Background

This is another "it looks nice" purchase, starting with a 2nd hand DJM 58xx in BR black I added the auto working bits (along with the ATC equipment).  The BR logo was removed (Microsol as per usual) and replaced with HMRS G W R transfers.  The BR smokebox door number was very well moulded on this model as a separate component, this really simplified removing the unwanted parts.  Research into the prototype loco highlighted that it had been renumbered from 4870 to 1470 before my time period, confirming the new number for the model.  There is a good photo online showing 4870 in 1945/6 in GWR Black prior to its renumbering. 

One other key difference to model is that 1470 did not have the bunker steps that are moulded on all the DJM releases, lots of careful cutting and sanding and they were soon removed.   The impacted areas were given a coat of Vallejo black, with the smokebox getting grey black followed by further weathering with the Tamiya powders.  I have an Airfix autocoach which has been upgraded with the Dart Castings detail kit and repainted into wartime brown. 

Remaining Work

The model needs a specific sized decoder which I dont have available, so the loco has been awaiting DCC fitting since I bought it over a year ago.  It also still needs a crew fitting and couplings, I havent decided if it will just get Masokits screw couplings or Dinghams.  A lot depends if it will just run with the autocoach or if it will be used in general service, in all likelihood as its the only auto fitted loco I have it will probably end up only running together.   The autocoach which will run with it still needs to be fitted with laser glaze & passengers.

Usage

My understanding is that 1470 spent most of its time on the Ashburton branch, so as previously mentioned is not exactly useful for Brent.  Most of the passenger services were worked with a 45xx that was allocated to Kingsbridge shed, along with one of the two dedicated pairs of B Set coaches.  My thinking is that I will probably use 1470 + Autocoach as an alternative to this working (I have an Airfix autocoach with the Dart Castings.