Accucraft Power Unit Competition

We ran our power unit competition at the 16mm Scale show and Tag Gorton kindly agreed to judge the entries and award the prizes.  The three finalists were all superb models, Steve Hammett’s tram was inspired, Richard Turner’s ‘Morph’ was ingenious but in the end the level of detail and all the extraneous bits and pieces on Steph’ Hicking’s ‘Sylvia’ seduced Tag and she carried off first prize, a ‘Ragleth’ power unit.  We’d like to thank all those who took part in this year’s challenge – you can see the entrants here.

Steph’ Hicking receives her prize from Juliet Arthur of Atlantic Publications

 ’Sylvia’ – built on a ‘Lawley’ power unit and detailed to a very high standard

Factory visit – April 2013

Once again we made the pilgrimage to the factory, meeting Bing Cheng who had flown in from the U.S.A, enabling us to view current production and review new projects.  While there we were able to test a large number of the new Quarry Hunslets and admire the ranks of ‘Big Boys’ coming off the production line. Also nearing completion was a batch of D&RGW ‘Geese’ #4 which will shortly be available in the UK – if you haven’t ordered one of these already you need to be aware that this will probably be a ‘one time’ production.

Bing and Ian examine production of the ‘Big Boys’ – absolutely superb engineering in miniature!

A maroon Quarry Hunslet on the test track

Serried ranks of Quarry Hunslets are lined up – and this is less than half the total!

‘Dora’ and ‘Emma’ make their debut

We were lucky enough to have the first production samples of ‘Dora’ and ‘Emma’ on our stand for folk to look at.  ’Emma’ is the first 7/8ths” loco Accucraft (US) have produced and it doesn’t disappoint, having a lot of presence and covered with lovely details it will, at just £895.00 UK RRP, be the basis for many conversions and alterations.  ’Dora’ will also provide material for conversion in any scale from 1:32 to 7/8ths” and could prove the ideal starting point for someone who wants to tinker but is afraid of messing with an expensive loco – at just £385.00 UK RRP how can you lose?  You can see the full specification of ‘Dora’ here and ‘Emma’ here.

Ian Pearse and Marc Horovitz of ‘Garden Railways’ magazine discuss ‘Emma’

Swindon calling!

We surprised quite a few people at the Midlands Garden Railway show in March by unveiling the first sample of our new Gauge 1 live steam GWR 61XX.  The model received a lot of praise, representing, as it does, the ‘next step’ up from our B4.  Although there are a few small modifications to make the locos are likely to be available later this year.

The Great Western Railway’s 61XX 2-6-2T design can trace its origins to Churchward’s ground-breaking family of designs produced at the start of the 20th century which included the large ‘prairie’ tank engine number 99.  Ideally suited for suburban and branch line work, thirty-nine more locomotives based on this design were in traffic by 1906 and batches continued to be produced until the class numbered 290.  The first forty (including No. 3100, the renumbered prototype) were absorbed into the 51XX series in the 1927 re-numbering scheme, the additional members of which enjoyed small design improvements under Charles Collett’s supervision.  Having used all the 51XX numbers, further locos were numbered in the 41XX series.  The 61XX variant was introduced in 1931 and was little different from the others apart from boasting a boiler pressure increased to 225psi.  A number of 51XX and 41XX examples have been preserved but only 6106 was saved and this can be found at Didcot, home of the Great Western Society.

The model is 1:32 scale for 45mm gauge track, gas-fired and has all the features the Gauge 1 fraternity have come to expect from an Accucraft locomotive.  The chassis is constructed from stainless steel, the wheels are uninsulated. The boiler is copper, the cab and bodywork are constructed from etched brass. Like other fine scale models from Accucraft, it will provide many years of enjoyment.  The target RRP is £1650.00.  The model will run round radius 3 curves and is happy on code 332 or code 250 tracks, however, we do not recommend running through LGB code 332 pointwork.  We are aware that there were a large number of livery variations among the class and will therefore be offering fully finished and basic models to allow almost any version to be produced, the latter will be supplied with a selection of number plates to allow the owner to choose their own running number.  You can see the full specification here.

The National Garden Railway Show, Peterborough, 27th April

We will be attending the annual show of the 16mm Association again this year and look forward to seeing as many of you there as possible.  With two full size narrow gauge locos, ‘Mountaineer’ from the Ffestiniog and ‘Chaloner’ from the Leighton Buzzard Railway as well as the FR’s precious ‘Topsy’, it promises to be a great event for all large scale modellers.  Tag Gorton will be presenting the prize for the best conversion of an Accucraft power unit (you did enter, didn’t you?) at 11.00am.  Full details of the show and its associated transport links can be found here.

7/8ths” Scale Fairymead Baldwin 0-4-2T

Accucraft (US) has announced production of a delightful 7/8ths” Scale Baldwin, modelled on a little loco that ran in Australia.  The two foot gauge engine was built by Baldwin in1889 as one of three engines imported for use at Fairymead Mill, near Bundaberg.  They followed a standard Baldwin design and had bar-frames, slide valves, a Forney-designed frame for the trailing truck, a large wooden cab and an ornate brass bell on the sand dome.

