Review: Warflat special from Trains 4U and Cavalex Models
Trains 4U and Cavalex Models join forces to produce a high fidelity model of the MODA-registered PFB/KFA ‘Warflat' wagons, a common sight in modern MOD trains.
A special edition ‘OO’ gauge model of the 1976-build of MOD PFB/KFA ‘Warflat’ wagons is the latest to arrive from Cavalex Models.
FOUR EACH of the dual-braked PFB and air-braked KFA ‘Warflats' have been produced with different running numbers and variations in the applied markings by Trains 4U following a collaborative effort between the retailer and Cavalex Models.
As one might expect, the models are up to the very high standard established by Cavalex Models with its Railfreight BBA and REDA-registered PGA wagons. Whilst the design of the Warflat model appears simple at first glance, it is deceptive, featuring a cast metal underframe with distinct fish belly framing. The solebars and headstocks are plastic and a wealth of small details are fitted. A slightly faded impression of MOD green brings the model to life by giving it a slightly worn, if clean working appearance.
Modern ‘Warflat'
Constructed in a five-year period from 1976, the fleet compromised of 65 vehicles equipped with air brakes numbered MODA 95233-297. When constructed, there was a chance they could be required to work in trains of vacuum braked wagons. A through vacuum pipe was fitted producing the TOPS code PFB (KFB): ‘B' being for a through vacuum pipe where the wagon is fitted with air brakes. Later, the through vacuum pipe was taken out of use and removed in some instances (there is a suggestion that some remain in place). TOPS code KFA was applied, although not necessarily with the application of yellow to the headstocks and end screw jacks.
There is another interesting variation between Warflat wagons that shows up in pictures from time to time and that is signified by the position of
The all-green PFB wagon representing the type when fitted with a through vacuum pipe.
the brake wheels applied to both GPS bogies. It appears that the bogies can be fitted either way round. The discs are fitted on alternate wheels, resulting in two wheels on every bogie being equipped. Discs are present on the right-hand wheel of the outer axle and the left for the inner axle of each bogie. When the bogies are reversed, the same applies.
PFB wagons were painted all-over MOD green, including the underside of the wagon superstructure which quickly faded to all manner of light shades of green through to olive. Planking making up the wagon deck was left unpainted and quickly turned a grimy silver-grey colour. The same livery was present when wagons were recoded KFA. Although painting of the headstocks and screw jacks yellow became standard, some KFA wagons were not treated straightaway. Bogies are black whilst markings applied to the long solebars were applied in yellow.
The modern Warflat is designed to carry non-armoured vehicles and anything else that can be carried securely on the flat deck. Trains composed entirely of Warflats are
Gloucester GPS bogies with disc brake fitted wheels. There is sufficient room between the side frames to accept ‘EM' and ‘P4' wheel sets.
not uncommon. Furthermore, single and short cuts of the wagons have been documented in trains with other types of wagon used in military traffic including PFA, KFA and air-braked vans. A handful of redundant wagons were used as internal user vehicles at Scunthorpe steel works too.
Superstructure
An inner frame of cast metal including the transverse sections gives the wagon most of its weight. The angled fish belly sections are also composed of metal, fitted as separate pieces whilst the long solebars and headstocks
are moulded in plastic as a single ‘bodyshell'. The metal frame sits neatly inside the bodyshell. When the wagon is turned over, the planking making up the deck is also moulded on the underside.
On top of the wagon, the seemingly simple deck structure is modelled with the 18 securing shackles, nine-a-side; whilst the protective plates at the deck ends are also present. The planking does not overhang the solebars but is correctly modelled with the thin metal trim fitted along the outside of the full-size wagons. The model is correctly proportioned with a deck 170mm long (length over buffers) and 34mm wide.
Bogies and wheels
Nicely moulded models of Gloucester GPS bogies are present on the models, comprising of separate side frame mouldings and a middle spacer frame. The spring detail is modelled all the way round the side frames and is nicely rounded too. Separate brake wheels are fitted, although there is no representation of the disc brake calipers. The bogies rotate smoothly
and there is a slight rebate in the underframe members where the inner wheels are located easing the degree of bogie rotation.
The wheels are composed of metal and were found to be fully concentric, tested by rolling the sample models across a glass table top before track testing. The rear face of the plain disc wheels is completely flat – there is none of the relief such as the back of the tyre and flange normally seen. This is an increasingly apparent trend with new models where the rear of wheel sets is not modelled unless brake discs are fitted. When the model is fitted with open H-frame bogies without an outer frame member, it is quite obvious when the model is observed from the ends.
The distance between the inner face of the bogie frames is 25mm, sufficient for the use of ‘EM' and ‘P4' wheel sets. The supplied wheels have 26mm long axles over the pinpoints which show some side play in the axle boxes which can be tightened with brass pin point bearings if required.
The models roll smoothly and with the wheels complying with current standards, the wagons ran through proprietary track without any problems.
Small details
Brake equipment is applied to the underframe using separately moulded components including the air tank, distributor and pipe work composed of fine metal wire. The pipe runs are apparent on the framing located on the side of the brake equipment and assembly of the parts is neatly executed and durable.
The screw jacks located on the wagon ends are also neatly moulded and applied to the model, including a well defined wheel.
Whilst examining the headstocks, sprung buffers with metal heads of the correct shape, two metal load securing loops alongside a separately applied lamp iron and coupling hook were noted.
Couplings
Cunningly concealed close coupling cams are located behind the headstocks. They exhibit little play in their action and work smoothly with a soft return spring. The NEM coupling pocket is correctly located in relation to the front of the headstocks and is mounted at the correct height.
Narrow tension lock couplings are fitted and whilst the screw jack details get in the way of the coupling when the cams are working as the model enters a curve, the close coupling effect is still apparent.
Livery
All of the models, either coded PFB or KFA, are finished in the same shade of slightly bleached MOD green. As noted above, the colour did vary depending on the degree of exposure and how long it had been since the wagon was painted. Printed details are yellow with the various legends and instructions sharp and legible.
Post-2000 electrification warning notices are applied to the KFAs which are finished with yellow headstock and screw jacks. Printed instructions for the brakes applied to the bogie sideframes are also well applied and legible. Markings are bespoke to each wagon, following those applied to individual full-size wagons alongside different running numbers to the eight separate models.
Overall impressions
Cavalex Models has managed to give what appears to be a simple wagon some presence with fine detailing and neatly applied separate components. Even though the deck is flat, the model has neatly tooled planking which is begging for distressing and weathering to add further character to the model.
Together with its free-rolling bogies, heavy metal inner frame, headstock detailing and neat livery application, the model is an excellent example of what can be achieved for a reasonable price. It will be welcomed by modellers of military railways as well as the main line trains dedicated to carrying military stores and equipment between depots and military ports.
Produced by Cavalex Models for Trains 4U. www.trains4u.com