Model Railway News

Kernow Model Rail Centre has announced the release of two exclusive commissions from Graham Farish Scenecraft in N Gauge of China Clay Dries and Clay Dries Chimney.

The mining of china-clay, kaolin, for the purposes of porcelain production began in Cornwall back in 1745. By the early 19th century, the deposits in Cornwall had emerged as the largest in the world.

After arriving from the pit the china clay in slurry form had to be dried because of its very high water content. The drying of the china clay slurry was traditionally undertaken in plants called “pan-kilns”. Pan-kilns consist of 4 major areas: sand and mica-drags, settling pits, settling tanks and the “dry” building.

The “dry” building is a long, narrow building with a chimney at one end a coal-fired furnace at the other end. Internally, the dry consists of 2 terraces. The upper terrace is called the “pan” and was used for drying the china clay, while the lower terrace was called the “linhay” and was used to store the dried china clay before removal by rail or road. Therefore, there is often a railway line just below the linhay.

The highly detailed Scenecraft models of the China Clay Dries and Chimney in 2mm scale are cast in resin and fully painted are similar to those in use at Wenford Bridge and other locations throughout the clay district in Cornwall.

Graham Muspratt, Development Manager said: “The China Clay Dries and Chimney has been very popular in 4mm scale so it was a natural choice to be part of our new range of N Gauge Exclusive Graham Farish Scenecraft buildings.”

The China Clay Dries models are exclusive to Kernow Model Rail Centre and available now:

42-059Z Graham Farish Scenecraft China Clay Dries - £54.95

42-060Z Graham Farish Scenecraft Clay Dry Chimney - £34.95

Roco have announced new editions of their incredibly popular HO scale Austrian Railjet sets in the striking new '100 Years of the OBB' liveries.

The releases include a full 8-pc set of a Railjet locomotive, 7 intermediate cars, and a control coach, all in special packaging. The sets are available in DC analog, DCC Digital with Sound, and Marklin AC Digital with Sound.  See the individual product pages below for all the features and details of each version. 

Kernow Model Rail Centre has announced the release of an exclusive commission from Graham Farish Scenecraft in N Gauge of the Truro GWR Type 7 signal box.

The Great Western Railway first introduced the Type 7 signal box design in 1896 and the design was used across the network with the last of its type being built in 1927. Key features of the GWR Type 7 signal boxes were a hipped roof, ornamental eaves brackets and highly distinctive operating room windows with sashes divided into three upper panes and two lower (intended to improve the signalman’s view of the line). The boxes were built of bright red bricks with Staffordshire blue brick often employed for plinths, quoins, and window surrounds.

The Truro type 7 signal box was built in 1899 as Truro East and is located at the eastern end the station overlooking the level crossing, it was renamed Truro in 1971 after the closure of Truro West box, when it also gained an impressive 54 lever frame from a Bristol box.

The highly detailed Scenecraft model of the GWR Type 7 signal box in 2mm scale is cast in resin, fully painted and fitted with etched metal window frames complete with realistic glazing. The staircase is supplied separately for user fitting. Although based on the box at Truro, the GWR Type 7 signal box could be seen at many other locations across the GWR system.

Chris Trerise, Managing Director said: “The Truro GWR Type 7 signal box is the first in a potential range of N Gauge Exclusive Graham Farish Scenecraft buildings, that like our 4mm scale range, have a local connection to either one of our branches, that hopefully will be popular with N gauge modellers.”

The exclusive to Kernow Model Rail Centre 42-011X Graham Farish Scenecraft GWR Type 7 Signal Box – Truro costs £54.95 and is available now.

Dapol have released artwork images for their next batch of Class 221 Super Voyagers, and have also added an additional livery to those previously announced.

Dapol state that:

"Artworks are now complete and have been submitted to the factory. We are currently waiting for decorated samples to arrive."

Liveries expected to be released during Q2/Q3 2023 are as follows:

2D-023-001

Class 221 5 Car Set 221108 Sir Ernest Shackleton Virgin Original

2D-023-002

Class 221 5 Car Set 221101 101 Squadron Virgin flowing silk

2D-023-003

Class 221 5 Car Set 221136 Cross Country

2D-023-004

Class 221 5 Car Set 221101 Avanti West Coast

The new livery added to the line up is the interim Virgin/Avanti scheme with Avanti livery elements over the original Virgin livery.

2D-023-005

Class 221 5 Car Set 221115 Avanti West Coast (Red Power Car Roof)

The Dapol model features:

• Low friction mechanism with our proven super smooth 5 pole motor
• Working lights
• DCC Ready - 6 pin decoder sockets supplied.
• Detailed body
• Expertly applied livery
• Etched name plates where appropriate
• Unique magnetic coupling system
• Utilises existing tooling

RRP for all liveries is £251.51

For more information visit the Dapol Website

Revolution Trains new Class A tanks and Zander aggregate wagons are expected to arrive in the next few weeks, with the second run of Class B tanks also due to arrive at the same time.

Revolution state that balance invoices will be sent out shortly to customers who have pre-ordered Zanders and Class A tanks direct from them. Some Revolution stockists are also accepting pre-orders for these models.

The new run of Class B tanks are available to pre order direct from Revolution Trains and Revolution stockists. The Class B tanks have also been reduced in weight after feedback from the first batch.

