kebwight

The DJM/EFE O2 is a lovely model, despite the inaccuracies I have outlined previously, a little bit finesse in manufacture could have turned this model from "OK" to "spectacular". In my view, the brake gear is a bit "heavy" too. As I live on the IOW and grew up with the O2's in service here, I feel what we have here is a 'near miss'.

From my research on the O2's, I do not think that E85008 OO LSWR Adams 02 34 'Newport' is accurate. My understanding is that the loco's cab roof did not have a ventilator installed. The roof fitted to E85007 OO LSWR Adams 02 182 would be more correct for Newport. I also believe that three other IOW examples may have been similarly fitted and No. 33 Bembridge had a unique ventilator fitted. Also, I understand that 34 'Newport' did not have a manufacturers plate fitted to the back of the bunker and was provided only with a transfer. In respect of wonky running plates, from my (admittedly distant) memories of the IOW O2's in service, a running plate that was slightly out of true may well be prototypical for many locos.

It seems a very long wait to see any kind of Class 40 from Bachmann. The delivery dates appear to be on castors! I have more e-mails advising me that the date has lapsed (again) than I do on most other topics..........and I get loads of e-mails. I think that English Electric built the whole class far quicker that it has taken Bachmann to get the revised model out. Or is it me? Anyhow, a quick thanks to you guys for the many pics posted - much appreciated. Keef