Francis deWeck

Why? They need not have posted this info and merely kept it to themselves. It would be good for Dapol to come up with a proper solution, I've checked their advice. It doesn't work, and I'm awaiting a reply to my query. I'm of the mind that they send a Lokpilot for my loco. I do have to remark that the loco is mechanically just fine and runs impressively, it is beyond me to answer the question as to why the pcb and its dcc interface came about.

I'm glad I found this one. I tried telling Dapol that the decoder interface was incorrect when I bought my second Class 22; the first one had the correct configuration. Simply put, the lights will not function correctly when the plug is facing the wrong way, which is the effect of the incorrect interface config. CV changes don't seem to work for this unit that I have got, and to boot, screw up the decoder, requiring a reset to default - not that that is a big problem. The loco I have is fine, except for this problem, and a slightly concave middle section of its sides.

I've had my loco back from Hattons after I asked them to check the loco re derailing. It was returned and went through points that it had had problems with prior to its despatch to Hattons. However, it is back there now, as I observed that the valve gear on the front chassis had fallen away. The reason for that was a missing valve spindle. Also the rear chassis had a loose part, the adhesive having failed. I had a small discussion as to who should be responsible for the postage, so they provided me with a label for its collection. Very good of them. They also stated that if the loco has an issue within the 6 months of the warranty period, it should be returned to them, after that it goes to Heljan. I didn't go into who was responsible for this.

Update....Email received from Hattons. They asked me what I would like to do with the model, and offered to arrange its collection for repair. I am sending it back so I will have to wait and see what transpires.

As it happens, I was in Olivia's and the conversation came round to these locos, I was informed that they have returned all their stock to Hattons on account of the numerous irreconcilable problems that they were experiencing with these locos. I think you will be space watching for an indeterminate period of time. Reading this thread, I'm forming a poor impression of Heljan, particularly taking into consideration the Class 17 fiasco. Perhaps this thread and that of the Class 17 ought to be merged. It's a shame, because the DPU is fine. Consistency is lacking in these products.......perhaps Hattons were asked to pay more for various improvements, but in this the budget was over-extended, so we have got what we have. This doesn't let Heljan off the hook where the Class 17s are concerned.

Thanks, I'll re-read it.

You aren't the only one wondering that I suspect, I've not heard from Hattons since raising the question. For myself, I would like a spare set of motors (3) and relevant consumables. I can't understand how the planning in the project left out an appropriate level of spares, a damn good miscalculation, but when I'm referred to Howes for repairs by Hattons it becomes something of a joke! I did mention this to Howes, but it was poor advice from Hattons. I'm not getting all steamed up over the issue, but it doesn't seem quite right, does it? Anybody got any sound advice on motor replacement for these and the Class 17's.........or even volunteer their service for said job?

Mine is working fine and is going to be updated (don't you love that term) with sound and a stay alive, as the current pick up seems quite iffy, particularly if going forwards. It also has randon derailments when going forward over points, as the leading driver sledges over the point. I suggested to Hattons that they look at this aspect, so they referred me to Howes. I like the loco overall, pity about the spares issue. I thought it was a requirement to have spares in place when such a project was commissioned. How naive of me! Still, I am waiting to see if Returns Department at Hattons can come up with something, I have realised that I need spares...... I would also like to have bought a second loco in due course.

I agree insofar as the models produced by Heljan are interesting, but when nigh on £100 is spent on something which has inherent faults it makes you wonder just how much customer/dealer care there is. The cost for these two models was an unnecessary 50 miles plus travelling time. However, not withstanding all of the above, I wonder if anybody knows whether or not these locos have coreless motors fitted, as that is somewhat relevant to the decoder installation, ie type and configuration?

Is it me, or is it Heljan. I have an original D8501, runs prototypically (like a dog) but runs. Being of a generous nature I thought I'd buy a version 2 release, D8511, thinking that Heljan might have improved matters in the intervening period. Nope, no way, result one unit which starting giving that burning smell, as did its decoder. It experienced a harsh stop/start motion just before that. So, being of good heart, I thought, oh well, a one off! Bought a replacement. This ran for all of 5 feet and stopped. The lights worked, but know one was there (as it were!). I noticed a flickering of the lights at alternately at each end. I gave up and bought a new tool Class 33, which was faultless (to date). I note that a Mashima replacement worked ok, so I reckon I will go in that direction in due course. What I'm wondering is, why hasn't Heljan got this right?

When I spoke to Bachmann in 2012 at the Collectors Meeting, they confirmed my thoughts that the OHLE was Viessman, which is more easily obtained in quantity abroad, ie Germany, from my experience.