P2 Steam Generator: A ‘Chuff’ and then a ‘Puff’

Welcome to another exciting edition of Engine Shed!

Join us as we examine the P2 ‘Prince of Wales’ steam generator model – the first of the most innovative models we have produced. We also show off the LNER Coronation Coach running samples, look at some final samples of the 8F locomotives and GWR Class 802/1, plus much more!

P2 Steam Generator ‘Prince of Wales’

The highly anticipated first steam generator models have finally arrived! This model is the next in the series of P2 locomotives due to run on the main line in 2025: No. 2007 ‘Prince of Wales’.

Enhancing the realism of a steam locomotive further, this state-of-the-art model emits water vapour from the chimney.

Enhancing the realism of a steam locomotive further, this state-of-the-art model emits water vapour from the chimney (a double chimney in the case of this P2 locomotive).

Synchronicity

An amazing feature incorporated in our steam generator models is the synchronisation of the locomotive’s sound with the water vapour released from the chimney. Many people may have noticed the ‘Daisy Wheel’ fitted to one of the axles. This is just one element to create true synchronicity with the sounds and the steam features.

A photo-interrupter is mounted above the slotted daisy wheel. As the locomotive moves, the photo-interrupter sends information gathered from the daisy wheel and sends it to the various electronics where the innovative system goes on to create the ‘chuff & puff’. The speaker and steam generator can then be synchronised to perform together and create not only the sound and other features in time to the speed, but also the puffs of vapour from the chimney.

If you are having trouble with starting the process, we recommend that when you fill the reservoir with water for the first time, add 5ml. In the case that no steam is emitted after a running test and activating F1, then you add another 5ml to the reservoir. The reservoir wick is supplied dry from the factory therefore the wick requires an extra amount of water when you first use the steam function.

Want to enhance the realism of your locomotives? Want to enhance the realism of your model railway collection? Get your hands on this fantastic steam generator P2 model!

LNER Coronation Coaches Running Samples

After receiving the first shots of the LNER Coronation Coaches in November (seen here in the November 2023 Engine Shed), the running samples have arrived in Margate.

When the samples were tested, they ran smoothly and successfully, and negotiated the complicated point-work of the Hornby test track at a range of speeds. The development of the articulated bogie mechanism, documented on Hornby: A Model World Season 2 Episode 3, has been one of the major challenges with this project. This was the first time the bogie, shared by two coaches, has been tested with production parts. The iterative development of this iconic feature has paid off with coaches elegantly rolling around Radius 2 curves.

In addition, issues highlighted in the first shots moulding have now been corrected, including the windows on these running samples that are much clearer than before.

Decoration samples should follow shortly, and we will update you all when they arrive.

Pre-order the observation car and coach packs now!

8F Final Samples

The final 8F locomotives have arrived! These Stanier designed locomotives were dependable engines for hauling freight and was a class that were seen all over the UK, with a total of 852 being built. These mighty 2-8-0 locomotives were also found in service abroad. 225 examples of the class found themselves in countries such as Egypt, Iran, and Turkey.

The first Class 8F locomotive comes under the guise of LMS Black with the running number of 8310 and the second 8F incorporates a BR Black livery with the running number of 48518.

See our full range of 8F locomotives here.

GWR Class 802/1

Moving on from steam to modern locomotives, the final samples of the R3967 GWR Class 802/1 IET BMU train pack arrived in Margate. This pack contains five of the nine Hitachi built units and are represented in a GWR Green livery. These bi-mode multiple units feature streamlined nose fronts and a sleek surface. The full unit can be completed by utilising the R40351 R40351 GWR, Class 802/1 Coach Pack - Era 11.

Class 755 ‘FLIRT’ BMU Renders

We will share with you some nice renders of both versions of the Class 755/3 and Class 755/4 ‘FLIRT’ units as a treat.

R3963 Greater Anglia, Class 755/3 'Flirt' 3 Car Train Pack - Era 11 (hornby.com)

R3963A Greater Anglia, Class 755/3 'Flirt' 3 Car Train Pack - Era 11 (hornby.com)

R3964 Greater Anglia, Class 755/4 'Flirt' 4 Car Train Pack - Era 11 (hornby.com)

R3964A Greater Anglia, Class 755/4 'Flirt' 4 Car Train Pack - Era 11 (hornby.com)

TfW Class 67

The unique TfW hybrid red and black liveried Class 67 locomotive, No. 67020, would suit a modern-day layout perfectly. The model is DCC Ready with a 21-pin socket. A full rake can be made by utilising the Mk4 coaches listed below.

Key Publishing – Model World Live!

Key highlights include:

• The Hornby stand will be displaying incredible development samples of locomotives and rolling stock, both a ‘00’ and TT:120 layout featuring HM7000 DCC controlled locomotives on the track, along with a great team. Join us in April to ask any questions you may have! You’ll be able to easily find us by the entrance, opposite the Key Publishing stand.
• Airfix will also be exhibiting some more wonderful development samples and will be situated opposite the Key Publishing stand. Join the Airfix team where they will be happy to answer any questions!
• Pete Waterman and the Railnuts take on a new challenge with the debut of Making Tracks: The Final Frontier! With the aim of making the biggest portable ‘00’ gauge model railway layout, Making Tracks debuted a combined layout from previous years which measured at 152ft and was exhibited at the Great Electric Train Show in 2023. This year, the team is going above and beyond to expand more than 100ft of new scenery by adding 56ft to the length and wrapping the scenery around the end to create a 208ft x 14ft layout!
• Key Publishing’s Twelvemill Bridge TT:120 layout using Hornby, Peco and other manufacturer’s models! The 10ft x 6ft layout made its debut at the 2023 Great Electric Train Show.
• Blair Atholl towards Drumochter which will be making its first exhibition appearance outside Scotland in its 35-year career. This stunning Scottish region layout will be one of the first that visitors see on arrival at the show.

Beyond the railway exhibits, you can expect stunning scale modelling displays, full size military vehicles, modelling skills demonstrations, hands on interactive exhibits, radio-controlled demonstrations and much more.

For more visitor information, please see here: Model World LIVE 2024 | Key Model World

Discounted advance and VIP tickets can be purchased here: Model World Live Tickets | Key Model World or you can buy tickets at the door on the day.

We have reached the end of another Engine Shed. Please email marketing@hornby.com if you have any questions. We also want to see your videos of the steam generator models running on the track. See you next time!