The three Fairymead Baldwins were withdrawn around 1956 and two were scrapped, however No.1 was saved to be plinthed at Bargara.  In March 1972, Fairymead No.1 was moved to the Goulburn Steam Museum before being privately preserved.   Restoration was completed in 1993 and steam trials were held before the loco moved to the Lake Macquarie Light Railway, a private 2′ railway near Toronto.

The model follows normal Accucraft construction, being made of copper, brass and stainless steel.  It is set to 45mm gauge and is butane fired with Stephenson valve gear, slide valves and working cylinder drain cocks.  Two versions will be available, one beautifully painted in Baldwin’s factory finish, green cab and fittings, Russian Iron boiler and red oxide cab roof, the other in a simple black livery.

AC87-810 Fairymead Baldwin 0-4-2T Green – UK RRP £1955.00

AC87-812 Fairymead Baldwin 0-4-2T Black – UK RRP £1795.00

Any colour you like, as long as it’s bauxite!

Trackshack has commissioned a version of almost all our 1:19 scale freight rolling stock in bauxite livery.  This bright red/brown colour was used by both the LNER and BR for wagons and vans and very attractive it looks too!  We are able to illustrate our Lynton & Barnstaple Railway four-wheel open wagon carrying this livery to show how it will look.

April fool?

While mentioning Trackshack, we must thank John Boyes of that firm for inviting us to Alan Keef Engineering near Ross on Wye to witness the unveiling of the Groudle Glen Railway’s latest motive power.  In the early years of the 16mm Association we often saw curious locos built from Mamod and Meccano components sporting single cylinders, flywheels, gears and even chain drives; well, with the help of Keef Engineering, John and his GGR team have scaled the process up and created a ‘Steamplex’ utilising components from a Simplex diesel, a single-cylinder steam ‘motor’, gearbox, chain-drive and vertical boiler!  The result is a surprisingly gutsy little locomotive which is uniquely challenging to drive!  Expect to see this incredible machine in action on the Isle of Man this summer.  As yet unnamed, there is a move to christen it ‘Bubble & Squeak’……..

John Boyes and Patrick Keef make the Steamplex bark with a three ton load attached

The simply stunning 1:29 NYC Hudson from Accucraft (US)

The New York Central ‘Hudsons’ were some of the most iconic east coast locos produced in the 20th Century and their loss has been widely mourned since the last example was scrapped. The ‘Hudson’ 4-6-4 evolved from the Pacific wheel arrangement, the additional trailing wheel set giving room for a bigger firebox and the fitting of a booster to the rear truck to improve the starting of heavy trains. Although locos of the 4-6-4 wheel arrangement already existed (being known as a Baltic in Europe), the NYC examples came to be known as ‘Hudsons’ following a conversation between the NYC’s motive power superintendent, Paul Keifer, and the railroad’s president, Pat Crowley.

In all the New York Central ‘Hudsons’ numbered 275, built in Classes J-1 and J-2 from the late 1920’s and J-3 during the late ‘30s. Streamlined variants of each class duly appeared and the last ten J-3a’s carried bodywork created by industrial designer Henry Dreyfuss with five, including our #5454, being fitted with the elegant Scullin disc wheels. In 1938 Dreyfuss was commissioned by the railroad to design streamlined train sets in Art Deco style, with the locomotives and passenger cars painted in blues and greys. The streamliners made their initial runs in June, 1938 and were probably the most famous American passenger trains of all time, the ‘Empire State Express’ (New York – Buffalo) and the ‘20th Century Limited’ (New York – Chicago). The NYC made full use of the design’s radical looks in its publicity and many posters from that era feature the J-3a’s; a member of the class also represented the NYC at the 1939 World’s Fair alongside streamlined engines from the Pennsylvania RR and the LMSR in Great Britain.

The Achilles’ heel of the class was a lack of sure-footedness and they were gradually supplanted by NYC ‘Mowhawk’ 2-8-4’s and finally the ‘Niagara’ 4-8-4’s on the heaviest trains. Ultimately the New York Central dieselized in the 1950’s and all the ‘Hudson’s’ had been withdrawn by 1956, none being preserved.

The model is made from copper, stainless steel and brass, the live steam version being fitted with a 60psi twin flue boiler, Baker valve gear, slide valves, working drain cocks, twin safety valves, pressure gauge, water gauge, axle pump, tender water pump and is RC ready.  The electric model is equipped with a 24v Pittman motor, constant lighting and a fully detailed cab interior.  Both available late 2013.

