Repurposing BLI H2As for Aggregate Loads

[mightypurdue22]

I purchased a 6-pack of C&NW H2As at a highly discounted price.  Got excited about that price and just went for it only to find out they didn't exist in the C&NW fleet that I can find.  They're too small for running coal on my layout and just don't look quite right.  In anyone's opinion, could I successfully re-purpose these as aggregate cars?  Would typical ballast cars be of similar size?  Thoughts?

Thanks,
Dave

[prr7161]

Don't know if the N&W ever put these cars in ballast service, but the 70-ton capacity is reasonable for ballast hauling.

[nkalanaga]

Ballast has been hauled in almost anything that can be bottom dumped.  The BN even used iron ore cars for it.  They wouldn't hold a capacity load, but were paid for, and available.

[nscalbitz]

Make 'em rusty and dusty, with a half load line inside and scratched paint surfaces inside and out.
I use groups of 3; if they're mainly for decoration, leave two loaded and one coloured and debris in the bottom.
cheers dave

[ncbqguy]

The H2a hoppers were a Norfolk & Western design.  Besides the 17” & 24” N&W lettering, the B&O, PRR, WAB, and IC schemes are also correct for leased/sold cars.
There are very few widespread car designs.   Even PS1 boxcars have variations road to road and construction lot to lot.
Aggregate service is a good use for the C&NW cars.
Charlie Vlk