PROTOTYPE AND BACKGROUND INFO:
In the 1970s and 1980s, Fruehauf Corporation was one of the more
prolific builders of semi-trailers that were designed specifically for
intermodal service. Trailer equipment that was designed to be carried
on flatcars as part of rail operations usually carried the letter “Z” as
the last letter of the reporting mark; hence Fruehauf’s designation of
“Z-Van”. Such equipment was built to higher durability standards than
normal trailers, as it had to withstand the rigors of both road and rail
travel.
The Z-van was originally available in a 40’ length; 45’ was offered
later. Many of the 40’ trailers were subsequently extended to 45’.
Refrigeration equipment was available, as well as different landing
gear and door rod configurations. Construction began with the ribbed-
side versions, then proceeded to beaded-side construction, with
the smooth side version representing the most modern construction
method.
Athearn is offering two of the most popular body styles, this model
makes a realistic addition to road or rail scenes from the 1970s to the
2000s.

Model Features:

• Two body styles; smooth-sided and rib-sided
• Two rear door styles; 2-latch and 4-latch
• Separately applied wire landing gear crank
• Separately applied mud flaps
• Position-able bogies
• Highly-detailed, injection-molded body
• Painted and printed for realistic decoration