[Don F]

I'm making some removable ore loads for a friend for a Bowser H21A 4 bay hopper, part #923767. Hoppers carrying iron ore were only filled part way because of the weight. This hopper has several cross braces near the top, and I wondering if these braces are removable. Any info would be appreciated.

 

[LateStarter]

The H21a hoppers underwent extensive modifications in the 1930's & '40's, including hatches & interiors.
Different interior bracing configs (tube, angle and gusset types) were experimented with.
These photos of a bashed Bowser GLa type hopper show an example.
Both Bowser and Tichy made bracing kit parts for the GLa and H21a types, and some of the Bowser kits included them.
If the cars you're talking about were in kit form, then they should be removable. Otherwise, they're likely cast-in, and will need surgery to remove.

BTW, if the H21a was ever used to haul ore, I've never heard of it. But for modeling purposes... heck, go for it.

[Edit]:
The photos show a bashed Bowser GLa kit before & after paint (inadvertently swapped top & bottom). It's one of a string of several empties for staging. The braces are Tichy parts. The 'before' picture has a promo photo of a decal set in the background.

 

[Don F]

Thanks for the reply Late Starter. The hopper is new, and 4 bay, but has the similar cross ribs.

 

[D&J Railroad]

You can carry ore on a flat car if ya want to. It's your railroad.

 

[LateStarter]

Thanks for the reply Late Starter. The hopper is new, and 4 bay, but has the similar cross ribs.

They can be removed by slicing them off with an X-Acto knife, (or even a hot jackknife) and then nipping and sanding smooth.

 

[LateStarter]

Actually, a sprue cutter might be the best choice.

 

[Don F]

Permanent removal is not an option. I have done some loads in other Bowser hoppers where the braces are removable, and that is why I was wondering about this car. Thanks for the replies.