GYPSUM Running Board
Gypsum advertised their
expanded metal running board in the 1953 Car Builders Cyclopedia as having been
used in that application since 1927.
However, it was not until the ARA accepted metal running boards on a
case-by-case basis in 1932 that this manufacturer’s item could have been put
into such railroad use. As car building
in the early thirties came very close to a standstill, the Gypsum running board
was not significantly used any earlier than the late 30’s, and even then was a
less popular option. Most
installations were on postwar house cars after the AAR recommended “other than
steel” in 1944. Additionally, this
running board can represent a similar expanded metal Transco product as well. This component features a polyurethane
resin running board with latitudinal extensions and brake step. The modeler must supply roof handholds
and end supports. SRCC offers kits
for the following roads that purchased cars with this running board: CNW, NP, NYC, and SP&S.
Not to be available for the foreseeable future