Bachmann 17911 Conrail #359028: HO Reefer Guide

Bachmann 17911 Conrail #359028 is an HO-scale 50-foot steel reefer model for a freight roster, industrial scene, or collection organized around Conrail equipment. The exact release is identified by manufacturer item 17911, retailer SKU BAC17911, and UPC 022899179117. Bachmann lists HO 1:87 scale, a 7.5-inch model length, magnetically operated E-Z Mate Mark II couplers, and blackened metal wheels with RP25 contours. This guide turns those details into practical checks for identifying the car and operating it on a layout.

Confirm the exact Conrail reefer

Match the full designation Conrail #359028 with Bachmann item 17911. The UPC is 022899179117. Bachmann’s official product page lists this specific road number, item number, UPC, scale, and features. The same page identifies it as a 50-foot steel reefer, which helps separate it from a Conrail boxcar, another reefer with a different number, or a similarly decorated release.

A model titled “50-foot” does not measure 50 feet on the layout. Bachmann gives the miniature’s dimensions as 7.5 inches long, 1.5 inches wide, and 2 inches high. Its retail box is 10 inches long. Use the car dimensions to plan track space and display clearance; use the package dimensions for storage if you keep the box.

Use Conrail #359028 as a scene anchor

The Conrail name and #359028 make the model easy to roster and visually identify within a mixed freight train. It can stand out on a yard track, serve as a switching target near a warehouse, or join a reefer block in a broader freight consist. Bachmann describes this 50-foot steel reefer family as representing cars in service from the 1950s through the 1970s. That is useful general context from the manufacturer, but the model’s decoration alone does not establish that exact number’s prototype history or the specific dates it served.

If your layout models a particular Conrail era, verify the number, lettering, and equipment history against dated railroad photographs or an equipment roster before treating the car as an exact prototype match. If historical precision is not central to the scene, the model can still serve as an identified Conrail reefer in a general mid-century or later freight setting. Keep confirmed model specifications separate from any historical interpretation you add to your operating notes.

Plan the siding, curves, and switching move

At 7.5 inches long, the car needs more room than a quick body-length estimate might suggest. Add space for its couplers and for a locomotive to clear the turnout when planning an industrial siding. If the car is part of a switching puzzle, decide whether the siding can hold the car plus the locomotive or whether you will need a runaround track.

Before regular use, test the car through the tightest curve and most restrictive turnout on your layout. Bachmann lists detailed trucks and see-through sideframes; check that the trucks pivot and nothing rubs the body. A car that looks correct on a broad curve may still bind on a tighter industrial spur. Verify clearance beside loading platforms, building corners, and adjacent cars as well.

What the wheel and coupler specifications mean

Bachmann specifies blackened metal wheels with RP25 contours and magnetically operated E-Z Mate Mark II couplers. The RP25 wheel contour is a useful compatibility detail, but it does not state a guaranteed minimum radius or turnout performance. Test the car on your actual track and confirm wheel gauge and free rolling if it derails or rocks.

The couplers are described as magnetically operated. If your layout uses magnetic uncoupling, confirm the magnet location and operation with this specific car. With mixed manufacturers, compare coupler height and engagement; a successful connection at rest does not always mean reliable uncoupling or push-pull behavior during a switching move. Test a short consist before assigning it to a long train.

Inspection points on this release

• Road identity: Compare the Conrail markings and #359028 with Bachmann’s product image.
• Brake wheel: It is separately applied, so hold the car by its body rather than its end details.
• Underframe: Inspect for loose details during unpacking and routine cleaning.
• Added weight: Bachmann says weight is added for tracking; confirm actual performance on your grades.
• Trucks and wheels: Check free movement, clean rolling surfaces, and clearance from the body.
• Couplers: Verify height, swing, magnetic operation, and compatibility with neighboring cars.

Bachmann recommends the model for ages 14 and up. The brake wheel and other fine details should be handled gently when moving the car between its box and track.

Common questions about item 17911

Is this an HO-scale car?

Yes. Bachmann lists HO 1:87 scale. Match that scale with your track, locomotives, structures, and other rolling stock.

How much track space should I allow?

The product page lists the car as 7.5 inches long. Allow additional room for couplers, adjacent cars, and the switching move you intend to perform.

Does the model prove Conrail #359028’s exact service history?

No. The name, number, and item identify Bachmann’s decorated model. Use primary railroad photographs or equipment records to support a precise prototype claim.

Will the magnetic couplers work on my layout?

Bachmann lists magnetically operated E-Z Mate Mark II couplers. Confirm operation with your uncoupling magnet, coupler height, and other cars.

Quick checklist for the roster

• Match Conrail #359028, Bachmann 17911, and UPC 022899179117.
• Confirm HO 1:87 is the correct scale.
• Check space for the 7.5-inch body plus couplers on the intended siding.
• Test truck swing, wheel rolling, curve clearance, and coupler compatibility.
• Use dated historical records for specific Conrail-era claims.

See the Bachmann 17911 Conrail #359028 product listing for current listing details and availability. Browse HO scale model trains and Bachmann model trains to explore related rolling stock. Specifications were checked against Bachmann’s official product page on October 18, 2026. Price and inventory are left out because they can change.