Commonly known as the "RDC," the
motorized Rail Diesel Car generally operated in rural areas where ridership
and mail/parcel transport were too low for regular passenger train service.
When first introduced, the RDC was proclaimed to be the savior of branch
line and suburban service. It was heavily used as a commuter service workhorse
(and still is currently in some locations!). Capable of being operated
by a motorman from either end of the car, these units could be used independently
or combined into a multi-unit.
RDC-1 was strictly passenger-oriented, containing 90 coach seats
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RDC-2 contained 71 seats and a separate baggage area
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RDC-3 combined a Railway Post Office with a baggage compartment and 49 seats
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RDC-4 was a self-contained RPO-Express car
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This production will deliver two-unit sets decorated and numbered for eleven railroads, as well as two undecorated / unlettered sets and a single Budd Demonstrator RDC-1 unit. (Although the two-unit sets will be packaged in a card paper sleeve, each model will be contained in an individual jewel box.) ALL models are motorized.
The coupler is Katos all new automatic coupler.
The optional wire glad arm is not installed but included in the package and easy to assemble.
Other details include horns and vent to be installed by the consumer.
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| Prototype Information |
- Capable of being operated by a motorman from either end of the car, these units could be used independently or combined to create a two- or three-unit consist.
- The Budd Company introduced the first RDC in the fall of 1949 with a single RDC-1 "Budd Demonstrator." Hundreds more would eventually follow for service to railroads throughout North America and around the world (including South America, Australia, Saudi Arabia and even Cuba!)
- An excellent book with the complete history of the RDC is "RDC, The Budd Rail Diesel Car" by Donald Duke and Edmund Keilty (Golden West Books).
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| Model Information |
- All units have "golden glow" LED directional headlight, reminiscent of the actual cars.
- All units also have directional taillights
- All models are equipped with body-mount KATO knuckle couplers.
- Interior of model can be lighted with the optional installation of #11-204 Light Set (sold separately).
- High level of craftsmanship and precision detail, particularly to underfloor body component.
- Window frame detail is the same as on recent Corrugated Passenger Cars.
- While these models should be capable of operating on a 9-3/4" radius curve, it is recommended they be run on curves no smaller than an 11" radius to prevent the appearance of unrealistic overhang and occurrance of premature uncoupling.
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