Bachmann 39-231 BR MK1 BCK - departmental yellow.

Discussion in 'Reviews' started by smleonard55, Feb 27, 2016.

  1. smleonard55

    smleonard55 Full Member

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    Bachmann 39-231
    BR MK1 BCK - departmental yellow.
    Classified under TOPS as QVA with running number ADB977109
    When you think departmental coaches and non revenue earning vehicles you would be forgiven for thinking limited editions, auction sites and carpetbaggers! However Bachmann have once again taken the initiative by producing this re-railing coach in it’s fetching yellow and wasp stripes.
    Research seams to be of a good quality as the prototype is well documented on the web site of The Bluebell Railway with a definitive history of the life of the coach. This link is well worth a look if the background of the vehicle is of interest. I certainly used it before making a purchase.
    http://www.bluebell-railway.co.uk/bluebell/pics/adb977109.html
    The model is finished in a crisp livery with relevant markings clearly displayed. The gangway ends are accurately decorated with diagonal yellow and black stripes. The axle boxes are also picked out in yellow. On one side of the coach equipment ports have been printed rather than moulded.
    Whilst the purists may throw the toys out of the pram it is a common work around by the maker used as an economy measure, so saving the high costs of retooling that would undoubtedly be passed on to the customer. I suspect the judicious use of a scalpel and plasticard would ameliorate this small discrepancy.
    A brief search on-line suggests a RRP of £38.95. However, the larger retailers are selling at just over £33.
    Personal view.
    This is another sensible use of existing stock, producing something a little different at a competitive rate. Should you desire buying a donor coach, paint and transfers there is certainly a solution out there. If modelling for the enjoyment of it is your thing then that is going to be the way forward for you. However if this falls outside your skill area this rather nice RTR offering will make a welcome addition to your fleet.

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  2. Sparky

    Sparky Full Member

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    Thanks for that SM . Interesting bit of history. As you say would go well with a crane /works unit.
    I could be tempted here.
     
  3. Toto

    Toto I'm best ignored Staff Member Founder Administrator

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    Another great review kind Sir accompanied by the usual terrific images.

    I'm just on my way home from the Scottish railway exhibition in Glasgow and funnily enough, I did see a very similar offering. I don't. Know if it's the exact same version as it was not with reach to look at in closer detail but it did look good.

    I'll need to do a bit more investigating on this one I think.

    Thanks again for posting.

    Toto
     
  4. Gary

    Gary Wants more time for modelling.... Staff Member Administrator

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    Nice review on this relatively new model.

    I personally think that it is great that the manufacturers don't throw every detail on the model as it lends the end user to 'super detail' the model to their choice'. It also gives the çottage industry' another detailing component to add to their list of detailing goodies.

    Thanks for the review. :thumbs:

    Cheers, Gary.
     
  5. smleonard55

    smleonard55 Full Member

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    Good POV, hadn't thought about it that way
     
  6. mattc6911

    mattc6911

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    Thanks for the review Shaun, I too could be tempted by one of these. As Sparky said, It would look good with a crane / works unit
    cheers
    Matt
     
  7. jakesdad13

    jakesdad13 Staff Member Moderator

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    A very nice model, I know that more detail could be there, but even so the level of detail on modern offerings is brilliant as it is :thumbup:, those of us who like to improve our models are having a job finding things to change, I reckon the balance for the price is just right.

    Pete.
     

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