Heljan model 27.

I have no special decade in my modeling needs and at present concentrate in passenger services.
In fairness I must confess that my modeling habits are strictly, for enjoyment in running any locomotive (diesel) that is easily controlled and appeals to me.
Not all RTR models are manufactured to the same degree of quality - my preference to Heljan is number one. Their models have the feel of sturdiness whilst handling, quiet in running and most reliable.
My reason for posting topic, is simply not being able to afford to buy all of the 26&27s models offered by Heljan - is there any preferences by other modelers, though in the end it will rest as to my choice.

rb277170 - thank you for your comments on the Heljan 27 (blue) models.
The majority of my locomotives are coloured "blue" - however it appears class 27 Heljan has at present offered in:
5380 (2701) 27034 (2702) 2705 (2703).
Descriptive information quoted by Heljan and retailers Hattons, reads very similar to each blue coloured model, making a personal choice hard to decide.

double00....you have declared your broad interests.....well done!

Have a look at them all if you can, and choose the one that truly appeals to YOU.

What I also do is check out each [#27] running number offered...and have a look on the net for any really good photographs of the actual loco?

then, if one particularly appeals....you have a clear prototype photo to compare with...plus hopefully, some realistic weathering to refer to?

http://web.ukonline.co.uk/53amodels/ I have found useful...John Turner has a good period range of photographs

(but not the only photographer out there publishing......just one I know of locally)

[He has an excellent piccy of 37414, in the Vitrains #37 range.......very sharp, clear, and full of inspiration for the weathering brush!]

Are there any preserved #27's to refer to?

QUOTE (rb277170 @ 1 May 2007, 02:38) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>Just don't put a Hornby decoder in it if going DCC

Russell

I also want to buy a Heljan 27 but for what reason not to put a Hornby decoder? any other recommendation?

Thanks,
Dennis

QUOTE (ms06s_char @ 7 Jun 2007, 08:20) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>I also want to buy a Heljan 27 but for what reason not to put a Hornby decoder? any other recommendation?
Thanks,
Dennis

For the same reason not to put remoulds on a high performance car !

Seriously though, go for something like a Lenz Gold/Silver, ESU Lokpilot or the equivelent from any of the manufactures who specialise in DCC & not trainsets.

Surely using remoulds for rallying has a bit to do with cost? Anyway they're perfect for rallying as any tyre imperfections can counter the fact that the wheels aren't likely to be very round.

QUOTE (double00 @ 22 Jun 2007, 06:06) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>I find when running my Heljan 27, that the power controller setting is the same as all of my other locomotives. However my layout is not DCC.
what's the output rating for your power controller?
the transformer that came with the dcc controller is 15V 1A, I tried running Heljan 27 in analogue mode, the lights were blinking too, may be the loco is a decfective?

I found out that the Hornby decoder's output is quite weak, just 0.5a for motor while Lenz Gold/Silver is 1A

QUOTE (ms06s_char @ 21 Jun 2007, 17:07) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>I tried to fit a Hornby R8215 on a Heljan class 27 but it doesn't work properly....the lights are blinking when the loco is in motion....and sometimes not respond well and stopped and then it runs like a bullet train that cannot be stopped! What's the problem? the decoder hasn't got enough current? should i get a more powerful decoder? please name me some. +I use the Hornby Select unit.

Thanks,
Dennis

If the lights are blinking in time with loco faltering the problem is almost certainly a pickup one. DCC requires an uniterupted supply/signal, therefore clean track, wheels & pickups are essential. (Although locomotives may run OK on DC you won't "get away" with it on DCC !).

Check the track for dirt (don't assume that because it looks clean it is clean), the wheels & all the pickups. If you have a multimeter check that you have a circuit between all the wheels on each side.

Some locomotives have a coating on the wheels from new that can cause pickup problems until it's worn off - if this is the case run the locomotive in using plain DC on a test track if possible.

If you don't have a meter then Maplins start with a basic one for £9.99 cat no UZ82D & go up from there in specification & price. They also produce a useful booklet called "Getting the most from your multimeter" catalogue no.WP94C

Once you have done that try again, but I suspect the the Hornby decoder may not be up to the Heljan motor. Do your locomotive justice by fitting something like a Lenz Silver/Gold or an ESU Lokpilot - we have had good results from these. Other members favour Digitrax & TCS to name a couple & these are all worth a try.

Some decoders do not work very well with the Select but as far as I know Lenz & ESU are OK.

Hope this helps.

ps - just read your other post - this seems to confirm a pickup problem !