When you mention reliability of the older models that is so true, I have a BR class 7 steam engine Iron Duke and a class 33, both about 40 years old and just about still run, and the majority of rolling stock I use is the same age, i have only and to fix the class 33 once with a minor issue.
I am pleased that you rate this model so highly. As a boy, it was one of my favourite engines in real life, and I remember them running south of Birmingham. They could put on a turn of speed and were very strong.
I remember that! It is the first Hornby model I ever had! Also, Sam, I recently purchased on the Hornby website a set called the Stay At Home Hornby Hamper - produced in order to cater to those staying at home during the Coronavirus, I imagine. It comes with a tank engine, three pieces of rolling stock, some track, and a controller, BUT GET THIS: It also comes with buildings, a station, people, some fencing, trees and grass! I thought you might be interested in reviewing this set.
Amazing quality for a model made in 2003! There is something to be said for simplicity, but this has enough detail for to be at least at par with modern releases. The performance is also incredible, and I think it exceeds expectations. The axels and the cab could be detailed carefully to match any loco made today. Your rating is spot on. 8.80 is maybe even a little harsh. Outstanding review.
After first watching this I've just bought and 3-railed a BR one to run on hornby dublo track. It's a fantastic runner, really impressive! Pulls 5 old heavy tinplate coaches with ease! I've 2 XO3 motored earlier versions which are good but this is miles better. Thanks for the recommendation! I couldn't agree more!
*watches this video Me: I need one of these *several hours later, sees one for sale on facebook Me: Mine! (Cost me all of £35, is a LMS lined black one)
Hi Sam, I've got one of the nineties ones with the old chassis. What I found with them was the rear bogie was so floppy it would jump off the rails . I managed to solve it by fitting a spring around the screw to put downward pressure on the bogie. It's still a good runner even though its 25 years old! But that new version looks so much better.
I have the older version and I made it DCC. It has had a bit of tending over time, but now with some weights added to the inside of the 'tanks' it really does run well. Still has that distinctive noise. Yours is quite a bit more sophisticated.
I just finished filming this in a running session when you uploaded, although mine is weathered BR Black and the Railroad Version. I'm glad someone else also thinks about this as a "Backwards Pacific", I thought I was the only one! Blimey that modern RRP is expensive, mine was only £70 from a train fair!
Sam, I have this every model R2224 #2311 from new when it was released in 2003. It is one of my faves and I adore the LMS maroon and golden lining. Overall it is my top side tanked loco of the big four companies, other than the top notched tendered and streamlined Gresley A4s for designed body shape. Ratings for me would be 4.5 across the board with a half star just for the little improvements like the comments you made in this video. So yeah, a 90% near-perfect model of the Fowler 4Ps and I am so glad you did a review (more old stock reviews please) of this little magical wonder by Hornby. All I can say is that if you ain't got one then get one as they are a marvelous Hornby locomotive if not the best ever model they made 17 years ago (blimey I only started model railway collecting in 2000). Wow, where did the time go to during these 240 months, oh yeah met my future wife that year, got married, had one child, left work due to illness, lost a lot to the latter, then my marriage derailed two years ago, now ex'ed? Time Does Fly By Folks... so make the most of it when you can, especially now under the current (2020 for future readers) serious pandemic of the Convid19 virus (The modern-day T-Virus without the Resident Evil effect of dead bodies rising again to eat you... early days yet for that to happen (I mean no disrespect to any families that have lost a loved one with C19, but apologies (SORRY) if I have offended you))).
You got a 1980 model with a faded builder's plate although it was made of brass and stamped, so a close examination should suffice to read it (best when viewed from an angle)
I'm really happy you reviewed this loco Sam, for only 89 pounds to get this loco is amazing, like you mentioned the pulling force is superb and the crawl is amazing. One of the best tank engines.
I have a BR black one from the 90s, looks exactly the same as the new one. I think a lot of the upgrades you mentioned happened back in the 80s/90s. Only thing this has that mine doesn't is the sprung buffers; they are metal on mine but not sprung. It's a really great runner to, one of the smother models in my collection.
Just found an old photo of LMS 2313, sister to this loco and the cab floor doesn't appear to be as unrealistic as people think. On the photo, from the bottom of the running plate to the cab floor is a smidge taller than from the top of the second step to the bottom of the running plate. The model seems to be about 15% taller than that, which is about the thickness of the running plate itself. Photos showing that detail seem to be rare, most are too oblique to clearly see the floor height.
You know sam, I was looking into getting this engine. And seeing you reviewing it makes it better. Reason being is that in the thomas and friends range that same loco, those same initials, and that same paint job all represented a character named Arthur. For a loco like that is impressive, and I'm giving you thanks for reviewing him. Anyway enough of me rambling, love your videos as always.
That does look really good Sam. To answer your question about the newbuild, I read online and I believe the group building the New Patriot class are planning to build a new Fowler Tank engine after they finish The Unknown Warrior. Also, one of the odd ones out is... the BR Standard Class 4 in LMS Maroon (unless that is a LMS 2-6-4T, they are pretty similar).
Watching this back to back with the GT3 review (I just ordered both and wanted to get some stats), they both have the same pulling power despite the 4P being almost half of the Gt3's weight. That's incredible!