ZKV Zander versions being produced are:

• BR freight brown MTV (revenue service) with triple packs of Stone and Sand wagons and single wagons for salt and general traffic pools
• ZKV Zander departmental brown with yellow stripe livery with and without Mainline branding (3 versions)
• ZKV Zander departmental “Dutch” grey/yellow livery with and without Mainline branding (2 versions)

Class A tanks will be available in the following liveries:

• Original ESSO livery – silver barrel, red solebar
• Revised ESSO with pale grey barrel and red solebar
• Unbranded with grey barrel and red solebar
• Staveley Chemicals with grey barrel and red solebar
• Chipman’s with logo, green barrel and black solebar
• Chipman’s black

Class B tanks will be available in the following liveries:

• Esso Black
• Texaco Black
• Regent Black
• Plain Black
• United Molasses Brown with Blue ends
• Charringtons Red

For availability check with your local Revolution Trains stockist.

88 products from Marklin and Trix were added to our Latest Arrivals page today.

Marklin, TRIX, and LGB have announced their 2023 New Items program. There are many exciting new items in all scales so stay tuned for our annual newsletter where we highlight the most interesting items this year. Here are a few quick highlights to note:

Marklin and Trix HO fans should note the new (and long requested) WIRELESS version of the Mobile Station handheld controller. Era III fans get new tooling for a great looking ET85 railcar and ES85 trailer along with new tooling for Rms/Rmrs 31 stake cars. DR fans get an all-new DR/GDR "Taigatrommel” / “Taiga Drum" Class 120 Diesel Locomotive along with a 'Circus Busch' set with newly tooled Ks 3300 and Ks 3301 stake cars with loads. Modern railroad fans get all new & highly detailed Vectron Class 248/249 Dual Power Locomotives.  The EDELWEISS Parlor Car Set is bound to be a stunner when paired with the matching French East Railroad Class 13 Express Train Steam Locomotive.

US Railroad fans will be excited to see a pair of era VI Union Pacific Type GE ES44AC Heavy Diesel Locomotives along with a matching hopper car set.In the Marklin MHI program is a retro model NS class 1100 with matching tinplate Rheingold Passenger Cars as well as a BR 103 in the classic Orient Red livery with many digital functions. All-new tooling for a full set of Era V InterRegio passenger cars round out the MHI offerings.

Minitrix N Scale fans get all-new tooling of the well-known Vectron Electric Locomotive in some classic liveries as well as a new run of the always popular SBB 460 and era V SBB passenger cars including the 1st class Panorama car and Mitropa Dining Car. New tooling was also announced for the Uacs silo cars from Poland and the Czech Republic. Of course the BIG news is the all-new track system with concrete ties for modelling modern railways!

LGB collectors will get a new oil-fired version of the Harz Class 99 Steam Locomotive as well as new tooling for two DR freight cars. Three stunning new versions of the Class G 3⁄4 Steam Locomotive have been announced along with all new tooling for the RhB Class ABe 4/16 “Capricorn” Rail Car as seen in the recent 'Worlds Longest Passenger Train' World record. US fans get new versions of the Amtrak P42 locomotive and passenger cars! See the links below for much more!

As always, some of these announcements are MHI program exclusives and are limited edition releases.  Place your orders as early as possible as production and dealer allocation are limited for these products.  If you would like to reserve your models before we add pricing, our shopping cart will allow you to checkout with unpriced items to hold your place in line. 

Pre-order prices will be posted soon!  Stay tuned for more 2023 new item announcements.

Click here for the Marklin 2023 New Items Click here for the Trix 2023 New Items Click here for the LGB 2023 New Items

 

10 products from Fleischmann and Roco were added to our Latest Arrivals page today.

Chivers Finelines have produced a new run of their N Gauge Blue Spot fish van kits which are available to purchase now.

The kit is designed to produce a model of the BR Dia 800 Blue Spot Fish Van after it had been fitted with roller bearings in 1957.

They were numbered in the E87000- E87499 series, but only 275 were fitted with roller bearings for the dedicated blue spot trains. After the decline of fish traffic they were reclassified as SPV or NRV for express parcels service.

The kit requires 6.2mm wheels and Peco Couplings to Complete and is priced at £10 plus P&P direct from Chivers Finelines

Roco and Fleischmann have announced thier 2023 New Items programs today with hundreds of exciting new models in HO and N scale.

We will be adding the items to our database with full details over the next day but you can see all the new items in the English PDF brochures at the links below.  Pre-order pricing will be available later this month as we receive it from Roco/Fleischmann - don't place any orders until you see our low pre-order prices!

ROCO 2023 New Item Brochure PDF (English)

FLEISCHMANN 2023 New Item Brochure PDF (English)

By Matthew Dowd

Imported summer 2022 was a replica of a truly unique locomotive. Division Point worked with the team of designers and artists at Ajin Train Model, as well as other subcontractors, to create both the as-delivered and renumbered versions of this special one-of-a-kind Union Pacific coal-fired turbine locomotive. Division Point imported 60 sets (18 of them coming with the later “8080” number). Preceding this most recent import were multiple brass replicas from Alco Models and Overland Models. While both previously offered replicas were very good models for their respective eras of import, neither featured the technology package that today’s model railroaders expect from a factory-built model. Division Point has brought this model into the 21st century with inclusion of Digital Command Control (DCC) and a full suite of sound functions. This brass replica, like the prototype, consists of three separate units: control and hostling locomotive, coal turbine unit, and a fuel tender.