G951-01 NYC 4-6-4 Dreyfuss Hudson #5454, Electric – Opening price £3320.00 (UK RRP £3495.00)

G951-01S NYC 4-6-4 Dreyfuss Hudson #5454 with Sound – Opening price £3695.00 (UK RRP £3895.00)

G751-01 NYC 4-6-4 Dreyfuss Hudson #5454, Live Steam – Opening price £3695.00 (UK RRP £3895.00)

The B4′s are here!

March ought to be the month when winter lessens its icy grip on this country and garden railway enthusiasts come out of hibernation.  In that hope we can tell you that the first Gauge 1 B4′s are now out in the wild and in stock at our dealers, don’t miss out!

Large Scale Model Rail at the Fosse

We will be attending the Midlands Garden Railway Railway show at the Warwickshire Exhibition Centre on Saturday 16th and Sunday the 17th March.  This excellent venue will be hosting many layouts and dozens of traders – you can finds all the details here.

March Madness from Accucraft (US)

Exciting news from across the ‘Pond’ – Accucraft (US) have remaindered their live steam Climaxes and we can now offer them for a UK RRP of just £1495.00.  This amazing price is only on offer while stocks last and already AC77-631, the straight stack version has sold out; however, we can still get hold of the Mich Cal #4 variety (AC77-632) so don’t hesitate, make a reservation with your local retailer while stocks last!  Those of you running on 32mm gauge track needn’t feel left out either, two of our repair agents have successfully converted these quirky machines to ‘O’ gauge!

The Climax locomotive is a geared steam locomotive in which the two steam cylinders transmit power to driveshafts running to the front and rear trucks. Designed to compete with the Shay and later Heisler locomotives in logging and industrial roles, many loggers considered the Climax superior to the Shay in haulage capacity and stability, particularly in smaller locomotives. Accucraft’s model is a limited production in 1:20.3 scale and 45mm gauge in live steam. The chassis is constructed from brass and stainless steel. All valve gear, drive rods, and wheels are machined from stainless steel.

Last call for the power unit competition

We will soon be closing entries to our power unit competition.  Judging will take place in advance of the 16mm Show in April and the prizes will be awarded there.  This year we have seen a high proportion of 7/8ths” scale models being presented so if you have fabricated something in a smaller scale we’d love to see it!  You can see some of the entrants here and download the terms and conditions here:

ACCUCRAFT POWER UNIT COMPETITION 2013

Accucraft (UK) – supporting the new ‘Lyn’

As a firm we are proud to put something back into the preservation movement and provide some small assistance to a few of the hard-working groups trying to restore our historic narrow gauge railways, locos and rolling stock.  Following the success of our limited edition of ‘Lyd’ (due out this summer), we are pleased to say that we are making a contribution to the team constructing a replica ‘Lyn’ for the renascent Lynton & Barnstaple Railway in Devon.  Like the brand new ‘Lyd’, ‘Lyn’ is being constructed to replace another long lost and lamented L & B loco and we are providing her builders with one of out 16mm scale (1:19) ‘Lyns’ to raise funds their admirable project.  You can find out more about this exciting engineering exercise here.

Isle of Man ‘Pairs’ coaches – 30% off!

We are pleased to say that we have decided to discount our Isle of Man ‘Pairs’ coaches by 30% which means the new UK RRP is just £130.00 each.  We are unlikely to run these vehicles again and once the remaining stock is sold out that will be an end to the IoM bogie stock.

The Isle of Man ‘Pairs’ composite Brake

These models are known as the ‘Pairs’ coaches. They came about when the original four-wheel coach chassis wore out. The railway took a pair of old bodies and mounted them together on new bogie underframes – and this is how they acquired their name.  We offer three types, a brake composite F54, a third class coach and a composite coach.

It is possible to have at least six different running numbers for each of the third class and composite coaches. We supply these numbers on a transfer sheet for the customer to apply themselves. The brake composite has only the running number F54. This is also supplied on a transfer sheet. This means that if the customer wishes to run them as ‘data only’ on their customised railway, they can add their own personalised numbering system.

Hello ‘Big Boy’!

With news that Accucraft (US) are going to release the Union Pacific ‘Big Boys’ in February comes word that they are adding a further running number to the batch, #4014 (part number AL97-396).  The reason for this is that this is the locomotive that is most likely to be selected for a return to steam sponsored by Union Pacific.  None of the ‘Big Boys’ have run since withdrawal from service and to see one of them in action again would be truly awesome.  Carrying a UK RRP of £8755.00, production of the 1:32 live steam model is going to be on a strictly limited basis so we suggest you make a reservation with your local retailer before they are all spoken for.

The mightiest of them all, the Union Pacific ‘Big Boy’

‘Lew’ – Chris Bird’s ‘how to’ videos

Chris Bird, of Summerlands Chuffer fame, has very kindly made three superb ‘how to’ videos of his newly acquired ‘Lew’.  Anyone who has recently purchased one of these locos would be well advised to watch and inwardly digest the footage which covers preparation and gauge changing.  Needless to say the third video shows the installation of one of his superb chuffers to give ‘Lew’s’ exhaust a nice, sharp bark!

