Rich46

By standard decoder I mean a non-sound decoder.

20003 should be 20002 of course!

Regarding changing the route discs/lights. I pushed them out using a small flat bladed screwdriver. Once they had moved slightly they came out easily. To get the replacements in I chamfered the end of each spline (used to locate them correctly) and slightly rounded the inner ends. This enabled me to locate them just in the hole followed by firm push home. So far I have fitted a Zimo standard decoder to the green CC1. It runs well except for one short length on my layout so I will investigate the bogies to see if the problem lies with them. 20002 in black/silver is awaiting the Youchoos sound decoder I have bought with a mix of their Class 71 and 2-BIL sounds. 20003 in post 1956 BR green will be fitted with a sound decoder later.

I have just fitted three closed headcode discs at each end of my 20001. At first it seemed nigh on impossible but then I tapered the end of the splines and rounded off the inner end of the fitting. I was then able to fit them easily and it only took a few minutes to complete the installation. I found the fit of the coupling hooks and steam pipes to be absolutely right and just fixed them with a touch of superglue. The buffers came out reasonably easily twisting them slightly as I pulled. Yes the body screws were tight but moved in the end. I've ordered a Zimo decoder from Youchoos with a mix of his 2-BIL and Class 71 sounds. It may not be exactly right but I was able to order it to my own function map with EMU whistles, Westinghouse Compressor, braking etc. Hopefully should get it later this week. Richard

It's not too difficult to DCC the OO Works Jubilee or the K10 and D15 for that matter. Mine also have sound. The decoder (and speaker) are located in the tender body. Unfortunately I didn't photograph the process but basically I replaced the red and black pick up wires from the motor and diverted them to the decoder. The grey/orange wires from the decoder were then extended to the motor. In my case the speaker was then also connected to the decoder. I've found they work without any problems on DCC and I am very happy with them.

I have used a Kadee No.17 coupling pushed into the Rapido fitting. I will probably have to fit something to set it at the correct height and stop the coupling slipping out.

There are pictures of the Station House, Station Building, Platform Shelter, Signal Box and Footbridge (a Southern concrete type) in the 2023 catalogue which appear to be the actual models or perhaps hand built samples ? Thanks for the information.

Which South Eastern station and signal box have Hornby chosen to model in the Skaledale range please?

I have both the BR green and crimson sets and I am very pleased with them. I did notice that a roof vent is missing from the composite coach. I have checked the Weddell drawings and photographs of them in BR days to make sure they weren't modified. You will notice that one compartment only has one vent whereas the others have two.I then added an LMS CV01 low profile Torpedo Coach Vent which seems to be a good match. Once I've sprayed the roof with Roof Dirt I am sure it will hardly notice. Apologies if this has already been covered. Richard

Thanks for all the information. Now I know I will just keep a couple as Hybars and remove the equipment from the rest. Hopefully with a little bit of making good to the paintwork and weathering it will only notice really close up. Who knows maybe someone will produce 3D printed replacement brackets in the parked position ?

I see what you mean. A bit difficult to make it work in 4mm scale.

I've been reading that the sheet rail can't be moved and has to be fixed in one position. However all mine are moveable through 180 degrees. I checked that the sheet rail fitted easily in each bracket before I glued the brackets to each end. Then I gently sprung the sheet rail in place. I know that there are comments about the lack of bolt heads on the inside of the body but I think that overall these are great models that once weathered will really look very convincing when running on a layout.

Silver Fox produce a 4-COR. I've ordered two which are scheduled for production Nov 22 - Mar 23. I haven't yet decided how I want them finished except they are wanted for the 1950s period.

Jack, Thanks very much. Very interesting and useful photos. I like the the look of Beaminster Road. Looks like a great model! My model of Bridport is based on similar conjecture, i.e. the LSWR extended from Dorchester to Axminster via Bridport with a branch going off to Charmouth. The layout of the station is based on Okehampton but with a bay platform for the Charmouth trains. However I've still got a huge amount to do and being sited in the garage makes it difficult to work on during the winter. Keep safe and thanks once again for your help. Richard

Thanks for all the information Jack.The early 50's are an interesting period which I've only recently started to take serious note of. I managed to buy a D15 on ebay. Finished in Southern Railway livery I am changing it to BR period with the short stovepipe chimney and smokebox number plate. I've bought a Youchoos T9 sound chip for it. I've also got an A12 Jubilee on order which I believe never strictly made the BR period. Cheers Richard