Question About Recently Uploaded Buffer Car

[frliss]

The BNSF buffer service car that was recently uploaded really looks great.

However, I have a question about buffer service cars in the real world.

Why would any railroad need a car dedicated to buffer service when all they have to do is use any available empty covered hopper or freight car as a buffer?

Fred

[geepster775]

They are not empty. You need a buffer car that is relatively the same weight as a loaded oil tanker. They are loaded, usually with sand. And welded shut, on both top hatch and bottom outlets.

[frliss]

Hi geepster775,

Thanks for the info.

If these trains are loaded with ballast such as sand or rock, perhaps I should increase the mass in the wag file from 30 tons to some ware between 110-120 tons.

Fred