55 Tie-Jector

Production:  1957 - 1961

History
The 55 Tie-Jector Motorized Unit was a newly designed item by Lionel in 1957. It is an interesting model which is loosely based upon a work train used to supply railroad ties to work crews.

Activation of the Tie-Jector unit is through the use of two track-side activation clips. As the unit passes the first the first activator, the ties begin to automatically unload. This process continues until the unit has unloaded all ties or until it passes the second track-side clip -- at which point it will turn off the tie unloading process.

Although the Tie-jector unit included a non-operating rear coupler, it was designed to pull only a single freight car -- or possibly two light-weight freight cars. Anything more than this usually causes the motor to overheat.

Features
Standard features of the 55 Tie-Jector include: red molded body with a black ends and white lettering, single non-operating coupler, blue rubber man plus a simulated silver horn.

Also included with the Tie-Jector car are 12 simulated wook ties and two track-side activation clips.

Additional Detail, Photos & Box Information
There are two versions of the Tie-jector unit, with the later version being slightly harder to locate.

Without Ventilation Slot - Shown in the photo above. - Earlier production, assumed to be the 1957 and 1958 production models.
With Ventilation Slot - Later production models included a ventilation slot behind the blue rubber man. This helped reduce the possibility of over-heating or damage to the plastic body. This version is assumed to have been produced from 1959 until 1961.

To purchase quality Lionel Motorized Units from our sponsors, click on either website:

Dave's Trains Inc.