Con-Cor - Custom Model - Caboose, Cupola, MI - 2018

Model Information: This model came out some time around 1983. It re-used the underframe from the earlier Kato-made bay window caboose and hence is stamped "Sekisui Japan" on the bottom. Despite this stamping, these models were assembled in Con-Cor's Chicago factory. Just like the bay-window models, these feature body-mount Rapido couplers. The model is loosely based on the Morrison International (MI) cupola caboose prototype and features an extra-wide "extended vision" cupola.

Prototype History: This caboose was designed by the Morrison International shop in Kenton, Ohio. Because of the great variety of equipment needs between railroads in the 1950's, International developed the idea of a "modular" caboose design. This conceptual design essentially broke the caboose down on paper into different types or styles that could be built to meet the specific needs of a particular railroad. Rather than trying to force a rigid, fixed design on all the railroads, International felt it better to let the railroad select the pieces to build the caboose to their own liking.

Road Name History: No applicable company.

Brand/Importer Information: Con-Cor has been in business since 1962. Many things have changed over time as originally they were a complete manufacturing operation in the USA and at one time had upwards of 45 employees. They not only designed the models,but they also built their own molds, did injection molding, painting, printing and packaging on their models.

Currently, most of their manufacturing has been moved overseas and now they import 90% of their products as totally finished goods, or in finished components. They only do some incidental manufacturing today within the USA.

Important Note: The Con-Cor product numbering can be very confusing. Please see here in the article how to properly enter Con-Cor stock numbers in the TroveStar database.