Built by Union Tank Car Company, this 6,500 gallon petroleum
car is an early attempt to build a tank car without a full
length under frame. Short frames at each end attached the
tank to the wheels and couplers. This style was called "Van Dyke"
which is a patent frameless tank car using the tank with extra
stiffening plate on bottom in place of an under frame. This
construction of heavy steel plate was to absorb the movement
of the train. The stress caused by this movement made the tank
flex, loosening the rivets and allowing the contents to leak.
This design problem was eliminated by welding on modern cars.
It was donated in 1952 by the Union Tank Company.
Close Window