New buildings, cars and lorries in ‘N’ and ‘OO’ from Bachmann.

A USEFUL RANGE of new additions to the 4mm scale Scenecraft buildings and scenic accessories were announced today by Bachmann at its annual trade open day. Development work on the buildings is well underway with delivery expected later this year.

Perhaps the most interesting buildings to be unveiled were a range of diesel and electric era servicing depot structures. These include a Washing Plant (Cat Ref. 44-002), Modern Servicing Depot (Cat Ref. 44-017) and Diesel Fuelling Point (Cat Ref. 44-040). All pictured here.

Also new are Hampton North Signal Box (LNWR Type 5) (Cat Ref. 44-011), Concrete Footbridge (Cat Ref. 44-023), Hampton Lodge (Cat Ref. 44-034), Riveted Water Tank (Cat Ref. 44-037) and Security Fence (Cat Ref. 44-505).

The buildings have been produced in resin and include a number of railway lineside buildings and those from urban and industrial settings. All buildings are delivered ready painted and in some cases weathered. Prices range from £12.95 to £54.95.

Bachmann has also begun distributing a range of 1:76.2 scale/’OO’ gauge and 1:148 scale/’N’ gauge road vehicles under the Scenecraft name. The ‘OO’ models have been produced in conjunction with Base Toys with an RRP of £5.95 (lorries) and £2.95 (cars ). The ‘N’ vehicles have an RRP of £4.85 for a pair of vehicles. The following are now available:

‘OO’ gauge lorries
44-600 Albion Chieftan Flatbed BRS red
44-601 Albion Chieftan Flatbed BRS red
44-602 Albion Lad Flatbed BRS red
44-603 Albion Comet Flatbed BRS red
44-604 Leyland Comet tipper BRS
44-605 Ford Thames dropsided lorry LT
44-606 Leyland Hippo box van BRS
44-607 Leyland Roadtrain unit and trailer
44-608 Leyland Roadttrain rigid
44-609 Guy Warrior rigid dropside
44-610 Guy Warrior rigid flatbed
44-611 Guy Warrior 4 wheel tipper
44-612 Thornycroft 6 wheel flatbed lorry
44-613 Thornycroft highsided tipper lorry
44-614 Thornycroft refuse truck
44-615 Dodge Parrot nose tipper
44-616 Leyland FG 4 wheel tipper
44-617 Leyland FG 4 wheel dropsied
44-618 Commer Superpoise 4 wheel flatbed
44-619 Commer Superpoise dropsied
44-620 Leyland Beaver Box Van in BRS meat livery
44-621 Thornycroft 6 wheel flatbed
44-622 Thornycroft 6 wheel dropsied
44-623 Thornycroft flatbed
44-624 Leyland FG4 drinks dray
44-625 Leyland Roadtrain 6 wheel box van
44-626 Leyland Roadtrain 6 wheel tanker
44-627 Commer Superpoise 6 wheel high sided tipper
44-628 Commer Superpoise with box trailer
44-629 Commer Superpoise 4 wheel dropsied
44-630 Dodge 4 wheel tipper
44-631 Dodge 4 wheel tanker
44-632 AEC Mercury 4 wheel box van

‘OO’ gauge cars
44-750 Rover 100 P4
44-751 Austin A40 Farina
44-752 Hillman Imp
44-753 Armstong Siddeley Whiteley
44-754 Cortina Mark 1
44-755 Riley Pathfinder
44-756 Standard Vanguard Phase 1
44-757 Standard Vangaurd Phase 3

‘N’ gauge cars
379-900 Prefect
379-901 Anglia
379-902 Oxford
379-903 Cortina
379-904 Minor
379-905 Traveller
379-906 5cwt van
379-907 Mini
379-908 Capri
379-909 Taxi

The JGA hopper and OCA open debut in ‘N’ gauge.

BACHMANN EUROPE unveiled the first samples of the previously announced Graham Farish OCA drop-sided open wagon and JGA aggregate hopper wagon at its trade event at its Barwell HQ today.

Prototypically, the OCA open is a steel-sided version of the OBA (previously produced by Farish). Almost 400 wagons of this type were built at BREL Shildon, between 1981-1982.

The model will be available in three different liveries: departmental grey/yellow (Cat Ref. 377-550), Rail red (Cat Ref. 377-551) and EWS maroon/gold (Cat Ref. 377-552). These will retail at £10.25 each.

The JGA bogie hopper is used for the conveyance of a multitude of commodities including aggregates, limestone, potash, rock salt and stone.

The model, which feature subtle detail variations depending on the livery, will be available in three different colour schemes: RMC orange (Cat Ref. 377-100), Buxton Lime Industries blue/cream (Cat Ref. 377-101) and Tarmac white/green/yellow (Cat Ref. 377-102). The model will retail at £17.75.

Both vehicles will be available from Bachmann dealers late this year.

The latest progress on the Class 150/1 and Class 150/2.

THE ANNUAL OPEN day at Bachmann Europe’s Barwell headquarters today allowed those attending a chance to see progress on the latest models, including the impressive Class 150 ‘Sprinter’ units.

