A Good Heljan Steam Loco? | Beyer Garratt | Unboxing & Review

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My review of the largest steam locomotive I've ever owned, the Heljan LMS Beyer Garratt.
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[@PatGilliland]

I'd like to see the garret pulling the railway gun.

[@SamsTrains]

haha that'd be awesome!! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@adamchmielewski6162]

Sam'sTrains is like to see the Garratt multi track drift Sam, Sam Sam please

[@rottenroads1982]

@@SamsTrains, If you were to make a face out of Paper for the LMS Garratt and use tape to stick it on, where would you put its face? On the front water tank at the front of the locomotive? On the smoke box? It would be funny if you made faces for all of your model trains. Anyways, when will you get the Heljan BR class 28? When will you start a OO9 scale Railway to go with the OO scale Railway you have already? What will be your plans for 2022?

[@DavidScholz-bu1ix]

This certainly would basically also apparently sound a tad awkward to ya @ first for sure, but nonetheless this official locomotive certainly happens to basically have been officially well-knowingly obviously featured in the officially well-known episode of Thomas and the rail tours titled Garratt and the Coaches featuring Annie & Clarabel where the official garratt locomotive pretended that the coaches were freight cars in order to prevent bumpin' 'em like peas in a frying pan SINCE he certainly DOESN'T actually have any trouble whatsoever when pulling goods trains!

[@DavidScholz-bu1ix]

You know, Garratts certainly happen to basically have the officially well-known advantage of working wonderfully great in either direction as mentioned in my own official DVD that's basically titled The Best of World Steam with narration by Peter Fairhead himself!

[@tmdrm9817]

The garret is a tender engine, except it doesn't carry water in its back tender instead its front tender. Garrets are a common sight in South Africa we actually have narrow gauge garrets like that on on the welsh highland railway. It an Ex SAR NGG 16 (Narrow Gauge Garret.) Also the reason for it floating in mid air and it being in 3 parts is so it can go around tight curves and to climb mountains (at least that is why Garrets were produced for branchline work in South Africa.) Hope this is informative.

[@tmdrm9817]

@@Wasatch4014 yes you are correct, most garratts had water tanks at the back, the LMS ones didn't hae as far as I know as they had their mechanical stoker. The SAR GMAM garratts didn't have alot of water in its back tank nor its front tank that's why they are often seen with axillary water tanks.

[@Nova_Blaze]

Sam: "Heljan will never make even a halfway decent loco, much less a good one" Heljan: "Hold my beer"

[@SamsTrains]

haha!! ;D

[@arvidpeters9680]

Chance it to Apple juice this is a Christain minecraft server drinking is sinning

[@bjoe385]

If Heljan made an exact replica of my favourite loco (31289), I’d risk it.

[@robertwilloughby8050]

@@bjoe385 45 138 is mine. Saw it storming out of my home town whilst I was on a nature study trip with school, and yes, I'd risk it with a Heljan too. (That's the Peak, not the Royal Scot - I'm not that old!)

[@bjoe385]

Robert Willoughby gotta love a peak, I saw 31289 start up the Northampton & Lamport Railway. I was standing about 6 feet away at track level and I was drowned by noise and clag. I smelled faintly of diesel for the rest of the day and I don’t think my lungs appreciated. Worth it though.

[@tracksidefilms5416]

I see your inner Ramsay's coming out!

[@SamsTrains]

Starting to ;) Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@vanderlindeplays7499]

WHERES THE TRAIN SAUCE

[@marcleslac2413]

WHERES THE ENGINE SAUCE!

[@slickmanfonzthatanti-troll]

Crashing in the station joke always gets me😂

[@justinhicks4897]

Sam'sTrains do you still have your Garrett was it worth it?

[@paulcharlton4788]

They have so much float on the middle wheel to let it go around tight radius curves. Years ago they achieved the same thing by not having a flange on the middle wheel. I think my ancient 08 shunter is like that.

[@SamsTrains]

The issue is that I have locos with similar 2-6-0 wheelsets that manage incredibly tight curves with nowhere near that amount of float. It's the articulation that allows the three pieces to negotiate curves - so I'm fairly sure the play isn't necessary! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@ZecRail]

It seems like a lot of movement, but articulation of the rigid wheelbases will be needed to allow it to navigate below the specified minimum radius (ie make it take a 16in curve, so that it's trouble free over 17.25inch radius curves). So each engine unit's wheels need to allow sideplay (articulation) to navigate curves, as well as the articulation of the whole loco. I have a number of similar rigid wheelbase 6 coupled locos (mainly 4-6-0s, and a few 4-6-2s; all HO scale mind) that won't go around sharper than 20inch radius because there's no sideplay in the center axle. I recently spent a heap of time increasing sideplay on a 2-8-2 kit build to get it around 24inch radius curves (without mods, they limit to about 26-27inch radius). Seeing this garratt be able to get around 17.25 inch curves is pretty impressive IMO.

[@generemaly3449]

Sam'sTrai

[@John-Tropi]

@@SamsTrains I think you will find that that your 2-6-0 sets will have the axles and wheel pairs spaced much closer to each other than this. This has about the widest spacing of driving axles I have ever seen and THAT is the reason why greater float is absolutely necessary on the centre axles. In any case, since that float in no way appears to affect either the look or the performance of the locomotive, I really do think you should consider withdrawing that particular criticism. It's simply not justified.

[@jpsholland]

@@John-Tropi I tested out a few things. The outcome was that Roco, Piko and Marklin has very little sideways play when they are on the tracks. The flanges are very close to the tracks. A few old Lima and Jouef models i had, did have way more sideways play when they are on the tracks, their flanges are further away from the tracks. So i might be that Sam's 2-6-0's has more flange to track space and the driving axels are closer to each other.

