Jump to content
 

Why P4 wheels and why remove NEM Sockets and couplings?


KeithMacdonald
 Share

Recommended Posts

I've just been looking at an advert for a Heljan Class 47 (D1942 in BR 2 tone green).

 

But I'm confused by this bit:

Converted to P4 Wheel set, weathered, NEM Sockets and couplings removed

 

What advantage do these P4 wheels have over the standard Heljan wheels?

 

Why remove the NEM Sockets and couplings?

 

Thanks for any advice.

Link to post
Share on other sites

  • RMweb Premium

Why remove the NEM Sockets and couplings?

 

P4 refers to the track standards of the Scalefour Society for more accurate 4mm scale track. For more info:

https://www.scalefour.org

 

Because it runs on a scale gauge of 18.83mm width, a loco that has been converted to P4 will not run on 00 track (which has a gauge of 16.5mm).

 

HTH,

David

Link to post
Share on other sites

I take it that's a second hand version on Hatton's website? 

 

 

https://www.hattons.co.uk/384592/Heljan_4702_PO03_Class_47_diesel_D1942_in_BR_2_tone_green_Pre_owned_Converted_to_P4_Wheel_set_w/StockDetail.aspx

 

It might be better looking at the two others at the bottom of that page. Although they also have "issues".

 

 

Jason

Edited by Steamport Southport
Link to post
Share on other sites

  • RMweb Premium

Aha, thanks for the education David :-)

 

Does P4 use different couplings as well?

 

You're welcome  :)

 

Because modellers who use the P4 standards are striving for more realism, they also tend to use less obtrusive auto couplings (rather than the standard tension link couplings supplied) or scale 3-link & screw couplings – hence the removal of the NEM coupler pockets.

 

David

Edited by Kylestrome
Link to post
Share on other sites

Aha, thanks for the education David :-)

 

Does P4 use different couplings as well?

The modeller who modified the loco may very well use a different coupling system. Many P4 modellers use the Alex Jackson coupling which is very fine. Others might use Dinghams or Sprat & Winkle. A large number use 'scale' 3 link couplings which are of course not automatic.

But all these couplings can be used with any scale/gauge of model.

If you are a beginner its probably best to stick with the tried and tested tension lock which despite many criticisms does work. Kadees are also pretty straight forward but do need magnets to facilitate uncoupling.

Link to post
Share on other sites

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now
 Share

×
×
  • Create New...