These models were introduced as kits by Precision Masters (see picture below). Later on, PM sold them ready-to-run. Circa 2005, Red Caboose acquired the entire line of PM cars and released them (RTR) in Red Caboose packaging. As pictured above, they are available with or without plug doors. Although RC described these models as being based on PFE prototypes, I've since read that they are more likely based on the ATSF's Rr-49-53 cars built in the early 1950's.
Here's what Red Caboose had to say about them -
The mid-30s saw the growth and acceptance of steel as a valuable material for the construction of refrigerator cars. By the late 30s and early 40s wooden refrigerator car construction had become a thing of the past even though many remained in service well into the 60s. This steel refrigerator car depicts the Pacific Fruit Express R-40-23 class built in 1947.
Experimentation with plug doors on refrigerator cars began shortly after World War II ended. Shippers and distributors were looking for wider doors to ease loading and unloading and the plug door was the answer. By the early 50s railroads began to accept sliding plug doors and new production cars were being built with them. A number of earlier cars were also rebuilt with sliding plug doors. This car depicts both new and rebuilt cars of the early 1950s that utilized the plug door. A number of the newer cars were even converted over to mechanical refrigerator cars before being retired.
N Scale Refrigerator Cars are available as decorated and undecorated Ready To Run Cars. All reefers come with Red Caboose Bettendorf Friction Bearing trucks.