I saw the title (haven't watched the video yet), this is one my favourite locomotives. I made a new chassis for some of my old locomotives / CNC job. Just lacks a painted cab and sprung buffers. The only locomotive I like more is the 4-4-0 Compound 1000. I know they are not up to modern standards when you look at them up close, but they're still amazing to look at. I hope they come out well in the review.
I’ve got the BR version a bit older i got it second hand for £65 and is the best runner I have it’s so quiet and smooth and can pull considerably a lot of coaches. Very impressive.
There are many variants of the LMS Fowler 4P 2-6-4T (Hornby produced both versions with and without steam pipes outside the smokebox) in which some members had two cab windows like the later Stanier designed locomotives. H.G. Ivatt was inspired by this design for the NCC WT Class 2-6-4T in which No. 4 is a sole-survivor.
Its only 89£ now a new one (and if the picture is correct it still has no NEM socket)! I have one too, but the reason I picked the maroon one, is do to this the only version with (or still has) all wheel brakes! Dough I only have 4 L.M.S. locos total (including the Pug) , without particular rolling-stock...
That's a lovely thing sam, old is good I have many older stuff on my layout which gives me great joy, it's new stuff that breaks my heart, great review stay safe and keep up the good work 😊
One of my first Hornby superdetail steam locos. Must have been back in around 2004/5. Such a lovely loco. Remember the store I bought it from, unfortunately the owner died and the store is closed. £55 it cost me and it looks the same as the one in the video.
Sam, I am afraid that Speedy Pete's record may have been beat. At my train club, my brother's BLI H10 pulled 45 American freight cars up a grade, with no wheelslip. Pretty impressive for a 2-8-0. Maybe you should look at one.
Great video sam can not wait to see more videos like this. An absolute amazing loco. I really enjoyed hearing the history of the class. Enjoy your new locomotives. It's an amazing locomotive it has nice detail on and it runs very smooth. Take care
Hi Sam, great to see an 8 coach LMS maroon rake too. Lovely. Reminded me of the 5 coach Hornby rake I used to run years ago. Which reminds me of the old Hornby buffer height issue. How about you consider an article on this for us? This is where most of the 1980s stuff, and I think even the railroad now, set the buffer height at 2mm higher than scale. As I recall they did this to allow for the corseness of wheels and gear back then, but I think some of it still persists. Your LMS coaches look like mine did, which I'm fairly sure are too high. Would be great when you're doing Hornby reviews if you can mention whether the buffer height of the model is set correctly, or too high. Cheers, you have a great style, would not be surprised to see you on mainstream TV one day.
My Favourite OO loco, i was bought one for christmas in the late 90s early 00s still runs great to this day. Although i now model N gauge so doesn't run often
Great review Sam it looks very nice I have an older version of one of these but it needs to have a complete chassis replacement because it has lost the linkage and doesn’t have a motor in it but hopefully it will work soon when I can get a chassis
I've often found British locos a bit oddly proportioned, given that I come from the land of Big Boy, but I really find this locomotive beautiful. The livery is beautiful, and the wheel config is pretty cool looking with the frame and body.
This doesn't look old to me. It seems reasonable for the age considering it's supposed to be super detailed. I like the modern features of this locomotive such as the sprung buffers, the livery application, and the mechanism. The things we would expect on newly released locomotives are hidden axles on the wheels, separately fitted parts on the body, a die-cast bodywork, and a better detailed interior. This doesn't look too bad as far! :)
Another locomotive that has a backwards wheel configuration is on the Canadian National 6060 which has the backwards wheel configuration on the Berkshire. The Berkshire is a 2-8-4 tender locomotive while the Canadian National 6060 has the same amount of wheels, although the wheel configuration is backwards on the loco itself. :P
I've just spotted this video and thought "hmmmm, I really am lacking in the tank engine dept". Before the end of watching this video I've ended up buying a DCC Ready 1947 BR black livery version! Thanks for reviewing! :)
mine has twisted / bent center drive axle , i cant fix this because the axle is straight in the chassis, but the wheels are bent in different directions so i cant clamp them straight
Hey Sam. Love ur videos. Especially all ur steam locomotives and Thomas vids. I just realize that this locomotive reminds me of Author from Thomas and friends. But keep up the get work Sam. See u down the line buddy.
The Fowler does originally date from 1980, but the model was completely revamped and may actually be a complete new model about 10 years ago . I have the original one , still nice to look at but mine has much more robust running gear . Yours is much finer .
Yes you're right Russell - it was revamped, but the basis remains from the original tooling! You're right - the finer gear is more prone to failure - I've seen it before myself! Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Good stuff, I should look into this I did not know they re-did it. Got one for my birthday in the 90s so not sure what version that was but I did love the lms red. Shame I can't get it to run smoothly now. Great review, was nice to see one of these.
Hi sam just to let you know it was a common thing in LMS locomotives to have unpainted axle ends for example the lms jubilee class is just one of the examples that has the unpainted axel so that feature on model is actually correct
You're right Callum - but not with the 4P (as far as I know), and on more recent models, I'm told Hornby has corrected this! Thanks for watching - Sam :)
More specifically, the real 4P's worked the former LTS (London, Tilbury & Southend) line, between Fenchurch Street and Shoeburyness (arguably the LMS's easternmost outpost).
Another great vid! I think that Hornby changed their designs after doing similar tests to the ones you did here and decided that the loco wasn't prototypical enough. The original would never have been able to pull 32 coaches. That must have been very embarrassing for them!
