Newsdesk: Bachmann's new ‘Brush' sweeps in

Five brand new ‘OO’ Class 47s models herald the announcement of a completely new tooling and electronics for this iconic locomotive class.

REWORKING of key ‘OO' gauge models in the Bachmann Branchlines range continues apace with the recent release of the standard Class 20 and Class 24. The Brush 'Type 4', Class 47 is the next to receive a complete retooling from the ground up.

The first views show a departure from one-size-fits-all models, with a large number of detail permutations tooled to allow accurate time- and loco-specific models to be produced and carefully matched to liveries.

The first five models are already in production with delivery to Bachmann stockists likely in the next few months. Bachmann was a little careful not to suggest an exact time given the volatile nature of international shipping at present.

Technology driven

Technology has been incorporated in the new models to allow greater control of the running lights and interior lighting which is now not only provided in the cab, but also in the engine room.

Two digital sound speakers are fitted to enhance the sound experience when driving the sound-fitted models utilising ESU Loksound V5DCC sound decoders which also produce some sound effects when operated on analogue layouts.

A new category of model is created with the Class 47 that Bachmann has branded as ‘Sound Fitted Deluxe', which includes working cooling fans which will be visible through the etched fan grilles, alongside a different glazing material which replicates the tinting of the cab window glazing fitted to the prototype.

First five models

Five different liveries covering the

Class 47 from introduction through to sectorisation have been chosen for the first batch, with details to match including Crewe-cut bufferbeams on the later versions.

BR green is represented by

No. D1565 with four-character head codes (35-410). 1980s BR blue is covered by No. 47012 with 'domino dot' front panels and steam heating details (35-411) while the first of the sector locomotives is No. 47828 in InterCity swallow livery representing the 1990s (35-413). Railfreight is covered by Trainload Freight Construction

No. 47004 with Tinsley plaque (35-418) and No. 47375 Tinsley Traction Depot Quality Approved (35-419) in Railfreight Distribution (Europe) colours.

Other versions of the model are expected including the Class 47/7 which is detailed as a current model in the 2021 catalogue. Prices break through the £225 mark for a Bachmann analogue diesel electric locomotive at £239.95. Digital sound models are priced at £339.95 and the new deluxe models are priced at £369.95. www.bachmann.co.uk.

Tinsley celebrity locomotive, No. 47375 Tinsley Traction Depot – Quality Approved (35-419) in Railfreight Distribution (Europe) colours is perhaps the most eye-catching of the five new Class 47 models for Autumn 2021.

Upgraded cab interior detail which will be bespoke for each era of the Class 47 model.

Sectorisation is covered by No. 47004 dressed in Trainload Freight Construction livery adorned with Tinsley depot plaques (35-418). An analogue version of the model is priced at £239.95.

Crewe-cut bufferbeams and sealed beam marker lights as applied to the Intercity ‘Swallow’ version of the model which carries the number 47828.

1980s BR blue with 'domino dot' headcode panels is applied to one model which is numbered as No. 47012. Steam heat and water tank details specific to the era are fitted.

Retooled from the ground up, the new models incorporate new levels of locomotive- and era-specific detail.

A new level of model is introduced with the Class 47 which includes a different glazing type with authentic tinting. The ‘Sound Fitted Deluxe’ models will also feature motorised cooling fans alongside digital sound for £369.95.

Fan detail is visible through the etched metal roof grilles.