Fundimensions Hoppers

[trainbrain]

I got a 1983 Lionel covered hopper car today.There is a hole in each side at the top middle. Other pictures show the same hole. Is this common and why is it there?

Thanks

[Anonymous]

My Lantic Sugar 4 bay covered hopper also has the 2 holes in the sides.  Since the top cover can be removed I believe the holes accepted a brace bar to strengthen the hopper sides if it was to be used as an open hopper. 

Bruce Webster

 

[trainbrain]

Makes sense. Thanks-

[lionelsoni]

It's called a "spreader bar" and is meant to keep the sides from bending in.  It may have been lost or never included with that particular car.  It's not hard to make one.  The material is steel.  The diameter is 5/32 inch, length is 2.27 inches.  It is turned down to a diameter of 3/32 inch for .1 inch from each end.