SKU: RPI-1136002-PRE

PREORDER Rapido HO 1136002 PB Steam Heater D&RGW 252

10% down: $15.55
Our Price: $155.51
MSRP: $159.95

Note: You will reserve this item today for a 10% down payment of $15.55. Approximately 30-45 days before your item is expected at the warehouse, we will invoice you $139.96 plus shipping and any applicable taxes.

How Preorders Work

Quantity
30-Day Hassle-Free Returns

Description

Prior to the modern era, railroad passenger cars were heated by steam. Many early diesel units assigned to passenger service were equipped with steam generators to provide heat for their trains.

As the Rio Grande went through the 1950s and 1960s, most of its steam generator equipped locomotives were nearing retirement. To provide heat for its remaining passenger trains, the D&RGW built several steam heater cars whose sole purpose was to provide the steam needed to heat the trains. The most famous of these were a pair of units that were rebuilt from Alco PB-1 locos in 1965, numbers 252 and 253. Number 252 quickly became a backup unit while 253 handled most of the assignments.

The Rio Grande opted to stay out of Amtrak, continuing to run its Rio Grande Zephyr until 1983. The steam generator cars provided heat for this train in the winter months. Since the Alco PA/PB series were so well loved by fans, the PB-based heater cars enjoyed a celebrity status. In 1980, the 253 was rebuilt with EMD Blomberg trucks, giving it a unique if somewhat ungainly appearance.

After 1983, the #253 was reassigned to the Rio Grande’s Ski Train. In 1987 it was again rebuilt, this time with Head End Power (HEP) generators to provide electricity needed to heat the Ski Train’s new lightweight cars. It carried the name “Moffat Tunnel” until being renamed for Rio Grande mechanic Joseph G. Harris in 1994. It stayed in service on the Ski Train until the arrival of assigned F40PH locos in 2001.

In 2006 #253 was sold to the Algoma Central, becoming AC #78. It is now used on the Algoma Central’s Agawa Canyon trains.

The PB Steam Heater and HEP Cars feature:
Two different body styles – steam and HEP
Two different truck styles – Alco 3-axle and Blomberg 2-axle.
Steam generator sound effects
Accurate paint and lettering

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.