In the August issue of BRM, Howard builds some etched signals in 7mm scale. Inspired by this, I've tried the economically priced operating colour light signals for 4mm scale models from Train-Tech.

The company produce a range of designs, each supplied in kit form and simple enough for anyone to build who has stuck an Airfix Spitfire together.

The two aspect signal I built costs less than £10 and takes about half an hour to assemble and paint. It's designed for DC control but DCC versions are available.

In the packet is a sprue of plastic parts that cover all the different signal designs. The leftover parts would make excellent lineside clutter. The stick is a ready wired circuit board with a pair of LEDs at the top and power connections at the bottom. A resistor is included to reduce the 12v to a level safe enough for the lights. Not shown, but included, is a length of aluminium tube for the post.

All parts are assembled with plastic cement. I painted the signal head around the light before fitting to avoid getting paint on the LEDs. Cutting the parts from the sprue took a bit of care and this is mentioned in the instructions, but as long as you use a sharp knife and support the parts, you should be OK. If not, repairs can be made with liquid plastic glue.

Painting is simple – Humbrol matt black for everything except the post for which I used the same firms acrylic grey primer. The lights are bright although the green is dimmer than the red. Electrical contacts are on a stick 6cm below the base of the signal which might be a problem if you have a very shallow baseboard. Powered by 12v DC, this kit includes a suitable resistor and instructions on how to wire it up.

I'll admit, I was very impressed with this. Everything assembles and works without any problems. While others are far more expert on signal design, this looks pretty good to me and I'd happily use the kits on a layout.

Train-Tech

www.train-tech.com

SK2 Home Aspect self assembly signal kit - £8.00