Moderators Popular Post AY Mod Posted February 6 Moderators Popular Post Share Posted February 6 Brush Type Twos get the Bachmann Treatment From https://news.bachmann.co.uk/2024/02/brush-type-twos-get-the-bachmann-treatment/ Today Bachmann Europe Plc unveiled brand new models of the Brush Type Two – BR Class 30 and Class 31 – Diesel Locomotives in OO scale for its Bachmann Branchline range. Launched ahead of the company’s Spring 2024 British Railway Announcements, the new Branchline models were unveiled in a special Hornby Magazine production, with a selection of Engineering Prototypes and running samples showcased by Graeme Watkins, Bachmann’s Design Engineer responsible for the project. The new Class 31 (and Class 30) locomotives follow in the footsteps of the award-winning, all-new Class 47 from Bachmann Branchline which was first released in 2021, setting the blueprint for a new generation of Bachmann diesel locomotives which is apparent in the all-new Class 37 released the following year and now, in these new Class 31s. With the Class 47 Bachmann introduced two brand new innovations to the British market – these being the first models to feature a motorised fan system and the first to have glazing which is specially treated to replicate the tinting of the prototype’s windscreens. These features adorn the top-of-the-range SOUND FITTED DELUXE models and with the new Class 31, Bachmann has added another new feature to its deluxe format models – and another brand-new innovation never before seen on a British-outline model – automatic DCC uncoupling. Bachmann’s Auto-Release Coupling System is fitted as standard to all SOUND FITTED DELUXE models and this DCC-operated feature provides hands-free uncoupling with the press of a single function button. Compatible with all standard tension lock couplings, each SOUND FITTED DELUXE model comes with Auto-Release Couplings fitted at each end of the locomotive as standard. The couplings are mounted via the standard NEM coupling pockets, with a miniature plug allowing easy removal should it be required, to facilitate the fitting of accessory parts for example. In addition to the Auto-Release Couplings, SOUND FITTED DELUXE models also feature a motorised roof fan which is synchronised as part of the sound project allowing the fan to operate at varying speeds depending on the engine status and speed settings of the locomotive. The tinted glazing meanwhile is applied to the Driver’s and Second Man’s windscreens only, leaving the smaller central windscreen un-treated as per the prototype. Every Class 31 will also be available in standard format or with SOUND FITTED. Like all Bachmann products, SOUND FITTED and SOUND FITTED DELUXE models will operate on both DCC and analogue control straight out of the box. When used on analogue control, a range of authentic sound effects can be enjoyed when power is applied, along with the operation of the motorised roof fan on SOUND FITTED DELUXE models. David Haarhaus, Managing Director of Bachmann Europe Plc said: “The Class 31 has been a rather obvious omission from the Bachmann Branchline range for many years now. Ever since the launch of the Graham Farish Class 31s in N scale, the company has been inundated with requests to scale those models up to OO. Knowing that we could make a model befitting the Branchline name, and one that suits Bachmann’s beliefs of supporting independent retailers and the industry as a whole, meant this was an easy project to give the green light to.”David continued: “Every Bachmann product is a team effort, drawing on the skills and expertise of many colleagues both in the UK and abroad to create our award-winning products but at the same time, every project of this magnitude requires a figurehead who really knows their subject to lead the development process. For the Class 31, we were very lucky with the timing of Graeme’s arrival at Bachmann, as he was able to take over a project that was already at an advance stage and make his mark to ensure we reached this point with a fantastic, high-fidelity and extremely accurate model to show for all of our efforts.” Concluding his thoughts, David said: “I am very proud that time and time again, Bachmann has been at the forefront of introducing new features, new innovations and new standards to the British market, and we see this again with the new Class 31 and its Auto-Release couplings. In general, uncoupling has been one of the most unrealistic aspects of model railway operation so to make this process hands-free and automated, I think is going to be a real game changer for our consumers and one that I am sure our customers will enjoy demonstrating in their stores, alongside our new Kinesis DCC system which will provide a powerful tool to model railway operators.” BACHMANN BRANCHLINE – ALL-NEW OO SCALE CLASS 30/31 SPECIFICATION MECHANISM: Five pole, twin shaft motor with two flywheels providing drive to both bogies All axle drive Electrical pickup from all outer wheels on each bogie Separate metal bearings fitted to each axle Diecast metal chassis block and bogie towers Diecast metal gearboxes, with gearing arranged for prototypical running speeds and haulage capabilities 16.5mm (OO gauge) wheels to NEM310 & NEM311 