A great locomotive Sam. In the US market that would be priced at $173.11 which is above average for a steam locomotive. That also looks like Arthur from Tomas in Friends. He was introduced in "The Spotless Record" aired in 2003 in the seventh season.
Fine details are not something of the latest years, what some people tend to believe. I have two 35 years old Marklin steamers with details that can compete with todays models. Also in overall performance. I digitalized them and there is no difference with a new one of today. The big difference is CNC machining and probably 3D printing. This make it easier and cheaper to mass produce fine detailled models. And often also affordable as you have to place this ad-on details yourself. Back in the day, the 2 old Marklins i have were exclusive and expensive models for the collectors market. Now this models has become the standard. You see this with all the big brands.
Great little engines. I paid £18.99 for mine LOL( boxed unused still). In the past when I did run one, great pulling power but mine ran better backwards. Going forward, the 2 wheel pony truck had a habit of derailing. Another great review.
Watching this review makes me think the 4p must of had a retool. Probably similar to the one for the A1s right now, although rather then a new running board it is added details and a remould of the roof for the hatch.
You frequently mention wheel-slip as though it should never happen but, as I understand it, wheel-slip was common in steam locomotives. Recently I was watching Breakheart Pass in which the star was, arguably, the steam locomotive (and train, in general) and it frequently experienced wheel-slip. I have see it in other steam locomotives as well.
Oh yes you're absolutely right - I only mention it because it demonstrates the first sign of weakness in a loco's pulling capabilities! Thanks for watching - Sam :)
I am rather curious Sam,how often do you clean your track?,considering just how often you run trains,im rather curious as to how fast it begins to retain the black gunk you seem to pull from the wheels when cleaning them,also,what you use particularly to clean your track in place?
I clean the track abrasively every month with a track rubber. I vacuum it twice a week, which gets rid of any fluff! Doing it this way, I never see any black buildups! Thanks for watching - Sam :)
It might be worth considering some Airfix/GMR coaches to go behind it as they're pretty good and pretty cheap on Ebay. You could easily make a 6or 7 coach rake for about £50-75
Hi Sam. Indeed a fine loco. My top Hornby's are K1 - J 15. Similar smooth & quiet runners. My 3 Maunsell's start to have motor problems. One is dead now. I will need to replace them. Bad luck... Greetings
Sam I found this locomotive for 35£ in hattons. (Hornby Class A1 4-6-2 'Flying Scotsman' 4472 in LNER Green - Pre-owned - some marks to paintwork - noisy runner - replacement box) It's that ok?
Oh wow that's not bad at all if it's the modern one - it's about right for the 1980s release, it sounds like it is an older one! Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Hi Sam. Another Hornby triumph (notwithstanding it may not be the most recent of models). Great livery/paint job. For a moment I thought you may have forgotten one of your favourite bugbears - unfinished axle ends. Have you ever painted over axle ends (making sure not to apply too much paint to stop the wheels turning)?
Yes indeed Paul - even for the age, it's very impressive! Yes the axle ends are a shame, but at least the price is reasonable! Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Wow, it's astonishing what they can do to revitalise an old tooling with a little bit of thought! I don't really need one but my Patriot is looking rather lonely 🤔😅 Another great video Sam!
I managed to get hold of some trains during my days in south africa so I've been working on a layout. The locos and track are from 1980's lima so it is rough to get them going... better than nothing I guess🤣
Hi Sam - having watched your review I bought the DCC ready version in black, brand new, which looks identical, but it's R3404. It wouldn't run on my DCC layout so I've installed a new decoder and it's both the best and worst runner I've got - I don't understand it. The best because the slow speed and smoothness is excellent, but the worst because it stops all the time - it hates points, and lots of different parts of the track, on which everything else runs no problem. OK there's no tender for extra pickups so it's essentially an 0 6 0 in that sense, but it's just impossible to get it running reliably - why?
Yes I've seen that before too mate - you need to remove the base of the loco, clean the pickups, and gently bend them so that they make better contact with the wheels. If the pickups aren't hard-wired, folding small pieces of metal foil, and placing them between the pickup and contact on the base will improve the connection - good luck!! Thanks for watching - Sam :)
I've really enjoyed this one Sam, I've tried two of these locos over the years, as I remember the full size versions as regulars on the Central Wales Line between Swansea and Shrewsbury. However, the older models were bad runners and extremely noisy, unlike the excellent models you've reviewed here. The other point of interest was when you say they could be purchased for around £19 in the 1980's which is the equivalent of £100 today, something I still struggle with at my age....Thanks as always...Bob
Thanks a lot Bob - yes I've seen some bad runners too of the older kind, but mine is okay as you can see! I know - it's crazy isn't it?! Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Such a beautiful class of tank locomotive. It’s a shame none of theme are left. I mean, we do have a similar loco, the BR Standard class 4MT, but it would be nice to see an LMS Fowler 4P locomotive get rebuilt.
Sorry to hear that Geoff - I wonder if they're any lighter? Do the middle driving wheels touch the track on that version? Yes the Stanier is much more detailed! Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Excellent review of the Fowler 2-6-4 tank Sam 👍👍 I have got one in it 1980s box and it is very nosey, but I am thinking of getting the new ones in a train pack some time during this month. I would like to see a new build Fowler 2-6-4 tanks as they are the grandfather of the BR Standard Class 4MTs and as there is a Stanier & Fairborn 2-6-4 tanks been preserved, it would be nice to see the complete family tree of the 2-6-4 locomotive.
