Johnfromoz

Sure enough, after hearing about this fault, tested my VECT pair of power cars and while they worked perfectly in all directions on my NCE, which I use for end to end running and programming, on my Digitrax Dc50 controlled continuous run layout I they would only respond in both directions with motor car trailing. Turning them around in the other direction produced no response whatsoever; totally dead. Given the symetrical nature of these models this is only a minor embuggerance in my view. Other views may differ. Posted for the info for those using Digitraxx.....

Problem solved. For the benefit of others using Econami sound decoders in British Bachmann diesels:- Bachmann cab lighting can be controlled on one of the aux outputs on F24. I may remap this to a more convenient function.

Thanks all for info. It seems Soundtraxx function mapping may be able to solve this. Not quite sure how to do it but will do furher research. Does anyone know if the Bachmann cab light function is on aux 2 or 3? Cheers

Hi all, Have recently been experimenting with these sound decoders in some Bachmann diesels (21 pin class 47/66) and am generally very pleased, given the cost etc. Directional lighting is fine. However, I would like to control the cab lighting available on the locos. I believe these Soundtraxx decoders are in fact very well specced with regard to lighting options but cant find a function to operate the cab lighting. Any information appreciated. John

Now waiting seven full days for an order to be dispatched. Three emails inquiring about the order have been met with the stock platitudes "we're sorry, will be sent soon" etc etc. Very insincere patter with no information or suggestion that they are actually following it up. Buying from then for 30 yrs, 28 of which have been excellent, reliable and consistent service. The last two years has steadily nosedived to this point. what would Norman Hatton make of this?

Thanks Steve.

My blue weathered 'Druid' reached here (Tasmania) today from Liverpool. Absolutely blown away by the excellent weathering, the best yet on a big Heljan. Very subtle, no overspray on windows. The painting and weathering of the running gear does indeed make a huge difference compared to the first run. No bits loose or in the box, so the timber mounting seems to be making a difference. Runs superbly, the reported miniscule discrepancy on headcode height is not registering with my eyes, in fact on overall shape and detail, I think this one trounces them in all scales, the excellent Dapol effort included. The wheel axle hubs are undershaped but I can live with it. Very pleased, and glad I got it in the window before price increases by Heljan. Can anyone comment on whether Severn Mill plates are big enough to cover Heljan's printed numbers and plates? John

By happenstance I have come into possession of two models of Dapol 68008 Avenger (OO gauge). I would like to renumber one and was wondering if any members here can give feedback on ease (or not) of removing numbers on the DRS bodyshell? Given the intricacies of the underlying body scheme, I am obviously wanting to avoid damage to the livery printing and thus a respray. Any ideas or views appreciated.

A great find and I think a significant image. I wonder how many months/years the 73 ran in the (almost) large logo livery?

As mentioned earlier, my purchases were all well after 1 July. Hattons seem to have put their plans in abeyance, either because their software was not ready or because they no longer feel the need to comply, or other reasons unknown to us.

Yes received all so far (3). Below $1000 ATO/Border will not levy at point of delivery

John, I think it is just the front beam which is overscale in width and can be filed back carefully on both sides towards the width of the bogie sideframes. That said I have yet to get around to doing mine! John

Yeah have tested them a few times since 1 July and no GST and no sign of their previous stated intention to charge.

Further to post 126, also worth noting that no secondary charge has been made or taken from my account relating to GST collection, so heres hoping they have abondoned this venture. Time will tell.

Decided to test the water with a small order from Hattons today. Two things are apparent. Firstly, VAT was removed as per normal and there was no trace of any software adjustment in the checkout process suggesting a surcharge or adjustment for GST, as per Hattons previous announcements that this would commence from Sunday. Secondly, the information page about GST changes appears to have been taken down, or at least moved to some other part of the site, although I couldn't find it if has.. With reference to the original purpose of this topic, I am interested to hear from other forum members who have made purchases from Hattons since 1 July. It would be interesting to find out if they have backed away from this, or there is simply some delay in implementation.

I know it’s not exactly East Anglia, but used to see a western hauled class 8 freight pass through Cricklewood heading for Temple Mills and Channelsea between 1130 and midnight at least three days a week in the early/mid 70s. Was indeed a regular turn through to the Eastern. John

Very odd situation with Rails. And after a 24 hr absence the GST message is back on line at Hattons.....

Interestingly, the information page on the new GST arrangements under H. Company news seems to have dissapeared, at leadt from access by the home page. What if anything can be drawn from this is anyones guess.

Thanks BR, Looks like one of them or Imperium.

Hi all, Just a quick question regarding decoders for the 121. Have just popped a Hattons Cheapie 4 function chip into my bubble car. Controls movement superbly, marker lights and then cab lights on F1 & 2 on each end respectively but no interior lights. Obviously this is because its a 4 function jobbie, and have initially assumed that I will need an Imperium or similar to get the internal saloon lighting. However, there is some mention earlier in the thread of someone using the current Bachmann 557 and getting the interior lights on (possibly uncontrolled). Can anyone confirm that the 557controls or even gives saloon lighting and is it to do with new aux outputs? TIA John

Gratutious comment. No one here has made such an assertion. Keep your sniping comments to yourself.

Apologies, thought you were talking in the model railways sphere. As has been pointed out earlier, might be best to make the Australian Gov. make the first move. Can’t see that they would have the resources to scour every UK company for sales volume. Would surely be a mammoth task.

Really interesting. Thanks. They somewhat ruin the asthetics of this vehicle though. A purely functional modification.

.........and a DISADVANTAGE of doing this would be that you would be SHOOTING YOURSELF IN THE FOOT as far as competitiveness goes.