Spine cars were an offshoot of flat cars. They were developed to carry trailers on a purpose built car of lower weight that allowed railroads to either use less motive power, or haul longer trains. Most spine cars were also developed to be able to carry a single container in place of a trailer to offer maximum versatility. This 48 foot design was introduced in 1988 and continues to be in use today.

Features:

• Prototypes carry containers or trailers
  
• Handles trailers from 28 to 45'
  
• Handles containers from 20 to 48'
  
• Collapsible container pedestals
  
• Upright & closed trailer hitches
  
• Brake gear details on end cars
  
• Heavy die cast body For excellent tracking empty orloaded
  
• Correct 36" turned-metal wheelsets
  
• Proto MAX metal knuckle couplers