Dicky L

If this subject on the Hattons 66 has been covered before in the previous 131 pages I apologise for raising it here. This post relates to the factory sound fitted versions of the model of which you will probably know I have one or two. I would also stress this is not in anyway a complaint because the sound does exactly what it should and is in my opinion exceptional. I use the ECoS Command Station for my layout and the sound decoder reads as Generic NMRA in my controller as per the photo below. Now before anyway asks my ECoS is using the latest firmware. I was under the impression either rightly or wrongly that the factory fitted sound decoder is a Loksound 5. Hattons themselves refer to the decoder as DCR-SND-66 Suresound Chip with Rail Rumble Speaker. My question here is what do other people’s controllers identify the sound Decoder as, and perhaps more importantly is my controller reading it correctly?

50008 heads out of Chesborough with a rake of JNA Falcons and MFAs

I am adjourning the jaffagate enquiry for now personally. Here’s a photo of a really nice model by Hattons

Thanks for posting that. That gives me a bit more optimism on the subject. The photo posted on here mid march of the 2 real locos head to head showed a massive difference between the 2 and started the alarm bells ringing. I will sit tight, shut up and see what the 29th June brings.

Thanks for the reply Dave. First and foremost I am a massive fan of the Hattons Class 66, So much so that when all of my orders are complete I will own 10 sound fitted versions. The model really is a game changer and anyone who lets some of the minor issues with these deter them from buying one is missing out on something great. Moving onto my concerns about 66623 I have yet to see any videos or photos that suggest that the the shade of Orange is correct or for that matter even remotely close. I think the shade used is very accurate for Freightliners 66413 which is much lighter than all of their others. I really want you to get 66623 right and I would be delighted for you to prove me wrong. The request for you to place your production sample next to the Hornby model would go some way to giving a clear indication on this. I accept that Hornby themselves may not have got the deeper Orange 100% correct, although regrettably my gut feeling is they are a whole lot closer to it than your version. I have voted with my wallet on this model and Hattons have my support. This is just one particular version of the model that I really want you to get right, I have no wish to have it repainted unless it’s absolutely necessary.

I have little confidence in the Orange being correct. It looks exactly like the pale orange used on 66413. I would like some reassurance from Hattons that there model is the correct colour. The issue would be easily resolved by placing it next to the Hornby model for comparison.

66780 66783 66587 & 66623 all sound fitted on order for me, although 66623 may well become a repaint donor if my worst fears are confirmed regarding this particular loco.

50008 in the siding.

Perfect, exactly the answer I was hoping for.

I don’t think this question has been asked elsewhere, if it has I apologise. Regarding the ploughs on the 37s, will they be pre-fitted where appropriate or fitted by the user dependent on personal choice, Also will the ploughs be fitted to the bogie like the standard version supplied by another manufacturer or will they fit to the bufferbeam?

I am very much looking forward to this release despite the absence electrification on my layout. Obviously it will be necessary for a dirty diesel to drag one around to justify my ownership of this model. Just pop a flashing tail lamp on the rear of 92020 for me guys. you know it makes sense

37418 heads out passing the Northern DMU sidings

With both Colas and DRS loco hauled stock in use on Northern services we get the spectacular sight of 2 Large logo 37s together at Chesborough North station. 37418 heads the blue/grey short set at Platform 1, while 37403 trails the DBSO DRS set at Platform 2

Another loco hauled Northern service at Platform 1, This time it’s 37418 with the short blue/grey rake.

A short video showing the close version on the MK2f

I have just fitted the close couplings to my Bachmann MK2fs with pleasing results. No problem at all with my second radius curves.

These will be very welcome on Chesborough North, they look absolutely brilliant.

56094 outside the TMD

The Northern DMU sidings

The Station and TMD last night.

Colas 70813 in the siding and Northern 150220 at Platform 2 this morning.

37610 approaches the TMD in fading light.

I don’t allow graffiti on my wagons. Anyone found guilty of this crime in my Chesborough North area will be sentenced to the electric chair immediately

Today’s photos are of 144007 approaching the station passing the empty DMU sidings and then seen again at platform 2

Full TMD tonight