'Buckjumper' engineering prototypes revealed

The first tooling samples of Accurascale's forthcoming LNER J67, J68 and J69 'Buckjumper' Class 0-6-0Ts have arrived with the manufacturer. Imagery shared shows a selection of the variants possible from its tooling suite.

The delivery date of Q2 2O24 for the finished models is still on course, with decorated samples due this winter (2023/2024). Prices for models are £139.99 DC/DCC ready and £239.99 DCC sound-fitted with a powerbank set of 'stay-alive' capacitors.

Watch again: Accurascale to make GER J67-J69 'Buckjumpers'

Accurascale commented, "These first prototype samples are hastily assembled and will receive further refinement through the production process before the finished models arrive. This includes fit and finish, such as the cab beading area, the fit of the cab sheets and indeed the removable magnetic roof.

"Fit of the chimney will also require further fettling, as does the fit of the brake rigging. The G75 has some errant additions that need removing, as well as fitting the tool box to the left hand side tank top. Also, the fine tuning of the bunker coal load is required. However, these are normal challenges at this stage of the development process, and especially so with steam locomotives which feature multiple versions of cab, bunker and tank combinations. Of course, there is much to celebrate, such as the overall look and feel of the locomotives.

"These really capture the distinctive nature of these characterful tank engines. Performance is excellent too, with superb pulling power for a locomotive of this size thanks to diecast materials used in construction and smooth power delivery also evident."

Visit the Accurascale website or see your local Accurascale stockist for more information.

Watch again: Accurascale to make GER J67-J69 'Buckjumpers'

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