Where bridges were too expensive or impossible to build, railroads turned to Carfloats. These big barges feature a flat deck with up to three sets of tracks, allowing for quick movement of virtually any rail car over water. These "floating rail yards" were especially common in big city harbors and on many inland rivers, in many cases providing the only rail connection to the main line. Since they were unpowered, they required the services of a railroad tug to move them from point to point. The basic design was used for decades, so many steam-era veterans lasted until the end of operations on most lines.

This HO Scale model builds into a detailed replica of a carfloat and is equally at home in the steam- or diesel-era. For added-realism, it's designed as a waterline model with no lower hull. When finished, the Carfloat appears to be floating in the water, making it much easier to add to new or existing scenery. Three plastic tracks are included (a common prototype practice) which matches the Carfloat Apron (933-3068, sold separately). To model a float underway, add Walthers Railroad Tug (933-3153) available separately.