[@paulatthehug]

Wow, Beyer Garrett! I've been fascinated by this class ever since I saw them in the Observer's Book of Steam Loco which my father, and avid LMS train spotter, passed on to me, and although none of these survived into preservation I was lucky enough to see a 4-8-8-4 version at the Delhi Railway Museum many years ago. It's good to see that they're now available as a model.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks a lot Paul - they certainly are fascinating aren't they?! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@AnubhabKundu]

One of them a BNR N class with number 811 has been restored to working order by Kharagpur workshop, India. I would love to see it steam up.

[@spitfirebird]

The photographic grey on this loco looks spectacular, one of my favorite steam liveries up there with caledonian railways blue, warship gray and lner green.

[@plagued_inferno6059]

Reminds me slightly of a "Shay Class C" in the sense of strange wheel positioning.

[@johnkuzma7066]

But it is symmetrical!

[@SamsTrains]

ahh interesting - I'll give those a look! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@RatelHBadger]

Shays are fascinating

[@JDsHouseofHobbies]

@@RatelHBadger Yes, Shays, Climaxes and Heislers are all very cool to watch.

[@mayoroicjre]

Garretts are one of the most interesting locomotives I've ever seen, just cause how strange it is. The fact that it's become a model intrigues me with questions on how it'll work. And you just answered most of my questions so thanks Sam.

[@SamsTrains]

Yeah I'd agree with that - they're fascinating!! Glad to hear the video answered your questions! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@stuartpegler7410]

I now have the LMS black version. It is astonishing! The running is as Sam says, superb and completely noiseless. Two very important points: (1) both chassis appear to be compensated (two of the axles pivot about a midway point between them). I don't quite know how this is done, but congratulations Heljan, I think this a r-to-r first! The quality of the running on good track is just amazing. (2) the couplings and their boxes foul the buffer beam when track height varies slightly - this puts lots of weight on the pony wheel and takes it off the leading drivers, causing derailments; I am trying to see whether I can take some material off these, to allow the pony truck some upward movement. I may report back.

[@SamsTrains]

Ooh very glad to hear you like it - they are very good and quiet!! :D Happy New Year - Sam :)

[@tommasoracca6251]

I have been waiting this video for years. I don't belive it!!! Really really good job, keep it up!

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks so much mate, really glad you enjoyed it! :D Cheers, Sam :)

[@FerroequinologistofColorado]

Been waiting for this video for a long time! Another fantastic video. Great review Sam’s Trains!

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks very much mate, really glad you liked it! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@samuelsmith6281]

It's a revolving coal bunker on the rear power unit behind the cab. It was part of a steam powered stoker to assist the firemen on these engines to keep that monsterous boiler fed. Apparently these engines were quite coal hungary and so these revolving bunkers were added to the early machines while the later members of the class had them fitted when built.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks for the info Samuel, duly noted! You can definitely imagine these being very coal hungry! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@smithec1]

Only just seen this review. I acquired mine from the first batch that arrived in the UK in 2014. It has always run faultlessly and I had it hauling 120 4-wheel wagons on level track with second radius curves. The brake van at the end of the train came within 4ft of the locomotive. I love it to bits. As for the price - well, don't forget you are actually getting TWO locomotives, not just one!

[@jonnyinjkt]

Loving your channel Sam - I am looking to get back into model trains after several decades away and this is an amazing source of info and has removed any doubts as to whether I should resume this fantastic hobby. I am making my way through your previous videos and will be watching new uploads closely for the next few months before i make the plunge and start buying and building my new collection. Can't wait to get started. Many thanks!

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks a lot Jonny - that's fantastic to hear, many thanks for your kind words! Enjoy! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@Lamp_2155]

Yes!!! I’ve been waiting for this

[@SamsTrains]

haha enjoy!! :D

[@CaptainScruff83]

Wow! Lovely to see one of these in grey top coat glad to know they're in production. Have to agree the price is very cheeky regarding the build quality, shocked they just left the joint line along the bottom of the boiler barrel. But least it runs and can pull a realistic load. Keep up the good work Sam.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks a lot mate - yes the price was a bit over the top really - just glad it works ;) Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@GaryNumeroUno]

Hi Sam, to answer your queries, the coal bunker had an automatic feed system hence its length and associated three hopper doors. The fireman had a relatively easy time of it from what I believe. There is indeed a water tank under the coal bunker as well good buddy however, it did not possess as much capacity as the dedicated water tender. The combined weight of the smaller water tank plus the coal supply should have matched the weight of the pure water tank on the other end; And yes, as the water was used in a journey tractive effort would diminish a small amount... but it would not have been too noticeable and good driving would be able to compensate for it. Cheers.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks very much for the info Gary, duly noted! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@6allmotivepowers363]

Nice review Sam! Man, that's an impressive model - from Heljan too! Glad they were able to deliver this time, and excellent choice on your part!

[@6allmotivepowers363]

Also, if you ever review the Union Pacific Big Boy , if you think this Garratt is huge, chances are you'll have to review the mighty Big Boy WITHOUT its tender!!

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks very much mate - glad you enjoyed this one! haha yeah I'd love to try that! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@kiwitrainguy]

Several manufaturers make, or have made, models of the UP Big Boy: Märklin/Trix, MTH, Broadway Limited Imports, Athern, Rivarossi so there's quite a few (too many!) to choose from. I've got a Trix Big Boy myself.

