[Doug]

Seen here is the most recent engineering sample of the forthcoming Branchline G2 steam locomotive. This exciting new OO scale product will now be the first Branchline Steam locomotive model to incorporate a 21 pin decoder socket which has the advantage that 21 pin decoders fit directly into the socket with no need for a wiring harness. Please note that the Branchline catalogue has showed the G2 models as being offered with an 8 pin decoder socket. The DCC socket is located in the tender.

The Branchline G2 models are provided with a Bowen-Cooke style tender that will feature a new adjustable close tender coupling system. The model will be available with or without the tender back cab. A high lever of cab control detail is incorporated in the design along with the prototypical flangeless driving wheels. Recommended retail prices start at £90.25 and is due to be available from your local model shop from mid September.

Also Recently received by Bachmann UK is a sample of the forthcoming Branchline VDA van. This all new tooling will provide an accurate model of this numerous prototype. Introduced in the mid 1970's, these versatile vans can still be seen in use on all parts of the current railways network

 

[Doug]

I get rid of those couplers ASAP. They are awful.

Hope to be getting one of these models too. Perhaps we could collaborate on a review?

 

[Doug]

I just have to share this photo.

The Super D has been on my computer desktop as a wallpaper for months.

The photo of the loco and a few others in the Barrow Hill Engine Shed is completely mesmerising

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Barrow_...7.10.05_191.JPG

The LNWR G2 "super D" No. 49395 is blowing it's whistle and about to move onto the turntable I presume.

Link to the Barrow Hill Engine Shed: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barrow_Hill_Engine_Shed

 

[Doug]

Here is a photo of the latest factory painted sample.

Interesting. Perhaps we couple start a petition to get rid of the front tension-lock coupler. Who uses it anyway?

 

[Doug]

Photo © Nathan Williamson Source: Wikipedia

From Wikipedia: "The G class were originally introduced in 1906 as modifications of the 4-cylinder compound B Class 0-8-0s by removing their outside cylinders to give a simpler two cylinder layout. From 1912 superheating was introduced and most of the B class were converted into G1 Class, not G Class. The G2 class were new builds with increased boiler pressure from 160lbf/in² to 175psi. Some G1s were converted to G2a classes after their boiler pressure was increased."

So basically, the internal cylinders keep the outside clean.