Eastern Seaboard Models
Newsletter

Product News

Production continues on the next batch of XIH Boxcars.  Package samples have been approved and the third release is projected to be on the shelves by June 1.  The fourth release will follow six weeks afterward.  Watch for our latest YouTube video before the month is out.
 

On The Horizon

Here are photos of the third release of XIH Boxcars.

#2253 - New Haven "State of Maine" c. 1953 (new numbers)

#2256 - New Haven repaint c. 1975 (new numbers)

#2259 - Canadian Pacific, stacked herald (new release)

#2260 - Bangor and Aroostook, dedicated service (new release)

#2262 - Bangor & Aroostook "State of Maine" c. 1957 (new release)

Pictures of the fourth release will be shown beginning in the May issue of the newsletter.

In Development

The scheduling delays have necessitated an adjustment to the schedule.  The fifth release of the XIH Boxcar will be released in the fall.  The sixth and subsequent releases will begin appearing in late 2012 or early 2013.  Trying to push a sixth release to market this year would interfere with the launch of the X58 boxcar, which is scheduled to debut at the end of this year. 

Regarding the X58 boxcar, some modifications have been made in the new simulated cushioned underframe coupler pocket design.  While the original design has worked flawlessly throughout continuous testing, there was concern that the mass assembly process would not consistently hit our quality expectations.  In hindsight this was a good development, as the redesigned coupler pocket looks better and is easier to assemble.  The top and sides are now plastic, while the bottom cover plate remains brass for added strength.  The now-standard #00-90 cover plate screw has been moved inward and is hidden from view by the trucks at all angles.  The sides and bottom are only .012" thick and the outer dimensions of the coupler pocket overall are 10% smaller than those of the Micro-Trains 1015 coupler box, so it should be visually pleasing to everyone.  Here are some screen shots of the final version of the digital model, with the new coupler pocket.  The model will ride on BLMA's 70-ton ASF roller bearing trucks and yes, the screw clears the outer axle.  Micro-Trains 1015 coupler knuckles will be installed, but the coupler pocket will accept Atlas 23015 Accu-Mates and McHenry 5001 couplers for those who may wish an alternative.

The brass coupler plate is upside-down in the digital renderings above, and obviously will be properly oriented when the model is produced.
 

The Wrap-Up

Click on the YouTube icon above to watch our latest videos!  Also look us up on Facebook!  We will be posting there regularly with past and current product tidbits, but most of the in-depth future product information will be revealed here in this publication.  The Link of the Month in the info boxes at the upper right features interesting and fascinating sites showcasing the best of N scale -- of modeling techniques, operating layouts, and reference information.  We encourage you to visit and explore.

All text, photos and artwork in this newsletter copyright © 2011 ESMC, all rights reserved.  Please do not post or distribute any content of this newsletter without the expressed written consent of Eastern Seaboard Models.

Thank you for your interest in our products.

ISSUE #9 - APR 2011
 

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