chassis Coming Soon
October 14, 2019
We received an email from Stan Brooks of Jacksonville Terminal Company stating the 40-foot container chassis are “are in the final stage and will be here soon.” The initial release will be two 6-packs, with three different paint schemes/road names in each jewel case.
We have been “teased” at various model railroad events since January with a pre-production test shot of chassis and now we are really looking forward to seeing the actual production models! Stan also noted in his email that the factory must make “22 different hand connections” in the assembly of the chassis. The chassis is designed with steel plates to magnetically secure the JTC 40-foot containers, as well as other containers retrofitted with magnets, to the chassis.
River Point Station Fords Are Headed Our Way
September 9, 2019
The River Point Station Ford F-350 and F-250 trucks have left the factory, and will soon be arriving at a River Point Station dealer near you. Click here for the Dealer Directory. We think you will agree with us that the models do an excellent job of capturing the “essence” of the prototype!
This photo shows production models of the “basic” F-350 utility truck with the XL trim package, and the F-250 4X4 crew cab, also with the XL trim package.
And this photo shows a pair of F-250 4X4 crew cab production models with the “upscale” XLT trim package.
Tech data in the form of PDF files, including instructions for installing the etched “west coast” style mirrors on the F-350, can be found on this River Point Station web page.
River Point Station Gives Ford Models Green Light For Production
June 10, 2019
Ron Elsdoerfer has informed us that the refinement of the tooling for the River Point Station Ford F-350 utility truck and F-250/F-350 crew cab has been completed and the production of the models will proceed as scheduled! Ron also shared with us photos of decorated “test” models, so we thought we should share a few of the photos with you as well.
And the photo below shows tailgates that depict the different trim levels that will be offered.
Micro-Trains Line Humvee Update
May 24, 2019
Joe D’Amato from Micro-Trains has posted a preview of their new Humvee models.
Joe also said these will initially only be available with the DODX flatcars which were open for pre-order in January. However, “at some later date they will be available as separate kits.” The Cascade Green flatcars with the Humvee loads are expected to be released in June, and the Olive Drab flatcars with the Humvee loads are expected to be released in July!
Showcase Miniatures Announces An Aerial Ladder Truck
April 9, 2019
Walter and Debbie Vail of Showcase Miniatures announced they have been working on a new fire truck; this one is based on a modern design. The model is available now, and we will let the photos do the talking!
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You can find additional information about this model on the Showcase Miniatures web site.
Trainworx Announces Another N Scale Beverage Truck
March 15, 2019
Another limited edition tractor/trailer set from Trainworx was announced and released today, and it is expected to sell out quickly! This release features a Kenworth W900A tractor with 36 inch sleeper pulling a 40-foot corrugated trailer equipped with a nose mounted Thermo King reefer.
Click here to download the pdf version of the announcement.
River Point Station Ford F-350 Update
February 10, 2019
We now have a photo of the River Point Station Ford F-350 utility truck and crew cab that were assembled from the test shots. The model builder and painter was not a professional and the factory painted models will be far superior to the models shown in the photo.
Also, the F-350 utility truck (above left) will come with user applied photoetched mirrors. There are very small dimples on the doors of the truck the modeler can use as a guide to drill #80 holes for the attaching the mirrors.
Athearn Announces The Return of The Flxible Visicoach
January 28, 2018
The fourth release of Athearn’s N scale model of the Flxible Visicoach intercity bus will be available next year and the bus will be available in ten new paint schemes!
Approximately 1,000 Visicoaches were built from 1950 through 1957 and many could still found on scheduled routes into the 1970s. These smaller buses were ideal for traversing the narrower roads found in rural and mountainous areas of America. Pre-orders close February 22, 2019. Click here to download the pdf version of the announcement.
River Point Station Announces N Scale Fords
January 26, 2019
Ron Elsdoerfer of River Point Station announced today at the Amherst Railway Society Railroad Hobby Show in West Springfield, MA that he will be producing a Ford F-350 utility truck and a Ford F-350 crew cab pickup in N scale. The models will be based on Ford F-350 trucks that were new for the 1992 model year, so anyone whose modeling era is from the fall of 1991 to today should be able to use some, or even a fleet, of these trucks that represent a very popular prototype from Ford. We were even able to obtain exclusive photos of the initial test shots of the body moldings for the two new models!
