Hornby Class 31

will · by **will** on Sun Jun 15, 2008 3:24 pm

I bought the Hornby Class 31 a few weeks ago from the Derby exhibtion. There were some faults with it but recently, I got a whole new model back from Hornby. Other than that, it's great.

Firstly, the box is neat and attractive with a picture of the model, the back contains info of the protoype which is now a common thing. The weight of everything feels substantial and sturdy. Opening the box is quite a faf, the packaging gets caught sometimes and you can't quite get your fingers in to pull it out. Once out, you slide off two 'things' which hold the top piece of polystyrene to the bottom, you can pull the two pieces away and the model lifts out with ease.

I placed it on the longest run in my plan and first impressions are that it looks fantastic. Bogie detail is very good and the opening cab doors is a nice extra. I have not yet fitted the detailing pack so I cnnot comment of the ease of fitting it or the appearance. It comes with NEM Shaft straight couplings (can someone correct me on the name?) so assume Kadees can be fitted.

Right, running is superb, I have not yet had chance to run in but for the short time it was running, I had no problems - it was smooth and so quiet. I have fitted a ZTC Plug 'n' Play chip with no problems. The quietness of the motor has not been effected, nor has the good slow speed running.

I would overall rate this model at 8/10 because I think that it has a limited life motor, if it does not, probably a 9.

Thanks.

poliss · by **poliss** on Sun Jun 15, 2008 3:29 pm

Good review. I think the term you were looking for was NEM pockets. I will add that when you buy American N Scale loco's that both Rapido and Microtrains couplings are included as standard, not something that you have to buy as an extra. Hornby could include a set of Kadee couplings.

will · by **will** on Sun Jun 15, 2008 4:35 pm

Thanks. I thought I would add that because you have to fit the couplings yourself rather than them being on already. Not that it is a problem - it is no hassle at all. the couplings are not the standard NEM ones that clip in the pocket, they slot in from beneath. I'll get a picture, http://www.railway-models.co.uk/891_1_11182.html they are like these.

poliss · by **poliss** on Sun Jun 15, 2008 4:53 pm

They are designed to be less obtrusive. Some people complain of buffer lock on small radius curves.

TheThing · by **TheThing** on Tue Jul 15, 2008 11:21 am

Great review will, thanks.

I have a Lima Class 31 (2nd hand) which runs smooth as silk! I'd give the Lima version 8.5/10.

Nice looking engines too!

will · by **will** on Tue Jul 15, 2008 3:02 pm

Thanks Hugh. They certaintly are nice looking locos! Yours is in 'Dutch' Livery too isn't it?

TheThing · by **TheThing** on Tue Jul 15, 2008 4:21 pm

How did you know that? C'mon, where is you spy camera?

Yes it is and it was this model that educated me to Dutch livery. I was expecting a loco done out in KLM's livery or some such! (Us newbies, huh?!?)

Teleman · by **Teleman** on Tue Jul 15, 2008 5:55 pm

A Lima class 31 in Dutch livery

will · by **will** on Tue Jul 15, 2008 6:27 pm

Lol. I saw you buy it on the-forum-that-cannot-be-named! I was jeleous

TheThing · by **TheThing** on Wed Jul 16, 2008 8:27 am

Teleman,

Slightly different to mine, I have 31 275.

Yes, the-forum-that-cannot-be-named! Still moderating my posts, so now all I post is 'PM sent'!

ADDAX · by **ADDAX** on Thu Jul 17, 2008 12:04 am

Sorry but wots the good in that when EMP is not up and running yet.

Hornby Class 31

Hornby Class 31

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