From nose to tail, the hostling locomotive shows its roots as an Alco PA-series diesel locomotive. The model features a fully detailed cab interior, numerous rooftop details, and a high degree of fidelity in the representation of the compound curvature of its nose. Window glazing, clear number board inserts, and etched-metal windshield wipers round out the leading edge of the first unit in this three-unit set. The model is powered, and control is achieved through an ESU LokSound V5 decoder. Working headlight, mars light, classification lights, and lit number boards are all executed very well. We were pleasantly surprised to see a warm glow to the LEDs used to illuminate these features giving them a very realistic appearance. The sound of Alco’s 244-type prime mover is very good, in addition to the appropriate brass bell sound effect and the iconic single chime air horns.

The coal turbine unit is one of the most striking pieces of locomotive engineering in model form. The most notable feature is immediately obvious — a replica of the turbine unit and its support workings in full broadside view. Additional detail is hidden behind etched-metal grilles including cooling fans, holding tanks, and additional piping. This unit is also powered by all eight driving axles, delivering solid tractive effort. A second ESU LokSound V5 decoder provides a truly unique set of sounds for this unit. This includes the startup and shutdown sequence for the coal turbine power plant and the sound of the rear-facing Leslie S5-T air horn mounted on the roof.

Bringing up the rear of the massive locomotive is the fuel tender. While its previous life as a steam locomotive tender is obvious, the unique design of this locomotive required many modifications. These are most obviously represented in model form with the addition of side access doors and a completely unique rooftop arrangement. The full-length auger used to move the coal forward within the bunker can be seen at the rear of the tender. A functional backup light is installed and controlled through a single wire plug going to the DCC decoder in the coal turbine unit.

While each unit of this locomotive has appropriate and unique details applied, a few common parts can be found across the models; these include trainline air hose and multiple unit (MU) hoses located on all to mate up the units. Also common on all replicas are coupler cut levers, control plug receptacles, and fuel and water connections. Rooftop details include see-through fan grilles, countless scale feet of piping in various diameters, and etched-metal walkways throughout the locomotive.

Can’t get enough of unique steam turbine locomotives? Division Point is planning a General Electric Steam Turbine 1 and 2 project for mid- to late 2023 delivery. This import will feature a special two-unit sets, the first time that such an offering has ever been made available. Reservations for models in Great Northern, New York Central, and Union Pacific paint schemes are still being accepted from all Division Point dealers.

The Division Point
lionel.com

 

Read the complete review in January 2023’s Model Railroad News!

 

The post A Brass Replica of a Classic Kitbash Division Point’s UP Coal Turbine appeared first on Model Railroad News.

By Tony Cook

Micro-Trains Lines (MTL) recently released several special run N-scale models, which is nothing newsworthy for this manufacturer that routinely offers interesting limited-production 1:160 reproductions. What is important is this group of releases marks the company’s 50th anniversary in the hobby.

It all started with a boxcar… the Micro-Trains line that flourishes in the hobby today supplying N, Z, and even some HO items traces its history to before World War II, which is much more than a half-century ago. Twin brothers Keith and Dale Edwards started their Kadee brand in the world of model railroading with HO turnouts and later made a name for their new company with the patented Magne-Matic coupler. In the days when loop-and-hook connections were deemed not only okay but standard equipment, a more realistic functioning knuckle coupler was a breakthrough. The Kadee line continued to expand with wheels, trucks, and more coupler options, including providing products for then-new N scale in the 1960s. As N exploded, Kadee launched a 40-foot boxcar model in late 1972 (ad shown on the left). The N-scale freight car kits were a success and growth continued and became a separate Kadee division known as Micro-Trains. By the early 1990s, Micro-Trains and Kadee divided with MTL continuing to pursue N, Nn3, Z, and even HOn3 for a time. Today, Micro-Trains is a leader in their field with a regular slate of monthly deliveries. Watch for the company’s all-new N-scale Pullman-Standard two-bay hopper to be reviewed in the near future.

 

From The Archive is a regular feature in Model Railroad News!

 

The post A Boxcar 50 Years in the Making: Micro-Trains Celebrates a Half-Century appeared first on Model Railroad News.

KV Models expands its etched-metal details for use on HO-scale Electro-Motive Division (EMD) cab unit models. KV Models’ EMD F-unit Cover Plates set includes several multiple-unit (MU) plates. In their later years, railroads seeking to consist several locomotives installed MU connections (generally placed on the nose near the headlight and number boards). As these features vary on size, style, and placement on prototypes, this detail is frequently not depicted on HO models. KV Models provides more than a dozen thin metal MU plates for installation (as shown above on the Amtrak FL9 model) with its new release.

KV Models
kvmodels.com

 

 

Keep up with the latest news in Model Railroad News!

 

The post New HO detail sets from KV Models appeared first on Model Railroad News.

Rapido Trains UK have issued a statement regarding their recently released N Gauge Class 28 diesel locomotive and 'Conflat P' wagons:

N Gauge News now has two Class 28's in our possession and outside of the minor issues raised in our review of the model, we have experienced additional issues with either locomotive. We are aware that some owners have experienced issues with the glue holding the bogie pickup strips in place failing and the strips coming loose, which can then cause running issues.

Some 'Conflat P' owners have reported issues with binding wheels, and Rapido Trains have identified an error in the tooling which may result in such an occurrence. Unfortunately the wagons due to be reviewed by NGN are still working their way through the postal system, so our review of these is delayed.

