BACHMANN’S NEW CLASS 37/0 IN DETAIL
The model of No. 37034 will provide a good foundation for modelling other late 1970s Series 1 Class 37/0s, simply through renumbering and applying fourcharacter headcodes. Plating over the headcode boxes with renumbering will push the model into the 1980s.
nine powered functions to control the lighting.
LEDs are used for the running lights, cab lights and engine room illumination too, all controllable with the correct decoder. Illumination is subtle and refined compared to previous Bachmann models of the Class 37. Slide switches are installed in the underside to set the running lights at either end of the locomotive when running trains using an analogue control system.
Closing notes
Modern tooling methods, combined with careful design, have replaced the old Class 37 model with a product which is tangibly far superior in finish, assembly and performance. The tooling is very clean-cut, resulting in sharp grille work, smooth curves and bogie sideframes that look like they have been fabricated, not moulded.
Small details are well matched in style and colour, including those supplied in the box for customer fitment. It should be borne in mind that some are intended for a static model rather than one that might be expected to traverse sharper curves.
Finishing includes accurate renditions of BR blue and 1970s warning panel yellow which is smoothly applied, and dense, with no transparency apparent over raised detail. Despite the separate bonnet mouldings, Bachmann has produced a five-star model which will be released in other forms, including those having undergone the heavy general repair programme of the late 1980s.
The Class 37/4 has already been released (we cannot comment on that particular model, not having received it for review), along with the Series 1 split box Class 37/0. Retailer exclusives are also sure to follow.
On a final note, No. 37034 has been produced by Bachmann before, in the same bodyshell format. Repeating the number on the latest model is something of a curiosity.
Produced by Bachmann Europe.
Tooling is considerably more subtle than on the Bachmann Class 37 models of the past, especially along seam lines and the grille dividing bars.
A better representation of the fan grille is fitted, with the raised securing ring. This has been poorly represented in the past. The fan itself is very clearly seen through the fine metal grille.
Wire hand rails are fitted to the cab door recesses which are correctly proportioned and with clean moulded corners. Glazing is flat and well fitted, showing minimal prism effect.
The angled and raked cab window panel is correctly shaped, as are the cab windscreens which have the frame moulded as part of the bodyshell and not on the glazing pieces.
No. 37034 had an active train heating boiler until 1984, when it was isolated. The boiler compartment roof is correctly modelled with ribbing and an open boiler port.
The middle section of the locomotive, with cleanly moulded foot wells and grilles.