My latest rolling stock project. I saw an ad for an HO scale model and really love the look of the large trapezoidal bulkheads. I enjoy building multiple cars at once so after getting the first one fairly together, I elected to build 6 more.
As I understand it, CN purchased 150 of these cars built by Freightcar America in 2013 (DWC 200000-200149) to move bundles of fracking pipe and subsequently replace the ageing pulpwood cars used by their subsidiary Wisconsin Central. However, even though most (if not all) of the car have been re-lettered for CWLX, I have yet to find a picture of one loaded with logs. 
I meant to post something sooner but keep forgetting so here’s a quick n dirty build log.
The same underframe method as my other bulkhead flats with a ¾” square steel tube captured in a “skeleton” of 5mm PVC. Supports adjusted to line up with the stakes to match the prototype.
The bulkheads are layered and interlocked styrene and PVC.
I use the CNC to spot drill .4mm deep. I prefer hand drilling for grabs as I can get a nice tight fit that usually needs no gluing.
Stake pockets milled from 8mm ABS square tube.
I experimented with balsa wood for the stakes but ended up milling them from PVC lumber. These are steel on the real ones and the wood grain of the balsa was still visible after coats of primer/paint and the PVC can be bonded with solvent.
It has been quite a (enjoyable) task assembling these cars. Each is made up of 200 individual parts!
Now that the cars are about done, (I’m still pondering the color) on to the pipe loads…
According to my research, the most common length of the pipe is 45 feet (18.6 inches in 1:29). I have procured a box of 500 Poly King “giant” 20’ black straws and 3d printed appropriate end caps.
3d printed ends and internal supports to create bundles of pipe