The second video can be seen here and the third, showing the fitting of the chuffer, here.

More bauxite liveried stock from Trackshack!

Trackshack, on the Isle of Man, has commissioned more Accucraft rolling stock in bauxite livery.  This colour scheme was once popular with a range of railways but came to be universally applied by British Railways to their vacuum fitted goods vehicles.  The full list of bauxite painted rolling stock is as follows:

R19-1G L & B open wagon
R19-2E L & B four wheel van
R19-3E W & L open wagon
R19-5D W & L van
R19-6D W & L brake van
R19-22D W & L cattle van

These variants will be produced as we run the various items of rolling stock again throughout the year but they will only be available through Trackshack.

Quarry Hunslet at Diamondhead

Apart from running our prototype Black 5 at the 20th Anniversary Diamondhead Steam Up, we also show-cased the first example of our 7/8ths” scale Quarry Hunslet which wowed the assembled company with its hands free ability to clock up circuit after circuit on one of the large demonstration layouts there.

The Quarry Hunslet in action at Diamondhead

Some of Rod Blakeman’s footage of the loco running can be seen here.

January arrivals

Due into our warehouse shortly are the Lynton & Barnstaple bogie goods brakes and bogie open wagons.  We haven’t re-run these since the initial batch was produced a few years ago and are happy to say that we have been able to drop the price of both vehicles, the brakes now carry a UK RRP of £75.00 and the wagons £65.00.  Also arriving with this consignment are the Z9 Lynton & Barnstaple bogies to match these vehicles, available as an accessory (without wheelsets) for £15.00 a pair.

Lynton & Barnstaple bogie goods brake in Southern brown livery

Also due to arrive this month are the Welshpool & Llanfair cattle vans.  Judging by pre-sales these have proved to be very popular and the entire batch is now spoken for.  If you haven’t made a reservation with your local Accucraft stockist you may be disappointed!

The W & L cattle van in W & L light grey livery

American Bargain Bundle!

Owing to an over-stock situation we are able to offer an amazing deal on 1:20.3 scale Denver & Rio Grande Western Jackson Sharp coaches and combines.  If you order a pack of four Jackson Sharp coaches in the D & RGW “Bumble Bee” double stripe livery (AM54-015 or AM54-016) which normally carry a UK RRP of £960.00, we’ll throw in a combine (AM54-025, normal UK RRP £250.00) for a total price of £1050.00 – a saving of £160.00!  Talk to your local retailer today!

Classic American “Varnish” – save over 60% on one of these with our bargain bundle!

“Caledonia” retires for a “heavy general” after 74,115 miles!

Our doughty little “Caledonia” which has been flying the flag for Accucraft at Barter Books in Northumberland has finally had to come into the ‘shops for a “heavy general” overhaul after clocking up over 3,000 actual miles running on the shelf-top layout in the old railway station in Alnwick.  David Champion, responsible for the original provision of one of our locos for the store, commented, “So the final figures (run with all original components) are:

Load: Two Accucraft Isle of Man bogie coaches.
Distance travelled – 3294 actual miles, 74,115 Scale miles.
Hours run: 4,117hours.
Days run: 428.
Start Date: 27th September 2011
Finish Date: 20th December 2012
Days off: Christmas Day 2011

Doubtless to say, we are thrilled with the loco. It has far exceeded our expectations and been a delight to this year’s 275,000 visitors. I have enjoyed playing with it too!”

As far as we can tell the loco now requires some attention to the motor, all the other components appear to be in good fettle and the loco’s tyres are barely worn at all.

“Caledonia” trundles over one of the bridges at Barter Books

Warley – Accucraft sponsors ‘L & B World’

We were delighted to be able to sponsor the ‘Lynton & Barnstaple World’ show within a show at Warley this year.  The Lynton & Barnstaple Railway Trust had assembled a splendid array of L & B layouts and associated stands including a 16mm scale layout where three of our brand new ‘Lews’ were upholding the honour of Accucraft (UK) and clocking up their first miles in traffic.  The centre piece of this impressive display was the full size ‘Lyd’ from the Ffestiniog Railway and we enjoyed spending time with Paul Lewin and James Evans who did so much to drive that new-build forward.  Remember, you can still order one of our limited edition ‘Lyds’ and not only have a unique loco but make a valuable contribution to the real thing!  You can download the order form here as a PDF file or here as a ‘Word’ document.

Ian Pearse with ‘Lyd’ and some of those who supported ‘L & B World’ at Warley this year

Stock arrivals in the UK

Back in stock with your local retailer are the W & L open wagons.  We have re-run all three liveries but the latest batch now features four new running numbers, W & L #15, 16, 17, 18 and GWR #34161, 34163, 34168, 34170.  For those of you who must have the full deck of W & L stock, make sure you get some before they sell out!

