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Life-Like's new Proto 2000-series American Car & Foundry tank car is a beautiful model that nicely matches its prototype, although the kit requires a bit of care in assembly and handling.
The model is based on ACF's Type 21 tank cars, which were introduced in 1921. It proved to be a popular design, and thousands were built and remained in revenue service through the 1950s and into the 1960s. They were typically used for hauling petroleum products and chemicals.
As built the cars were equipped with K brakes, but they were rebuilt with AB brakes beginning in the 1930s. Life-Like's model reflects a prototype rebuilt with AB brakes.
Type 21s were available with 6,000-, 7,000-, 8,000-, and 10,000-gallon tanks, and the model matches an 8,000-gallon prototype car.
The kit consists of numerous highly detailed injection-molded styrene parts, metal weights, and a choice of hornhook or Life-Like Proto 2000 magnetic knuckle couplers.
The tank and dome attach to a twopart frame to form the major structure. Dozens...