standards with authentic profile and detailing Detachable coupling pockets to NEM362 standards fitted to each bogie Auto-Release Couplings fitted at both ends – DCC operated, hands-free uncoupling with the press of a function button (SOUND FITTED DELUXE models only) Designed to operate on curves of second radius (438mm) or greater DETAILING: Bogies constructed from multiple components featuring full relief detail Rotating radiator fan, driven by an independent motor and gearbox, operated as part of the sound project on DCC and Analogue control (SOUND FITTED DELUXE models only) Tinted windscreen glazing (Driver and Second Man windscreens only as per the prototype, SOUND FITTED DELUXE models only) Separately applied metal detail parts, including grab handles, windscreen wipers and etched fan grilles Sprung metal buffers Each model supplied with a full set of decorated, model-specific bufferbeam pipework and accessory parts including three-piece, body-mounted snow ploughs LIGHTING: Directional lighting, including illuminated headcode panels and high intensity headlights where applicable, switchable on/off at either end on DCC or Analogue control Cab lighting*, assigned to two DCC functions for separate switching of each Separately switched Engine Room lighting* Single or win red tail lights (*when used on DCC) Authentic light colours and temperatures selected for each model based on era and application DCC: Plux22 DCC decoder interface SOUND: Two quality speakers employed for optimum sound reproduction, fitted to every model as standard Zimo MS450P22 DCC Sound Decoder fitted to SOUND FITTED and SOUND FITTED DELUXE versions Two sound projects to accurately capture the sounds of Class 30 (Mirrlees Engine) and Class 31 (English Electric Engine) Sound files for each project produced specifically for the Bachmann Branchline Class 30/31 using recordings from real locomotives and archive audio SOUND FITTED and SOUND FITTED DELUXE models operate on DCC and Analogue control as supplied. On Analogue, an authentic engine start up sequence and running sounds are produced when power is applied LIVERY APPLICATION: Authentic liveries applied to all models Multiple paint applications employed on each model using BR and corporate specification colours Logos, numerals and text added as appropriate using multi-stage tampo printing using authentic typefaces, logos and colours In addition, where applicable Etched Nameplates and Plaques are also provided DETAIL VARIANTS: Countless variations are catered for to allow accurate models to be produced depending on the locomotive being portrayed, options include: Class 30 and Class 31 variants – with Mirrlees (Class 30) or English Electric (Class 31) Engine Block detailing and roof exhaust ports With or without Gangway Doors Original or Refurbished Bodies Full, Modified or Removed Bufferbeam Cowling With or without Windscreen Washer Jet Covers With Electric Train Heating (locomotive-specific, different fitment for original and refurbished locomotives Open or Plated Steam Heat Boiler Port on Roof Open or Plated Steam Heat Water Tank Filler Open or Plated Bodyside Steps (Original Bodies) Battery Boxes with or without later safety clips High Intensity Headlights (multiple positions) Original or Reinforced Driver’s Windscreen Optional NRN Radio Pods on Cab Roof Optional Roof Fan Grille ‘Top Hat’ Original or Modified Bodyside Fan Grilles 35-801 Class 30 D5564 BR Green (Late Crest) £199.95 35-801SF Class 30 D5564 BR Green (Late Crest) £309.95 35-801SFX Class 30 D5564 BR Green (Late Crest) £359.95 35-801A Class 30 D5617 BR Green (Late Crest) £199.95 35-801ASF Class 30 D5617 BR Green (Late Crest) £309.95 35-801ASFX Class 30 D5617 BR Green (Late Crest) £359.95 35-805 Class 31/1 31123 BR Blue £199.95 35-805SF Class 31/1 31123 BR Blue £309.95 35-805SFX Class 31/1 31123 BR Blue £359.95 35-805A Class 31/1 31293 BR Blue £199.95 35-805ASF Class 31/1 31293 BR Blue £309.95 35-805ASFX Class 31/1 31293 BR Blue £359.95 35-821 Class 31/1 Refurbished 31180 BR Railfreight (Red Stripe) £199.95 35-821SF Class 31/1 Refurbished 31180 BR Railfreight (Red Stripe) £309.95 35-821SFX Class 31/1 Refurbished 31180 BR Railfreight (Red Stripe) £359.95 35-821A Class 31/1 Refurbished 31149 BR Railfreight (Red Stripe) £199.95 35-821ASF Class 31/1 Refurbished 31149 BR Railfreight (Red Stripe) £309.95 35-821ASFX Class 31/1 Refurbished 31149 BR Railfreight (Red Stripe) £359.95 35-823 Class 31/1 Refurbished 31319 BR Railfreight Petroleum Sector £199.95 35-823SF Class 31/1 Refurbished 31319 BR Railfreight Petroleum Sector £309.95 35-823SFX Class 31/1 Refurbished 31319 BR Railfreight Petroleum Sector £359.95 35-823A Class 31/1 Refurbished 31304 BR Railfreight Petroleum Sector £199.95 35-823ASF Class 31/1 Refurbished 31304 BR Railfreight Petroleum Sector £309.95 35-823ASFX Class 31/1 Refurbished 31304 BR Railfreight Petroleum Sector £359.95 35-825 Class 31/4 Refurbished 31435 BR Blue £199.95 35-825SF Class 31/4 Refurbished 31435 BR Blue £309.95 35-825SFX Class 31/4 Refurbished 31435 BR Blue £359.95 35-830 Class 31/4 Refurbished 31407 Mainline Freight £199.95 35-830SF Class 31/4 Refurbished 31407 Mainline Freight £309.95 35-830SFX Class 31/4 Refurbished 31407 Mainline Freight £359.95 18 4 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
