It's only ran in Maroon for WCRC, undergoing a full overhaul and repaint prior to entering traffic in 2010.
Before that, it was stored in 2004, so not quite right for either the end of EWS or WCRC operation.
I've been having a fair bit of trouble fitting the decoder into a couple of older Hornby 08s, namely an original R2418 and an R3048, both of which accept the supplied speaker perfectly but there just doesn't appear to be enough room above the motor to fit the decoder. Is there any chance of a few photos from those who've managed to fit the decoder in with the 'original style' motor? Dave
Steam Boiler no longer operational and hasn't been for some years. Its more fuss than its worth to replace the boiler with a weight (the boiler can do this job quite well) and remove the vac brake system - 37099 got the work required to make it mainline usable and nothing more.
A bit of extra metal bolted to either side doesn't make it any less susceptible to withdrawal. A tribute it may be but that doesn't stand in the way of business.
Sounds like the seller doesn't have a clue at all and is unfortunately taking advantage of you being new to the hobby. Although a bit of a pain, I'd personally look at a return / refund and start again with a shop who 1) knows what they're on about 2) can get you going with the right equipment.