The white bodies shown above are test shots from the production tooling; the orange bodies and parts are SLA (3D) design approval models. While River Point Station has been producing exceptional HO scale Ford models for more than a decade now, this is Ron’s first venture into N scale. We hope N scale modelers will reward his efforts by purchasing many examples of these Ford models!
Micro-Trains Lines Officially Announces the Humvee
December 28, 2018
Eric Smith of Micro-Trains wrote in the November/December 2018 issue of the N Scale Enthusiast members’ magazine that the feedback they had received on the injection-molded Abrams tank had been extremely positive. Eric followed that with sharing that work had already begun on their next all-new military load, the Humvee, for release in 2019. The official announcement came just two months later in the January 2019 issue of the Micro-Trains Line Micro-News as shown below.
Judging from the comments Joe D’Amato of Micro-Trains has made on the The Railwire Forum, if the Humvees are as popular as the Abrams tanks we can expect to see additional injection-molded “military loads” from Micro-Trains!
RAILNSCALE Announces 3D Printed Models Made by DM-TOYS
November 9, 2018
Maurice Pierik of RAILNSCALE has announced you can now purchase RAILNSCALE products not only via Shapeways, but also from DM-Toys. DM-Toys is one of the largest web shops specializing in N-scale products. "This means that you benefit from the wide range of model railway products and the attractive shipping options."
"But there are more benefits. All of the RAILNSCALE products offered by DM-Toys have been printed by DM-Toys in Germany to the same high standard as you are used to. Our products are delivered in a sturdy plastic box. As an extra service, the RAILNSCALE products made by DM-Toys have already been cleaned, so they are ready to paint."
"All RAILNSCALE products offered by DM-Toys are on stock, which means that you do not have to wait long for your order. DM-Toys has released an initial selection of 22 RAILNSCALE products. You can find them here.”
The image above shows the quality of the packaging.
The quality of the unpainted 3D printed kits is impressive, as can be seen on the images below with a metric (not inches) ruler!
Maurice added “we believe that the collaboration with DM-Toys is a great improvement and the good news is that this has no consequences to the consumer sales prices!”
Visit the RAILNSCALE web page for additional information.
Wheels Of Time Announces The Return Of The Allis-Chalmers HD-21 Crawler/Dozer
October 26, 2018
The Wheels of Time ad in the November/December 2018 issue of N Scale Railroading included a photo of an Allis Chalmers HD-21 crawler/dozer. This model has now been officially announced on the Wheels of Time web site. In addition to the dozer version of the HD-21, the crawler tractor that was released in 2015 and quickly sold out, will once again be available. The models will be available as kits and assembled, painted and ready to use. Pre-orders are due by November 20, 2018.
Atlas Announces Eight New Railroad Inspired Paint Schemes For the 1973 Ford F-100 Pickup
October 10, 2018
The following paint schemes were announced in the Atlas Monthly Catalog for October 2018:
60000117 Canadian National 2-Pack
60000118 Penn Central 2-Pack
60000119 Chessie System 2-Pack
60000120 Milwaukee Road 2-Pack
60000121 Richmond Fredricksburg & Potomac 2-Pack
60000122 Southern Pacific 2-Pack
60000123 Central Railroad of New Jersey 2-Pack
60000124 Delaware & Hudson 2-Pack
The pre-order deadline is November 14, 2018. More information for the 1973 Ford F-100 pickups can be found on the Atlas web site.
Jahn 3D Announces Loads For Autoracks
September 28, 2018
We received an email and photo from Jens Jahn giving us a first look at his line of 3D printed autorack loads designed for the Athearn bi-level autorack.
Jens told us that the models are placed on two rods that are connected to the frame and interior of each vehicle. The bodies are shipped connected to the frame, but should be separated prior to cleaning and painting. This makes it easier to paint each model individually! So far, Jahn 3D has two different models, one has four 1967 Suburbans and one 1967 Blazer, and other has four 1967 pickups and one 1967 Blazer. Jens says he can also offer other models the same way, just ask him. And he tells us there is more information to come!
