Hornby 4 and 6-wheel coaches

◆ GAUGE ‘OO’ ◆ MODEL R40066 GWR 4-wheel Third Class coach, R40067 GWR 4-wheel Brake Third coach, R40076 LNWR 4-wheel Brake Baggage coach, R40078 BR 6-wheel Third Class coach, R40091 NBR 6-wheel Composite coach ◆ PRICE £29.99 each ◆ PERIOD 1880s-1950s ◆ REGION Various ◆ AVAILABILITY Hornby stockists Web www.hornby.com

Last month, we reviewed one of the first of Hornby’s substantial new range of ‘generic’ four-wheel and six-wheel carriages, whose appearance came as a surprise to the model press and customers alike. More variations on the theme are now hitting the shelves and Hornby has kindly sent us a further selection of models to peruse. Comments on the overall level of detail remain the same, with a fairly basic underframe carrying a plastic body with some nice detail touches, such as door handles and rooftop ventilators of differing patterns. These samples feature a few additional underframe elements, such as gas tanks or battery boxes and dynamo, to suit the livery/period. The brake carriages feature attractive lookout duckets and glazing panels. Livery application is to a universally high standard, with the NBR, GWR and LNWR examples looking particularly attractive, with crisply applied metallic gold lining.

In contrast to the twin-axle versions, the six-wheelers do not employ pinpoint axles, with all three rotating within an inner plastic bearing. Each provides a degree of lateral movement, especially the central axle, which also has a degree of vertical ‘float’. As a result, the carriages negotiated curves and points without issue on my test track and the arrangement is, visually, rather discreet.

Each of these models is also available with interior lighting units (£35.99 each). (GD)

Livery application is to a universally high standard, with the NBR, GWR and LNWR examples looking particularly attractive