Our advice would be to always see models running in store before you purchase wherever possible. If ordering online, most good retailers will test the models before sending them if requested.

NGN also applauds Rapido Trains UK for their openness and honesty surrounding these issues, and we are confident they will follow through on their promise of improved QC in their future N Gauge releases.

The votes are in!

Thank you to all those who took time to vote in the 2022 N Gauge News Diesel & Electric poll. This was the first poll we have run, and it has returned some interesting results.

So, without further ado, here are the results!

Top 10 overall

The LMS D16/1 Twins are the overall winner of the poll, with the Class 205 Thumper unit and Class 25/3 hot on their heals. As a point of interest however, if we were to add the number of votes cast for a re-tooled Class 37 to those for the DRS modified versions, then the Class 37 would come in 2nd place just behind the twins.

Top 5 - Diesel / Diesel Hydraulic Shunters Top 5 - Diesel / Diesel Hydraulic Locomotives Top 5 - DC Electric Locomotives Top 5 - AC Electric Locomotives Top 5 - Prototype / Unique / Experimental Locomotives Top 5 - Railcars Top 5 - Diesel Multiple Units Top 5 - DEMUs Top 5 - AC / Dual Voltage EMUs Top 5 - DC EMUs Top 5 - Electric / Bi Mode High Speed Units General Categories

We asked which existing model you would like to see re-tooled or replaced with an updated model, primarily to see if there was a stand out Class N Gauge modellers would like to see updated. The top five in this category were:

The top five features would you like to see included on RTR N Gauge models were:

Finally, we asked which era best fits your current modelling interests:

The full list of results is available to download here

Thanks to everyone who voted, we hope it provided a little bit of fun over the festive period!

Work will now start on compiling a Steam poll which will be run during December 2023.

Happy New Year to all NGN readers!

We'll start by saying THANK YOU to each and everyone one of you who visit the site or follow our social media channels. We hope you've enjoyed the content over the last year and we'll hopefully have plenty more for you in 2023. We'd also like to say thank you to all of the manufacturers who've allowed us to take close-up looks at new products, including Bachmann, Revolution Trains, Cavalex Models and Rapido Trains.

As has become custom, here's a quick recap of the last year. This time one year ago we rather boldly forecasted a very interesting year ahead for N Gauge, and we don't think it disappointed, so lets take a look at some of the N Gauge highlights from 2022!

January

Revolution Trains kicked things off by debuting the EP samples and opening the order books for their N Gauge Class 313/314 EMU. Livery samples are due very soon, and with luck the models will be released during 2023.

There is still time to order your Class 313 at Revolution Trains

We also saw the first painted samples for the Sonic Models J50 0-6-0 tank engine. Sadly this has been delayed slightly by ongoing issues in China around COVID lockdowns, but it should arrive early in 2023. This model is available to pre-order exclusively from Rails of Sheffield

February

Early February saw the first of the quarterly Bachmann product announcements, and they surprised everyone with an upgraded Class 08 shunter featuring a new chassis, Next18 DCC socket and, amazingly, a pre-fitted speaker allowing sound fitted versions to be made available or the user to fit their own sound chip. Quite a feat in a model this small! A raft of liveries were announced, many of which have now arrived with stockists and just a handful still to arrive.

You can see the NGN review of the upgraded Graham Farish Class 08 shunter here

Also announced and now available was the Class 769 FLEX bi-mode EMU, a derivative of the Class 319 EMU, in the attractive Transport for Wales livery.

The N Gauge Society revealed livery samples for their next item of RTR exclusive rolling stock, the BR VIX Ferryvan:

Also in February, three new Revolution models arrived, the long awaited Class 320/321, IWA Sfins2 Holdall vans and Rfnoos timber carriers.

You can read our reviews for the Class 320/321 here, and the Sfins2 vans here

Not content with delivering those models, at Model Rail Scotland Revolution made the surprise announcements that they were to produce the the FNA-D nuclear flask wagon Alstom Class 175 'Coradia' and Class 180 'Adelante' DMUs with CAD images shown for both classes. The order books for both are now open.

Dapol revealed the first EP samples for their reinvigorated Class 59 project. See more images of that here.

Finally, we took a close-up look at the Cavalex N Gauge PGA hoppers being produced exclusively for Rails of Sheffield.

March

The London Festival of Railway Modelling show at Alexandra Palace saw the EP samples for the highly anticipated Graham Farish Class 158 DMU revealed and on display at the Bachmann stand. NGN had the opportunity to take a close up look.

Rapido Trains UK also revealed the first EP for the Metrovick Class 28 CO-BO during June, but more on that later...

April

Steadfast Models added some very nice decals to their range for the Dapol IOA box wagons to represent the distinctive rust marks caused by the unloading process.

Sticking with wagons, the EFE Rail NACCO JIA China clay wagons arrived in April, and you can read the NGN review here.

May

The Summer Bachmann announcements saw new Class 37s and updated class 60's announced, most of which are now available via retailers.

You can read our review of the updated Class 60 here

June

The N Gauge Society announced another exclusive ready to run model in the shape of the 6.5 ton Cowans Sheldon crane with CAD images viewable here

Livery samples for the forthcoming Revolution Trains Class 128 parcels DMU also arrived during June. Take a closer look here.

Rapido Trains UK announced more new N Gauge models, this time in the shape of SECR wagons and brake van.