News from the National N Scale Convention
June 24, 2018
The National N Scale Convention in Salt Lake City, UT concluded with the Sunday morning manufacturer’s breakfast. Once again, we were delighted to see some new vehicle models available for purchase at the convention, as well as some pre-production samples of anticipated models for us to look forward to their release date.
Beginning with Trainworx, Pat Sanders had painted test samples of the two Legends of the Road Series Tri-State Commodities trailers available for public viewing. The grain trailer looked like it was ready to head to the field for a load of wheat, but the dry bulk trailer still needed its landing gear installed.
In addition to the trailers, Trainworx also had test shots of the Freightliner Cascadia, in both day cab and sleeper configurations.
The Trainworx display case also had painted examples of the vintage tankers that were announced in May 2017. While these rigs are running a bit behind schedule, it looks promising that we will soon be able to add these fine models to our layouts or collections.
Wheels of Time had packages of 3D printed 1964-66 C Series Chevrolet trucks in four configurations for sale at the convention. Pictured below is the MOW version of the truck.
The other versions available were a semi-tractor, dump truck and stake bed. You may have seen these advertised as highly detailed resin models. However, Mathew Young of Wheels of Time told me he had found a way to have the models printed in a manner that allowed him to control the orientation of the printing. The result was models with improved overall quality and less “cleanup” for the modeler.
Micro-Trains Lines had a pair of M1 Abrams army tanks built up from the initial test shots of their new tooling for the injection molded plastic kits. Each tank is assembled from 11 parts molded on two sprues, and decals are included. Initially the tank kits will be included as loads for the new DODX flatcars Micro-Trains is expected to release this fall; however, we have been assured the tank kits will also be available as two-packs at some time in the future.
And, we will close this report with an excerpt from our conversation with Jens Jahn of Jahn 3D. While Jens had a number of his 3D printed creations on display at the convention, his ultimate goal is to have the ability to print any vehicle ever manufactured! Jens has become the “go to” source for vehicles that you must have to complete a scene or add to your collection, and that would otherwise be unlikely to become available!
Pat Sanders Announces “Trainworx is going to the dumps”
April 11, 2018
“..N scale dump trucks that is.” Pat’s humor was evident in this morning’s email announcement for 16 dump truck models. This will be the first release of the Trainworx dump trucks. However, some modelers may already have a few Trainworx dump trucks that they built from parts, like this red Kenworth T800 shown below.
The new dump trucks will feature Peterbilt 379, Kenworth T800 and Kenworth W900 cabs. Be sure to pre-order your fleet by May 31, 2018!
Part # Description
47971 Peterbilt 379 dump truck, black
47972 Peterbilt 379 dump truck, white
47973 Peterbilt 379 dump truck, red
47974 Peterbilt 379 dump truck, blue
47975 Peterbilt 379 dump truck, yellow
48071 Kenworth T800 dump truck, black
48072 Kenworth T800 dump truck, white
48073 Kenworth T800 dump truck, red
48074 Kenworth T800 dump truck, blue
48075 Kenworth T800 dump truck, yellow
48076 Kenworth T800 dump truck, DOT orange
49071 Kenworth W900 dump truck, black
49072 Kenworth W900 dump truck, white
49073 Kenworth W900 dump truck, red
49074 Kenworth W900 dump truck, blue
49075 Kenworth W900 dump truck, yellow
Click here to download the pdf version of the dump truck announcement.
Showcase Miniatures Announces A Rotary Dump Truck
March 14, 2018
Walter and Debbie Vail of Showcase Miniatures announced today their next N scale vehicle model would be an “ST Class” rotary dump truck. Quoting from the Showcase website; “This kit features resin cab and one piece dump body, pewter parts and stainless steel photo etched parts. The hi-rail can be assembled deployed or retracted. We include a 3D printed wheelset so it can be displayed on the track. A vacu-formed windshield is included.”
More information on the model is available on the Showcase Miniatures web site. Also, prototype photos and information can be found on Hulcher Services' web site.