[@davidarnold2173]

Hi Sam! I remember as a child seeing real Garretts under steam near Sydney Airport, they were fascinating creatures then & they’re still amazing to behold now, your model is a corker! Hope to see it in a running session soon _Dave 👍😍😍👍

[@SamsTrains]

Very cool David - you're lucky to have seen a real one run - I'd certainly love to! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@rucarnuts13]

What a behemoth! Gorgeous model, I love a good articulated garratt. I think derailing is normal on articulated locomotives of this size. My Southern Pacific Cab Forward and my N&W Y6B both derail on 18” radius curves every so often, especially if it’s a chicane. I think the fact that it’s so long and effectively turning two different ways in that scenario, is what causes it. Lots of force on those engine units in that case. Now you’ve got to try a Big Boy! Do the biggest of the big steam locomotives! It’d be really interesting to see you react to the sheer size of a Big Boy!

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks a lot mate - haha you might be right about the derailing then! Yes I'd love to try a big boy! :O Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@rucarnuts13]

Sam'sTrains - If you want a great good Big Boy model, may I recommend the Athearn Genesis Big Boy? It’s the best production model currently on the market! It’s costly, but the staggering level of detail is truly unmatched by any other Big Boy model on the market. Cheers!

[@richardjellis9186]

You're correct about the loss of traction when the water got lower.

[@MrKenichi22]

@33:30 That’s awesome, Glad you found a great Heljan Steam Locomotive.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks a lot mate - I'm pretty glad too! :O Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@MrKenichi22]

Sam'sTrains Awesome, that’s a good thing.

[@Louisianacentral8]

I was waiting for this to be reviewed by you Love your vids:)

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks Grant, that's very kind of you! :D Cheers, Sam :)

[@lukeslocomotives]

Me: sees title "a good Heljan steam loco" Me: bursts out laughing Me: comes back an hour later after stopping laughing Me: watches this to the end Me: nearly faints Edit: I never thought i would get so many likes thanks guys

[@SamsTrains]

haha I know - it did seem like I was trolling didn't it?? ;D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@daplug2076]

Luke Hill you literally have 39 likes chill

[@jackhromadka6842]

I just love the Garratt. Such a powerful locomotive.

[@SamsTrains]

Yeah me too - they're very impressive! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@LouisvilleNashville2132]

*_4014 Wants To Know Your Location._*

[@colinmutter903]

I can remember when I was child in the late 40s early 50s seeing a LNER Beyer Garrett 2-8-0+0-8-2 locomotive at Gateshead.Only one was built,and was a Gresley design.It was used for banking coal trains in South Yorkshire.Tractive effort over 72,000 lbs.A large locomotive.

[@SamsTrains]

Oh very nice - I bet the Gresley one was more successful than these!! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@technoandrew]

Very entertaining review, thanks for sharing with us!

[@SamsTrains]

It's a pleasure mate, glad you liked it! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@lukeslocomotives]

"Published on 1 Feb 2020" *Me here on 1 Feb 2021*

[@SamsTrains]

haha thanks for stopping by Luke! ;D Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@DalekBuilder]

Nice looking loco & really good review. As noted in your review with a little extra that could have been so much more especially at the locos price point. If heljan has improved so much from the last loco by them you reviewed it does look like they are heading in the right direction.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks a lot Paul - yes a bit better design would have gone a long way on the mechanism and underframe! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@thetelephoneprankster4254]

Excellent camera work, very professionally done. I enjoyed the history

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks so much - really glad you enjoyed it! :D Cheers, Sam :)

[@beyergarret123]

My dad was a fireman on the LMS Garratt's during the 40s, based at Wellingborough taking coal wagons (usually around 80/90 loaded) from the midlands coalfields down to Brent sidings,north London, he liked them but said you knew you had done a days work keeping that firebox fed! I have a black one (Heljan) on my mantlepiece as a small memory of him.

[@SamsTrains]

Oh very interesting mate - I'm not surprised to hear that, incredible machines!! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@theretrocrowe]

Just ordered one myself for £212! I chose 266219, which is Lightly Weathered Early BR Black with a Revolving Coal Bunker. I'm excited to see it, the weathering looks fantastic and I would love to see the working lamp!

[@SamsTrains]

Ooh sounds fantastic - hope you really enjoy it! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@max_archer]

I'd assume that side to side play on the center axles is intentional, to help it stay on the rails around tight curves. I know similar things were done on real locomotives. If so it'd be a decent explanation for why they don't have pickups. I do wonder if it's part of why the loco slows down so much on curves, though, maybe the coupling rods are binding a bit as they're deflected by the moving axle and some more running in or a bit of oil would help. Also, it'd be pretty cool to see this thing pull that massive artillery piece you reviewed a while back.

[@SamsTrains]

You'd think so, but the 2-6-0 wheelsets that this uses aren't any larger than standard ones - and the size of this doesn't make any difference, since it's articulated! I'm fairly sure that amount of play is unnecessary! You're right - I'd love to try this with the railgun! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@mikewoods4177]

I may be wrong but this is essentially two 2-6-0s double heading, ignoring the pony trucks which I guess don’t actually function in the sense of no springing and side control to steer the chassis into the curve. I would be surprised if more than 1mm total sideplay on the centre axel is actually needed. Remembering too much risk the tyre slipping off of the railhead. I hope this won’t ignite a war on the subject of sideplay but it is often overestimated

[@rodsmith3911]

I remember watching the garrats in their later days as they squealed their way round the curve at Syston leaving the Midland Main Line to run via Melton Mowbray and Corby to Brent with coal trains and they had just the same problems of being trapped by the tight curve. The sound was horrendous and I dread to think what the wear rate on the wheels and tracks would be. They sounded fantastic when they were allowed to run on the main past Brentingby Junction Signal Cabin with a double load of empties going back to Toton. I think from memory that they had two trains coupled together with a brake van at each end and some 70 wagons. Sights never to be forgotten and one which will be with me all my days. If only the LMS had let Beyer Peacock use their own bearings they would have been far better performers with less time out with hot boxes! It certainly looks the part, though I preferred them in weathered black! It just leaves me wishing I had a big layout to run one on.