Available in W&L Light Grey, G W Dark Grey, 4 different running numbers in each colour; or Data only in light grey. The wagon comes with a 45mm insulated wheel set fitted but a 32mm wheel set is provided for use on ‘0’ gauge. Couplings are chopper type but have a hook fitted if you wish to remove the chopper hook and use 3 link chains.

Trackshack, on the Isle of Man, has commissioned a limited run of private owner wagons based on those operated by Messrs. J. L. Peate & Sons, coal and lime merchants in Llanfair.  Private owner wagons on British narrow gauge systems were rare but Peates used five on the W & L, painted dark maroon with white lettering.  We have produced four (No’s 2,5,6 & 7), based on our existing Welshpool & Llanfair open wagon, which are only be available from Trackshack.

Whitcomb Side Rod Diesels

Just a reminder that Accucraft still have stock of these great-looking side rod diesels.  Beautifully built out of brass, the highly detailed body has full louvres on the engine compartment which is a boon for those who want to fit sound to these locos – the capacious body has plenty of room for a speaker and the metal construction makes a terrific resonator!  With a UK RRP of £970.00 we think they are more than a match for some of the plastic-bodied competition.

Between October 1942 and September 1945 the Whitcomb Locomotive Works produced 37 type 45DE27b locomotives at their Rochelle Illinois plant. This designation, 45DE27b, indicates a 45 ton (45) diesel electric locomotive (DE) of design 27, variant b. All of these locomotives were ordered for use by the military or war related critical industries. Six 45DE27b’s were built for the U.S. Navy’s “District Rail Transportation Coordinator” (DRTC) located at Pearl Harbor Hawaii and were 36 inch gauge. These six locomotives joined the DRTC “pool” and although used primarily by the Navy, some were occasionally leased to the Oahu Railway and Land Company to supplement their war time operations. Following the end of World War Two four of these locomotives were assigned to the Naval Ammunition Depot, Lualualei, Hawaii and two to Naval Ammunition Station, West Loch, Hawaii. In 1948 one locomotive was sold to the Kahuku Plantation on the North Shore of Oahu. The remaining five stayed in service at Lualualei and West Loch until the end of the Navy’s rail operations in 1974. Three of the now surplus locomotives were purchased by Dulien Steel Inc. of Seattle Washington and two were donated by the Navy to the Hawaiian Railway Society where they remain in operation.

Accucraft (US) sale

We are delighted to offer you a tempting array of discounted American stock on sale this month.  These are available from the warehouse in San Francisco, shipping normally takes four to five weeks.  Contact your local retailer as soon as possible to make a reservation!

AL87-751/2 Mason Bogie 2-6-6T Live Steam

Was £2495.00 now only £2130.00 (1:20.3 scale)

AL97-081//2/3 Royal Hudson 4-6-4 Live Steam

Was £4225.00 now only £3950.00 (1:32 scale)

G721-01/3 Switcher with slope tender Live Steam

Was £1420.00 now only £1095.00 (1:29 scale)

G931-01/2/3/6/7 USRA Switcher 0-6-0 (Electric)

Was £1525.00 now just £775.00 (1:29 scale)

AC88-341 West Side Lumber 3 Truck Shay (Electric)

Was £3920.00 now only £2965.00 (1:20.3 scale)

G401-11/2/3/4/5X PS-1 Box Cars 8′ Youngstown door

Was £115.00 now only £80.00 (1:29 scale)

G401-91/3/5 PS-1 Box Car 7′ Double doors

Was £115.00 now only £80.00 (1:29 scale)

G424-01/3/5/6/7/8/9 Stock Car

Was £120.00 now only £60.00 (1:29 scale)

AM31-440/450 4 x Tank Car sets

Was £555.00 now only £440.00 (1:20.3 scale)

AM2207-12/3/4/5/6/7/8/9/20/1/2 Flat Car

Was £120.00 now only £95.00 (1:20.3 scale)

AM31-540/50/60 Reefer – 4 car set

Was £555.00 now only £430.00 (1:20.3 scale)

AM33-010/1/5/6 Short Caboose

Was £155.00 now only £135.00 (1:20.3 scale)

Isle of Man four-wheel coaches

These lovely little coaches are again available (while stocks last!) in both IoM red and cream and in a freelance green and cream livery.  Although they are 1:20.3 (15mm) scale they lend themselves very well to running with 1:19 (16mm) scale locomotives and stock.

‘Sea Lion’ – Groudle Glen Railway 2-4-0T in 7/8ths” scale!

‘Sea Lion’ at Lhen Coan station on the Groudle Glen Railway

We are delighted to announce TrackShack has commissioned Accucraft UK to produce the Groudle Glen railway Bagnall 2-4-0T ‘Sea Lion’ in live steam.  The model will be to 7/8ths” scale (1:13.7) for 45mm gauge track and will happily harmonise with the Trackshack/IP Engineering range of 7/8ths” scale Groudle Glen rolling stock kits.  Built to Accucraft’s usual high standards, the loco will be constructed of copper, brass and stainless steel and carry the enhanced level of detail that scale allows.  The target UK RRP is hoped to be about £1000 and the models will be exclusively available from Trackshack.  You can see more information here.

