| Ready To Run Locomotives |
| Bachmann V2 2.6.2 When Bachmann realeased the V2 back in 1991 (I think) the model caused a sensation in the modelling press, finally someone was making a RTR model of what many cosider to be the LNER's most successful class of loco. The model employes the older (pre Blue Riband) split frame style of chassis & most examples I've come across are good performers though the newer of my two (2001 vintage) is quite superior to my older V2, but variations in quality are common in mass production. Both of my V2s have been modified to improve the trailing truck & new domes have been added, otherwise they are standard and I'd recomend them as good value for money. |
| Click for big pic |
 |
| Hornby A1/3 4.6.2 Hornby have had an A1 or A3 in their range for years and to be honest I'm not sure how far back the origins of the model go. Recently (1998) the model was upgraded with the fitting of very nice etched valve gear and new correct pattern wheels, which have improved it's appearance cosiderably. Hornby still persist with the Ringfield motor housed in the tender for this model and despite being very powerful and reliable this type of drive chain struggles to find acceptance with many modellers. In my opinion the post 1998 versions of the Hornby A1/3 are very good and at the end of the day no one else makes them so unless you want to build your own...... |
| Bachmann J39 Probably one of the most useful loco's for the LNER modeller, The LNER used the J39's for all kinds of work so the model will fit in on almost any layout. Bachmann use their split frame type chassis for these and like the V2's my two J39's are good, reliable models but again one is much better than the other, the lesser model suffers from being quite noisey, but runs well none the less. Apart fron fitting the crew figures into the cab, I have seen no need to alter or detail the models in any way,they are fine straight from the box |
 |
 |
 |
| Hornby A4 Both Bachmann & Hornby produce A4 models but as I only own the Hornby version that's what ended up here. Like the A1/3, Hornby's A4 was upgraded in 1998 and is available in a number of different guises. The A4's were the LNER's premier express engines and the Hornby model captures the streamlined shape well, but is another case of "horse on the jokey" with the tender doing all the work. I don't believe the Bachmann version looks any better but its loco mounted motor finds favour with most. |
 |
| Bachmann Pepercorn A1 Released in late 2001 this model has had high praise from the model press & in my opinion it deserves it. The A1's are only a LNER engine by design, none were actually built until after the 1948 nationalisation but thier apperance certainly gives their lineage away. The model ran well straight from the box and has more than enough power for my 8 coach trains, it's supplied with a bag of goodies to be fitted such as brake rigging etc and is very well detailed, Bachmann have pleased many modellers by producing a correct pattern rear frame under the cab which has set a new standard for themselves others to follow when producing large LNER locos.Generally an excellent model . Update: Bachmann recalled the first batch as they suffered from an overheating motor problem, Mine has not has any dramas as it doesn't get used regularly,but its something to be aware of if purchasing s/hand. Bachmann rectified the problem with all recalled locos returned to them & later production models from 2003 have the new motor. |
 |
| Hornby N2 Released during 2001 Hornby's N2 is a revised version of the old Airfix/Mainline model. Hornby have greatly improved the models performance by incorperating their 5 pole motor & the finish is also far superior from the original versions. The N2s sphere of activity was mainly suburban passenger trains especially around London so it's perhaps not suited to all layouts ,but it's too nice a model to miss out on & Hornby have made it more versatile by offering GNR, LNER & BR liveries. |
 |
| Bachmann 07/WD Realeased in 1997/8 (?) the WD recieved very favourable reviews from the press and has become something of a benchmark to compare others against, the model is avialable in several guises including a Chinese example. The 07's ,also known as WD's or Austerities, were designed by R A Riddles for the Ministry of Supply during WW2, the LNER had 350 examples on loan during the war and in 1946/7 purchased 200 for their own stock. |
| RTR News 30.3.05 I've now recieved the new Hornby A4 and Bachmann K3, both are very good and reviews will be added to these pages. We are still waiting for the new A1/A3 but that should only be a few more months now. |
 |
| New Hornby A4 4.6.2 Released in NZ in December 2004, as this is a significant new model I have written a more detailed review of the model,click on the thumbnail for more. |