Bachmann Class 90
Five years have passed since it was first announced, but Bachmann’s Class 90 has finally arrived, offering modellers a key AC electric locomotive for the late Br/privatisation era. Hornby’s ‘90’ is still available, but its basic level of detail and performance are indicative of a 30-year-old model.
In stark contrast, Bachmann’s ‘90’ promised advanced levels of technology and innovation, as well as good looks, fine detail and a superb power unit – and that’s what Bachmann has delivered. Our review sample sports the classic Railfreight Distribution livery, while two other versions feature the attractive Intercity ‘swallow’ and Freightliner ‘Powerhaul’ schemes.
The ‘90’ really looks the part, capturing the distinctive character of the prototype perfectly. All vital dimensions are
scaled correctly and the deceptively complex cab profile appears accurate. The windscreens do have a prismatic effect but they sit neatly within the apertures and allow an excellent view inside the cab to reveal detailed – and correctly painted – control consoles. The horns behind the delicate etched louvres really catch the eye. Working head/tail lamps sit behind superbly glazed covers.
DETAIL WITH FINESSE
Closer inspection reveals that the bodyside ventilation panels feature bolt head detail to the frames and the sandbox filler hatches and door handles are rendered with finesse. The pantograph is a convincing rendition of the Brecknell Willis unit (more of this in a moment) and the insulators and equipment are well observed. As today’s models become trickier to dismantle, even to access the DCC socket, Bachmann has developed an innovative solution – the central portion of the roof can be lifted away after removing four screws beneath the chassis, thus giving access to the DCC decoder socket. Another neat touch is the removable ventilation box, nearest the pantograph, which reveals a row of slide switches to control the head/tail lamps. They’re both welcome features that reveal the
level of thought that has gone into making this model more user-friendly.
That said, you’ll still need to remove the body if you want to install a driver. This is no easy task. Indeed, after a few attempts, I gave up for fear of causing damage. It raises the issue of why Bachmann couldn’t have included a factory-fitted driver.
The good work continues below solebar level. The twin compressors, battery boxes and other underslung fixtures are finely rendered, as are the bogie frames, with the brake shoes and guard irons being particular highlights.
The streamlined end valances are fixed to the chassis with slots to accommodate the pivoting NEM coupler pockets. Screw-in blanking plugs are provided for modellers who prefer to eschew tension locks or other auto couplers, presenting a very attractive front-end appearance. A full complement of brake and control hoses is provided, along with dummy screw-link and buckeye couplings.
I was particularly impressed by the working retractable buffers that operate just like the real things. A set of projecting gangway buffing plates is also installed, although they feature prominent moulding flaws on their outer faces.
Livery application is virtually flawless, capturing the scheme that the real 90037 wore from new. The builder’s plates and TOPS data panels are cleanly printed and legible under a magnifier. Inside the box is a set of optional, etched stainless steel double arrows to cover the printed versions, for even greater realism.
With an impressive, weighty feel and a sturdy drive unit, the model certainly offers plenty of pulling power. Operation was smooth and sure-footed, especially after the recommended running-in period. Our sample made light work of 20 bogie coaches, even on modest inclines. Brass axle bearings offer a smooth ride and the delicate wiper pick-ups work effectively, with little resistance.
WHAT GOES UP…
Now we come to the ‘90’s’ most eye-catching feature. While the pantograph can be raised or lowered by hand, Bachmann also offers the possibility of operating it by remote control. You will need a specific decoder in order to control the tiny servo motor, with full details and instructions being supplied with the model. However, the Zimo 21-pin decoder (Cat. No. 36-569, £39.95) doesn’t have the option of sound, despite the ‘90’ having a factory-fitted speaker.
The servo is surprisingly noisy, but the movement is relatively smooth and the operating lever is so discreet that it’s invisible from normal viewing distances. For those with the facility of programming CVS, there’s the option to adjust the servo’s speed, as well as setting the extent to which the pantograph can be raised or lowered.
Livery application is virtually flawless, capturing the scheme that the real 90037 wore from new