And June also saw the long awaiting arrival in shops of the Graham Farish Class 319 EMU. Check out our review here!

July

July was a relatively quiet month for N Gauge, but the one big announcement came from Sonic Models, with the news they are to produce a GWR 61xx large Prairie. See more information on that here

August

The Bachmann Autumn announcements caused a stir in August, with the first all new tooled locomotive announced since the switch to the quarterly news cycle in the shape of the Class 90 electric locomotive. Not only was the model announced, but completed livery samples were also shown and the Class 90 arrived on shelves just before Christmas, which must be one of the shortest announcements to release periods for an N Gauge Model yet! Check out the NGN Class 90 review here

Revolution Trains also revealed the first livery samples for their Class 59 model. NGN took a close-up look which you can see here and the first EP sample for the N Gauge Caroline inspection saloon also arrived with a close-up look at that here.

From smaller suppliers, Arch Laser announced a new range of 3D printed ready painted road vehicles for N Gauge and Osbornes Models introduced a range of 3D printed ready painted N Gauge rolling stock.

September

The International N Gauge show at Leamington Spa kicked off September, and we could barely keep up with the news coming from that event! Revolution Trains announced a raft of new models for N Gauge, including the Class 120 DMU, much requested Bombardier Class 37X 'Electrostar' family EMUs and PTA, JSA and HJO/HJV wagons. They also delivered their excellent JNA/MMA EALNOS box wagons to customers, and you can see our review of those here.

Rapido Trains UK announced their second N Gauge RTR locomotive in the shape of the Class 44, with Class 45/46 to follow in the future. We're sure these new 'Peaks' will be in high demand!

Dapol provided updates on several N Gauge models, including the long awaited Bulleid Light Pacifics, but also announced a brand new GWR 63xx mogul.

October

=C=Rail=Intermodal= delivered a new batch of their excellent KQA/KTA pocket wagons during October, and we reviewed them here.

We also took a look at one of the N'Tastic range of 3D printed N Gauge road vehicles in our review here.

Another new arrival and review during October were the imposing Dapol Foster Yeoman O&K JHA hopper wagons and you can check out the review here.

November

A busy November kicked off with the Bachmann winter announcements, this time featuring a number of new Class 31 liveries, with many now available in the shops.

PECO released their newly tooled 'Quality Line' 7 & 5 plank wagons, replacing the previous decades old tooling. Check out our review of those here.

The Kernow Model Rail Centre announced several exclusive limited editions in the form of Graham Farish Class 31 in the attractive golden ochre livery, and two Revolution Trains Class 59s in MRL and ARC liveries.

The Warley International Model Railway Exhibition at the NEC in Birmingham also saw a number of announcements in 2022.

Dapol revealed an updated Ivatt 2MT tank engine with new 'DCC Friendly' chassis.

Rapido Trains UK announced they were shrinking their OO dynamometer coach down to N Gauge, along with their OAA air braked 45t open wagon.

Livery samples for the Graham Farish Class 158 were also on display on the Bachmann stand, and we took a close-up look at this highly anticipated model here.

Revolution Trains also received EP samples for their N Gauge FNA-D nuclear flask wagons, and there is a close-up look at these here.

December

December saw a raft of new liveries announced by Dapol & Gaugemaster for the Gaugemaster Collection range, including new Class 156, Class 73, Class 56, Class 33, Class 86 and HST liveries.

Rounding out our 2022 highlights, Rapido Trains UK delivered their first UK Outline N Gauge locomotive in the shape of the Class 28 'Metrovick' and the Conflat P wagons to run with it for those wishing to reproduce the 'Condor' freight trains they were famous for hauling. We took a look at the Class 28 in our NGN review.

A final surprise release for 2022 came from Rails of Sheffield with an exclusive run of Graham Farish JJA Auto-ballasters in weathered network rail livery.

2023, the year of....

We think 2022 has been a bumper year for UK N Gauge, with some excellent announcements and releases through the year from established and new manufacturers alike.

There are still challenges for manufacturers and whilst China's zero COVID policy resulting in sudden factory lockdowns may have been relaxed recently there is still considerable potential for disruption and delays. The ongoing microchip shortage is also causing supply constraints for DCC chips, particularly sound versions.

That said, there are some very exciting models already announced in the pipeline which we expect will reach layouts through the year, and we're sure there will be one or two surprises along the way!

We look forward to bringing you all the N Gauge news in 2023!

The Rails of Sheffield exclusive Drax IIA-D hopper wagons being produced by Revolution Trains are nearing the completion of production and are expected to arrive at the end of February / Early March 2023

Revolution Trains have provided photos of production samples and packaging for the models, which are available to order now exclusively from Rails of Sheffield.

The models feature NEM couplers, highly detailed bodies with a host of separately fitted details including hopper roof door opening rams, control gear and brake equipment, and will be available in a range of numbers and liveries.

Eight twin packs are available to order, all with unique running numbers.

