The Wilesco Showman’s Engine D409 is a fully working scale model of a steam-driven farm engine, the likes of which would have been used to power agricultural machinery such as threshers and ploughs before the modern tractor.
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Review: Wilesco D320 Steam Lorry with Radio Control
Review of the Wilesco D320 Steam Lorry Take a look back at the history of how goods were transported with this fully-working scaled model lorry that can be dated back as far as 2015. Back in those days, goods transporting was far more laidback despite being a more labour-intensive and time-consuming process. Fitted with a fully functioning steam engine that is powered by dry fuel tablets, the Wilesco D320 is a must-have for hobbyists and collectors alike. Good for at least fifteen minutes of running per use, this steam lorry also comes complete with a radio control that allows you to turn the lorry left and right as it trundles along. A real thing of beauty, the D302 contains a solid brass boiler, flywheel and drive chain and can have a number of accessories attached. These could include a pull-along trailer, and a canvas to cover the onboard trailer but there are many other options out there. While this model might look like a toy, it is not suitable for children under the age of 14 and adult supervision is always required. The Wilesco D320 is a real working steam engine which means fire, steam and hot surfaces, so care should always be taken when being used. Under the Hood The driver’s cab is where the boiler and double-acting cylinder are placed while the steering mechanism of the D320 can be found at the rear of the model. That boiler can hold around 200ml of water and keeping it full is done by removing the caps roof. A sight glass will let you gauge the level of water so that you know when you will need to refill. A steam pressure gauge is also featured and will let you know everything is hot enough to start moving. With measurements of 49 x 22 x 26cm and a weight of 3.1kg, this is a fairly sizable and heavy unit compared to other Wilesco steam engines. This is very welcome however as you just know that you have something that has been built to high quality and with sturdy materials. Radio control helps by adding convenience to the operation of the unit, saving you from chasing it around to set the steering in motion. As for maintenance and clean up after use, this is fairly minimal compared to other steam engines from Wilesco. Radio controlled Built to scale Many accessories available Solid brass boiler Weighs 3.1kg This nostalgic model from Wilesco is definitely one of their most beautiful and once up and running, the sound emitted is typical of their whole range of model steam engines. When not in use and out on display, the Wilesco D320 will bring charm to any room and will be a real talking piece with visitors. Whether you are a collector, hobbyist or somebody interested in the history of steam engineering, the Wilesco D302 is a model that you should certainly consider owning. In terms of pure beauty and power, this is without a doubt one of the finest pieces that Wilesco has produced. CHECK PRICES
1. Sep 2017
Review: Mamod SW1 Blue Working Live Steam Wagon with Barrels
Review: Mamod SW1 Blue Working Live Steam Wagon with Barrels Mamod’s world renowned model making company have once again managed to create a beautifully elegant model. This time in the form of a steam wagon modelled from versions that would have been used in the 1900’s. Wagons were traditionally used for carrying heavy goods, animals and people and the Mamod SW1 embodies the fragment of history it has been taken from wonderfully. The truck the SW1 draws inspiration from in particular is the Foden steam truck, a popular truck from years gone by. The model has been finished with a striking blue colour, along with six miniature (yet realistic looking) wooden barrels and a steering rod and handle. The parts of the wagon are fully functional, making this model not only great for display purposes, but for active entertainment too! Many models by Mamod are to be put together by the buyer, but luckily for those of you who just want to play without the kerfuffle and argument of fixing something together yourself, this model is ready to go. Simply grab the solid fuel tablets, filler funnel and lubrication oil (all of which are included with your purchase), add water and the steam wagon will work its wonders. Mamod have thought about every detail when constructing the SW1 and have made it so that the wagon can move both forwards and backwards, just as a real wagon would. A list of the specifications of this product are as follows, to give you a better idea of what kind of size and weight you’ll be looking at upon buying the SW1 steam wagon: approximately 16 inches/41cm in length pressure safety valve (maintains the pressure of the working parts) dimensions of 405 x 181 x 145 mm 3.8kg in weight As you can see, this model is reasonably heavy for a model of this size. However, this is due to the exceptionally high quality of the gauge steel and brass metals the wagon is made up of. This metal is made to last and with good care and cleaning, will be a proud part of your family’s toy and model collection for many years to come. As a result of the SW1 steam wagon’s parts and the fact that the model needs fuel and heat for it to work, it is not a suitable product for children under 14 years of age. However, kids of all ages will absolutely love this wagon, they’ll just need some supervision from an adult. The face of any child will light up when you show them this live steam wagon – it’s almost like a mini fairytale land has come to life right before their eyes! How marvellous! Toys are without a doubt not just for kids and the SW1 is no exception. This model would be a great buy for any hobbyist with a passion for scaled down models, history and simply for those who have some spare time on their hands and enjoy spending it actively. The SW1 steam wagon will look great amongst any set, no matter what kind of models the collection is primarily made up of. CHECK PRICES
