Bachmann 16828 HO New Haven #C-701 McGinnis Caboose Guide

Bachmann 16828 is an HO scale Northeast Steel Caboose decorated for the New Haven as #C-701 in the McGinnis scheme. The model combines a raised-cupola caboose design with a specific New Haven road identity and finish. This guide identifies the exact release, explains the caboose type’s history, and gives practical checks for display, handling, and operation on an HO layout.

Match the exact Bachmann release

Bachmann lists item 16828 as Northeast Steel Caboose – New Haven #C-701 (McGinnis). It is HO scale, 1:87, with UPC 022899168289. The Muncle Mikes item number is BAC16828. Match the railroad, C-701 road number, and McGinnis designation together; other Northeast Steel Cabooses share the raised-cupola body but have different paint and road markings.

Bachmann lists detailed painted graphics; separately applied cupola, roofwalks, smokestack, ladders and railings, and brake wheels; clear windows; detailed underbody and brake-system details; added weight; E-Z Mate Mark II magnetic couplers; detailed trucks with see-through sideframes; and blackened metal wheels with RP25 contours. The car measures 4.8 inches long, 1.5 inches wide, and 2 inches high.

What the Northeast Steel Caboose represents

Bachmann describes the Northeast Steel Caboose as an early standardized design built for several railroads, especially in the eastern United States. The model is based on a 1920s Reading Railroad caboose that drew from USRA-era plans developed during World War I. The raised cupola elevated crew seating so workers could observe the train as it moved.

Cabooses were widely used until most railroads retired them during the 1980s. Some remained in maintenance and switching work into the 2000s, while others now appear in excursion service or museums. The model’s New Haven #C-701 markings and McGinnis finish place this particular release within that broader caboose family; the body style alone does not identify the railroad.

Plan for detail and clearance

• Confirm HO 1:87, Bachmann item 16828, and New Haven #C-701 (McGinnis).
• Use the published 4.8 by 1.5 by 2 inch dimensions for storage and display planning.
• Protect the cupola, roofwalk, ladders, railings, smokestack, and brake details when handling.
• Check the clear windows, couplers, and wheel movement before placing the model in service.
• Verify coupler height and clearance through curves, turnouts, and nearby structures on your layout.
• Record BAC16828 and C-701 together so it is not mixed up with another road’s version.

The raised cupola can be the first point to check under bridges and in tunnels. Bachmann’s product listing does not specify a minimum curve radius, so test the car on your track. For display cabinets, use the stated dimensions and leave room for the separately applied roof details.

Frequently asked questions

What does C-701 identify?

It is the New Haven road number on this Bachmann caboose.

What does McGinnis mean in the title?

Bachmann uses it to identify the New Haven paint scheme on item 16828.

What is the model’s length?

Bachmann lists 4.8 inches.

Related Bachmann caboose guides

Browse Bachmann model trains and HO scale trains. Compare the Conrail #18619 caboose guide or the unlettered red version.

Summary: Bachmann 16828 is the New Haven #C-701 McGinnis Northeast Steel Caboose in HO scale. Match its road identity, protect the raised-cupola details, and check the model’s clearances on your layout.

See Bachmann New Haven caboose 16828 at Muncle Mikes

Checked October 18, 2026 against the live Muncle Mikes record and Bachmann’s manufacturer listing for item 16828. Current price and availability are shown on the live product page.