N-IIAD-201A

DRAX POWER IIA-D BIOMASS HOPPER TWIN PACK

ORIGINAL DRAX POWER LIVERY - PACK A

N-IIAD-201B

DRAX POWER IIA-D BIOMASS HOPPER TWIN PACK

ORIGINAL DRAX POWER LIVERY - PACK B

N-IIAD-211A

DRAX POWER IIA-D BIOMASS HOPPER TWIN PACK

NORTHERN POWERHOUSE DRAX LIVERY - PACK A

N-IIAD-211B

DRAX POWER IIA-D BIOMASS HOPPER TWIN PACK

NORTHERN POWERHOUSE DRAX LIVERY - PACK B

N-IIAD-221A

DRAX POWER IIA-D BIOMASS HOPPER TWIN PACK

RENEWABLE PIONEERS DRAX LIVERY - PACK A

N-IIAD-221B

DRAX POWER IIA-D BIOMASS HOPPER TWIN PACK

RENEWABLE PIONEERS DRAX LIVERY - PACK B

N-IIAD-231A

DRAX POWER IIA-D BIOMASS HOPPER TWIN PACK

RENEWABLE PIONEERS DRAX LIVERY - PACK A

N-IIAD-231B

DRAX POWER IIA-D BIOMASS HOPPER TWIN PACK

RENEWABLE PIONEERS DRAX LIVERY - PACK B

These giant wagons, volumetrically the largest on the network until recently, were introduced in 2013 and a fleet of 225 are now in service ferrying imported biomass to the UK’s largest power station, Drax in North Yorkshire.

Using biomass has allowed Drax, which generates 6% of the UK’s electricity, to reduce emissions by more than 80%. Unlike coal, biomass has to be kept dry. It’s also much lighter, so far more can be carried per wagon. To maximise efficiency and reduce the risk of wastage Drax ordered specially designed wagons from builders WH Davis of Nottinghamshire.

The revolutionary design has four hoppers, two in the centre and two outside each bogie, and a body profile designed to make maximum use of the British loading gauge. The wagons were originally outshopped with eye-catching Drax power vinyls in two versions (‘A’ and ‘B’) and some have since received ‘Northern Powerhouse’ versions of the scheme.

In use they operate between bulk terminals at the ports of Liverpool, Immingham, Tyne, Redcar and Hull with Class 60 and 66 locomotives in EWS/DB, GBRf and Colas liveries.

They are being sold in twin packs exclusively by Rails of Sheffield priced at £79.95 per pair.

This production run is limited, reserve yours today with a £10 deposit.

229 products from Marklin, Fleischmann, LGB, Roco and Trix were added to our Latest Arrivals page today.

Announced in August 2022, the all new tool N Gauge Graham Farish Class 90 is now arriving with retailers, and is the first N Gauge locomotive to be released since Bachmann switched to their quarterly announcement cycle. An updated model of the type has been a much requested model in N Gauge for some time, so have Bachmann delivered? Read on to find out...

The Prototype

The Class 90 can trace it's origins back to the cancellation of the Advanced Passenger Train project during the early 1980s, along with the decision to electrify the East Coast Mainline which would result in a shortage of electric motive power when combined with the need to replace the now ageing Classes 81 - 85 which had entered service as early as the 1950s.

After the APT was scrapped, BR began to examine other options for traction including an electric version of the HST, the mixed-traffic Class 89 and what would eventually become the Intercity 225 project. When the Class 89 yielded disappointing results, with little improvement over the existing Class 87, and the original multi-purpose vision for what would become the Class 91 of the Intercity 225 project being narrowed down to high speed passenger operations on the ECML only, BR were left still looking for an answer to the replacement of older electric locomotive classes and motive power for the West Coast Mainline.

With the Class 87 having proven itself to be a capable and reliable type, BR's interest turned to a follow on order for the type, and British Rail Engineering Limited (BREL) proposed an updated and refined Class 87/2 variant. Eventually an order for fifty was placed, and construction began in 1987.

Specified to 5000hp and a 110mph maximum speed, the 87/2 design featured many improvements over the original locomotives, including Thyristor Control, rheostatic brakes and Time-Division Multiplexer (TDM) equipment to allow multiple working or control via driving trailer. A new, more aerodynamic bodyshell was also designed which had some similarities to the Class 91 being built alongside.

The prototype was initially numbered 87201 but shortly after roll out the decision was made to use the TOPS class of 90 due to the shear number of differences over the Class 87, and the first locomotive was renumbered to 90001. Testing at Old Dalby showed promise with 125mph being attained and reliability generally good, but some issues did emerge and entry into service was delayed around 3 months. During the testing phase, 90008 travelled to Hamburg in company with 89001, 91003 and 150263 for display at the 1988 International Traffic and Transport Exhibition. Initial problems led to the class receiving the nickname 'Skodas'

All 50 locomotives were in service by 1990 hauling express passenger trains, mail and freight along the length of the West Coast Mainline. In the run up to privatisation, the class was split between the newly formed sectors, with 15 allocated to Intercity, five to express parcels, five to Railfreight Distribution and the remaining 25 dedicated to freight operations. These 25 had their train heating systems isolated and their top speed reduced to 75mph. The changes resulted in the /1 subclass being formed, which comprised locomotives 90126-90150. On privatisation, twenty five fell under the ownership of EWS, ten Freightliner and the remaining fifteen Virgin Trains. The freightliner locos were eventually returned to their 110mph max speed, whilst a handful of EWS machines were also reverted for use on overnight sleeper trains.