When you mention reliability of the older models that is so true, I have a BR class 7 steam engine Iron Duke and a class 33, both about 40 years old and just about still run, and the majority of rolling stock I use is the same age, i have only and to fix the class 33 once with a minor issue.
Great to hear that Joshua - yeah very rare to see an old model break down irreparably!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
I am pleased that you rate this model so highly. As a boy, it was one of my favourite engines in real life, and I remember them running south of Birmingham. They could put on a turn of speed and were very strong.
Very much so Don - an excellent model I thought!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Huh. It's like the saying goes:
"If it ain't broke, don't fix it."
Loving the videos! They let me experience something I can't quite afford.
That's true - though Hornby managed to make it even better!! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
@@SamsTrains your hobby train ?
The Fowler 4p is honestly my favorite engine of all time and I’m glad you’re reviewing it in its best looking livery.
Great to hear that - I truly love these too!! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
That’s my favorite other than the E2
Great pick mate! :D
I remember that! It is the first Hornby model I ever had!
Also, Sam, I recently purchased on the Hornby website a set called the Stay At Home Hornby Hamper - produced in order to cater to those staying at home during the Coronavirus, I imagine. It comes with a tank engine, three pieces of rolling stock, some track, and a controller, BUT GET THIS: It also comes with buildings, a station, people, some fencing, trees and grass! I thought you might be interested in reviewing this set.
Wow that's fantastic - what a way to start! Yes I've seen those - they look very good indeed! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Big tank engines are always a favorite of mine
Great to hear that Jack - me too! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
JacktheLegomaniac 95 my favourite trains are small tender engines
I like smaller tank engines though but it’s just our opinion
Amazing quality for a model made in 2003! There is something to be said for simplicity, but this has enough detail for to be at least at par with modern releases. The performance is also incredible, and I think it exceeds expectations. The axels and the cab could be detailed carefully to match any loco made today. Your rating is spot on. 8.80 is maybe even a little harsh. Outstanding review.
I agree - it's very impressive isn't it? Just the kind of model I like! :D
Cheers,
Sam :)
After first watching this I've just bought and 3-railed a BR one to run on hornby dublo track. It's a fantastic runner, really impressive! Pulls 5 old heavy tinplate coaches with ease! I've 2 XO3 motored earlier versions which are good but this is miles better. Thanks for the recommendation! I couldn't agree more!
*watches this video
Me: I need one of these
*several hours later, sees one for sale on facebook
Me: Mine!
(Cost me all of £35, is a LMS lined black one)
haha awesome!! Hope you enjoy it! :D
Cheers,
Sam :)
Sam'sTrains Hey mate, it’s me again, I am gonna say thank you for taking all this time to almost reply to everyone here in comments
@@SamsTrains hey Sam, I'm looking to get started on Hornby trains. Do you have a video on how to get started?
@@tophbeifong1999 watch the how to start with train sets video
@@MAFFYP7 Thanks 😊
Dads big fan of big tank engines, me and him love that one
Ahh fantastic - this is definitely one of Hornby's best!! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Hi Sam, I've got one of the nineties ones with the old chassis. What I found with them was the rear bogie was so floppy it would jump off the rails . I managed to solve it by fitting a spring around the screw to put downward pressure on the bogie. It's still a good runner even though its 25 years old! But that new version looks so much better.
Great to hear that Jonathan - glad you were able to repair the issue, sounds very good!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
I have the older version and I made it DCC. It has had a bit of tending over time, but now with some weights added to the inside of the 'tanks' it really does run well. Still has that distinctive noise. Yours is quite a bit more sophisticated.
Very nice Ian - yes with a bit of extra weight I can see that working well! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
I just finished filming this in a running session when you uploaded, although mine is weathered BR Black and the Railroad Version. I'm glad someone else also thinks about this as a "Backwards Pacific", I thought I was the only one! Blimey that modern RRP is expensive, mine was only £70 from a train fair!
Ooh sounds fantastic - I didn't know they'd done a Railroad version?!/
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Sam, I have this every model R2224 #2311 from new when it was released in 2003. It is one of my faves and I adore the LMS maroon and golden lining. Overall it is my top side tanked loco of the big four companies, other than the top notched tendered and streamlined Gresley A4s for designed body shape. Ratings for me would be 4.5 across the board with a half star just for the little improvements like the comments you made in this video. So yeah, a 90% near-perfect model of the Fowler 4Ps and I am so glad you did a review (more old stock reviews please) of this little magical wonder by Hornby.
All I can say is that if you ain't got one then get one as they are a marvelous Hornby locomotive if not the best ever model they made 17 years ago (blimey I only started model railway collecting in 2000). Wow, where did the time go to during these 240 months, oh yeah met my future wife that year, got married, had one child, left work due to illness, lost a lot to the latter, then my marriage derailed two years ago, now ex'ed?
Time Does Fly By Folks... so make the most of it when you can, especially now under the current (2020 for future readers) serious pandemic of the Convid19 virus (The modern-day T-Virus without the Resident Evil effect of dead bodies rising again to eat you... early days yet for that to happen (I mean no disrespect to any families that have lost a loved one with C19, but apologies (SORRY) if I have offended you))).
