Reviews : Tichy-Train 40' Single Sheathed USRA Boxcar

I just finished a TTG reefer. Fortunately they provided the option of preformed ladders in place of the grab irons which would have required drilling tiny holes in the plastic using a template that, itself, wasn't drilled completely through. The details add a lot to the overall authenticity of the model but I agree with the reviewer who confessed to the complexity and aggravation of dealing with bits of plastic so tiny that even tweezers won't hold them, that is, if they can be removed from the sprue without breaking. The directions are not as clear as I needed. The underbody details and the reefer hatches were especially troublesome. Also, one thing Hobbylinc failed to mention on the reefer is that couplers are not included. It looks as though they are on this boxcar. If the kit is assembled in short sessions the effort is tolerable and well worth the time.

My second attempt at building a car from a kit. The first was a flat car, which was deceptively easy compared to this one. The parts were all well molded, with very little filing required. The instructions were pretty clear, but some terms were used with which I was unfamiliar, which made things a little more difficult, but that was my fault. Unfortunately I didn't have the proper tools to attach the numerous hand grabs so I had to wing it. Attaching hand grabs is not something I ever want to do again, so I will leave that to the super-modelers. I also don't see why so much effort is spent modeling the underside of the car, when no one will ever see it. This comment clearly marks me as worthy of scorn, I know. Because of the low price and the fact that it does look good I recommend this, but I doubt I will ever build another.

Nice details, But you better have good eye site and not have fat fingers .. LOL A LOT of very small parts.