Wagonmaster

I believe Fox Transfers and/or Shawplan (can't remember where I got them from without checking) produce etched numbers and Lion suitable for the AL Series electrics. My AL1's, AL5's and retro detailed AL6's have them fitted. A tiny dab of Glue'n'glaze holds them on perfectly without the glue marks. Spare 4mm scale Stone-Faiveley AMBR pantographs would be an excellent idea. I have tried Bachmann to no avail. Perhaps Heljan would be more helpful?

Nice picture. Is this the ex-LYR No.3? I believe one of them went to a Synthite Factory.

Thanks for your reply Brian. If you do happen to have the works numbers of the Simplex at Cathays I would be grateful. I am trying to track down what were numbered PWM1024, PWM1622, and PWM1650. I have the details of PWM1779 and PWM1780. Also GWR No.14. Photographs would be a bonus! Steve J

Nice model! Pity the Impetus kits are no longer available. I have been trying to track down some details and photographs of BR Simplex 15097 that worked at Greenland Creosote Works, West Hartlepool. I know the preserved one is not the original, but did it look the same? A bit off topic, but any photo's or details of the GWR 2ft gauge Simplex's would also be greatly appreciated. I am trying, hopefully, to make some models of these great little loco's. Great topic, keep it coming!

I wouldn't say it is 'mythical' shade, but its not the later Rail Blue we are used to, it's a slightly lighter shade, but not Electric Blue as with the AL1-AL5's. This is illustrated with your photographs. The shade was also very noticeably different against the 'new' AM10's that were painted Rail Blue. This is what I saw day in day out commuting from Coventry to New Street. An AM4 and AM10 would be useful additions for anyone modelling the WCML. However, I couldn't wait and have built the Southern Pride AM10. My model is slightly modified to include working illuminated tail lamps and headcodes. The detailed interior is also illuminated with my own 'flicker free' circuit suitable for both analogue and DCC. The pan head has the Viessman spark unit fitted to produce random flashes whilst travelling under the wires. This is the DTCOL from the four car unit.

I fully accept Mark's comments on colour film reproduction, printing, different light and even the effects of pollution. As is also well known, individuals eyes perceive colours differently. However, having said all that, there is a distinct difference in shade between the original blue and the later Rail Blue used on the AL6. I have spent quite some time observing electrics on the WCML, which I live near and yes, the AL6's were not Electric Blue as the earlier AL1-5's. The difference between shades became marked once the 86's started to be repainted into Corporate Blue using the darker Rail Blue. Of course, the original blue had faded a bit by this time! I must add that these observations were made at all times of day, in different lighting all year round, but such are the joys of commuting! My concern was that Heljan might have produced an as built AL6 in the wrong shade, which would have been a shame.. But, seeing as Ben is involved and is fully aware of the problem and is researching into original paint codes with the AC Electric Group, I think we will be as near as possible.

I am very pleased to see Heljan produce this retooled Class 86 in as built condition, I have been waiting in the hope someone would produce one. However, despite previous discussion on the subject, I still have concerns over the correct colour. The above image posted by E3109 shows E3187 in the colours I remember whilst watching them at Rugby and Coventry. To my eyes, this is not the standard Rail Blue, which is much darker. The earlier electric next to it is in Electric Blue and E3187 is painted a very similar shade, even if it is not Electric Blue. Could this be the earlier faded Chromatic Blue? Trawling through other photographs from various sources show 86's in this lighter shade. Unfortunately I didn't find one with an early and Rail Blue loco's together for comparison. It would be a pity to have the retooled model spoilt by the wrong shade of paint. I also echo the other observations contributers have pointed out, especially the pantograph.