End of Train Device (FRED) in HO scale

[VIA185]

I don't normally like running trains without a caboose but a recent purchase of an ES44Ac and a CN SD70ACE mean that I'm now running a grain train with no caboose. I went looking for an End of Train device that I could wire in to an Intermountain grain car and was surprised to find a lack of simple electronic fittings, battery-powered LED units or whatever. I would have thought the Americans would be into that sort of accessory. Anyway, had to settle for a Bachmann grain car with a pre-installed FRED (I seem to recall the Bachmann grain car is a bit under scale and not great but beggars etc...). Couldn't find a source in the Uk so had to order from Germany (American suppliers want absurd amounts of postage - four times the price of the car!). On reflection would a British flashing tail lamp have done the job? (CJL)

[pH]

Bachmann do an operating FRED as a separate item:
 

https://shop.bachmanntrains.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=6721

 

It includes a replacement truck to power it.

[Keith Addenbrooke]

It’s also available fitted to a Bath and Hammondsport Box Car, catalogue code 14910, I think.  Not a grain hopper, and not cheap, but might be of interest.  Keith.

[pH]

There are at least 19 Bachmann models fitted with operating FREDs:
 

https://www.walthers.com/catalogsearch/advanced/result/?name=Rear+end+device&sku=&scale[]=20789

 

https://www.walthers.com/catalogsearch/advanced/result/?name=Fred&sku=&scale[]=20789

 

 

[sncf231e]

When the train is full I just sit on the rear coupler.

Regards

Fred

[fulton]

The Bachmann one looks similar to the Ring Engineering FRED, which I have used, I think looks very realistic, the Bachmann item is listed at Rails of Sheffield and House of Hobbies which is cheaper.

[John M Upton]

Here is the direct link to the RoS one:

https://railsofsheffield.com/products/Bachmann-trains-42907-flashing-led-end-of-train-device

Currently out of stock though.

 

Edited December 18, 2023 by John M Upton

[VIA185]

I have a Bachmann grain car with a FRED coming from Germany. Thanks for all the advice/links. (CJL)