In 2001, BNSF Railway turned to Trinity Railcar for a modern refrigerator car. Trinity built 810 reefers in the first group with a follow-up order in 2003 with both groups measuring 82’ long and 17’ tall. Another 250 cars were built for JR Simplot with JRSX reporting marks. These modern reefers handle perishable commodities like meat, vegetables, fruits, and frozen food. These unique reefers can be found in almost any manifest train on any of the major railroads in the United States.

Now available from ScaleTrains are HO scale Trinity 82’ Refrigerator cars as part of its premium Rivet Counter series. Each model captures details specific to each era, railroad and road number of the prototype – such as smooth or ribbed rooflines, fuel tank variations, two side door types, intricate underbody detail, separate door tracks and much more. Depending upon the road number, three different versions of refrigeration units are available – Thermo King (early), Carrier, and Thermo King (late). Sound-equipped versions include a track powered, on-board rechargeable battery included. Sound versions feature an operating LED-lighted control panel on each end-mounted refrigeration unit for the first time in HO Scale. Reefers equipped with sound and lighting retail for $89.99 each, while non-sound unlit reefers carry an MSRP of $54.99 each. HO 7883cf versions are now available direct or from authorized dealers. N scale 7883cf Reefers are coming in late November 2024.

ScaleTrains, 4901 Old Tasso Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37312; 844-987-2467; www.scaletrains.com

Depending upon the road number, three different versions of refrigeration units are offered – (Left to right) Thermo King (early), Thermo King (late) and Carrier. Sound-equipped versions feature an LED-lighted control panel on each refrigeration unit per the prototype.

Each Trinity reefer features separately applied ladders, a brake wheel, an etched metal crossover platform, full underbody brake rigging , train line air hose assemblies and metal knuckle couplers.