I have been observing model freight car fleet generalities lately and have come to the conclusion that the majority of our models represent the spice, and not the meat-and-potatoes of the overall freight car fleet.

As you survey a freight yard or watch an average freight train, you will notice that 80%-90% of the freight cars observed are non-descript grey covered hopper cars, black or white tank cars, and brown boxcars.  Nearly all of these cars will have only reporting marks and data or perhaps a small logo.  These cars are the "Meat-and-Potatoes" of the freight car fleet.  

The remaining cars are colorful, unique, and sport conspicuous logos.  These are sprinkled into each train like spice on a meal.

So, to the end of giving my own personal model freight car fleet a more prototypical balance of "Meat-and-Potatoes" equipment versus spice, I have decided to focus on purchasing more appropriate cars as well as putting the paint booth back in action to create some unique generic cars.  

The recent Atlas release of 23,500 gallon tank cars was definitely a shot in the arm.  I purchased 21 data-only tank cars from this run.  The effect is excellent.

While perusing eBay for freight car decals I came across three available sets of decals for Reynolds Materials RMCX PS-4750 covered hopper cars.  These decals were produced by the long out-of-business Islington Station Products.  These decals were my favorite 20 years ago!