Abstract: A method and an apparatus for unloading hopper cars. The method includes the steps of placing a tube in the vicinity of an open hopper of the hopper car, and discharging a blast aerator through the tube. The apparatus includes a housing rotatably mounting the tube. The tube includes a tip to assist in entering the material to be unloaded. A motor to rotate the tube is mounted in the housing; and, a blast aerator is receivable on the housing. A fitting seals between the stationary blast aerator and the rotatable tube, and the fitting can receive an adapter to vary the size of the blast aerator.