As deliveries of the Class 390 Pendolino began, Virgin Trains removed it's Class 90 fleet from service, choosing to keep the more numerous Class 87's operational until the fleet replacement project was complete. This allowed the transfer of 90001-90015 to the Great Eastern Mainline as replacements for the ageing Class 86's still in use. Subsequently replaced on that line by Stadler FLIRT units, 13 of those locomotives have joined the Freightliner pool, again replacing the Class 86 in service there. 39 Class 90s currently remain in active service, with 11 stored in various states of disrepair. 90050 was badly damaged by fire in 2004 and is now used as a spares donor for the rest of the Freightliner fleet.

The type has seen extensive service across the network and despite some minor faults is considered a reliable and useful type which is likely to remain in service for some years to come. This long service life has seen the class wear many different liveries over the years, including those of the Belgian, French and German state operators. 90001 & 90002 have now passed into the ownership of Locomotive Services Ltd and following repaint in to Intercity Swallow livery, can now been see hauling charter trains across the 25kv system.

The Model

Graham Farish first introduced a Class 90 to it's range in 1995 and it received praise at the time for being one of the few RTR N Gauge electric locomotives available, along with good levels of underframe detail. The model received a chassis upgrade in 2005 following the Bachmann take over of Farish, but by now the body tooling was showing its age compared to some of the newer models being released. This would be the last time the 90 appeared in the Farish catalogue until August 2022 when a new model was announced as the first all new N Gauge locomotive produced under Bachmann's quarterly announcements regime.

On removal from box, it's clear this model is light years ahead of the old Poole tooling in every possible respect. Bachmann have done a superb job of capturing the overall shape and appearance of the Class 90 and we can only assume this new N Gauge model has benefited from the research done for the 2019 OO Gauge version.

In terms of shape, the model appears to be spot on in all areas, with the distinctive aerodynamic cabs accurately reproduced and the domed cab roof, which is a more complex shape than a quick glance would suggest, looks correct to this reviewers eye. In terms of overall shape, the model screams Class 90 from every angle.

The rather sparse bodyside details of the prototype have all been finely reproduced on the model, with some very nice side grill mouldings being the main features. Door outlines are commendably fine, not suffering from the trenching that sometimes affects N Gauge models. Lifting point covers, sandbox filler recesses & caps and the smaller vents are also neatly represented. Door grab rails are moulded, which is probably the best solution for this particular style and gives them a scale appearance. The three cantrail level roof panels are present, again with the fine engraving not being overbearing. Looking down on the model, the cabsides correctly flare out from the nose to just after the rear edge of the window, which is also correctly recessed toward the rear.

The cab front features the two distinctive cut outs above and below the grill, along with a representation of the panel used to access the wiper mechanisms. This is one of the few models where there aren't, correctly, any wipers included with these being hidden behind a fairing just below the windows on the prototype. The grill covering the horns is represented by some more fine moulding.

The high quality of the body moulding and finesse of the detail really helps contribute to the feeling of a model that could easily be in a larger scale than N Gauge.

One area that is a vast improvement over the older model are the lights. Rather than being simply printed on, these are now full operational with a very convincing separately fitted cover giving an excellent representation of the prototype arrangement and this really makes a significant contribution to the look of the model being 'right'. The tail lights, headlight and marker lights are all operational with no light bleed from around the covers.

In addition to the head/tail lights, DCC users can switch on and off the cab lighting, with the function available to independently control which cab is illuminated. The lighting is perhaps a touch on the bright side and the LED sits quite low in the cab, so those with the ability to do so may want to adjust the brightness via the CV values to bring it down a lumen or two!

The second area which is a signifiant improvement is the front valance. On the old model, this and the buffer beam were mounted to the bogies, resulting in a large gap and the really quite strange appearance of it swinging out to the left and right as it negotiated smaller radius curves. The valance and buffer beam moulding is now attached to the chassis (it can be removed via two screws) resulting in no gap and a much more convincing appearance overall. The various TDM and ETH connectors and sockets are all present on the buffer beam, with the mu cables being represented by separately fitted wire parts. These are perhaps a little on the clunky side in comparison to the fine wire connectors of the prototype.

A small bag containing buffer beam pipework and both a coupling hook or dellner coupling are included for the user to fit, although interestingly the comprehensive instruction sheet also references a hook with screwlink coupling but this was not included in the bags on any of the three examples reviewed here.

The models representing the locomotives in use on passenger services correctly have the larger buffers and rubbing plates fitted. There has been some compromise here, as the model represents the loco with the buffers in the extended position and inline with the rubbing plate, which would usually be retracted. When coupled to coaching stock, the buffers are retracted and rotated through 90 degrees whilst the rubbing plate is extended. The Freightliner locomotive correctly as no rubbing plate and rectangular buffers as fitted to those locos dedicated to freight operations.

What little roof equipment is present on the prototype is neatly represented on the model, with the two large brake resistor banks represented, along with the various other panels and equipment covers.

The pantograph is a nicely detailed model of the Brecknell Willis High Speed design fitted to the prototype, and is posable in the raised position. There is a clip holding it in the down position and it does take some careful force to release it from this. The collector head is an etched nickel silver part which features correctly shaped horns at each side. A minor niggle is the representation of the contact strips are a little on the deep side.

The pantograph itself, and the associated power feed cabling and insulator pots are moulded in a tough, flexible plastic for durability, but Bachmann seem to have struck a good balance between scale appearance and strength for what is the most vulnerable part of the model. Overall it is a very nice representation of the real thing with some fine detail included and certainly one of the best BW High Speed pantographs we've seen in N Gauge to date.

The various air reservoirs, compressors and equipment boxes of the underframe are represented with some really quite fine detailing which captures the open framed appearance in this area perfectly.