Second Release of Atlas 1973 Ford F-100 Pickups Announced
March 9, 2018
Atlas announced today that pre-orders are now open for the second release of their Ford F-100 pickups in six new colors. Click here to go to the Atlas web site for more information.
Also, the balance of the models from the first production run of the F-100 pickups will be arriving this month.
Recent Arrivals
February 26, 2018
Several new N scale vehicle models have shown up in U.S. hobby shops over the past few months. In October, the Busch Land Rover Defenders in three “civilian” paint schemes officially arrived in the U.S. The prototype was produced from 1983 through 2015, but they were only legally imported into the U.S. market for the 1993 through 1997 model years.
In January, the Athearn 40-foot drop frame parcel trailers arrived in five different UPS paint schemes, all of which were appropriate for these trailers.
A rerun of the Atlas Ford LNT-9000 semi-tractors also arrived in January in a total of 23 different paint schemes, plus an undecorated version.
And finally, just last week the Atlas 1973 Ford F-100 pickups made their debut at hobby shops. The Fords are available in five paint schemes plus an undecorated version. However, only the first half of the production run was shipped, so if you missed getting some, more will be arriving later.
Atlas Announces a New Release of 1997 F-150 Pickups
January 11, 2018
The January 2018 edition of the Atlas All Scale Monthly Catalog includes an announcement for a new release of their 1997 Ford F-150 pickups. The pickups will be available in 14 different paint schemes plus undecorated. Click here to see the entire list of pickups.
While 10 of the 14 decorated models are “reruns” of previously released paint schemes, there are four all new paint schemes. The new paint schemes are:
#60000107 Atlas Model Railroad pickup
#60000108 Greenlawn Landscape pickup
#60000109 Police 9-1-1 pickup
#60000110 MOW yellow pickup
Be sure to have your favorite retailer pre-order your pickups for you by February 14, 2018!
Trainworx Announces N Scale Beverage Truck
January 8, 2018
A very limited edition tractor/trailer set from Trainworx was announced today and is already quickly sold out! Pat Sanders of Trainworx did mention “these won’t last” in the email announcing the truck and trailer. However, dealers that ordered the Peterbilt 379 with 40-foot corrugated trailer should be getting their shipments soon, so check with them for availability.
Click here to download the pdf version of the announcement.
Athearn Announces Third Run of Ford C Rescue Trucks
December 29, 2017
Pre-orders are now open for the next release of Athearn’s Ford C fire truck with rescue body. Athearn’s initial announcement of the N scale Ford C with rescue body was in January 2008. This release has the paint schemes that match most of long and short wheelbase “pumpers” from the initial release of those models. If you missed out on getting a matching rescue truck 10 years ago, be sure to get your reservations in for the trucks you need at your favorite retailer. Pre-orders are due on January 26, 2018!
You can go to Athearn’s website and download a pdf flyer of the announcement by clicking here.
Athearn Announces New Run of Ford C Truck Tractors
October 27, 2017
Pre-orders are now open for the next release of Athearn’s popular Ford C semi-tractors. The models will be available in eight colors, six of which were not offered on earlier releases.
You can go to Athearn’s website and download a pdf flyer of the announcement by clicking here.
Trainworx Opens Reservations for the Freightliner Cascadia
October 10, 2017
Pat Sanders announced today that advance reservations are now open for the Freightliner Cascadia. Pat also added that "the Cascadia is the most prevalent modern class 8 highway tractor today.” The prototype was announced in May of 2007, with the first trucks rolling off the production lines in August of 2007.
Click here to download the pdf version of the color flyer.
Also available for reservation are more 53-foot trailers to go with these new tractors.
Click here to download the pdf version of the color flyer.
Jahn 3D announces new models
September 7, 2017
We received an email from Jens Jahn announcing a half dozen new 3D printed N scale models.
Pictured above from left to right are, a 1961 Chevy C-10 pickup, a 1975 Chevy Chevelle coupe, a mid-1960s New Yorker sedan, a 1967 Chevy Impala sedan, a mid-1960s Newport station wagon and a 1972 Ford LTD coupe. More information can be found on the Jahn 3D website.