These were displayed in complete pre-production form, in both major versions - the Class 150/1 and Class 150/2 - providing an interesting comparison to the bodyshells that were on display at the recent DEMU Showcase Event in early June.

This view of the Class 150/2 DMSL (Driving Motor Second Lavatory) shows that the DMU utilises a similar motor arrangement to that found in the Class 108 unit, except this time driving on both bogies. The windows will be tinted on both cars to attempt to disguise this arrangement in a similar way to that found on the previously produced Class 158 and 170 models.

Other than the obvious front end differences on the Class 150/1, the driver’s door and lavatory window are also correctly changed. The gangwayed ‘Sprinter’ also features a prominent NRN roof pod and fitting plate on the roof.

The compromise with the motor enclosure encroaching into the body is to allow Bachmann to represent the underframe detail in all its glorious detail. The amount and quality of seperate fittings is quite sublime. The powered vehicle is also fully designed to accept a sound decoder and speaker. DCC sound will be provided on board on future runs.

Also of note is the coupler arrangement between the two vehicles that allow power/DCC to be transferred for the directional lights and pick-up. It is also worth mentioning that all three of the lights on each cluster are illuminated. LEDs have also been dropped in favour of flush fitting lenses.

More images of these essential Mk. 3-based DMUs can be found in the next issue of RAIL EXPRESS Modeller.

Hornby releases another BREL Type 5.

THE FIRST OF four new Class 56 models for 2008, No. 56103 Stora in EWS maroon and gold livery, has just been released by Hornby (DCC Ready - R2750, RRP £100.75 and DCC Fitted - R2750X, RRP £116.50).

Unfortunately, for modellers looking for a little variation from the Margate-based firm, this locomotive is identical to its previously released EWS example, No. 56059, with the exception of the name and number. It represents the same late-Doncaster build with EWS/Loadhaul-style modified cantrail grilles.

There are a couple of minor variations in that this ‘Grid’ correctly sports a yellow painted headlight surround, while the fit of the roof fan grilles also appears much better. It’s still a long way from being perfect though - the grilles should be flush with the roof.

Like the previously produced No. 56059, the paint job is equally a disappointment. While the application is more than adequate, the shade of EWS maroon appears too dull. Its ex-Lima Class 67 that was released at the same time is a touch better when it comes to representing the correct shade.

The other three ‘Grids’ that form the 2008 line up are: R2751/X No. 56003 in Loadhaul black/orange, R2752/X No. 56032 Sir De Morgannwg/County of South Glamorgan in Railfreight Metals and the DCC Sound fitted R2781XS No. 56125 in Railfreight Coal.

The latest products from the Margate-based firm.

ANOTHER BATCH OF reliveries of 4mm scale/’OO’ items have arrived from Hornby, including models based on the former Lima Class 67 and Class 101 DMU.

The two-car Met-Cam Class 101 represents Strathclyde PTE/ScotRail’s unique blue liveried No. 101692 (Cat Ref. R2696, RRP £84.75). The predominately blue livery, with red/yellow/black stripes is well applied, correctly featuring a slight different shade of blue on the cab sides.

The complex colour scheme on the real thing can be found here. The SPT logo is well reproduced on the cab fronts as well. In fact, the only thing letting the model down is the rather basic ex-Lima tooling, which could really do with a revamp into the 21st Century. NEM coupler pockets have been fitted to the power car, but strangely not to the trailer vehicle.

Strangely, Hornby has chosen not to apply destinations to either of the blinds, leaving them unpainted, but at least this saves any embarassment by using the wrong one. This 101 ironically probably spent more time working in the North West after transferring south, so Manchester/North Wales area destinations are just as prototypical as Strathclyde region locations.

The only other ommission is the NRN roof pods at either end. Lima did produce this tooling so it is something of a surprise that this was not used.

The Class 67 makes a return in EWS maroon/gold as No. 67018 Rapid (Cat Ref. R2764, RRP £74.50).

Compared to the first release of the model a couple of years ago, the EWS Bo-Bo sports new NEM coupler pockets, while Hornby has also correctly printed the horn grille detail on the cab front. It is a shame that this detail, at least, could not have been tooled onto the model.

Two new D&E era wagons are also added to the stable, both acquired as part of the Dapol tooling purchase in the mid-1990s. The HEA is a copy of the original Replica product, which found its way into the Bachmann range. This has subsequently been upgraded by the Barwell firm making the Hornby copy very much the poor relation. The domestic coal hopper is produced in weathered Mainline Freight blue livery (Cat Ref. R6384, RRP £7.70). The 363643 number is incorrect, it should be numbered in the 361xxx series, while the ladder should be painted white.

The other release is the PCA presflo in Alcan grey paint (Cat Ref. R6389, RRP £9.00). Ironically, Hornby have two versions of this vehicle in its toolbank, both former Lima and Dapol products! This was an excellent wagon when produced and it looks good in its ‘unrefurbished’ (small logo) Alcan colour scheme as No. ALCN 11206. The only real query is the lack of TOPS code on the data panel.

