Southern Electric RTR Incoming
Two new 4mm scale ready to run items have arrived in stock. The first is Bachmann 31-520Z 159016 in South Western Railway colours, exclusively available from the Kernow Model Rail Centre. Bachmann’s latest version of Classes 158 and 159 has already been reviewed by this group (read here) and this is merely a new livery version, albeit with a further increase in price. Except to comment, as I found with previous new tooling Class 158 and 159 models, there is still an assembly or packaging error with the inner axles of the bogies under the cabs not being inserted properly, which if not corrected will cause difficulty putting the car correctly onto the track and then subsequent derailments.
The second is the first tranche of Class 92 locomotives from Accurascale, researched, developed and manufactured to a specification considerably higher than previous Class 92 models from Hornby and Lima. Ilustrated here is ACC2191 representing 92003 “Beethoven” in European Passenger Services livery. Illustrations of other versions will be posted after they have been delivered, and a review will follow as soon as possible, but this may be in the new year. First impressions, given the Modelling Officer has only had his model for a few hours, are extremely favourable and this model deserves proper attention rather than a quick appraisal. Accurascale only manufacture in limited quantities according to how many pre-orders they receive (subject to a minimum viable quantity) plus additional for warranty cover and small stocks for their authorised dealer network. If you have not already placed a pre-order and would like a model, or several, to avoid disappointment you are strongly advised to place an order as soon as possible.
Colin Duff. Modelling Officer. 12th December 2022