Trainworx Announces Legends of The Road Series
August 7, 2017
Pat Sanders of Trainworx has announced the first releases in the Legends of the Road Series.
And rather than summarize the announcement, here is the complete text from Pat:
"LEGENDS OF THE ROAD"
Tri-State Commodities believes that customers deserve on time quality service, and dong this takes the right people and the right equipment.
Jack Shupe started Tri-State Commodities of Greely, Colorado in 1971. Jack's sons Gregg and Grant are part owners and have been with the company since high school in the late 70s. Gregg and Grant's wives and children work at the Shupe family owned and operated business. Many of the Tri-State drivers have been making on time deliveries for the company for decades and have their names painted on the door of the trucks they drive.
Tri-State has a fleet of nearly 50 trucks and none of them are new, (you won't see any DEF at this facility). They were pulling a W900a into the shop for an oil change while I was there and it had high door handles which puts it into the 1960s to very early 1970s vintage. The shop is a busy place building trucks from the frame up and keeping the fleet in top condition. The fleet is comprised of roughly 96% Kenworth W900s, (saw a Pete 379 there and another 379 was on the road). All of the Tri-State trucks are set up to get deliveries done on time with big power coming from Cat or Cummins. These trucks all have personality and even have individual names on the back of the cab or sleeper. Greg Shupe has custom built and restored 6 different A model W900s.
"Toads Pad" started out as a 1982 W900A. Greg stretched the frame and added a smooth riding air suspension. Power was upgraded to a 525 horse N14 Cummins and a Roadranger 18 speed transmission. A new Aerodyne sleeper was coupled to the original cab so that modern air ride cab suspension could be utilized underneath. A custom new Burgundy interior was added to the inside of the cab and sleeper. The truck is finished in a custom orange and white Midnight Sun paint job with lots of chrome, graphics and pin striping.
"American Graffiti" is another early '80s W900A. Greg also custom built and restored this truck from the frame up in the Tri-State shop. Power comes from a 525 hp N14 Cummins and is transferred through a 15 speed Roadranger transmission. The original 60" flat top sleeper was coupled to the cab and a cab air suspension was added as well as a new sound deadening interior for driver comfort. The familiar Tri-State custom Midnight Sun paint scheme was applied as well as graphics and pin stripping. Greg finished the truck with new chrome stacks, bumper and air cleaners.
Both of these trucks are show trucks but you won't find them at a show; these are daily drivers and the best place to find them is on the road. It is my pleasure to recognize the Shupe family and the men and women at Tri-State Commodities by bringing to N scale these "LEGENDS OF THE ROAD".
Trainworx is pleased to announce to N scale
Toads Pad with Dry bulk trailer #25
American Graffiti with grain trailer #213
Please see the color flyer for details at the following link:
http://www.train-worx.com/17-8tristate.pdf
Trainworx Custom Trucks Have Arrived!
July 25, 2017
Pat Sanders announced this morning that five of the six Custom Trucks models that are based on the real trucks that were owned by N scale model railroaders are ready for shipping! Unfortunately, there were some productions issues with the Sandy Smith Peterbilt 379, so the release of that model has been delayed.
However, we were able to get a good look at the trucks that have been released!
Vern Henderson’s 1956 Peterbilt 351 logger
John Zwergel’s 1973 Kenworth K100
John Patten’s Peterbilt 379 heavy haul
Mike Sabia’s Kenworth W900
Mark Morris’ 2000 Peterbilt 379
We sure hope you were able to pre-order one or more of these trucks, because they are going fast!
Trainworx Announces Fancy Graphics on Some Great Trucks From The 1970s
July 5, 2017
Pat Sanders of Trainworx has announced the Kenworth W900a will be released in the Seminole paint scheme. The trucks will be available in six different color combinations and three sleeper configurations. The Seminole paint scheme is Kenworth’s most popular paint scheme of all time. In fact, truckers like this paint scheme so much; they are still applying it to their new trucks, even if it is not a Kenworth!
But there is more. Pat also announced the release of the Kenworth K100a in both the Salem and Potomac paint schemes. There will be three different color combinations and two sleeper combinations for the K100a.
