FTG models SPA wagons

Discussion in 'Reviews' started by smleonard55, Jan 17, 2016.

  1. smleonard55

    smleonard55 Full Member

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    FTG MODELS SPA WAGON

    Review by S. M.Leoanrd.

    The announcement of a new model is always bound to attract the interest of the modelling community so it was a genuine surprise a couple of years ago to discover a new comer to the RTR market, FTG Models who were to produce an SPA wagon, the subject of this mini review.

    Each model is presented in a black box with a window and the company logo clearly displayed on the front left. Safety and recycling information is displayed on the rear. The box is wrapped an sealed in sellofane. The model is contained in an “ice cube” style container ensuring protection from all angles. Once removed from this the wagon is released but is further wrapped in plastic film. This is easily slid off. Accessories included are cradles for steal loads and a set of air pipes.

    The body is made from a red plastic intended to represent the Railfreight livery. The chassis in standard black. The body is well detailed giving a good overall feel. An additional detail is the texture applied to the floor. Decals are printed where appropriate. Whilst there is a somewhat plastic look to the body, I can understand this. Had it been produced for example in grey plastic then painted there would have been additional costs. A little judicious weathering and fitting of loads will solve this minor problem.

    Particular attention has been paid to the under frame with splendid detailing. Brake leavers have been picked out in white. Buffers are an integral part of the under frame mouldings. There is a metal bar running the length of the wagon between the two wheel sets. There is another cross tie also in metal at right angles to this. The metal Wheels are mounted in independent swivels to allow negotiation of curved track and point work. However these are no self-centring but they are fitted with NEM pockets to permit the user to fit alternative couplings.

    To produce a new model, especially for an independent maker is a massive undertaking in personal effort and financial commitment. It seams unfair therefore to find fault with such a useful model that will I am sure find a home on many a layout. My only observation relates to the coupling arrangements for this model

    Attempting to couple two SPAs together is impossible as demonstrated in one of the attached pictures. When coupled to other similar wagons from other makers they run smoothly enough until they encounter curved track. Given these are by definition ready to run models this is something I feel should have been remedied in the development stage with a view to radius three track being the minimum. The problem would appear to be the pocket is set too far back in the swivelling wheel set causing buffer lock on all but the shallowest of curves. A simple fix would be to find a longer coupling to fit the NEM pocket, giving a greater distance between the buffers however I do not feel this is something the purchaser should have to do post market. I would look to the maker for a solution for this.

    This is a smashing first attempt and for me at least the most important thing is the way in witch I have been treated as a customer, a personal service from somebody who is passionate about quality model trains. Delivering what they promise when they promise it at an extremely fair price. Wishing FTG models all the best for the future.

    I have given each picture a number. The following list describes each picture.

    001 General side view:
    002 attempt to couple two SPA wagons:
    003 Bachmann OCA wagon ( left ) coupled to SPA wagon:
    004 Elevated three quarter view showing cradle:
    005 Three quarter view at ground level:
    006 Decal close-up:
    007 Under frame view:

    Update on review for SPA wagons

    Following a brief e-mail to FTG, Hugh, the owner was back with a solution to fix the problem with the couplings. Once again his reply was polite and prompt with a workable solution. Namely this. The coupling should be withdrawn from its pocket glued and part reinserted to in effect extend it. This seams to work well, allowing the wagons to couple, passing through curved track in the usual manor. They have been tested SPA to SPA, SPA to loco and SPA to other rolling stock. I am indebted to Craig Monday for his idea, who also suggested an alternative solution.

    This might all sound somewhat elementary for most modellers However, I wanted to get the maker’s opinion before attempting work of my own given these are brand new models.

    Picture list.

    104 before and after the couplings are repositioned ready for gluing.
    105 Two SPA wagons are connected and ready for use.

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  2. paul_l

    paul_l Staff Member Administrator

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    Nice solution, and great review

    Thanks
    Paul
     
  3. Toto

    Toto I'm best ignored Staff Member Founder Administrator

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    Once again, another great review. Well illustrated and narrated.

    Keep them coming please, they make for very interesting reading.

    Many thanks

    Toto
     
  4. mattc6911

    mattc6911

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    Nice review Shaun ! Thanks for that and as Tom said ' keep em coming ' :thumbup:

    Cheers
    Matt
     

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