posted
I've always loved trains and have lived near them all my life. One thing I noticed is a 4-letter designation, presumably in reference to its cargo. Some sample tank cars have ACFX, UTLX & AMPX. Where can I get a 'table' or chart explaining what each is? Obviously you cannot put corn syrup in a chemical tank car.
ehbowen Member # 4317
posted
What you refer to is a reporting mark. They are assigned by the Association of American Railroads and indicate the owning railroad or (in the case of all marks ending in "X") non-railroad car owner. In conjunction with the car number (which is assigned by the car owner), they uniquely identify every rail car in interchange service in North America.
posted
Thanks. As is often the case, things are not what one might initially imagine.
So you're an historical rail buff? Perhaps you can help in another area. Spikes. I have a small railroad spike (real rusted, but not too deteriorated) which I imagine would have been for mining cars/carts. I'll check out your site, too.
posted