Edit post

Edit your reply below.

Post Body
Enter your post below.
They have to be plastic because that's the only way to make them cheap enough to sell. If everyone did make them from metal they would cost est. $25 dollars each. Then there would be posts about companies pricing themselves out of business, sales would drop, and a Chineese company would cast plastic ones and the metal ones would set on the shelf collecting dust, kind of like the overpriced RAMS Superbowl Champ boxcars at the hobby shop do now. There are safe alternatives to lead for weights, mallory metal is one. It's more dense than lead, is made from tungsten and is safe by todays standards, and is expensive as h e double toothpick. That's why no one but racing engine builders use it? As to the spine cars, put steel shot in the frame for weight. Steel shot is from an ammo shop for duck hunting loads and is safe. Metal wheels make them roll better and add weight too, but alas they cost more too. I guess I'm just saying to build them heavy takes more money and nobody wants higher priced items. FRED
Tags (Optional)
Tags are keywords that get attached to your post. They are used to categorize your submission and make it easier to search for. To add tags to your post type a tag into the box below and click the "Add Tag" button.
Add Tag

Update Reply

Login, or register today to interact in our online community, comment on articles, receive our newsletter, manage your account online and more!

Model Railroader Newsletter See all

Sign up for our FREE e-newsletter and get model railroad news in your inbox!