REM51: The only mag for the modern modeller!
FREE with RAIL EXPRESS magazine No. 146.
In the July issue:

• News: Graham Shaw of Shawplan Model Products retires and hands over to a new owner with ambitious plans. Bachmann expands its range of sound and light fitted 4mm scale models with new Class 37s and Class 25s.
• News Pictorial: Pre-production shots of the forthcoming Hornby HST and Class 153 DMU from Hornby are shown plus we have decorated samples of the Dapol KIA sliding hood steel carrier and Bachmann’s BDA air-braked bogie bolster.

• Feature: Our popular Modeller’s Guide feature returns with an overview of Network Coal train operation provided by freight expert David Ratcliffe. Includes impressive full colour train formation graphics.
• Reviews: A look at Bachmann’s three-car Class 108 DMU which is now available as a Buxton-based set in blue/grey livery and introduces a new body moulding.
• Serial: The Mostyn team expands the Class 40 fleet with the addition of two extremely grubby locos, one of which is the infamous green-liveried No. 40106.
• Specials: It’s your last chance to order our Bachmann Class 37 twin-packs and No. 37507. Although the final reservation date has passed we have over-ordered to make sure no-one is disappointed. These models will be available first come, first served only!

Two new paint jobs for the ‘ED’, including CE grey/yellow.

ANOTHER BATCH OF Class 73 models have arrived from Hornby and these two former Lima products show the Margate firm at its best and its worst!

First up is Class 73/1 No. 73108 in Civil Engineer’s grey and yellow (nicknamed ‘Dutch’) livery (Cat Ref. R2765). This is possibly the best paint job that Hornby has done on the electro-diesel, with the colours and paint separation being spot on.

Nice to see the Stewarts Lane depot plaque being used properly for once after the Heljan Class 58 in ‘Railfreight Coal’ livery debacle!

From the good to the ugly. The other release is Gatwick Express dedicated Class 73/2 No. 73204 Stewarts Lane 1860-1985 (Cat Ref. R2767). Unfortunately, the original InterCity Executive livery has a number of issues to the point where it seems that not one aspect of the attractive ‘raspberry ripple’ scheme is correct! For starters, the red and white body stripes are far too thin, the locomotive numbers are too small and the lower body grey is the wrong colour. We could go on… this is what the real thing should look like!

Notably, as we reported previously, the bogies now sport a NEM coupler socket. The RRP for the two ‘EDs’ is £65.99 each.

New identities for the excellent ‘N’ Met-Camm Pullmans.

POSSIBLY THE BEST carriage ever produced in ‘N’ gauge, Bachmann subsidiary Graham Farish has produced a further run of these delightful vehicles with new numbers and names.

Four of the Metro-Cammell Mk. 1 vehicles are being released, mirroring the 4mm scale vehicles produced as part of the Bachmann Branchine range: Pullman Parlour First (PFP) Amber (Cat Ref. 374-200A), Pullman Parlour Second (PSP) Car No. 348 (Cat Ref. 374-210A), Pullman Kitchen First (PFK) Magpie (Cat Ref. 374-220A) and Pullman Kitchen Second (PSK) Car No. 333 (Cat Ref. 374-230A).

Also new in the famous umber and cream livery is a second run of the unique Pullman Bar Car, called the ‘Hadrian Bar’ (Cat Ref. 374-240).

The RRP for all five coaches is £16.80.

The latest items from the Margate firm to arrive in the office.

A NUMBER OF models have recently dropped through the RAIL EXPRESS Modeller letterbox that don’t justify their own news stories, so here they are.

The Ex-LMS ZTO Brake Van (once of the Dapol/Palitoy range) has been released in BR Grey as No. M DM732346 (Cat Ref. R6409) and in a Black and Yellow stripe ‘bumble bee’ livery as No. DM 732540 (Cat Ref. R6410). The latter is sure to be a popular addition! RRP is £9.50 each.

Also new is the former Lima GWR Parcels Railcar. This is released in chocolate & cream livery as No. 34 (Cat Ref. R2768) with an RRP of £63.50. Like other items in the ex-Lima range, this is now being retooled with NEM coupler pockets.

Finally, GWR modellers can also look forward to the rerelease of the ‘B’ set coach in chocolate & cream colours with a new number as No. 6381 (Cat Re. R4319A). RRP is £21.00.

The Class 121 is released in three new liveries.

ONE OF THE most popular of the ex-Lima releases in the Hornby range, the Class 121 ‘bubble car’ single unit DMU makes a return in three new paint jobs.

Surprisingly it has taken us some time to get a BR blue/grey version, but that is now here in the form of No. W55026, a Bristol-based vehicle (Cat Ref. R2770).

Perhaps the most striking of the models is No. 121020 in Chiltern Railways livery (Cat Ref. R2769).

Overall, the liveries are reasonably well portrayed, although the yellow warning panel on the Chiltern blue ‘bubble’ is too bright. Strangely, blue/grey No. W55026 has been given oval buffers, as opposed to the standard Oleo round ones. Like the Class 73, the bogie tooling has been altered to accommodate a NEM coupling.

Not illustrated is No. W55028 in BR Green (Cat Ref. R2771). The RRP for the new units is £65.99 each.