Modelers interested in accuracy know that most boxcars are painted red and most tank cars are black. That’s just the way it is – and was. When discussing tank cars from the 1920s through the 1970s, there can be no more important car than the Union Tank Car (UTLX) X-3 design. And yes, they were almost all black!

The X-3 cars were built in various capacities and configurations, including 6,500 gallon, 8,000 gallon and 12,000 gallon tanks. They were also built with single, double and triple compartments. These latest versions include the numerous general service 8,000 gallon cars, including the ‘Skellysolve’ cars with silver tanks, cars modified in the 20s and 30s through the addition of insulation and jacketing, and perhaps the most unusual X-3 variants: the “breadbox” (or pick your own analogy!) cars for hauling transformer oil. The X-3s traveled EVERYWHERE!

Rapido’s model has been developed with the help of noted UTLX tank car expert Steve Hile. We offer distinct versions for K-brake equipped cars, good before 1953, and AB-brake equipped cars good from the 1940s onwards. In addition to brake equipment, our models will feature correct handbrake and coupler cut bar arrangements which differed depending on he brake equipment installed.

✅ Traveled all across North America — Could be seen just about anywhere tank cars went!
✅Two insulated versions including the unique Transformer Oil cars
✅ Versions for all service eras, from the 1920s into the 1970s

The Rapido Trains HO Scale  Union X-3 Tank Car Features:

• Designed from original blueprints

• Correct tank bolster pads

• Correct diameter domes and dome fittings

• Correct UTLX-style warning placard holders

• Andrews or “Bettendorf” cast steel trucks

• Full underbody detailing with two distinct brake systems offered

• Correct end platforms

• Correct coupler cut bars and hand brake mountings

• Semi-scale couplers and coupler boxes

• Free-rolling turned metal wheels

• Accurate paint and lettering

Union Tank Car modified a group of X-3s through the addition of heater coils outside of the tanks with wagon-style insulation and jacketing. These highly distinctive and interesting cars were primarily for the transport of transformer oil, used to insulate and cool transformers. These cars, never before offered in styrene, could be seen anywhere in the US from the 1920s into the 1960s.

Order Due Date: May 15, 2025

Anticipated Delivery Date: July 2025

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