The bogies also feature some excellent moulding, with plenty of depth to the detail giving them the heavy appearance of the real things. The distinctive three flexcoil springs and dampers are moulded as part of the bogie which does result in a gap between springs and body, however the gap is not overly intrusive. Brake shoes are present and in line with the wheels and steps are separately fitted parts.

The new model is equipped with a kinematic close coupling mechanism and standard NEM coupling pocket which protrudes through an opening in the valance. It's probably the neatest solution possible in order to facilitate the valance not being attached to the bogies and works well on testing. For those who wish to run the model without the coupling, blanking plates are provided. The coupling pocket must be removed first via a small screw, which is then used to hold the blanking plate in position. It was a little fiddly getting the blanking plate in to the right position, there is a small pin on the mount that fits between the two pegs on the blanking plate, but the difference in appearance is worth the effort.

Finish

The finish on all three models used in this review is excellent, as we would expect from any recent Graham Farish product. The base colours are smooth and evenly applied with good density and no sign of any blemishes or marking. Livery elements on all versions are sharply applied and the white stripes of the Virgin Trains example have excellent density over the striking red grey base colours. On all three examples the lining is pin sharp to the naked eye.

The finer printed details are also sharply reproduced, with all but the very smallest text legible on all three liveries seen in this review. OHLE warning flashes, TOPS panels and logos are all present and sharp.

Logos and fonts are all accurate for the livery represented with some very nice, sharp application of the Freightliner logos and Intercity swallow logos & text in particular. The printed name plates are also sharp and legible.

My only minor niggle with any aspect of the finish on this model is that the insulator pots and power line on the roof detail are not painted. This is due to the type of plastic used to ensure robustness of these these parts having a waxy finish, which Bachmann say makes it difficult to apply factory finish over. A few minutes careful work with brush and some appropriately coloured paint will resolve the niggle.

Mechanism

It's increasingly difficult to find words other than the usual superlatives to describe the running qualities of modern Graham Farish N Gauge locomotives. Out of the box the model was quiet and smooth running with no sign of stuttering of hesitation at all. Quite simply, the performance is excellent.

Weighing in at 67g, it has a reasonable weight to it which should give prototypical pulling capabilities, especially if double heading long Freightliner trains. There are no traction tyres fitted, although we doubt they will be needed.

For those looking to fit a DCC chip to their model, this is a slightly more complicated process than some other recent models. The first step is to remove the bogies from the chassis. This required quite a bit of force on the model disassembled here, but they will eventually unclip.

Four small screws must then be removed, and crucially the MU cabling needs to be gently prised out from the buffer beam. If you try to remove the body without doing this, you are likely to bend the wire out of shape. Once that is done, the body will slide off the chassis, revealing the Next18 decoder socket. This does feel a little on the 'faffy' side compared to other recent Farish models such as the Class 319 and its removable panel.

The pre-fitted speaker and cab lighting rely on sprung contact strips and pads for connectivity so there are no wires between body and chassis. For DC users who wish to turn off the tail lights when running the model as part of a train, there are two switches on the circuit board to facilitate this.

The centrally mounted coreless twin shaft motor has a brass flywheel at each end and is connected to the bogie gear towers via cardan shaft and brass worm gear. Drive is via all four axles. Wiper pickups collect current from all wheels.

On all three examples in this review, performance around a test circuit of Kato unitrack was faultless.

DCC Sound

As is now customary, Bachmann are also offering DCC sound fitted models of all versions released. The Freightliner example in the review is so equipped, the only noticeable external difference being the DCC Sound logo printed on the underside of one bogie.

The quality of the sound is excellent, with a startup sequence and multiple different sound effects available to DCC users and the distinctive 'hum' of the prototype has been well captured by Bachmann in this custom sound project.

We're preparing a video to showcase the sound fitted versions which will be posted early in the new year.

Summary

A new class 90 has been a highly requested model for some time, and Bachmann have delivered what we think might just be the best RTR N Gauge electric locomotive released to date. Exceptionally smooth performance combined with high levels of detail, accurate body shape and excellent livery application makes this a must have for any 'Skoda' fan. It's also nice to see a newly tooled N Gauge locomotive released for the first time since Bachmann changed to quarterly announcements.

With a long service life and plenty of liveries worn over that time, the Class 90 should be a staple in the Farish range for years to come, and we look forward to seeing more models released in the future.

We have no hesitation at all in highly recommending the Class 90! (We just need some coaching stock to run behind it please Bachmann!)

Availability

Five liveries have been released in the first batch of new models and they are available via Bachmann retailers now:

371-780 / 371-780SF

CLASS 90/0 90005 'FINANCIAL TIMES' BR INTERCITY (SWALLOW)

371-781 / 371-781SF

CLASS 90/0 90037 BR RAILFREIGHT DISTRIBUTION SECTOR

371-782 / 371-782SF

90019 'PENNY BLACK' RAIL EXPRESS SYSTEMS

371-783 / 371-783SF

CLASS 90/0 90004 'CITY OF GLASGOW' VIRGIN TRAINS (ORIGINAL)

371-785

90047 FREIGHTLINER G&W

RRP is £194.95 for DCC ready versions and £294.95 for the DCC sound fitted models.

The models in this review were purchased by the review for £165.70 (DCC Ready) & £250.70 (DCC sound) from Alton Model Centre

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