[@titanicandbritannicproduct1912]

Ah a LNER U1 never thought I would see a model of it great job Sam!

[@rossbowman202]

Great Britain's Big Boy locomotive. That is a good sized loco. Great review Sam.

[@SamsTrains]

Yes indeed! Thanks very much Ross!! :D

[@johndavies9270]

Actually the LNER had a 2-8-0+0-8-2 Garratt, and ones built for Australia and South Africa were even bigger!

[@JBofBrisbane]

Google NSWGR AD60 - Australia's Big Boy

[@jimcrawford5039]

NSW Garrett’s were standard Guage. South Africa’s were narrow Gauge.

[@alanhaynes4576]

@@jimcrawford5039 Although South Africa's Garratt's were 3'6" they were actually built to Standard Gauge specifications but the Australian New South Wales AD60 were Standard Gauge. Some have been preserved and there are several videos on You Tube showing the originals in action hauling coal in the Hunter Valley of New South Wales. In Queensland where I live we had a 3'6" Beyer Garratt and they were also used to haul coal. One of ours is also preserved. Most States in Australia had Beyer Garratts and they were very successful. Unfortunately the LMS was not as successful because of the issue of insisting that Beyer Peacock use the LMS design for the Axle boxes. Had they stuck with the Beyer Peacock design I am sure that many more of you Brits would have seen many more constructed and put into use throughout the UK and probably some would have been preserved. Rhodesian Railways and East African Railways also had Garretts and come to think of it there is one in Britain that I saw at a railway museum in Glasgow while there in 2017. It is a GMAM or 4-8-2 + 2-8-4 which is the same wheel arrangement of our Queensland Railways Garratt. Also you actually have an ex Australian Garratt running on the Welsh Highland Railway. K1 the worlds first Garratt brought from Tasmania to Britain and restored/rebuilt and now runs on the Welsh Highland/ Ffestiniog Railway in North Wales. Built by Beyer Peacock for the North East Dundas Tramway in Tasmania. Sad but you guys really missed out on becoming closely acquainted with a unique class of locomotive. I hope when I run my 2 LMS Garratts that they perform well but that is to look forward to.

[@robertsmalley8138]

The Garratts taking coal to London had to have a huge run round circle at Brent , turntables couldnt . cope . Have you room for a run round on your layout 😊

[@SamsTrains]

That sounds fantastic - I'd love to recreate such a thing! :O Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@royfearn4345]

And space for the90wagon loads!

[@Warbler-Productions]

A few details for you Sam, the long cylinder on the back was a rotating coal bunker designed to bring the coal forward for the fireman and sat atop a reserve water tank. The running plate is known as a boiler cradle (as with the Double Fairlie type) and Beyer Peacock commonly polished the ends of the axles when painting their new locos in photographic grey before delivering them to the customer. There are a few narrow gauge Garratts working in the UK, 3 (soon to be 4) on the Welsh Highland Railway, one at the Vale of Rheidol Railway and one at the Statfold Barn Railway (which just happens to be the very first one built K1) of the Standard gauge Garratts only 1 survives in the UK which is the famous industrial 040+040 William Francis which worked at the Baxterly Colliery Line near Atherstone in North Warwickshire and is now a static exhibit at Bressingham in Norfolk. There are other static Garratts in the UK in museums (Like Manchester) but I couldn't give any details of them as I'm unsure of what classes they are. I myself purchased one of these models two weeks ago, and have fitted a digital decoder, it runs far better on Digital as the Back EMF works to keep the speed constant at all times.

[@SamsTrains]

Many thanks for the information, really appreciate that! Duly noted! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@davidstaves6669]

Always loved the garretts. I bought one on impulse last year, version without the rotating bunker (all sympathy to the fireman) for £190. Most I've ever paid for a loco. Local to me (withdrawn the year before I was born) was the Garrett 2-8-0-0-8-2 Worsbrough banker. Later transferred to Lickey bank. Then there was the Lickey banker, 2-10-0-0-10-2. Love to see those in 00 gauge.

[@francora4763]

Thanks for the review Sam! Did you know that there where even bigger Beyer Garratts? Their specifics were 4-8-2+2-8-4, there's a surviving fully working one in Australia so hope you get to see it someday. Greetings from Argentina.

[@SamsTrains]

I know the LNER had some 2-8-0 ones, but the 2-8-4s sound astonishing! :O Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@pixelwash9707]

Sam'sTrains I’ve seen the one they have in Australia - it’s bigger than the British locos I think. (I was shocked how small railways in the UK were, even the modern ones, and especially “the tube”, when I first visited there after growing up in Victoria, Australia.)

[@terryflynn8830]

The largest Australian Garratt is the standard gauge NSW 4-8-4+4-8-4

[@jackclarke1220]

Heljan do have a good products, after getting my refund from Hatton's from the 66 (their customer service was great in dealing with it!) I got a Heljan DP2 from Olivia's Trains at a discount. Things really good with only a slight fiddle with couplings and a dented buffer.