At least 50% of any profit from this model will go to the Groudle Glen Railway to help fund a very special project.

D&RGW K-37 live steam 2-8-2

Accucraft’s new live steam K-37

The Denver & Rio Grande Western K-37s were classic American narrow gauge ‘Mikes’. They were originally built by Baldwin as part of an order for thirty standard gauge 2-8-0’s, class 190, in 1902.  Renumbered into class C-41 during the railroad’s reorganization in 1924 they were then converted to three foot gauge in 1928-30 at the railroad’s Burnham Shops with many new parts including new frames and smaller drivers. They were then renumbered into class K-37.

The locos worked out of Salida, Colorado to Gunnison, Colorado and up the Crested Butte Branch as well as the Monarch Branch. The locos also worked out of Alamosa, Colorado to Antonito over Cumbres Pass to Chama and on to Durango and the Farmington Branch. Like the K-36s the locos were not permitted West of Gunnison or on the Silverton branch. However, the Silverton branch has since been upgraded to take K-36s.  Of the eight preserved K-37s, only #497 has been operational, both on the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and on the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad but it is now awaiting a major overhaul.

In model form the K-37 is one of the largest locomotives that can be built in 1:20.3 scale The huge boiler allows runs of well over an hour without injecting water. This new Live Steam version is also cross ported so that valve gear is in prototypical position for forward and reverse. This large model is extremely powerful , but unlike the prototype is very easy and rewarding to run.  Solidly constructed in copper, brass and stainless steel, the model features a butane-fired 60 psi boiler, slide valves, Walschaerts valve gear, safety valves, pressure gauge, water level glass, adjustable lubricator, boiler feed and tender water pump. Only fifty will be made and the following versions will be available early next year with a UK RRP of £5820.00:

AL87-241 - K-37 D&RGW #490, Flying Rio Grande Logo, Live Steam
AL87-242 - K-37 D&RGW #491, Flying Rio Grande Logo, Live Steam
AL87-243 - K-37 D&RGW #495, Flying Rio Grande Logo, Live Steam
AL87-244 - K-37 D&RGW #499, Green w/ Moffat Logo, Live Steam

D&RGW Jackson Sharp coaches and combines

Accucraft (US) have run another batch of these iconic Denver & Rio Grande Western coaches in the traditional green livery and the ‘Bumble Bee’ yellow varnish finish, perfect for running with your new K-37!  These coaches have been hard to obtain since the last production run finished and although some UK dealers have refreshed their stocks we do not anticipate being able to get more after Christmas.  The UK RRP per coach is £237.00.

D&RGW ‘combine’ in the double stripe ‘Bumble Bee’ livery

Accucraft Power Unit Competition

A competition to find the best locomotive built up using the ‘Edrig’ or ‘Ragleth’ 0-4-0 chassis or the ‘Lawley’ 0-6-0 power unit. Entries can be to any scale running on 32mm or 45mm gauge track, and we will feature these on a dedicated page of our website. Tag Gorton, editor of Garden rail magazine, will judge the entrants and the winners will be notified in March so that the top three can be displayed at the 16mm Association show in April where the prizes will be awarded. First prize will be an Accucraft power unit and the runners up will be presented with items of rolling stock from the Accucraft range.

Competition Terms & Conditions

The entry must be based on the Edrig or Ragleth 0-4-0 or Lawley 0-6-0 power unit, it must be able to run on 32mm or 45mm gauge track and it may be to any scale.  The builder must be prepared to attend the 16mm Association show on 27.04.13 with the model and allow permission for the entry to be featured in appropriate publications if successful.  Entries can be submitted by email to info@accucraft.uk.com including as full a specification as possible as well as notes about the prototype (if any!). Four landscape format photographs should be attached (we suggest, side, front, back and a top view) with images not exceeding 2500 x 2000 pixels in size. Good Luck!

The starting point – a ‘Ragleth’ power unit

Stop Press!  A live steam ‘Black Five’ in Gauge 1!

In addition to the fleet of locos we have already announced for 1:32 scale we are pulling another rabbit out of the hat.  Given the popularity of our electric Gauge 1 ‘Black 5’ it was only logical that we should use the tooling to produce a live steam version as well.  The target UK RRP will be £2250.00 – your local dealer is taking orders!

The London Midland and Scottish Railway’s Class 5 4-6-0, almost universally known as the ‘Black Five’, was introduced by William Stanier in 1934 and 842 were built between then and 1951. The Black Fives were a mixed traffic locomotive, a “do-anything, go-anywhere” type, designed by Stanier, who had previously been with the GWR. In his early LMS days he acquiesced with the completion of a small number of 2-6-0s already under construction. But Stanier realised that there was a need for larger locomotives. These were to be the LMS’s copy of the GWR Halls. They shared similar cylinder arrangement (two outside), internal boiler design and size and 6 foot driving wheel diameters.  Members of the class survived to the last day of steam on British Railways, in 1968, and eighteen are preserved.

