Model steam engines are manufactured according to a variety of scales and gauges. The choice of scale and gauge is crucial as they are the major differentiating factors between the model steam engines.
Other model reviews and posts you might like
Review: Mamod TE1a Green Traction Engine
Review of the Mamod TE1a Green Traction Engine When is a toy not actually a toy? When it is an actual steam engine in full working order, powered by its own boiler. This is the 1313 Steam traction engine from Mamod (model number TE1a Green), a replica model of a Victorian era English tractor engine that comes in black, with a British racing green boiler, and cheerful red wheels. There is also a version in brass with black wheels. This engine is modelled on the traction engines made by the iconic Doncaster Works, which also produced the famous Mallard and Flying Scotsman steam engines. Traction engines powered their way along the roads, such as they were in the late 1800s, earning them the name of road locomotives, to differentiate them from railway locomotives. They pulled heavy loads and were a crucial cog in the industrialisation of nations. Their demise came in the early 20th century as the internal combustion engine replaced steam. The 1313 is Mamod’s standard model traction engine in its range. It’s hugely popular and for good reason – this working model is affordable and perfect for beginner collectors, or as a gift to a youngster keen on Victorian engineering. It’s been made by Mamod in England for 50 years now, using the exact same design, although early models used methylated spirits for fuel. It isn’t unusual for owners to still have, and use, engines that had been brought 30, 40 or 50 years ago. These have become almost heirloom toys, with parents handing them down to their children, who also pass them on. The Steam traction engine comes fully assembled and ready to go. Because it gets very hot, and has lots of sharp bits, not to mention the potential dangers of the steam and boiler, this toy is recommended for children aged 14 years and upwards. The boiler is stoked through the solid fuel blocks provided with the engine, and once it gets sufficiently hot, the little engine will power along quite quickly. It also comes with Mamod oil for lubrication. You only need to add water to the boiler. However, you really need to put water in that is already boiling. Otherwise, you’re in for a bit of a wait for the steam to get up. The engine is really robust, being made of heavy gauge steel and brass and a reasonable size at 10 inches long. For the metric minded, its full dimensions are 178mm x 137mm x 270mm. It’s also reasonably hefty at four pounds, or 200 grammes, but not as weighty as you might expect from such a little powerhouse. This is simply a fun toy to play with. There is a sense of excitement from the steam coupled with the smell of the fuel burning, and the power of the traction engine as it moves along. It is also educational, helping youngsters understand the power and engineering of the great steam engines of our past. Exact replica of a Victorian road locomotive Steel and brass Working steam engine with boiler Moves at speed along the ground 1 x packet of solid fuel tablets 1 x bottle of lubrication oil Weighs 200 grammes Measures 178mm x 137mm x 270mm For ages 14 up CHECK PRICES
4. Jan 2018
Review: Bachmann Branchline 35-077
Review: Bachmann Branchline 35-077 Bachmann has a huge name in the manufacturing industry. The Bachmann Branchline 35-077 is gorgeous Class E railway engine model. The steam engine is a OO Gauge class and has a great design and sturdy construction. The Class E4 tank steam locomotives were powerful for their size and became stalwarts of passenger, freight and branch work for over 50 years. This model has fantastic detail and would make a great addition to your collection. Key features Made of steel with a glossy finding to keep it shining OO gauge with scale 1.76 DCC Ready. 6-pin socket Route discs and fire lamps Good runner at a low speed This product has now been discontinued. More information The steam engine is a small model that can be used for modeling purposes in museums or in train industry as well. It is used as a toy as well. It is a great tool to be used in the industry as well as a toy which as to be used under supervision for the kids. It runs at a great speed, the infrastructure is well balanced and easy to operate as well. This model runs fantastically well out of the box in comparison to many other models on the market, and only continues to improve over time. The sturdy and sleek design and the good performance make it a great piece to be added to your collection. CHECK PRICES