1. Feb 2018
Review: Nanoblock NAN-NBM001 Steam Locomotive
Review of the Nanoblock NAN-NBM001 Steam Locomotive Although less well known than their competitors in the children’s building block market, Nanoblock manufacture traditional children’s model making kits using the ‘raised dot’ blocks which any child or parent will know well. This kit allows children to create a model of a tank locomotive – a steam engine without a tender, to you and me – and includes over 800 individual building blocks for just this purpose. Don’t worry though, it comes with instructions and a picture to follow too. Just as with all building block toys, this kit isn’t suitable for children aged under 3 years as they may choke on the pieces. The manufacturer recommended age group is from 12 years and older, with adult supervision. With that aside, however, it is sure to be enjoyed by young and old alike. Once built, the model depicts a black steam locomotive, pausing at a signal as it journeys along a railway line through pleasant green countryside. Youngsters will be enthralled by the romance and magic of steam, while the older generation will become equally fascinated by the details contained in the model and in reminiscing of times past. The 800 blocks included in this model kit are manufactured from the highest quality materials and are compatible with other kits in the Advanced Hobbies Collection from Nanoblock. You may also find that they fit with building blocks from a certain other well-known company. Playing with Nanoblock helps children develop their planning and organisational skills as well as encouraging creative play and building imagination. Children can use the included blocks to build anything that their imagination can create, and by extending the kit with other Nanoblocks, can stretch the limits even further. Unlike some cheaper makes and models of building block, Nanoblocks are carefully designed, precision manufactured and constructed from high-quality materials to ensure that you never experience the frustration of blocks sticking or not fitting. All Nanoblock products work together seamlessly and fit each other with perfection and precision to give the best possible experience when building. The steam locomotive model is easy to build following the included instructions and the picture on the box. You will be fascinated to see it develop, layer by layer, as you construct it and will end up with a model reminiscent of something from a Ghibli movie. The locomotive itself is in the Japanese style, with plenty of extra ‘knobbly bits’ and details such as coal in the bunker. Once the Nanoblock Steam Locomotive is completed, the finished item will look fantastic adorning any child’s bedroom (or an older child’s den) or can be taken apart and the blocks used to construct anything else that your heart desires. Key features: Over 800 building blocks included Full building instructions included in four languages Minimal and easy use packaging Manufactured from high-quality, long-lasting materials Combines with other kits from the Nanoblock Advanced Hobbies Collection Develops children’s imagination, creativity, organisation, and planning skills. CHECK PRICES
29. Jun 2017
Review: Hornby R383 Thomas & Friends Gordon The Big Blue Engine
Review: Hornby R383 Thomas & Friends Gordon The Big Blue Engine The Hornby Thomas & Friends traces its history to the 1940s when it first appeared in children books and had ever since delighted children and adults alike. It became an immediate hit in 1984 when Thomas & Friends made a maiden appearance on British television. The Hornby Thomas & Friends range comes with a flamboyant selection of coaches, locomotives, wagons, and buildings. Who’s this for? The Hornby R383 Thomas & Friends Gordon the Big Blue Engine 00 Gauge Steam is ideal for both young and old users as well as the seasoned modellers. The train can be used to gift your children during their birthdays to make them enjoy the experience of modelling. Moreover, the locomotive can also be gifted to anyone during the festive season or on special days. The included additional track packs can be used to provide a larger layout. Its steam engine has a capacity that ensures that the locomotive meets your needs. What do other owners think? Customers who have bought and used this locomotive attest that the model has been reasonably priced and serves well. Moreover, the customers acknowledge that the Hornby R383 Thomas and Friends Gordon the Big Blue Engine 00 Gauge Steam is adequately detailed. Additionally, the locomotive can be upgraded with extra parts, so it remains realistic and up to date. Moreover, customers have commended the quality of this locomotive. Customers have also been impressed by the ability of this locomotive to run quietly and smoothly on the rail track. The locomotive has also been rated as being a good performer across a varied track layout. Key features of the Hornby R383 Thomas & Friends The locomotive is of the R383 model and weighs ten kgs with a 36.4 x 10.2 x 6 cm size configuration. There is no assembly required once you purchase the product since it comes complete. The scale of the locomotive is oo with a track width of OO. It does not come with a remote controller. The locomotive includes a steam engine that is used to power it up. Its engine is powerful to ensure that is charged with the responsibility of starting the train. Additionally, it comes with a complete wagon, so you don’t have to assemble anything. So, are you ready to buy the Hornby R383 Thomas & Friends? If you are contemplating a locomotive model for yourself or gifting someone, then the Hornby R383 Thomas and Friends Gordon the Big Blue Engine 00 Gauge Steam Locomotive is highly recommended. The quality of the locomotive has been praised by the testimonials provided by its customers. Also, The Hornby R383 Thomas and Friends Locomotive come complete with a full range of capabilities which makes it an appealing choice. CHECK PRICES
4. Oct 2017