[@SamsTrains]

Ahh sounds good Jack - glad you're happy with it! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@the_one_who_is_many]

This is one of my favourite trains, I love how unique they are and how awsome they are, they are also nostalgic to me because in real life I like to go on a narrow gauge railway and little garrats are the main train they use because they’re articulated. I also LOVE the beautiful white livery with the yellow/ gold accent

[@georgetimperley8906]

Nice one Sam, much better helljan. I did enjoy watching that. Well done 👍

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks George - glad you enjoyed it mate! :D Cheers, Sam :)

[@Lex_Illovici]

Sam: this is a big train Me with an o scale Big boy: TrY mE

[@carsongeye1462]

Aevum 13 I have a small O scale set, and those locos are pretty meaty. I’ve never been up close and personal with a big boy but it must be absolutely massive. Is it in the 2-4 foot range?

[@Lex_Illovici]

@@carsongeye1462 yeah

[@SamsTrains]

haha that must be insane - how do you fit that through the door?! :O Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@railfanjackson4531]

I have a Lionel Big Boy. 34 inches of top-tier quality.

[@leilacentral1883]

Great review and insight into this unique locomotive. For the price I to would have expected it to be a bit more tidy. Especially the wheels and the boiler joining gaps. Maybe I’m being too fussy. Very surprised about the quantity of the pickups as well. Would I buy it? Not at full price is my opinion. Would I still love one, heck yes. Would like to see it’s pulling power and how many coaches it can pull. All the best, Clint

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks Clint - yes a bit more finesse would have gone a long way with this - not too fussy at all! I can't blame you really wanting one though - I certainly couldn't resist! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@bombituico]

It looks like a really good loco Have a good one Sam!

[@SamsTrains]

Cheers mate, you have a great one too! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@bruceblackmar9942]

I am really pleased with my black painted LMS second issue. The axles are painted black. The flexabity of the center axles is certainly needed around the curves. The lamp that is lit is a really nice feature. And this locomotive with the Lok DCC and speakers sounds great, you can hear both front and back pistons chugging. The coal sloped cylinder which rotated on the real locomotives was the fore runner of the mechanical stoker, which came later to the large North American locomotives. And yes, the fireman still had to shovel the coal in the firebox. Yes there is a water tank under the coal container. As well as in the front. I have waited years for this locomotive to be modeled. It was worth the wait, as the old K's kits sits in a static display. I enjoy your reviews and I try to watch every one. Thank you. Cheers

[@SamsTrains]

Glad to hear that Bruce - I wonder why they painted the axles on some models but not others?! I don't think the middle axles need all the flexibility; the wheelsets are no larger than other 2-6-0s I have, and the articulation is what allows it to manage tight curves! Thanks for the info, Sam :)

[@bruceblackmar9942]

@@SamsTrains You have a very good point there. Have you tested the Heljan GWR 060's steam locomotives, they seem to run excellent as well, though I found the track had to be spotlessly clean.

[@mikehaufe6635]

Hi Sam, I enjoy your reviews but I feel that you have not done this magnificent model justice. You really should have a look at the manual! The magnets are to simplify assembly and the end-float on the drivers are to allow tight radius use. I have two versions from the previous issue which I have DCC fitted and have hauled perfectly in both directions. I can get mine to crawl at 5mph (scale) Mine are both LMS black and the detail is good. There were some issues with this batch but I have never had any problems. I regularly use both of mine to pull long scale coal trains (which is what the were designed for). Pulling power is tremendous. I have not had any problems with power at any setting. Keep up the good work!!!

[@SamsTrains]

haha no problem Mike - though I still don't like the magnets - they may simplify assembly, but at £250 rrp, that seems unreasonable! Glad to hear yours were okay though - overall I was pleased with this one! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@thomashambly3718]

When I saw this model, my first thought was "do both sections have motors, or just one?"

[@SamsTrains]

haha amazingly both are powered! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@dannyh.s.1936]

Sam'sTrains HOW DID HELJAN DO THAT?!?!?!?!

[@TheSteamdriver]

This isn't the first time they have done it. They released this a few years ago exclusively for Hattons. And they have just re released but the one they did for hattons was about 8 years ago so I don't think it will have any new features

[@RobertdMacGregor]

This one is done I believe with a single motor in the center section and then 2 drive shafts to either power bogie. The first batch from years ago had each bogie with its only individual motor, with the center section holding the circuits/DCC chip. Problem I had with my version is that the front power bogie went faster than the back one did!

[@adamchmielewski6162]

Danny H.S. *how the helljan (=

[@GaryNumeroUno]

22:50 I like your rendition of the Vic Berry scrapyard with your locos stacked up in the background!

[@SamsTrains]

haha thank you! :D

[@TheShadows-pk8fs]

have this loco myself absolutly amazing!!

[@SamsTrains]

Great to hear that Paula, they are epic! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@jacobhampshire1181]

My mainline collet has a motor sound that actually sounds a bit like a real steam train. By the way it has no fitted sounds. Good but random thing😄

[@SamsTrains]

haha yeah I've had a few of those make chuffing noises before, lol! ;D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@gwyneddboom2579]

I was about to say “I think I’m the first to watch this video.”. Turns out I’m not. Some notes: Photographic grey was meant to show detail in a black and white photo. I don’t think it will work in coloured pictures. Those things at the front are indeed the water tanks, and yes, pulling power does get worse when there is less water in them. If it weighs so much there might be water in it 😉 It’s actually a 2-6-0+0-6-2. I think you have been running it backwards. I have only seen Garatts running smokebox-first Quality? It’s Heljan Sam! You could have expected those pickups and the slack on the wheels. Do I have to say this again? Sam, it’s Heljan! I’m not sure what those things below the cilinders are. That watering thing is indeed meant for water. I think the steps bending out makes sense, as it probably makes it easier to get on. Sprung buffers? Come on Sam, it’s Heljan! Garatts are meant to go around right corners, so I was surprised to see it derailing on a corner. Poor Hattons. Only being a record holder for a few weeks, to then be beaten by a Heljan steamer. I suppose it’s just not powerful enough. Heljan does seem to like traditions. Non-working couplings, not well built... I think the Tango does look good from a distance. If another manufacturer would have made it it would probably be beautiful. And then the majestic Heljan nearly made an electric problem. Pleasantly surprised is quite a good way to describe it. How do you calculate the power in coaches? Miracles just happened! Sam recommends a Heljan loco! It was also a heck of an experience reviewing your review! From the Netherlands, Sander

