DirtyDan’s Trains Christmas Special (Episode 4)

[@MyLifesTracks]

I bought one of these in the original box about a year ago at a train show for $10. I’ve haven’t put it together yet, so I really enjoyed your video! I think it will be a cool accessory on a siding. I also picked up an Athearn automatic crossing gates in original box. I love finding these old accessories.

[@joezuccardo3245]

Another good coal loader was made by Gilbert American Flyer, it stands on the side of the track and is electrically operated, They also made a hopper unloader and hopper car, these haven't been made since 1963 but they can still be found on Ebay and train shows

[@casstelles]

It looks like the lever causes many derailments. With some creative engineering of the lever mechanism, a person could convert it to manual operation with some kind of cable to activate the ratcheting mechanism. This would eliminate the derailment issue. Also, I noticed the amount of material being dispensed. The amount seems more appropriate for a 2-bay hopper.

[@ianfernandez2735]

I feel like adding weight on the hoppers would help a little. That’s my guess but still pretty cool.

[@Harrisonidk]

We should do a collab 🥶, epic video

[@metrickarma]

Let's go!

[@HarryWarren1223]

this one feels like it could be edited into a subtle foreshadowing video

[@dirtydanstrains1414]

@@HarryWarren1223 HAHAHA I NEVER THOUGHT OF THAT

[@randallellison6421]

Thats insane! I never knew Athearn even made something like this! I can definitely see why this accessory would be a pain to use with the lever coming in contact with the hopper. Cool episode, Dan!

[@varrunningtrains4112]

Nice video! I really like the concept of the mechanical actuation but I agree that it’s temperamental at best. Would be neat to modify one though. Looking forward to more operating accessory videos!

[@Johnnyhaotrains]

I always like Operating accessories

[@MessyMason5904]

Pretty sure you can figure something out to fix that and make it work right!!

[@srenchin]

Those Tyco hopper cars are too light weight. I bet if you used some Ulrich all metal hopper cars this accessory would work much better.