Great to hear that John - yes they did a wonderful job on this didn't they? haha let's hope not -blimey!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
You got a 1980 model with a faded builder's plate although it was made of brass and stamped, so a close examination should suffice to read it (best when viewed from an angle)
I'm really happy you reviewed this loco Sam, for only 89 pounds to get this loco is amazing, like you mentioned the pulling force is superb and the crawl is amazing. One of the best tank engines.
Thanks a lot Charlie - yeah I agree, amazing for the cost! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Such a good model, funnily enough I received mine in the post this morning and now we have your review. Fantastic timing.
It really is - wow that's quite a coincidence!! :O
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Sam'sTrains just to answer your question, I have the most recent version and the axles are still not painted but the couplings are NEM
I have a BR black one from the 90s, looks exactly the same as the new one. I think a lot of the upgrades you mentioned happened back in the 80s/90s. Only thing this has that mine doesn't is the sprung buffers; they are metal on mine but not sprung.
It's a really great runner to, one of the smother models in my collection.
Just found an old photo of LMS 2313, sister to this loco and the cab floor doesn't appear to be as unrealistic as people think. On the photo, from the bottom of the running plate to the cab floor is a smidge taller than from the top of the second step to the bottom of the running plate. The model seems to be about 15% taller than that, which is about the thickness of the running plate itself. Photos showing that detail seem to be rare, most are too oblique to clearly see the floor height.
Ahh very interesting - many thanks for the info Bruce! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
You know sam, I was looking into getting this engine.
And seeing you reviewing it makes it better.
Reason being is that in the thomas and friends range that same loco, those same initials, and that same paint job all represented a character named Arthur.
For a loco like that is impressive, and I'm giving you thanks for reviewing him.
Anyway enough of me rambling, love your videos as always.
Arthur is a Ivatt 2MT tank
Great to hear that mate - I can recommend it! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
@@akidwithtrains2687 hmm, than I might of been off a little.
But of course the looks are the same, you can agree on that.
@@SamsTrains Yes thank you for of course showing that model, it help me see closely on looks, design and running speed.
Well deserved score for that lovely tank engine. With a little more die-cast it would be an astonishing model. Great review, thanks Sam.
Thanks a lot Mike - you're absolutely right!! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
That does look really good Sam. To answer your question about the newbuild, I read online and I believe the group building the New Patriot class are planning to build a new Fowler Tank engine after they finish The Unknown Warrior. Also, one of the odd ones out is...
the BR Standard Class 4 in LMS Maroon (unless that is a LMS 2-6-4T, they are pretty similar).
Thanks very much Patrick - that's excellent news, let's hope so!! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
I have recently acquired a 1990s built version.....runs surprisingly smoothly and quietly for an old ringfield motor....body looks pretty good too
Very nice Matt - yes even the older ones run very nicely! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
great on the flat but i have the br and it tends to see saw on a 1 inch clime up from my steam yard by lovely to see it hauling a six coach rake
Ahh really?? That's interesting - thanks for letting me know! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Watching this back to back with the GT3 review (I just ordered both and wanted to get some stats), they both have the same pulling power despite the 4P being almost half of the Gt3's weight. That's incredible!
I saw the title (haven't watched the video yet), this is one my favourite locomotives. I made a new chassis for some of my old locomotives / CNC job. Just lacks a painted cab and sprung buffers. The only locomotive I like more is the 4-4-0 Compound 1000.
I know they are not up to modern standards when you look at them up close, but they're still amazing to look at.
I hope they come out well in the review.
Great to hear that Adam - it's one of mine too - just fantastic! Not bad for the money! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
I’ve got the BR version a bit older i got it second hand for £65 and is the best runner I have it’s so quiet and smooth and can pull considerably a lot of coaches. Very impressive.
Ahh great to hear that - yeah they're fantastic runners! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
There are many variants of the LMS Fowler 4P 2-6-4T (Hornby produced both versions with and without steam pipes outside the smokebox) in which some members had two cab windows like the later Stanier designed locomotives.
H.G. Ivatt was inspired by this design for the NCC WT Class 2-6-4T in which No. 4 is a sole-survivor.
Yes you're right - I've seen tonnes of different versions too - very impressive!! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Quiz
80152 was the last standard 4 tank to be withdrawn. True or false.
Not sure about that one Luke!
Answer
True
Its only 89£ now a new one (and if the picture is correct it still has no NEM socket)! I have one too, but the reason I picked the maroon one, is do to this the only version with (or still has) all wheel brakes! Dough I only have 4 L.M.S. locos total (including the Pug) , without particular rolling-stock...
Yes you're right - not bad for the price at all! Very interesting - I didn't know this!
I have a black 5P by Wrenn with 5 pole motor. I do like the diecast....well....everything on the Wrenns.
Happy Easter Sam.
Very nice - the 5 pole motor sounds great!! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
That's a lovely thing sam, old is good I have many older stuff on my layout which gives me great joy, it's new stuff that breaks my heart, great review stay safe and keep up the good work 😊
Thanks a lot Ciaran - I agree!! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
The Hogwarts Express is the odd locomotive out.
Cheers
STEIVE
Very well spotted Steive! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Until I saw the Hall, I thought the LMS red BR 2-6-4T was going to be a very crafty odd-one-out!