[@SamsTrains]

You were definitely one of them!! :O Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@johndavies9270]

Those brassy things under the cylinders are indeed drain valves. Won't say more. Someone, writing in one of the magazines some years ago, commented that safety valves, drain valves and whistles only stayed bright and shiny until they'd been used a few times - then they very quickly turned dull. But they look nicer in shiny brass. @@SamsTrains

[@everythingproductions2004]

Is Heljan a beginner’s range?

[@austinshackles549]

Also you're right about the water and fuel load affecting traction, it was one of the features of the real thing. Water in the front end, coal in the rear and this one has a revolving bunker device for the coal which is intended to get the coal to move towards the cab.

[@jcgaughan]

I have one and it works flawlessly with dcc sound. Had it for 3 years now.

[@SamsTrains]

Glad to hear that John, seems you got a good example! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@battonfive]

Thanks for the review, I think its a really nice addition to your collection there, the magnets are a bit questionable though it makes me wonder if a pivot screw connection would have held the weight of the segments and not warped before long so they chose the magnet approach to be on the safe side, where overall its looks smart, detailed, where it seems to look even better moving than stationary.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks a lot mate - yeah I don't know, I'd love to know why they did it that way! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@agentM1991]

Wow so the British do have their own version of the Union Pacific Railroad Big Boy. That was a fantastic locomotive you showed off Sam. Answering your question 212 pounds for that, that's still fairly expensive in the US market. Here in the US that's worth $273.78 which is too expensive. Anyway looking forward to the next loco review.

[@SamsTrains]

haha yeah I guess so - it's quite similar in size too! Glad you liked this - and you're right, it doesn't seem much given US prices! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@yamawarrior1700]

Saw the notification and thought🤔😮😀 YAY!! Keep up the good work!

[@SamsTrains]

Ooh yeah!! Thanks a lot mate, glad you enjoyed it! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@hovermotion]

Wow stunning loco..and review ....I remember when they brought one back from African railways decades ago for a full refurbishment at Manchester science & rail museum where it still sits on its short length of track....amazing engineering on the prototype..like the Big boy , challanger and similar classes.. Thanks....jim

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks very much mate - ooh really?! That must have been amazing to see! :O Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@iceeblueburst03]

30:56 He’s back......... Again

[@SamsTrains]

haha!! ;D

[@teescottageguyproductions]

I love how Sam’s says it’s like on of my Triang locomotives. Now have a look of this. If it was a Triang = This is an absolutely amazing model and I love it If it was a Hornby = This is not too good but ah well If it was Bachmann = Typical If it is helijan = Typical Helijan, Horrible, nasty, I think this model was used to pull the express called the 1 way ticket to bankruptcy! 🤣

[@SamsTrains]

haha thanks Tee! Yeah if Tri-ang had made this in the 60s, sure this'd be much more impressive! xD Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@user-rb1ey8zc3e]

Pretty steam monster! Thanks for review!

[@kunstmichi]

What an exceptional and interesting looking huge loco!

[@SamsTrains]

haha thank you! :D

[@martinkjr3420]

"heljan has finally made a good steam locomotive" well it has only taken them 20 years to do so

[@SamsTrains]

haha!!!

[@totallytidmouth]

This has me going: that's funky Good video! -Ashley

[@SamsTrains]

haha thanks mate!! :D

[@nickm5402]

I literally looked yesterday to see if you had reviewed this locomotive yet and here it is

[@SamsTrains]

haha yep - it had to be done!! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@shlordo]

I have one of the original run Heljan Garratts, which with a little work and maintenance has been a stellar performer. I think what's important to keep in mind for a model like this is the complexity of the mechanism, and how to execute an exotic prototype in model form. These are essentially TWO locomotives: two sets of powered driving wheels with superstructure, and an additional section (boiler) in the center, with electronics to operate and synchronize both sets of wheels and offer DCC operation as well. Heljan surely could have cut costs and difficulty by having only one set of powered drivers, but everyone would have doubtless taken them to task on that. Having had mine apart when I fitted DCC sound, I was impressed by the level of engineering that went into the model, and it was clear someone(s) spent long hours problem solving to make it all work AND be serviceable when need be. This is new territory for a mass-produced model, and there are bound to be certain features which make us scratch our heads in comparison with what we're already used to. But trust me, you'll be thankful for the magnets when it comes to service time! Is it 100% perfect? Well, have any of the locomotives reviewed ever been? There will always be shortcomings on something like this produced for the mass market at an even decent price (thinking of this as essentially two complete powered units, you really don't find two decent currently produced DCC-ready models that cost less than 250 together; even a pair of Hornby Pecketts will set you back nearly 200). I'm more than happy to live with a few detail short comings, non sprung buffers, etc. for the sake of being able to own a beautiful and unusual prototype. The built in working headcode lamps are also an excellent touch you don't see much on ready-to-run and could have easily been omitted, but really add to the model. Adding details, paint picking-out, and tweaks are a huge part of what makes this hobby rewarding anyway (to me, at least). Don't be too quick to cast down this model without appreciation of the engineering and design that went into it, the scope of the mechanisms required, and considering exactly what Heljan was able to produce for a comparatively modest price. Risks like this by manufacturers push the envelope on prototypes being offered, and ultimately bring up the standard of models across the board as manufacturers begin to offer more and more unusual and non-standard prototypes. Thank you for your videos and your time, keep at it.

