Andrews Trucks
A contemporary of both the Archbar and the Bettendorf (A.A.R. Standard) trucks. Its cast frame design was less prone to failure and allowed the use of expensive, serviceable journal boxes left-over from retired Archbar Trucks. The two main spotting features are the bolts that attach to the journal boxes and the tie bars from the bottom of each journal box to the diagonal of the casting.
Micro-Trains 1051 – 1 pair = 003 02 010, 10 pairs = 003 10 010
http://www.spookshow.net/trucks/andrews.html
Bettendorf Trucks
The Bettendorf truck, first introduced in 1903, revolutionized freight car design with its one-piece cast sideframes and integral journal boxes. This innovation set a new standard for strength and durability, earning widespread adoption across North America. By the 1920s, the Bettendorf truck had become synonymous with freight cars of the steam and early diesel eras.
From T-Section to U-Section
Early Bettendorf trucks featured a “T” cross-section design, which remained common until stronger “U”-section trucks began to dominate in the 1920s. These U-section trucks became the A.A.R. standard Type Y truck, widely produced and modified by various manufacturers. Railroads used these trucks on virtually every type of rolling stock, from boxcars and hoppers to tank cars and reefers.
N Scale Bettendorf Truck Measurements
| Manufacturer | Type | Wheelbase (mm) | Frame Width (mm) | Wheel Size (inches) | Axle Length (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Micro-Trains | 50-ton | 10.1 | 16 | 33 | 13.7 |
| Atlas | 40-ton | 10.25 | 15.9 | 33 | 14.25 |
| Atlas (Original) | 50-ton | 10.5 | 16 | 33 | 13.6 |
| Atlas (Revised) | 50-ton | 10 | 16.7 | 33 | 14.25 |
| Intermountain | 50-ton | 10.07 | 15.93 | 33 | 14 |
| Broadway Limited | 70-ton | 10.25 | 17.23 | 33 | 13.7 |
The End of the Friction-Bearing Era
Bettendorf trucks with friction bearings were gradually phased out beginning in the 1950s. By 1994, friction-bearing trucks were completely banned from interchange service, marking the end of an era. However, they remain popular on preserved equipment and are a staple for historically accurate model railroads.
A Timeless Icon
The Bettendorf truck remains a symbol of innovation in railcar design. Whether modelling a bustling mid-century freight yard or preserving history with a static display, these trucks bring authenticity and character to any layout.
http://www.spookshow.net/trucks/bettendorf.html
More Information
- Fugate, Joe. Make It Run Like A Dream – Rolling Stock. MRH Media, 2018, pp.28-36.
- Wilson, Jeff. The Model Railroader’s Guide To Freight Cars. Kalmbach Books, 2005, pp. 80-84.