That’s a really but really cool engine!! It’s so detailed and it’s so nice seeing it run on the track his wheels everything and the shape is so cool!
Thanks very much mate - really glad you like it!! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
One of my first Hornby superdetail steam locos. Must have been back in around 2004/5. Such a lovely loco. Remember the store I bought it from, unfortunately the owner died and the store is closed. £55 it cost me and it looks the same as the one in the video.
Ahh fantastic - yes that's when they really started upping the detail! Blimey, great price there!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
The performance is just spectacularly good looking
I know Rory - so impressive!! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
I’ve got the old one and it has a ringfield motor in it… the cab floor is even higher as a result.
The Fowler 4P is the basis of Arthur from the 7th Season of Thomas and Friends.
It looks like him, but he was an Ivatt I believe!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Sam, I am afraid that Speedy Pete's record may have been beat. At my train club, my brother's BLI H10 pulled 45 American freight cars up a grade, with no wheelslip. Pretty impressive for a 2-8-0. Maybe you should look at one.
haha really?! Wow that's awesome!! :D
Great video sam can not wait to see more videos like this. An absolute amazing loco. I really enjoyed hearing the history of the class. Enjoy your new locomotives. It's an amazing locomotive it has nice detail on and it runs very smooth. Take care
Thanks very much Luke, really glad you enjoyed this one mate - thank you! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Hi Sam, great to see an 8 coach LMS maroon rake too. Lovely. Reminded me of the 5 coach Hornby rake I used to run years ago.
Which reminds me of the old Hornby buffer height issue. How about you consider an article on this for us? This is where most of the 1980s stuff, and I think even the railroad now, set the buffer height at 2mm higher than scale.
As I recall they did this to allow for the corseness of wheels and gear back then, but I think some of it still persists. Your LMS coaches look like mine did, which I'm fairly sure are too high.
Would be great when you're doing Hornby reviews if you can mention whether the buffer height of the model is set correctly, or too high.
Cheers, you have a great style, would not be surprised to see you on mainstream TV one day.
Thanks very much mate - I do love running those larger rakes! That's a very good idea - I'll certainly look into this!
Cheers,
Sam :)
My Favourite OO loco, i was bought one for christmas in the late 90s early 00s still runs great to this day. Although i now model N gauge so doesn't run often
Thanks Fluffy, that's great to hear - they are amazing runners! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Great review Sam it looks very nice
I have an older version of one of these but it needs to have a complete chassis replacement because it has lost the linkage and doesn’t have a motor in it but hopefully it will work soon when I can get a chassis
Thanks a lot David - ahh sorry to hear that - there are plenty around luckily!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
I've often found British locos a bit oddly proportioned, given that I come from the land of Big Boy, but I really find this locomotive beautiful. The livery is beautiful, and the wheel config is pretty cool looking with the frame and body.
haha I suppose some of them do look that way compared with US locos!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Beautiful model Sam! I contacted the LMS patriot group and they said it’s still anticipated to build a replica once the Patriot is complete!
Thanks Ryno - that's very good news!! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
This doesn't look old to me. It seems reasonable for the age considering it's supposed to be super detailed. I like the modern features of this locomotive such as the sprung buffers, the livery application, and the mechanism. The things we would expect on newly released locomotives are hidden axles on the wheels, separately fitted parts on the body, a die-cast bodywork, and a better detailed interior. This doesn't look too bad as far! :)
Yeah absolutely - they definitely put a lot of work into modernising this one!!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Very good I have many older triangle hornby locomotives and newer ones; excellent presentation.
10:04 Not to mention the hook is just left red and is part of the molding.
Very true! I failed to mention that one!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Another locomotive that has a backwards wheel configuration is on the Canadian National 6060 which has the backwards wheel configuration on the Berkshire. The Berkshire is a 2-8-4 tender locomotive while the Canadian National 6060 has the same amount of wheels, although the wheel configuration is backwards on the loco itself. :P
Ahh yeah you're right - I remember that one!! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
I've just spotted this video and thought "hmmmm, I really am lacking in the tank engine dept". Before the end of watching this video I've ended up buying a DCC Ready 1947 BR black livery version! Thanks for reviewing! :)
Ooh that is exciting - hope you really enjoy it mate! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
mine has twisted / bent center drive axle , i cant fix this because the axle is straight in the chassis, but the wheels are bent in different directions so i cant clamp them straight
Hey Sam. Love ur videos. Especially all ur steam locomotives and Thomas vids. I just realize that this locomotive reminds me of Author from Thomas and friends. But keep up the get work Sam. See u down the line buddy.
Thanks very much mate - yeah it does look a lot like Arthur! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
The Fowler does originally date from 1980, but the model was completely revamped and may actually be a complete new model about 10 years ago . I have the original one , still nice to look at but mine has much more robust running gear . Yours is much finer .
Yes you're right Russell - it was revamped, but the basis remains from the original tooling! You're right - the finer gear is more prone to failure - I've seen it before myself!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
The first time I open your channel, I notice that this Hornby 4P does not struggle around that sharp radius near the station.
Yeah exactly - they're very nicely designed!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Beautiful looking Tank engine! I always liked the Fowler 4P, mainly because of thier looks.