[@SamsTrains]

Glad to hear you've been able to keep yours running - you've done what many couldn't! I agree with you, and many thanks for the information! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@Sigil_Firebrand]

I would like to thank you greatly, for re-kindling a passion for model trains I last had as a child. However, I would also like to curse you for making this American long for a British themed model railroad, and with it the need to pay appalling international shipping costs for anything that isn't both brand new and Hornby (at full RRP, but thankfully without the shipping cost).

[@SamsTrains]

That's my pleasure mate, really glad to have been a part of getting you back interested in the hobby! Big apologies for costing you too much - you know where to send the bill ;) Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@LIMowersAndMore]

One of the ugliest yet astounding locomotives I’ve ever seen!

[@SamsTrains]

haha I'd agree with that! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@LIMowersAndMore]

Sam'sTrains bye the way the weird rear tender thing is actually an oil tender some LMS locomotives where powered by oil!

[@bravedan]

@@LIMowersAndMore No No NO!!. ;-) The rotary 9 ton COAL Bunker was trial fitted new to 4986, so for a short while it was the only one so fitted. Then 4967-4996 were supplied fitted with 10 ton rotary coal bunkers, the bunker from 4986 being transferred to 4997. The 4xxx numbering is only good for pre 1938/9, BTW. In service they were not (intentionally, they got grubby very quickly) grey, but plain black, its probably representing photographic grey before final paint and service entry. None of my pictures (of others) show shaded numbering, only unshaded, like the "LMS". They were never oil fired.

[@LIMowersAndMore]

bravedan oh ok sorry! I though it was oil!

[@LIMowersAndMore]

bravedan thanks for the info :)

[@glynjones8187]

Always love seeing it in person at Manchester, can't wait till lock downs lifted and can get out again and see and smell some engines again.

[@SamsTrains]

Ahh fantastic - I'd love to go and see one in real life some day! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@LleshGordon2122]

They looks so awesome sam

[@SamsTrains]

Thank you! :D

[@LleshGordon2122]

@@SamsTrains ur very welcome sam mate I hope good enjoy to from KZbin hornby characters model

[@ged8896]

The coal is contained in a "Rotary Bunker" on the right hand side. The bunker turns by means of a 2 cylinder steam engine. This feeds the coal to the footplate without making a lot of dust, and it helps trim, ( keep it level) the coal in the bunker.

[@SamsTrains]

Duly noted, thanks a lot for the info! :D Cheers, Sam :)

[@terrorfire8505]

Really good video and review keep it up mate

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks a lot mate! :D

[@johnleake5657]

That's what an engine should look like! Yes, I grew up in Kenya watching steam trains in the 1970s, and the East African Railway's steam engines were Garratts. In fact, the 4-8-2+2-8-4 EAR 59 'Mountain' class weighed 250 tons where this little LMS engine weighed a mere 150 tons and they had almost twice the tractive force (and that was on metre-gauge track - they were the most powerful metre-gauge steam locomotives in the world!).

[@kristineal1147]

Tabt looks so cool, I’ve never been a big fan of Garrets but that is awesome

[@SamsTrains]

Thank you! Glad you didn't mind it too much! :D

[@roguesans6556]

Such a gorgeous Moon White Beyer LMS Garratt.

[@SamsTrains]

haha very much so! :D

[@wyvernmodelrailway]

My garratt arrived just before Christmas, LMS black one. I haven't run it yet as my test layout has too sharp curves, but I have given it a good look over and really like it. I actually waited almost a year for it to be released. Referring to the Tango, I did not have any problems with mine. I think you just got a dodgy one. Thanks for this review, very professional as usual.

[@SamsTrains]

Great to hear that mate - make sure you test it before your returns window closes - I've heard of one or two issues with these! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@jimipolkerman8266]

Garatt locomotives are very fascinating, great review as always sam!

[@SamsTrains]

Cheers Jimi - glad you found it interesting! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@DavidScholz-bu1ix]

​@@SamsTrainsYou'll be very shockingly surprisingly pleased to happily know that Garratts certainly happen to basically have an official complete advantage of working wonderfully great in either direction!

[@DavidScholz-bu1ix]

​@@SamsTrainsI personally just suddenly realized that this official garratt locomotive certainly happens to basically have an official complete 2-6-0+0-6-2 (double-mogul)wheel configuration in an official complete articulated form meaning that the locomotive certainly happens to basically have a specifically wonderfully great pivot joint in the officially well-knowingly obvious framework to easily negotiate sharp bends with ease despite the official length!

[@DavidScholz-bu1ix]

​@@SamsTrainsBRAVO!

[@DavidScholz-bu1ix]

​@@SamsTrainsEXCELLENT WORK DESPITE SOME ISSUES AS USUAL!

[@mgr_video_productions]

Great review and video. Intriguing locomotive type too. You should review a 4-8-8-4 Big Boy locomotive.

