Rivet Counter HypoTypical HO Scale BSC F68BH Finger Rack Flatcar, Conrail

Introduced in 1969, the Bethlehem Steel Co. (BSC) F68-series of 100-ton, 68’ foot long (over end sills) flats represented a new generation of high-capacity flats. Extremely versatile, the basic design could be equipped from the factory with various appliances to handle different loadings. At the end of 1969, BSC would introduce the “F68BH” class of cars for Trailer Train.

They featured steel decks, transverse deck risers, MacLean-Fogg transverse tie-down apparatus, and a set of distinctive upright “finger racks” near each end, to help secure their intended lading of concrete reinforcing bar, aka “rebar”. Their distinctive finger racks earned these flats the nickname “candelabra cars”.

These 100-ton cars came equipped with 36” wheels, trucks equipped with hydraulic snubbers (at opposite corners of the car), and 15” EOCC to improve ride quality and reduce dangerous shifting loads. 150 F68BH cars were built between December 1969 and February 1970. Initial assignments for these cars included rebar service out of Bethlehem Steel’s Steelton, PA facility, from where they could be seen hauling rebar nationwide.