A live steam ‘Black Five’ in 1:32 scale (electric version illustrated)

The model is in 1:32 scale and 45mm gauge and features all metal construction with three versions. The model is gas-fired and has all the features the Gauge 1 fraternity have come to expect from an Accucraft locomotive.  The chassis is constructed from stainless steel. The boiler is copper, the cab and tender are constructed from etched brass. Like other fine scale models from Accucraft, it will provide many years of enjoyment.  The target RRP will be £2250.00.  The images shown here are of the electric version and although the live steam version has been based on this it will be substantially re-tooled before release. The model will run round radius 3 curves and is happy on code 332 or code 250 tracks.  You can see a full specification here. Liveries available subject to production batch:

S32-5 – Black 5 4-6-0 LMS black No. TBC
S32-6 – Black 5 4-6-0 BR black with early emblem No. TBC
S32-7 – Black 5 4-6-0 BR black with late crest No. TBC

Victorian Railways NA 2-6-2T

In association with Accucraft, our Australian colleagues at Argyle Locomotive Works have decided to develop a Victorian Railways NA Class 2-6-2T in 1:19 scale – live steam and electric, 45mm and 32mm gauge. Planned liveries – Green, Indian Red, plain Black with appropriate numbers.  These models will only be available from Accucraft (UK) and reservations now being taken.

These iconic locomotives are the main motive power on the Puffing Billy Railway and in some respects are an enlarged 2-6-2 version of ‘Lyn’ of Lynton & Barnstaple fame.

The Quarry Hunslet

Various manufacturers supplied narrow gauge motive power to the slate mines and quarries of North Wales but none became more synonymous with the area than the saddle tanks supplied by the Hunslet Engine Co. of Leeds.  These sturdy little locos were ideal for the roughly laid, temporary lines in the quarries and the class evolved from the first design, produced in 1870, to encompass a variety of sizes and types which found work at Penrhyn, Dinorwic (where many acquired the names of racehorses!) and the Nantlle valley.  Our model will be gas fired and be fitted with a water top up valve, water check valve, miniature pressure gauge; constructed of stainless steel and etched brass, the loco will have an enhanced level of detail made possible by this scale including cab detail, sliding cab back doors and a water filler hidden by the prototype’s tank filler.  It will be gauge-adjustable between 45mm and 32mm gauges.  There will be some small detail differences between this engineering sample and the production run.

Specifications:

• Scale: 22.5mm to 1 foot (1:13.7)
• Gauge: 45mm or 32mm
• Length: 320mm
• Width: 120mm
• Height: 180mm
• Boiler: Centre Flue
• Working Pressure: 60psi
• Weight: TBA
• Minimum Radius: 760mm (2 feet 6 inches)
• Reversing Gear: Piston type, reverse by lever in the cab
• Valve Gear: Simulated Stephenson’s link
• Fuel: Butane Gas
• Boiler Fittings: Safety valve, pressure gauge, water level check valve
• Cab Controls: Steam regulator, gas regulator, reverse lever, lubricator under floor drain valve, under floor water level check valve

Colours available, subject to production batch:

S78-1A Quarry Hunslet 0-4-0ST in Red
S78-1B Quarry Hunslet 0-4-0ST in Black

Pascal Lelievre visits Accucraft

Pascal Lelievre and his wife Anne dropped into our office today after visiting the Welshpool & Llanfair Railway Gala.  Pascal runs Atelier Vaporiste, our French dealership.  They are seen with Ian looking at the engineering sample of the Quarry Hunslet.

‘Dora’ – another small loco from Accucraft (US)

‘Dora’ represents a small freelance engine for Accucraft (US) and their first loco to feature a twin oscillating cylinder ‘motor’ between the frames.  We are sure that this small power unit is going to find a range of uses and that ‘Dora’ will be the basis of numerous cosmetic conversions!  It is likely to be available in the UK with an RRP of just £385.00.

Specifications:

• Scale: 15mm to 1 foot (1:20.3)
• Gauge: 45mm
• Length: 140mm
• Width: 90mm
• Height: 165mm
• Boiler: Centre Flue
• Working Pressure: 60psi
• Weight: TBA
• Minimum Radius: 600mm (2 feet)
• Cylinders: 2 Oscillating
• Fuel: Butane Gas
• Boiler Fittings: Safety valve, lubricator

‘Mannin’ – Isle of Man 2-4-0T

We are pleased to say that next year’s Isle of Man loco will be based on the large-boilered variant ‘Mannin’. It was the last locomotive to be supplied to the Isle of Man and built in 1926 by Beyer, Peacock & Co. (works number 6296).  No. 16 was by far the most powerful 2-4-0T locomotive on the line. She was purchased to haul the heavy Port Erin boat train, a job which had previously taken two locomotives either double-headed or banked. Much larger than her older sisters, she was latterly used as Peel-based engine and appears to have never negotiated the Ramsey line.  She remained in service until 1964 and later was repainted into Ailsa spring green and placed on static display at St John’s and later Douglas stations until entering the railway museum in 1975.  It is unlikely that she will work again in the immediate future.  Our model will carry the same level of detail and equipment as our previous Isle of Man locos and is likely to be available in more than one livery.

