Bobber

[Anonymous]

What is a bobber caboose? When was it used and where?

[dehusman]

Generally a "bobber" caboose is a 2 axle caboose. They were used from the dawn of time until the 1920-30's on standard guage RR's. There are 2 or 3 s out there, most are either a 2 or 3 window caboose. The two window style seems to be the most common.

Dave H.

[Anonymous]

Bobber: a caboose that is very short and sits on a single trunk of wheels (or 2 axles very close together). the ride is almost rollercoaster in feel as the caboose bobs foward and backards, hence the name Bobber.

Jay

[Anonymous]

the axles are usually a bit further apart than on a freight car truck though. My bachmann HO scale model has the axles about 12feet appart.

it looks very pretty but i can understand how it would not give a wonderful ride.

[dknelson]

I think the Pennsylvania RR used their bobber cabooses well into the 1950s. I have seen color photos of them being used in urban switching.
I seem to recall they avoided shoving against it as the frame was light. Interestingly, on the Pennsy the very same caboose also came in a two-truck version.
Dave Nelson