[@robmasterman]

Hello Sam, to answer some of your questions regarding the Garratt locomotives, they were built in the UK and whilst some were used here, they became well known for their heavy work in South Africa. The design with articulated bogies to allow these massive locos to travel over sharp curves, which would be impossible with a fixed frame loco. Some were coal fired, but most were oil fired, and this was carried in the rear section of the loco, the front end carrying water. When Steam locos were built, the photographs of the coming out of Works were usually taken on Black and White film, and the Grey colour was chosen as the best finish to show new locos at their best. As far as this particular model is concerned, this much anticipate launch of a Garratt does not seem to be good value for that sort of money. I'm so grateful to you Sam as my filter between looking at, and purchasing any new loco, sl thanks as always for that...Bob

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks very much for this Bob - much appreciated! I have enjoyed lots of the photographic grey models - even though they weren't intended to run that way! No it's not fantastic value really - but could have been worse! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@tommo2785]

In the video it said there were no survivors. There is a similar Garret engine at the Queensland Workshops Rail Museum (Australia). It's a different format though, and likely larger because it is a 4-8-2+2-8-4. It is painted in maroon, the state colour of Queensland.

[@woodenrailway123]

Great review buddy, lovely looking loco abit big for my layout but could be a possible for the display case haha good work buddy keep up the good work👌

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks a lot mate, that's understandable - glad you enjoyed it! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@stephenweaver7631]

The "cylinder" on the rear/right engine unit/tender is a revolving coal bunker, used to keep dust away from the cab, and to keep the coal 'trimmed!" The outer "box" under the coal bunker is indeed a water tank. That huge boiler drank a lot of water!

[@SamsTrains]

Yes that's right - a very interesting setup indeed! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@harryrobinson2901]

At 14:29 the detail of the bolts on the crank is lovely. Even if it isn’t the best, I quite like this model... About the coal system, it just shakes coal into the cab, but the fireman still has to fire by hand.

[@SamsTrains]

I agree Harry - I really liked that detail too! Thanks a lot for the info on the coal bunker! Cheers, Sam :)

[@BegudMaximan-zp2tc]

What a magnificent machine, a biggy indeed, looks just the part for hauling lengthy freights with relative ease. Nice to see the model makers providing even more choice.

[@michaelswift7660]

Flip that is one large engine and in such a striking colour I think it's fantastic great review by the way

[@SamsTrains]

haha I know - I think it looks lovely too! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@jerry2357]

The inclined truncated cone above the rear engine unit is the coal bunker. It could be rotated to move coal forward as coal was used up.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks for that Jerry, understood! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@grahamsimpson3186]

Hi, very good video again. Love your reviews.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks very much indeed Graham, appreciate it, Cheers Sam :)

[@DavidScholz-bu1ix]

I personally just suddenly came up with the officially well-knowingly clever idea of completely building an official full-size version of this official garratt locomotive with more-or-less similar specifications alongside modifications that officially include automatic knuckle coupling devices on each end of the locomotive to co-operate with various types of American-origin rolling stock with no complete trouble whatsoever as well as officially making the articulated garratt locomotive burning high-thermo outputting with low sulfur coal meaning that it'll basically puff black steam out of the funnel!

[@thebeardedwarrior2222]

I think the magnets are there to help for a fluid articulation around corners and bends

[@steamboy9613]

Wow amazing sams trains keep up the good work bro 👍👍👍🇺🇸🇬🇧

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks a lot mate - glad you enjoyed it! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@steamboy9613]

Any time bro and one more thing have you heard or been on a roller coaster named turbo

[@bentullett6068]

These are interesting locomotives. Beyer Garrett also introduced these locomotives to other parts of the world where they tended to be more successful. Australia and Africa had some Garrett locomotives and they were mostly used for heavy freight. Two ex South African narrow gauge versions can be found running on the Welsh Highland railway.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks a lot Ben - they certainly did - and great to hear some still survive!! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@Brentstiles]

Thanks Sam for the review. I own an Eureka models ad-60 garratt from Australia. They fascinate me. Even more than the large articulated locos over here. 200 quid. Seems to be on the low side actually for a garratt. Thanks!

[@SamsTrains]

It's a pleasure Brent - that sounds awesome, I'd love to see some models like that! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@austinshackles549]

BTW, if any of you are around North Wales, they have 2ft gauge Garratts on the Welsh Highland Railway, highly recommended. I believe they restored a big one in Australia but I don't realistically expect to ever see that one personally.

[@RobertdMacGregor]

I hope the new version is better than the previous. When I had it set up on my test bench on a rolling road it was abundantly clear the leading power car was driving faster than the rear one, and that was only the start of the trouble with it!

[@SamsTrains]

I haven't had a major issue yet - so looking good! The speed seems reasonably well matched, if not perfectly identical! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@LHoriginal]

Now I want to see an LNER U1 garratt. The u1 was a locomotive that used to be on the line where I live back when it was still a rail yard. Sadly there is no reminence of the railway (apart from a tunnel) and I've never seen the railway as I'm too young. I've only have photos of it to look at

[@Louisianacentral8]

That hattons packaging looks so gorgeous:) Love your vids same

[@SamsTrains]

I agree - it's great isn't it?! :D Thanks very much mate, Sam :)

[@ModelRailwaysUnlimited]

wow fascinating video and loco, looks like water tanks at both ends and a rotary coal feed system on one. I feel its too big for my layout. Nice work mate

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks a lot Mike - that's quite understandable! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@GrrMeister]

*Saw most of this class (2-6-6-2) on the **_Iron Ore Freighters_** between Corby and Sheffield passing through Leicester in the late 50's - However they were numbered after BR Nationalisation from 47967 to 47999 (total 20). Never saw 4986. The 2-10-0's 9F 92'000 Class including the unique Crosti Boiler versions, took over from them with a Tractive Effort of 39,670 lbs compared to the 45,620 TE. In both cases a magnificent sight when on full power.*

[@SamsTrains]

Very interesting mate - I didn't know the that about the Crostis and the tractive effort! Thanks for watching - Sam :)