Trackshack W & L brake van in  bauxite!

Following the success of the ‘Peate’ wagons, Trackshack has commissioned a limited run of our lovely Welshpool & Llanfair Railway brake van in data-only bauxite livery.  Although the prototype never carried such a paint scheme many railways used this colour for wagons and vans and British Railways chose it for their vacuum fitted freight stock.  We are sure there are a great many freelance garden railways that will find a use for one or more of these vehicles!

Emma – a new venture in 7/8ths” scale American outline

Emma – 0-4-0ST Brooks type loco

Possibly encouraged by strong forward orders for our Quarry Hunslet in 7/8ths” scale, Accucraft (US) has developed this charming little industrial loco to represent a 2′ gauge saddle tank on 45mm gauge track.  Locos of this type operated around the world in tank, saddle tank and tender formats and this model could easily be the starting point for numerous modifications!

Specifications:

Scale/Gauge: 1:13.3 Scale / 45mm Gauge
Minimum Radius: 1.2 M (48 in.)
Fuel: Butane
Cylinder: Two Cylinders
Fittings: Throttle, Water level gauge, Lubricator, Pressure gauge

AC77-501          EMMA 0-4-0ST Unlettered, Live Steam  UK RRP £895.00
AC77-502          EMMA 0-4-0ST, Live Steam                   UK RRP £895.00

Union Pacific ‘Big Boy’ in Gauge 1 – 1:32 scale

The colossal Union Pacific ‘Big Boy’ 4-8-8-4

In case our standard gauge fans are feeling neglected, Accucraft (US) have announced that their live steam ‘Big Boy’ will be available this autumn.  The debate as to which is the largest steam locomotive ever built goes on to this day. Its always been between Union Pacific’s Big Boy and the C&O Allegheny!  The figures of weight and size are bounced around by who ever happens to feel the need! How can a 4-8-8-4 weigh less then a 2-6-6-6? The answer may come from the fact that the Allegheny’s boiler is a bit larger then the Big Boy! The listed figure of weight on the Allegheny is 724,500 lbs however this figure goes as high as 778,000 lbs on engines 1600-1609 for the 1941 Lima built locomotives. The general published weight on the Big Boy is 772,250 lbs. This debate will continue for years to come because if it hasn’t been solved in almost 70 years it never will be.  The Allegheny’s 7,498 horsepower compared to 6,900 for the Big Boy means the race for the biggest and most powerful starts to lean toward the Allegheny. However the jury is still out on this subject, and its safe to say that both machines were awesome, and that they will always represent the pinnacle of steam locomotive development in North America.

The Accucraft live steam ‘Big Boy’ is to be made as a strictly limited edition so ensure you reserve yours before they are all spoken for!

Just get a load of this video.  Simply awesome footage!

Specifications:

Scale/ Gauge:  1:32 Scale, 45mm Gauge
Fuel:  Butane gas fired, dual flue, located in tender with water bath
Valve gear:  Walschaert’s in correct orientation for forward/reverse with screw reverser in cab, 4 cylinders with drain cocks fitted
Boiler pressure:  65 PSI working pressure
Fittings:  Hand pump located in tender, axle driven pump, water level gauge, blow down valve, throttle valve, two safety valves, super heater tube, pressure gauge, hydro-static adjustable lubricator
Minimum radius: 10′

AL97-391 BIG BOY 4-8-8-4 UP #4012 UK RRP £8640.00
AL97-392 BIG BOY 4-8-8-4 UP #4005 UK RRP £8640.00
AL97-393 BIG BOY 4-8-8-4 UP #4008 UK RRP £8640.00
AL97-394 BIG BOY 4-8-8-4 UP #4015 UK RRP £8640.00
AL97-395 BIG BOY 4-8-8-4 UP #4018 UK RRP £8640.00

‘Caledonia’ – 2,250 actual miles and counting!

The Accucraft ‘Caledonia’ running round the bookshelf circuit at Barter Books in Alnwick has now completed an astonishing two and a quarter thousand miles of continuous running with only light maintenance and lubrication.  We have never had the chance to test a loco to such an extent before in ‘controlled’ conditions and are delighted that this electric loco seems more resilient than many other G Scale engines.  David Champion reports that they are eagerly awaiting the electric ‘Lew’ and matching coaches.

‘Caledonia’ hauls her Isle of Man train round the Barter Books circuit

She looks very much at home in the old Alnwick train shed