RMweb Premium E100 Posted February 6 RMweb Premium Share Posted February 6 Well that was somewhat unexpected! I suspect price will be key with the competitor just round the corner as well though there's nothing to suggest these would be any cheaper than the 37 and 47. If only the auto-uncoupler was kadee style! I'd almost suggest that these should be an option for aftermarket parts but then that opens a whole other can of worms. 4 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
RMweb Gold big jim Posted February 6 RMweb Gold Share Posted February 6 To me it seems the general mood about this announcement on here is a bit ‘Meh!’ It’s certainly not made me jump up and down with glee but I suspect for every one of me there is an opposite who is over the moon (saying that I wasn’t excited by AS announcing a 31 either as I don’t really have a fondness for them) Be interesting to see the price and livery variations tomorrow though 17 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
IRC Posted February 6 Share Posted February 6 You’d have to think the price will be somewhere on par with the recent class 37’s wouldn’t you? And therefore somewhat more expensive than the competition, even with the retailers discount. However, they will sell. Look at the class 37’s. There’s room for both, although for me, not at the full price and think there will be plenty discounted in due course. Let’s just hope there’s no duplication in running numbers as that would be annoying! 2 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
RMweb Gold 97406 Posted February 6 RMweb Gold Share Posted February 6 The 2 I've got and the 3 on preorder from Accurascale will suffice to represent the class on my layout. The new Bachmann one looks a great model, but I'm not crazy about the prototype like I am about 40s, 25, 37s and AC electrics. 3 1 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
RMweb Gold Geep7 Posted February 6 RMweb Gold Share Posted February 6 I'm somewhat in the same boat. In the era I model, the Class 30/31's were strangers on the Southern and Western region. I have a sole example on order (fully paid I should add, so no point in cancelling) from Accurascale in Green with Full Yellow Ends, which covers the early allocations to the Western Region, and would have just been seen on the Southern on the Cardiff - Portsmouth service. I may be tempted by a Blue pre-TOPS example, if Bachmann does one (they have a habit of ignoring the late 60's / early 70's era), but I won't rush to get one. 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
RMweb Premium richierich Posted February 6 RMweb Premium Share Posted February 6 (edited) Surprising and not surprising. Bachmann have had the data to do a 4mm Class 30/31 since they tooled the 2mm Farish model back in 2013? The 2021 version was further update for refurbished versions. Personally I was never quite happy with the profile of the cab front windows on the retooled Farish 31. Will be interesting to see the 4mm interpretation of their data. Possibly a tactical move by Bachmann against Accurascale? Especially when you have the data to produce the Bodyshell, so less cost than starting from scratch with no CAD model for the body and bogie frames. Admittedly they’d have to develop a 4mm chassis & electronics. Anyway the sixth model of the class 31 in 4mm:- Triang 1960s Airfix 1977 Lima 1989 (now Hornby Railroad) Hornby super detailed 2005 Accurascale 2022 (yet to be released Q2 / 2024?) Bachmann 2024 release? Edited February 6 by richierich 4 2 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
RMweb Premium Fair Oak Junction Posted February 6 RMweb Premium Share Posted February 6 I have no doubt these will sell very well, regardless of a possible higher price, model quality, or livery differences. Bachmann has better brand recognition and reach. Among the general model buying public, that counts for a lot. I'd bet there are still a lot of people in the hobby to whom Accurascale, Cavalex, Rapido, etc barely register. I used to see it all the time. If I told a customer that a locomotive, coach, controller, etc was from anyone but Hornby you'd see their expression change. 3 3 2 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
XChris Posted February 6 Share Posted February 6 I have 3 AS ones on order through Accurascale/local shop, I will have to see what liveries and running numbers they announce if they do the right ones then I’ll buy them, if AS get round to them first I’ll buy there’s. Much the same as the 37’s. In my opinion the only people to blame for two new 31’s on the market is Hornby, if they had re-tooled and DCC Sound-ed there model we wouldn’t have had a gap which is now filled by two companies that obviously saw the gap in the market, makes you think what else from Hornby's range could go to another manufacturer… 2 5 1 2 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Pete the Elaner Posted February 6 Share Posted February 6 There was speculation in the other thread about the uncoupler units being sold for retro-fitting to other models. While not impossible, it would entail considerable work: The couplings are DCC controlled, so the decoder has to be up to the task of operating them. The model already has several functions including independent front/rear lights, cab lights, engine room lights, operating roof fan. It would need 2 more to activate the couplings, so anyone with a 3 or 4 function decoder would need to upgrade it. The main board would need provisioning to route the function output to terminals on the main board. If Bachmann had thought of this beforehand, the feature would have been introduced on earlier models. It was not, so it is logical to assume that the boards would need to be re-designed, then an updated board fitted to an older chassis, if it will fit at all. Wiring from the board to the coupler sockets would also be required to make these operate. 1 1 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