And as a bonus, Pat will be making a K100a to match a “local” truck owner’s rig. This truck will feature the prototype truck’s paint scheme, but without the business owner’s name. This one is simply called the Truck down the street.
Pre orders for the trucks are due August 31, with delivery expected in the first quarter of 2018. You can also download the official Trainworx flyers for this announcement. Click here for the Kenworth W900a in the Seminole paint schemes. Click here for the Kenworth K100a in the Salem and Potomac paint schemes. And finally, click here for the Truck down the street.
N Scale Convention News
June 23, 2017
Several new vehicle models were on display this weekend at the National N Scale Convention in Pittsburgh, PA.
Showcase Miniatures had cast pewter kits available for a 1961 Chevy pickup. The kit consists of the frame with seat, four wheels, the cab, the pickup box, a separate tailgate, and a vacuum formed windshield.
Atlas Model Railroad Company had five pre-production samples of their much anticipated 1973-75 Ford F-100 pickup on display. While the samples were naturally a little rough around the edges, once the tooling is finished and polished, these should be excellent models that will work on layouts or scenes set from the fall of 1972 to today.
While Trainworx had pre-production samples of some previously announced items on hand, they also had some surprises as well. This 53-feet tri-axle reefer includes new tooling (each axle has its own suspension) which will also work for lift axles on their trucks.
The Timpte grain (commodity) trailer, in which the design work was displayed on a computer screen at last year’s convention, was now on display as a pre-production sample. An alternate suspension allows the trailer to be modeled as the very similar Wilson grain trailer.
The biggest surprise at the Trainworx table was a pre-production dry bulk trailer. Note: This trailer was requested last year by convention goers, and Pat responded very positively to those requests!
And finally, the design work for the Freightliner Cascadia was displayed on a computer screen. I think we should be able to expect an announcement for the initial run of Cascadia tractors in the not too distant future.
Trainworx Announces Vintage Fuel Tankers!
May 10, 2017
Pat Sanders of Trainworx has announced a variety of vintage tanker paint schemes for the Peterbilt 350 and Peterbilt 351 tractors to pull. Pre orders are due June 30, with delivery expected in the first quarter of 2018.
The Peterbilt 350 tractors and tank trailers will be available in the five paint schemes shown below:
And, the Peterbilt 351 tractors and tank trailers will be available in the six paint schemes shown below:
You can also download the official Trainworx flyers for this announcement. Click here for the Peterbilt 350 flyer and click here for the Peterbilt 351 flyer. Please take note of the new Trainworx truck logo on the Peterbilt 350 flyer!
National Train Show News from Portland
August 28, 2015
There was good news from National Train Show in Portland, Oregon for anyone in need of more N scale fire trucks! Athearn announced a rerun of the very popular long wheelbase Ford C pumper in a variety of fire department colors. These models will be painted but not lettered. Pre-order deadline is September 25, 2015 with delivery in July 2016.
Other breaking news from Portland is that Trainworx has the Freightliner Cascadia under development. For some prototype background, Freightliner announced the Cascadia in May 2007 and started taking orders the following month with pre-production prototypes being road tested in July. By August, the first production Cascadia was delivered and they have been rolling out of the Freightliner factory for the past eight years! You don’t have to travel very far on an interstate highway these days before coming to the conclusion that the Cascadia has become one of the most common big rigs on the road.
Trainworx Announces FedEx Tractor-Trailers and Vintage Peterbilt 280 & 350 Tractors
August 4, 2015
Pat Sanders of Trainworx announced the Peterbilt 379 and Kenworth T800 tractors in the FedEx paint scheme this morning. In Addition to the tractors, there are seven paint schemes coming for the 53-foot and 28-foot trailers.
But that was not the only announcement. The “Iron Nose” Peterbilt 250 and 380 has also been announced. This is not the same tractor that was used for the Duel (movie) tanker!
