KeithMacdonald Posted October 13, 2018 Share Posted October 13, 2018 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 More sharing options...
Talltim Posted October 13, 2018 Share Posted October 13, 2018 Because the P4 wheels allow it to run on P4 track and removing the NEM pocket makes it look better? Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
RMweb Premium Kylestrome Posted October 13, 2018 RMweb Premium Share Posted October 13, 2018 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 More sharing options...
KeithMacdonald Posted October 13, 2018 Author Share Posted October 13, 2018 Aha, thanks for the education David :-) Does P4 use different couplings as well? Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Steamport Southport Posted October 13, 2018 Share Posted October 13, 2018 (edited) 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 October 13, 2018 by Steamport Southport Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
RMweb Premium Kylestrome Posted October 13, 2018 RMweb Premium Share Posted October 13, 2018 (edited) 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 October 13, 2018 by Kylestrome Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
RichardS Posted October 13, 2018 Share Posted October 13, 2018 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 More sharing options...
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