peteskitchen Posted February 6 Share Posted February 6 Years ago I did look at the Hornby 31 to replace my super detailed lima variants, however they never looked right to me so in the end I remotored my lima ones instead. I thought about replacing them all with accurascale ones, but apart from not doing the liveries I want it would cost me in the region of 800+ quid, and I've made the mistake of buying just one to replace an old model before, that doesn't work! I expect these will end up being heavily discounted like 37s and 47s to shift the stock left after the initial new model sales. I'll sit on the fence and watch this one 😁 10 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
RMweb Premium richierich Posted February 6 RMweb Premium Share Posted February 6 4 minutes ago, XChris said: I have 3 AS ones on order through Accurascale/local shop, I will have to see what liveries and running numbers they announce if they do the right ones then I’ll buy them, if AS get round to them first I’ll buy there’s. Much the same as the 37’s. In my opinion the only people to blame for two new 31’s on the market is Hornby, if they had re-tooled and DCC Sound-ed there model we wouldn’t have had a gap which is now filled by two companies that obviously saw the gap in the market, makes you think what else from Hornby's range could go to another manufacturer… Very much a failure of Hornby to not develop and improve an already decent model. 3 7 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
34theletterbetweenB&D Posted February 6 Share Posted February 6 Surprised, I rather thought it would be Heljan next to be dangling a new tooling Brush type 2. Whatever, looks like my Airfix GMR bodies (now on their 3rd DIY mechanism arrangements, salvaged Hornby mazak rotters superseding HO Athearn PA1, which superseded twin Airfix mechs for that full stereo coffee grinder action) are going to be retired. Unless this newbie doesn't capture the appearance at least equally well... 2 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
RMweb Premium Fair Oak Junction Posted February 6 RMweb Premium Share Posted February 6 2 minutes ago, 34theletterbetweenB&D said: Surprised, I rather thought it would be Heljan next to be dangling a new tooling Brush type 2, Give them time, with all this duplication it's only a matter of time until triplication is in fashion 😉 5 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
RMweb Gold D9020 Nimbus Posted February 6 RMweb Gold Share Posted February 6 This is actually quadruplication, as there are Hornby and Hornby Railroad models as well as Accurascale on the way. I noticed only one livery sample shown, so these may be some way off. No Skinhead variants, so you will need to go elsewhere if you want one. 2 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
RMweb Premium Fair Oak Junction Posted February 6 RMweb Premium Share Posted February 6 Just now, D9020 Nimbus said: This is actually quadruplication, as there are Hornby and Hornby Railroad models as well as Accurascale on the way. Technically yes, although I was only referring to new tooled options. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Chiltern Junction Posted February 6 Share Posted February 6 I didn't expect this announcement but I am quite happy about it. Unlike some, I don't see duplication as an issue, it gives us more choice in spec and liveries and I like the fact that we don't see every layout running the same locos pulling the same wagons. Variety is a good thing in this hobby. I don't doubt these will be expensive though. Almost certainly £300+ for the deluxe version and I'd bet about £220 for DCC ready. It is likely that the Accurascale one will have sold out by the time this one hits the shelves anyway so it is unlikely to change many decisions for now. I was waiting on a Railfreight redstripe one to be announced and that was teased in the Bachmann video so I'm hopeful for tomorrow's full reveal. 2 1 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