You may view or download the color flyers at these links:
http://www.train-worx.com/15-8fedex.pdf
http://www.train-worx.com/15-8pete350.pdf
More New Trucks and Trailers from Trainworx
July 13, 2015
Pat Sanders of Trainworx has announced the next release of trucks and trailers. This is the first release in which the tractors and trailers may be purchased separately. The tractors are Kenworth T800 day cabs that UPS has been purchasing for its growing fleet of alternate fuel vehicles. The 28-ft pup trailers are based on Great Dane trailers that UPS purchased in 2003. The 53-ft trailers are based on the large fleet of UPS Stoughton trailers. Be sure to pre-order to guarantee you will get the trucks and trailers you want!
New N Scale Models by Wiking
July 10, 2015
Markus Schiavo has provided a link for Wiking’s August 2015 new model. The tooling for the Series 88 Land Rover was revealed in February, 2015 and the first version out is this pale turquoise open top model.
Markus also sent us the link for the August 2015 model upgrade. It is a Volkswagen Passat in a fire service paint scheme. The photos of the models are from Wiking.
Trainworx Announces Peterbilt 379 & Merritt Gold Line 50' Livestock Trailer
June 30, 2015
Pat Sanders of Trainworx announced the ultimate N Scale “Bull Hauler” this morning. This will be a Peterbilt 379 truck tractor with Unibilt sleeper pulling a Merritt Gold Line 50-foot cattle trailer (those fortunate enough to attend the National N Scale Convention in Sacramento, CA got to see the flyer at the link below on Friday, June 26, 2015.)
| Tractor color | Part # |
| Black & Silver | 57930 |
| Burgundy & Silver | 57931 |
| Green & Silver | 57932 |
| Red & Black | 57933 |
| Silver & Burgundy | 57934 |
| White & Blue | 57935 |
Pre orders are due August 31, 2015 with delivery around Dec-Jan.
You can view the color flyer at this link: http://www.train-worx.com/15-7bullhauler.pdf
N Scale Convention News
June 28, 2015
The National N Scale Convention concluded with the Sunday morning manufacturers’ breakfast and very few would dispute the claim that the announcement of the new line of Trainworx trucks and trailers was the most significant at the convention. In addition to the four newly tooled injected molded truck tractors with two all new trailers announced on June 16, 2015, when the Swap-A-Rama opened Friday morning Pat Sanders of Trainworx revealed additional models as well as the announcement of the first “regular” release. While the photos of the “test shots” do not do the models justice, we hope they will suffice until the decorated versions of these finely tooled and well detailed trucks and trailers are released. First, below we have an overview of the Trainworx truck display followed by a closer look at some of the individual models. Note that there is a typographical error for the build dates for the Peterbilt 281/351 which went into production in 1954.
 Trainworx Kenworth K100 with flat top sleeper |
 Trainworx International |
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Next we have an overview of the new trailers and truck beds followed by a closer look at some of the individual models.
From left to right, Trainworx 40-ft flat bed, 40-bulk liquid and 50-ft livestock trailers
Trainworx T800 configured as a dump truck
Trainworx Peterbilt 379 configured as a logging truck
Trainworx 28-ft pup trailer with skirts
Matthew Young of Wheels of Time displayed this cast resin crawler tractor.
Be sure to check the Wheels of Time website during the month of July to find out more and possibly win a crawler tractor.
And yet another vehicle announcement came at the manufacturers’ breakfast when Peter Harris of N-Scale Kits said he hopes to have another auto carrier trailer available for next year’s convention in Kansas City, Kansas!
New Trucks from Trainworx
June 16, 2015
Pat Sanders of Trainworx has announced five new tractor-trailer models based on movies and TV shows.
#59094 - Kenworth W900 with a 40-ft reefer decorated as the truck in Smokey and the Bandit
#55195 is a Peterbilt 281/351 with 33-ft tank trailer decorated as the truck in Duel
#51096 - Kenworth K100 with 40-ft reefer decorated as the truck in BJ and the Bear
#59097 - Kenworth W900 with 40-ft dry van decorated as the truck in Movin’ On
#57998 - Peterbilt 379 with 53-ft reefer decorated as the truck in Transformers (Optimus Prime)
The Peterbilt 281/351 went into production around 1954 and the Peterbilt 379 was produced up until 2007. Pat should get a lot of mileage from these trucks!
Contact: info@nscalevehicles.org
