Fairmont MT-19 Speeder Kit
3D Rendering of the MT-19 Speeder
History
The railroad “speeder” or “motorcar” was developed in the early 1900s by adding a single cylinder engine to a handcar. This allowed track crews to relax on the way to the work site and survey the track without breaking a sweat. Early cars were very basic but as the decades passed, speeders developed stronger engines and more creature comforts. Fairmont Railway Motors of Fairmont Minnesota was one of the major players in the game and built the prototype of the model developed for Reading Car Company. The MT-19 arrived on the scene in the mid 1950s and was purchased by many railroads in North America, These cars were a 2 person car enclosed car that provided track inspectors shelter from cold, snow, rain and other inclement weather. During the summer, the doors could be latched open for a breezy track inspection trip. In the late 1970s and early 80s, the speeders were replaced in bulk with more versatile hy-rail trucks. Retired speeders were often sold for scrap, but some were sold to collectors who are today represented by NARCOA (North America Rail Car Owners Assn.) and who operate trips with their speeders over host railroads in specially arranged events.
Our Model
Our Model allows you to enjoy the fun of a full sized speeder in 1:8 scale, 7.5” gauge without all the hassle of storing and caring for an antique railway speeder.
This model features a steel chassis with all holes pre-drilled for easy, no welding assembly. Machined aluminum wheels with IBLS standard profile mount to axles ready to install in the included bearing blocks. Also included are all the electronic parts including the radio control system, battery, charger, hand held remote control and motor. All of this is topped off with a 3D printed body which accurately represents the MT-19. With a finished weight of approximately 24 lbs, the speeder should be able to spring through most spring switches and allows the model to travel up and down grades with ease.
Our speeders will be done in batches and will be available as kits, although there may be some finished models available in the future. Order below by clicking the “Add to Cart” button. Follow our Facebook page to see when future runs will be available.