SP Tank Car Platforms

[Flash Blackman]

I have read that SP tank cars in the 8000-10000 gallon size (circa 1930-1950) had a dome platform only on the right side of the car. I think they had ladders on both sides, but platforms for loading into the domes was only on one side.

Is this true? Or completely impossible? Thanks for the help.

BTW, I can't seem to Google up any help on the internet right now. I may have read this in the SPHS magazine, "Trainline."

[John Barnhill]

Hey Flash,
Might give this site a try:
http://www.railgoat.railfan.net/

[Flash Blackman]

Freight Car Specifications - This is a wonderful reference. I couldn't find the data I wanted, but this is a great place to look for SP freight car data in 1965.

Tank Car Specifications - No data here either, but it is interesting to note that in 1965 SP had 1000 or so tank cars and SSW had nine (9). That's right, just nine.

I have many SP websites, but I can't locate this information.

[SP 9811]

Flash
I think I might have found something for you. Try this..
http://www.railgoat.railfan.net/spca...nk/o050-14.htm

Here is a pic of the tank car with only one dome foot board, and one ladder.
http://www.railgoat.railfan.net/photos/sp/sp060165a.jpg
Thom

[Flash Blackman]

No doubt about it, that's the car! It is a dead ringer for the IM 8000 gallon model. In the second photo, we are on the B end, so the ladder and platform were on the left side, not the right side. Thanks a bunch, Thom. I may try to modify some of my cars to represent this.

I wonder if any other railroads were this cheap...er, ah...used this same configuration? I would think it is unusual.

[SP 9811]

Your very welcome Flash. No prob helpin out a fellow SP fan. Would love to see pics of those tanks if you decide to modify em!
Thom