RMweb Premium Fair Oak Junction Posted February 6 RMweb Premium Share Posted February 6 6 minutes ago, Chiltern Junction said: I didn't expect this announcement but I am quite happy about it. Unlike some, I don't see duplication as an issue, it gives us more choice in spec and liveries and I like the fact that we don't see every layout running the same locos pulling the same wagons. Variety is a good thing in this hobby. I get your point, but surely duplication does more to harm variety than tooling classes never done before? 2 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Covkid Posted February 6 Share Posted February 6 25 minutes ago, XChris said: In my opinion the only people to blame for two new 31’s on the market is Hornby, if they had re-tooled and DCC Sound-ed there model we wouldn’t have had a gap which is now filled by two companies that obviously saw the gap in the market, makes you think what else from Hornby's range could go to another manufacturer… I don't agree. If that were the case then Accurascale wouldn't have advertised half of what they have. My personal view is that Hornby most definitely have rested on their laurels, but that was a culmination of several issues - mazak rot being one of them. I haven't dared look at my Hornby 31111 for maybe ten years and that is the worry I have with Hornby class 31s, and which is whyI have an Accurascale 31 on order. The big issue is that Accurascale have set a very high bar for competitors, and I really cannot see another company offering a like for like product for a matching price. IIRC my D5544 is £267:00 and an equivalent Bachmann SX can never achieve a price of under £300. 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
andyman7 Posted February 6 Share Posted February 6 45 minutes ago, XChris said: I have 3 AS ones on order through Accurascale/local shop, I will have to see what liveries and running numbers they announce if they do the right ones then I’ll buy them, if AS get round to them first I’ll buy there’s. Much the same as the 37’s. In my opinion the only people to blame for two new 31’s on the market is Hornby, if they had re-tooled and DCC Sound-ed there model we wouldn’t have had a gap which is now filled by two companies that obviously saw the gap in the market, makes you think what else from Hornby's range could go to another manufacturer… Hmm, well that certainly takes the 'blame Hornby for everything' approach to new heights... 40 minutes ago, richierich said: Very much a failure of Hornby to not develop and improve an already decent model. Why? They already have a Railroad one filling a market gap that no-one else is interested in, and a fully depreciated higher spec model that many customers will buy if it's available and offered at the right price and livery(s). As for us the consumer, we have lots more choice than we did a couple of years ago. 3 7 2 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
RMweb Gold MikeParkin65 Posted February 6 RMweb Gold Share Posted February 6 No 'meh' from me - I'm very excited at the prospect of a green Zimo fitted 31 with various bells and whistles. Bachmanns model will be beautifully finished in the way all Bachmann stock is and will run sweetly straight out of the box. Only need one 31 and missed out on pre ordering from Accurascale (and I dont see the point of buying Accurascale from a dealer as its the same price as direct but without the benefit of the loyalty points). 2 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
RMweb Premium Hilux5972 Posted February 6 RMweb Premium Share Posted February 6 Why? Just why? Accurascales is already in production. What a waste of tooling. Why not do the 40? KR has an atrocious record of listening to customers and putting out sub par models, (anyone say fell?), a totally new 40 would have been an absolute killer for Bachmann. 2 4 2 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Chiltern Junction Posted February 6 Share Posted February 6 6 minutes ago, Fair Oak Junction said: I get your point, but surely duplication does more to harm variety than tooling classes never done before? I agree, it is always better to see new RTR models being announced and there are still so many gaps yet to be filled. But duplication is, and will continue to be, an unavoidable situation and I don't see it as damaging to our hobby as some would have you believe 3 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
woodenhead Posted February 6 Share Posted February 6 Just now, Hilux5972 said: Why? Just why? Accurascales is already in production. What a waste of tooling. Why not do the 40? KR has an atrocious record of listening to customers and putting out sub par models, (anyone say fell?), a totally new 40 would have been an absolute killer for Bachmann. And maybe there is one, about 12 - 18 months away given any development will take at least two years, the last release being a warm up of the existing tooling to keep the wolves at bay. Maybe also Accurascale are working on one as well and keeping it under wraps until they have something to show. Maybe they are also working on an 08, and maybe an early electric, maybe some steam as well. We will know when it is time to know. 2 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Paul.Uni Posted February 6 Share Posted February 6 35 minutes ago, D9020 Nimbus said: I noticed only one livery sample shown, so these may be some way off The models announced tomorrow will have the aim of being released in the following three months. 5 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
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 accountSign in
Already have an account? Sign in here.
Sign In Now