Cheers Kris - me too, so lovely! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Good stuff, I should look into this I did not know they re-did it. Got one for my birthday in the 90s so not sure what version that was but I did love the lms red. Shame I can't get it to run smoothly now. Great review, was nice to see one of these.
Thanks mate - yes it'd be nice if they redid the maroon one! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Hi sam just to let you know it was a common thing in LMS locomotives to have unpainted axle ends for example the lms jubilee class is just one of the examples that has the unpainted axel so that feature on model is actually correct
You're right Callum - but not with the 4P (as far as I know), and on more recent models, I'm told Hornby has corrected this!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
More specifically, the real 4P's worked the former LTS (London, Tilbury & Southend) line, between Fenchurch Street and Shoeburyness (arguably the LMS's easternmost outpost).
Duly noted Eddy, thanks for this! :D
Cheers,
Sam :)
Another great vid!
I think that Hornby changed their designs after doing similar tests to the ones you did here and decided that the loco wasn't prototypical enough. The original would never have been able to pull 32 coaches. That must have been very embarrassing for them!
Thanks very much mate - yes you might be right - the improvements were excellent! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
2300 . I was 10 years old when my mum and dad bought me that beautiful crimson lake L M S LADY. Happy days. Another quality video Sam.👍👍⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐🚅
Those definitely must have been the days!!
Merry Christmas - Sam :)
Excellent model, Sam! Very good video!
Thank you Piggy! :D
Hey Sam another great review please keep making more of these as I keep enjoying these
By the way Sam why does the train need a bug box for a little engine?
Thanks very much Peter, I'll do my best! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
A great locomotive Sam. In the US market that would be priced at $173.11 which is above average for a steam locomotive. That also looks like Arthur from Tomas in Friends. He was introduced in "The Spotless Record" aired in 2003 in the seventh season.
Thanks mate - yes it is quite expensive at RRP, but very good quality! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
I've always wanted a loco like this. I don't have many British tank engines. I only have a jinty and a v3. This look amazing
Yeah they are fantastic - I can recommend it if you find one! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
It looks like Arthur from Thomas and friends. But I think he was a different class
No he was this engine
@@johnsonsworkshop456 No Arthur is an Ivatt not a Fowler though they both look similar.
Oh, thanks :)
@@johnsonsworkshop456 your welcome
Arthur was an Ivatt, thanks for that Max! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
i have the 90's version of this model and even despite the age its a brilliant model and really reliable
Great to hear that Daniel - they are great runners aren't they?? :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Fine details are not something of the latest years, what some people tend to believe. I have two 35 years old Marklin steamers with details that can compete with todays models. Also in overall performance. I digitalized them and there is no difference with a new one of today.
The big difference is CNC machining and probably 3D printing. This make it easier and cheaper to mass produce fine detailled models. And often also affordable as you have to place this ad-on details yourself. Back in the day, the 2 old Marklins i have were exclusive and expensive models for the collectors market. Now this models has become the standard. You see this with all the big brands.
Yeah you're right actually - I've seen a few older models with impressive detailing! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
If you had to choose between a loco having a good mechanism but poor detail or having good detail but poor mechanism which would you choose?
Good mechanism every time! But with the price of modern models, I'd want both ;)
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Great little engines. I paid £18.99 for mine LOL( boxed unused still). In the past when I did run one, great pulling power but mine ran better backwards. Going forward, the 2 wheel pony truck had a habit of derailing. Another great review.
Blimey really?! That's amazing!! :O
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
@@SamsTrains It was about 35 years ago LOL
Wow that's quite some swing at the back of the loco on those corners! 0:15
haha yes indeed!!
Mine is a choppy runner. Guess I have to pull it apart. If you did a servicing video on it that would be a tremendous help.
Ahh sorry to hear that mate - I could definitely look into doing that! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
23:14 The odd one out is some GWR locomotive in a fictional maroon colored livery. I don't see LMS on the tender at all.
Very well spotted mate - absolutely!! :D
Hey Sam great vid. You can’t beat a 5 poll motor Great job
Thanks Steward, you certainly can't!!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Watching this review makes me think the 4p must of had a retool. Probably similar to the one for the A1s right now, although rather then a new running board it is added details and a remould of the roof for the hatch.
You frequently mention wheel-slip as though it should never happen but, as I understand it, wheel-slip was common in steam locomotives. Recently I was watching Breakheart Pass in which the star was, arguably, the steam locomotive (and train, in general) and it frequently experienced wheel-slip. I have see it in other steam locomotives as well.
Oh yes you're absolutely right - I only mention it because it demonstrates the first sign of weakness in a loco's pulling capabilities!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
I find it impressive that this old 2003 locomotive manages to beat your Bachmann Class 45 although I'm not sure how old your Class 45 is.
The 45 is a similar age actually!!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
I am rather curious Sam,how often do you clean your track?,considering just how often you run trains,im rather curious as to how fast it begins to retain the black gunk you seem to pull from the wheels when cleaning them,also,what you use particularly to clean your track in place?
