I see Hatton's are advertising the Heljan class 14 as being in stock now, anyone got one? Care to comment? I've wanted one of these for a long time, but it's a bit on the wrong side of expensive I fear...... Badger.
If you haven't already, get hold of the March issue of Hornby magazine where it's reviewed. They seem to like it, and it certainly looks good. There's also an article on the prototype.
"Badger" wrote
I agree on the price - it's at least £35 too expensive in my book, but having said that it certainly looks the part.
There are a few issues however; none though are REALLY serious:
a) there is an inordinate amount of slop (sideplay) in the axles (including the jack shaft) which can allow these to progress in a crab-like fashion
b) everyone I've seen run has some degree of wobble, quite serious on some.
c) the area between the end steps and the buffer beam should be enclosed - for some inexplicable reason this has been left 'opn' at one end
d) the pick-ups totally spoil the appearance below the footplate; sure they can be painted or blackened but should this be necessary on a model costing GBP115.00?
e) it's practically impossible (well extremely difficult) to find space to fit a DCC decoder even though an NEM 652 socket is provided.
f) a number have allegedly been supplied with parts missing
On a more personal note I'd have preferred the model to be lower geared to facilitate even better slow running. Certainly the model has the potential to seriously outstrip the prototype's (scale) top speed by a considerable sum.
My recommendation would be to see one before you buy, but don't discount buying as it would cost you more to assemble one from a kit.
John.
Guess who bought the Mercian Models kit not so long ago? :-)
Guys, thanks for the info. John, pretty much my thoughts as well re. price, but the wobble and crab issues make the price even more of an issue now! I think I might wait and see if the price drops any as more suppliers come on-line. Problem is, I WANT one! LOL. Badger.
"Badger" wrote
Lucky you! They worked in pairs around Hull, so I want TWO, but not at £115 each.
John.
Lol, they worked oil tankers in pairs from Grangemouth as well - but I'd settle for one as there's no way on this earth I can afford two. Badger.
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