Gunderson MAXI-IV 53' Double Stack

Prototype Information for the Gunderson MAXI-IV:

Intermodal container service is one of the most popular types of freight service on rails today. The Maxi-IV car is the mainstay of the U.S. domestic double-stack car fleet. Providing an optimum balance between tare weight and capacity, the Gunderson MAXI-IV is a 3-unit articulated double-stack car that can handle containers from 20-foot to 53-foot long in the well and containers 40-foot to 57-foot in the top, or double-stacked, position. As of a result of its versatility and sturdy construction, the MAXI-IV is now the mainstay of the U.S. domestic double-stack fleet. The popularity of this car on North American rails is underscored by its popularity with model railroaders today!

BNSF Information:

The Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad first took delivery of the MAXI-IV railcar in 2000. Ongoing deliveries of this car since that time now put thousands of these cars on the BNSF roster. These cars can now be seen on virtually any mainline railroad from coast to coast.

TTX Information:

TTX leasing (originally known as the Train Trailer Company) is owned by many major railroads and hires out its cars for use all across North America. TTX has over 210,000 rail cars in its roster, 92-94% of which cars are in service on any given day, making this MAXI-IV unit a common sight on any railroad.

Model Features:

• The powerful appearance of this articulated car is achieved using a metal injection-molded frame, enhanced by the extensive detail of piping and running board.

• Like the prototype, the model features two different sized wheels! The two end trucks have 33” scale wheels while the two middle trucks have 38” scale wheels. This is done on the prototype for weight bearing reasons, with the greater weight of the load being borne by the wheels of the mid-car trucks than by the wheels of the trucks on each end.

• Shock absorber construction provides smooth and stable operation, with or without the container loads. The KATO Kinematic trucks maintain the prototypical appearance on straight track while delivering smooth operation on curved track.

• KATO magnetic knuckle couplers allow for automatic coupling and uncoupling action.

• Each set includes six removable and individually numbered 53-foot containers with the BNSF logo.

• Packaging is designed for the separated storage of the articulated unit, providing ease and security when not in use.

North American Rolling Stock

In addition to locomotives, KATO also produces some extremely high quality rolling stock.  Each model is produced from precision injection molded plastic and are weighted for proper roll and balance.  They ride on KATO produced trucks that feature blackened metal wheels which provide a low center of gravity.  Each model is equipped with KATO's newly developed knuckle style coupler that are 100% compatible with MICRO-TRAINS®, INTERMOUNTAIN, RED CABOOSE and other popular brands.  For those who prefer, RAPIDO style couplers are also included and can be easily changed out.  KATO's North American Prototype Rolling Stock models may not be the least expensive on the market however, they are very high quality and with proper care should provide many years of enjoyment.

Availability:  Unless listed as "out" items on this page are in stock for immediate delivery.