I clean the track abrasively every month with a track rubber. I vacuum it twice a week, which gets rid of any fluff! Doing it this way, I never see any black buildups!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
looking at the photo you have the coal bunker is not high enough sort of goes to a upside down v - ivatt or some thing its called
Ahh interesting - thanks for this mate! :D
Wow, such an old loco that actually kinda deserves the super detail sticker... impressive!
haha I agree, they did a great job on these! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
What kind of car would it take to get or what kind of car can you watch Together
It might be worth considering some Airfix/GMR coaches to go behind it as they're pretty good and pretty cheap on Ebay. You could easily make a 6or 7 coach rake for about £50-75
Yeah absolutely - those would look nice! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Hi Sam. Indeed a fine loco. My top Hornby's are K1 - J 15. Similar smooth & quiet runners. My 3 Maunsell's start to have motor problems. One is dead now. I will need to replace them. Bad luck... Greetings
Ahh yeah the J15 is amazing - huge fan of that one! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Wow. I'm watching this at 3AM here in Australia, and as soon as you said the pulling power I knew I wasn't going to sleep for at least another hour xD
haha!! xD
I have a question can a Hornby train go on a bachmann track
Yes they can!! :D
Sam'sTrains no way really
Sam'sTrains that’s great thank you
Sam I found this locomotive for 35£ in hattons. (Hornby
Class A1 4-6-2 'Flying Scotsman' 4472 in LNER Green - Pre-owned - some marks to paintwork - noisy runner - replacement box) It's that ok?
Oh wow that's not bad at all if it's the modern one - it's about right for the 1980s release, it sounds like it is an older one!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
@@SamsTrains What happen if it is the old one?
@@SamsTrains can You see it on hattons to see the model please?
@@SamsTrains Sam can You see one Hattons if the model is ok? What happen if it is the old one?
Hi Sam. Another Hornby triumph (notwithstanding it may not be the most recent of models). Great livery/paint job. For a moment I thought you may have forgotten one of your favourite bugbears - unfinished axle ends. Have you ever painted over axle ends (making sure not to apply too much paint to stop the wheels turning)?
Yes indeed Paul - even for the age, it's very impressive! Yes the axle ends are a shame, but at least the price is reasonable!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Wow, it's astonishing what they can do to revitalise an old tooling with a little bit of thought! I don't really need one but my Patriot is looking rather lonely 🤔😅 Another great video Sam!
I know - I was amazed to find this too - I'd never compared them before!! Ooh sounds like a good excuse!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
I managed to get hold of some trains during my days in south africa so I've been working on a layout. The locos and track are from 1980's lima so it is rough to get them going... better than nothing I guess🤣
That sounds awesome - good luck with them!! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Kernow was selling them new for £67 recently. However, that was for the black BR version which isn't as popular as the maroon
Oh wow really?! Even so, it's a smart livery! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Im thinking of doing a small wall mounted switching line from end to emd of the room i think im getting closer tomhave a running area
That sounds fantastic Luca - good luck! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Hi Sam - having watched your review I bought the DCC ready version in black, brand new, which looks identical, but it's R3404.
It wouldn't run on my DCC layout so I've installed a new decoder and it's both the best and worst runner I've got - I don't understand it.
The best because the slow speed and smoothness is excellent, but the worst because it stops all the time - it hates points, and lots of different parts of the track, on which everything else runs no problem.
OK there's no tender for extra pickups so it's essentially an 0 6 0 in that sense, but it's just impossible to get it running reliably - why?
Yes I've seen that before too mate - you need to remove the base of the loco, clean the pickups, and gently bend them so that they make better contact with the wheels. If the pickups aren't hard-wired, folding small pieces of metal foil, and placing them between the pickup and contact on the base will improve the connection - good luck!!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
I've really enjoyed this one Sam, I've tried two of these locos over the years, as I remember the full size versions as regulars on the Central Wales Line between Swansea and Shrewsbury. However, the older models were bad runners and extremely noisy, unlike the excellent models you've reviewed here. The other point of interest was when you say they could be purchased for around £19 in the 1980's which is the equivalent of £100 today, something I still struggle with at my age....Thanks as always...Bob
Thanks a lot Bob - yes I've seen some bad runners too of the older kind, but mine is okay as you can see! I know - it's crazy isn't it?!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
what a good old model from 2003!
its even better than the heljan 1361.
it shows how old stuff is better than the new models .sometimes
good review !
I know!! It genuinely is!! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Even in a pandemic Sam trundles on with amazing reviews
haha thanks so much mate!! :D
Such a beautiful class of tank locomotive. It’s a shame none of theme are left. I mean, we do have a similar loco, the BR Standard class 4MT, but it would be nice to see an LMS Fowler 4P locomotive get rebuilt.
Thanks Tomas, I agree with you - a great shame :(
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Whats oltan hall doing over there
Great improvement on the 80's model. My old model was a wimp and only coped with 4 coaches. I still prefer the Stanier Class 4.
Sorry to hear that Geoff - I wonder if they're any lighter? Do the middle driving wheels touch the track on that version? Yes the Stanier is much more detailed!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Excellent review of the Fowler 2-6-4 tank Sam 👍👍
I have got one in it 1980s box and it is very nosey, but I am thinking of getting the new ones in a train pack some time during this month.
I would like to see a new build Fowler 2-6-4 tanks as they are the grandfather of the BR Standard Class 4MTs and as there is a Stanier & Fairborn 2-6-4 tanks been preserved, it would be nice to see the complete family tree of the 2-6-4 locomotive.
Thanks very much Joe - yes the 80s ones are noisy, but still great runners! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
I don't have any LMS engines but if I were to get one this one would be on the top of my list.
Fantastic Max - glad to hear that! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)