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SKU: RPI-144049-PRE

PREORDER Rapido HO 144049 Northeastern-Style Steel Caboose, Reading #92839 | 98.96

10% down: $9.90
Our Price: $98.96
MSRP: $109.95

Note: You will reserve this item today for a 10% down payment of $9.90. Approximately 30-45 days before your item is expected at the warehouse, we will invoice you $89.06 plus shipping and any applicable taxes.

How Preorders Work

Expected release date is Dec 19, 2025

Quantity
30-Day Hassle-Free Returns

Description

The popular Northeastern Caboose was originally designed by the Reading Company in the early 1920s. This all-steel caboose was based on a proposed design by the USRA, which actually specified wood sheathing. The Reading built 285 cars, spread through several classes. The earliest cars had solid underframes while later cars were equipped with Duryea cushion underframes.

This design was so successful that other roads took note such as; the Central Railroad of New Jersey, Lehigh & New England, Lehigh Valley, Pittsburg & West Virginia and the Western Maryland. Production was spread out between the Reading and the purchasing roads, which meant variations were bound to be made to the original design. Different groups of cars were equipped with different trucks, running boards, steps, grabs and end wall windows (or lack thereof).

Many of these cabooses were used well into Conrail and Chessie eras, being used in regular service until the end of mandatory caboose operations. Some would continue in local service while many were sold second-hand to other railroads - Class Is and shortlines alike! Others are enjoying their retirements on tourists roads, museums or even as part of hotels!

Duryea Underframe features:

Two different cupola roofs
Two-tread or three-tread steps
Full Duryea Cushion underframe details
Two running boards: Integral diamond-tread and Alan Wood
Multiple optional parts including stacks, window blanks, etched window frames and screens, tool boxes and more!
Three different sides — standard, CNJ or LV with rain gutters above windows
Three different end walls — Solid (RDG, CNJ) and single window (LV)
Three styles of truck: Andrews, Birdsboro and Taylor

All models feature semi-scale metal knuckle couplers, operating interior lights and MoPower capacitor for uninterrupted DCC lighting.

Preorders: Frequently Asked Questions

What is preordering and why would I want to do that?

In the model railroading world, most products are made in limited runs. Manufacturers no longer produce large quantities to sit in warehouses. Instead, they announce new items and set a preorder deadline. After that date, production is based largely on the number of reservations received.

Preordering through Model Train Stuff guarantees your spot in line for these limited releases. When the products arrive, orders are filled in the order they were placed. The earlier you preorder, the better your chance of getting your items, even if there are shipping delays or shortfalls from the manufacturer.

Preordering is as easy as 1-2-3!
  1. Preordering is available on any item with the word "Preorder" as the first word in the product title.
  2. We will email your invoice approximately 30-45 days before your preorder items land at the warehouse. With the interactive invoice you can select your preferred shipping method and pay the balance of your order right online!
  3. We'll ship you your preorder once your invoice is paid online. 

How can I place a preorder?

To place a preorder, simply look for items marked with "PREORDER" in their title on our website. Add the item to your cart and proceed to checkout. You'll be required to pay a 10% non-refundable deposit to secure your reservation.

When will I be charged for my preorder?

You'll be charged a 10% deposit at the time of placing your preorder. The remaining balance, along with any applicable sales tax and shipping charges, will be due when the item is ready to be shipped. We'll notify you via email with a link to complete your payment.

Can I cancel my preorder?

Preorders can be canceled, but please note that the 10% deposit is non-refundable and will not be credited to store credit, as it goes toward covering the cost of the uncollected reservation.

When will my preorder ship?

The estimated shipping date for each preorder item is listed on the product page. We'll also keep you updated via email if there are any changes to the shipping schedule. Once your final payment is received, your item will be shipped according to your selected shipping method.

What happens if a preorder item is delayed or canceled by the manufacturer?

In the rare event that a preorder item is delayed or canceled by the manufacturer, we'll notify you as soon as possible. You can choose to wait for the item, apply your deposit to a different item, or request a refund or store credit for your deposit.

How do I check the status of my preorder?

You can check the status of your preorder by logging into your account on our website and viewing your order history. We'll also keep you updated via email with any important information regarding your preorder.

What if I have more questions about preordering?

If you have any further questions about preordering, feel free to contact our customer service team. We're here to help you with any inquiries you may have.