Class 14 Teddy Bear Frequently Asked Questions

Does the kit come as one package?

Yes, you get all the parts to build the loco in one lot.

Are the wheels quartered?

Yes, we set the wheels and quarter them before packing the kit.

Does the loco have springing?

Yes, the six phosphor bronze axle boxes are independently sprung with steel coil springs.

How is the drive train set up?

The 750watt 24v DC motor is mounted longitudinally under the short bonnet. The drive is transmitted via a toothed belt to the drive shaft located between the frames. Drive is then turned through 90 degrees via a spur gear to the jackshaft on both sides of the loco.

The drive is then distributed to all axles via the connecting rods.

Will I need engineering skills to build the loco?

No, we engineer the kit prior to packing; you will need modelling skills to finish the body-shell. The mechanical side of things are supplied on a bolt together basis. You also get a comprehensive illustrated build manual and technical advice and back up is only a phone call away.

How can you be sure the kit will all "just bolt together"?

There are several examples of the class 14 kits, which have been built and are running. We have talked to owners and consulted the designer to check that the kit is fully developed. We also build our own kits from a stock kit to check the build operation and photograph the process for the build manual.

What wheel standards do you use?

Back to back 119.06mm or 4 11/16" as per GL5 standards.

Where do I get the paint?

We give you the colour references to use automotive finishes.

You can buy these from a specialist spray paint outlet or across the counter at Halfords.

You can also give the reference to a professional spray shop and they will mix on site and complete the job for you.

Alternatively you can source paint from specialist railway livery supply companies.

Does the interior detailing come with the kit?

Yes there is a control cabinet, driving desk and a pair of seats and all the controls you would expect to see in a full size loco.

We even include the interior door handles!

How do I order a kit?

You can download an order form or complete it on-line or just call, write or email.

How much is the deposit and when do I pay the balance?

Deposit is 50% of the total price and the balance is due on collection or just prior to despatch.

How do I pay?

We accept most forms of payment cash, cheque, credit or debit card or bank transfer.

How do you drive the loco?

We supply a remote handset that incorporates all the controls and is connected to the loco by a plug-in cable.

Why don’t you put the batteries in the Loco?

They don’t fit!

This was a major consideration at the design stage.

We wanted a true scale model. Not one that was compromised to accommodate batteries. The cab detailing would not be possible if we did manage to squeeze batteries into the loco. We also considered that the type and size of battery that we could then fit would be unsuitable for any kind of realistic performance.

The same socket is used for battery charging.

Where do the batteries go?

We can supply a riding truck designed to carry the batteries.

How heavy is the loco?

Just under 40 Kilograms or 88lbs.

This makes it heavy enough to require two persons to lift the loco securely and safely.