Bachmann LYN

[Richard Jones]

Does anyone know how accurate the Bachmann LYN is dimensionally?

 

Can it be converted down to 32 mm gauge so that its nearer to 2' gauge prototype (or is my maths out there!)

 

Any views as to whether this is a relatively cheap entry into large scale (outdoor) modelling with a real prototype in mind or are there better options?

 

best wishes

 

Richard

[PaulRhB]

April 1994 railway modeller has a full review of the original version with the drawings above, The new one is identical apart from the chassis. available online here

http://www.009.cd2.com/lynton_and_barnstaple_modelling/drawings.htm

 

 

Does anyone know how accurate the Bachmann LYN is dimensionally?

Not bad overall but the tanks and boiler are a fraction high and the cab has been stretched in height to match the LGB typical size. It certainly looks right.

 

Can it be converted down to 32 mm gauge so that its nearer to 2' gauge prototype (or is my maths out there!)

You'd need a competely new chassis I'm afraid but you could re-use the rods and cylinders. Bear in mind Lyn is modelled mostly at 15mm to the foot compared to the usual 16mm for UK models.

 

Any views as to whether this is a relatively cheap entry into large scale (outdoor) modelling with a real prototype in mind or are there better options?

Yes the new one is a excellent value introduction if you go with 45mm gauge. There is a true scale 16mm one coming from Accucraft, (regaugeable to 32 or 45mm), with electric power but that's estimated price is nearly £1000.

Accucraft do a BD diesel too which is nice and there are budget models available from IP engineering and kits from Garden Railway Specialists.

 

Have a look at Trackshack on the Isle of Mann, one I'd highly recommend for the Accucraft range and more. http://www.track-shack.com/acatalog/

 

On GRS's site look in the catalogue under Narrow Gauge Electric Locos, these Kits do require a fair amount of experience as some are fairly basic although newer ones use quite a few good large resin pieces.

http://www.grsuk.com...uilding+kits%22

[James Hilton]

Accucraft have done a range of suitable wagons in the past too - reasonably priced for what you get - I can't think of a cheaper alternative to get into UK outline RTR garden scales really. As a model it looks good, but when you see the prototype photos the height of the cab (taller and therefore visually thinner) on the model is the biggest comprimise. Apparently the new ones run well for the money too

Unless you've got a lot of 32mm modellers nearby I'd stick with 45mm if you're thinking electric track power as more scope for other European and American stock to run in the future.