Description
For Sale: Hitch Flat Car (12 sets – 3 pieces Kit /bag) PN#691AN
As seen in the photo. There are 12 sets per bag – 3 piece kit you put together. 3D printed using ABS (may require minimal clean up). May come in various colors based on our filament stock. If you want a specific color, let us know and we will try to accommodate.
(Note: Original metal hits is not for sale and shown in photos for comparison only.)
A flat car hitch was used to secure and transport highway trailers on flatcars in early intermodal rail systems. It allowed trailers to be locked in place during transit, enabling what’s known as TOFC (Trailer-on-Flat-Car) service.
What Is a Flat Car Hitch?
A flat car hitch is a mechanical locking device mounted on a flatcar deck. It’s designed to:
- Engage the kingpin of a highway trailer (the same point that connects to a semi-truck)
- Secure the trailer during rail transport
- Prevent movement or tipping during acceleration, braking, or coupling
These hitches were often part of TOFC systems, where trailers were driven onto flatcars via ramps and locked into place using the hitch.
Why Was It Important?
- Enabled intermodal transport: Trailers could move seamlessly between truck and rail.
- Reduced handling time: No need to unload cargo from trailers into boxcars.
- Improved efficiency: Railroads could carry highway trailers directly, expanding freight options.
- Safety: The hitch locked the trailer securely, minimizing sway or detachment.
Historical Use
- 1950s–1980s: Widely used in TOFC service on 85-foot flatcars
- Modern intermodal: Superseded by well cars and container chassis, but hitches still exist on some spine cars and TOFC platforms
Quality-Craft-Tri-level-Auto-Rack-Drawings.pdf
