Steam Era Models R5 T Iced Van 15ft Wheelbase Kit

The T van was designed for the carriage of perishable goods requiring refrigeration in summer, although other classes of goods could be carried under certain conditions. The wagon was cooled with ice and heavily insulated to remain cold for several days.
The model is based upon the 15 Ton capacity wooden version first introduced in 1909, but constructed in batches over the years up to 1924 and numbered 192 to 417. Originally built with 6 wheel underframes, these wagons were rebuilt in the 1930s with auto' coupled 4 wheel underframes. One batch of wagons, numbered 343-392, constructed in 1922-23, differed slightly in having end bunkers for the ice, which meant that there were only two hatches on the roof and they were quite close to the ends.

Between 1958 and 1961 all these end bunker vans were rebuilt to ‘standard’ form. Substantial end bracing was fitted to the vans commencing in 1950 and, with the completion of the auto’ coupler program, buffers were removed from 1954 onwards and shunters’ steps installed in lieu. The kit is representative of a 15Ton van from the mid 1950s until withdrawal in the late 1970s to early 1980s. The April 1996 issue of the Australian Model Railway Magazine features an article on the 15Ton T vans which provides further information on their history.

Model illustrated has been fitted with couplers (not included).

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