KMS Railtech scopes interest for Class 73/9 in 'OO'

KMS Railtech is encouraging expressions of interest in a proposed OO gauge model of the Class 73/9. The Scottish model retailer has created a form for interested parties to complete and has said that if demand is met, it will open up the project for pre-orders, with delivery of models expected 18 months later.  

The retailer is looking to initially provide two running numbers of in Caledonian Sleeper, GBRf and Network Rail liveries and is proposing the following specification: 

• Highly-detailed OO/1:76.2 scale model
• Heavy die-cast metal chassis
• Separately applied etched metal and high-fidelity plastic detail parts, including grab handles, aerials, steps, wipers, nameplates, crests and more
• Scale width wire handrails
• Full underbody tank detail with brackets and pipework
• Bogies feature separate footsteps, brake cylinders, speed recorder, end brake rigging and very fine brake chain
• Brake blocks on trucks (bogies) in line with wheels (can be moved for EM/P4 gauges)
• RP25-110 profile OO gauge wheels
• Fully sprung metal buffers, extra-fine factory-installed pipework and screw couplings
• Correct height mini-tension-lock couplers with NEM socket as well as a fully detailed bufferbeam
• Provided DCC ready [21Pin MTC Socket]
• Every model includes PowerPack / Backup Power Capacitor Bank for up to ten seconds of power free running, flicker free lighting and continuous sound
• Minimum Radius 438mm (2nd Radius Set-track)

DCC sound versions would include an ESU LokSound V5 DCC Chip, customised dual-speaker technology with large EM2 style bass speaker and smaller ‘smartphone’ style cubes for higher frequencies.

KMS Railtech is promising that models would be fitted with a high-quality five-pole motor with two flywheels and helical gears for maximum performance and slow-speed running. Models are to be manufactured DCC-ready with a super-capacitor for uninterrupted power and low-speed running. All-wheel drive and all-wheel pickup is a proposed standard feature.

Directional lighting on DC and DCC with functional headlights as per the prototype, WIPAC light clusters with day and night-time settings will feature, with switchable red tail lights. Separately-switched cab lighting and illuminated details driver’s console, automatically turning off on movement are also promised.

Accurascale's Director of Product Development and Commissions, Patrick Conboy, said: "We are delighted to be working alongside KMS Railtech to produce the Class 73/9 in OO gauge. KMS is a young company with tremendous drive and ambition, and that is reflected in its decision to commission a high-spec model of these fantastic locomotives. The Class 73/9 dovetails nicely with our forthcoming Caledonian Sleeper Mk. 5 coaches, and together they will provide modellers with the means to recreate some of the most iconic present-day passenger services on Britain's railway network."

For more details, current pricing, or to express an interest in the new model, see its expression of interest form.

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