25. Jan 2018
Review: Bachmann Branchline 31-465
Review: Bachmann Branchline 31-465 The 31-465 Bachmann OO – Class C Wainwright 0-6-0 31579 in BR black with late crest is another great model from Bachmann. This locomotive model is an astounding addition due to its excellent speed, well-balanced design, and an economical price. The model belongs to the Class C Wainwright category. The entire structure has a great glossy finish which makes it more attractive for the consumers. It can be used for modeling purposes in the railway industry mainly. There are many excellent and astounding features that make Bachmann Branchline 31-465 an extra special item from Bachmann’s locomotive model collection: It belongs to the Class C wainwrights category OO Gauge (1:76 scale) It has a 21-pin DCC ready sound decoder in a socket It has a 1.1 ampere with plug decoder and back emf More information It is not suitable for younger children and to be used in toy making. It is strictly not a toy. It is used for modeling purposes in the train industry, in museums and in educational institutions. 4 There have been some reports regarding the crest not being in line and not sturdy enough, but this issue has been resolved with subsequent models. Check with your supplier before purchasing to see if this is an issue. The model is a very good representation of the real locomotive, which is something that will delight model enthusiasts. CHECK PRICES
14. Aug 2017
Review: The Hornby R3064 RailRoad BR Smokey Joe 00 Gauge Steam Locomotive
Review: The Hornby R3064 RailRoad BR Smokey Joe 00 Gauge Steam Locomotive The Hornby R3064 RailRoad BR Smokey Joe 00 Gauge Steam Locomotive has an attractive detail that comes with BR original livery. Indeed, this locomotive is pre-built and ready for use on a 00 gauge model railway set. Besides, this is a perfect entry-level train for use in railway modelling. Who’s this for? Impressively, this locomotive is ideal for keen modellers or beginners and can suit individuals of any age. It perfectly complements the variety of locomotives, track, rolling stocks, accessories and buildings that are available in the Hornby catalogue. Again, this locomotive can only be suitable for use with analogue train layouts and cannot function in the DCC compatible layouts. Moreover, the engine of the locomotive is designed to only run on two rail tracks. What is the sentiment amongst other buyers and owners? Customers who have purchased this locomotive attest that the starter loco is highly recommended for both professionals and beginners as it can easily be re-detailed or repainted. Customers who have purchased the Hornby R3064 RailRoad BR Smokey Joe 00 Gauge Steam Locomotive acknowledge that it is a good buy if you intend to gift someone you love. It is highly recommended to those who have model railway interests. Moreover, the locomotive has an excellent performance on the track due to its impeccable detail close up which enables it to run on the track smoothly. Okay, what are some key features? Impressively, this locomotive has a die-cast plastic engine with 0-4-0 wheel configuration to enable it to withstand gentle knocks. It has 18.4 x 10.2 x 6 cm dimensions and weighs 200 g. The locomotive comes complete and does not require any assembling. It has an electric engine and does not require a battery. Furthermore, this locomotive has a scale of 1:76, and uses standard hook and bar type couplings which enable it to operate with standard Hornby stock seamlessly. The railroad models are all fitted with standard Hornby hook and bar type couplings which easily couple the rolling stock and locomotives in both Thomas & Friends and the standard Hornby ranges. Hence, all models that constitute the Hornby RailRoad range are a cost-effective means of adding to a train set offering an appropriate entry point into the different world of model railways. Great, so let’s now cut to the chase The Hornby R3064 RailRoad BR Smokey Joe 00 Gauge Steam Locomotive offers an exciting array of steam locomotives with varied rolling stock and full train packs that will enable you to expand or start your model railway. If you are considering a locomotive model for yourself or gifting someone, then the Hornby R3064 RailRoad BR Smokey Joe 00 Gauge Steam is highly recommended. Its quality has become the main reason why customers prefer to use it. Besides, the Hornby R3064 RailRoad BR Smokey Joe 00 Gauge Steam Locomotive comes ready for use and will not stress you with any assembly work. CHECK PRICES
7. Aug 2017