I have today ‘started’ to change four O Gauge Steam Locos that I felt were ‘not quite right’. This is the start of a project to upgrade, blend and re-number and weather where necessary. These modifications are not for the faint hearted, but in my view were necessary to get nearer to the prototypes appearance. Thanks to Graham M who brought his ‘flame Gun’ around to remove the old incorrect items.

Loco One – L1 BR(E) 67706

My overall opinion of this kit is that it is Excellent – apart from the Chimney, which I felt was skinny and not the correct shape – A new one was purchased based on a LG Models replacement.

Loco 2 – 4F BR(M) 43953

On this Bachmann Brass Loco I had already replaced the awful Bachmann rendition of the chimney! But after doing this I realised the dome was under sized. It is now being replaced by another LG Models replacement, to the right pattern and size.

Class B1 – BR(E) – 61059

This is one of Sanchengs excellent models and it really is an top class engine. Dare I say it – except for the chimney. This is yet another LG replacement.

Class Q6 – BR(NE) – No. TBD

The last Loco is a kit built item to a reasonable standard. It was purchased ready build, as an LNER example. It therefore was fitted with a type 300 boiler, this was changed to a 300A boiler in early BR days. Sounds easy but the upgrade was quite complex. A snifter valve was added, a different pattern dome was used, the safety valve base was removed and lastly a new whistle was used. The new parts were purchased from several different sources

I will update when all the new parts are added and then again when completely finished.