Darstaed MK1 rake first run

I started to purchase this rake of Mk1s before the first lockdown and only recently completed it. Here it is running for the first time at Brambleton. They’re numbered as a Midland rake so it seemed fitting they were hauled by a class 45.

[@gs425]

Reminds me of the cross country trains arriving in Plymouth back in late 70s

[@rosspeacock2956]

Good choice Fil.... They look excellent. I've done a mod to gangway ends which can foul loco sometimes as they stick out too far. And catch handrails/lamp brackets etc. Ross.

[@fildowns]

Yes I've reduced the bellows by 2/3rds and glued the gangway ends on the brake-ends, as you say they then don't interfere with the loco furniture. Love my set. If you're running on less than perfectly flat track though the commonwealths are a must.

[@rosspeacock2956]

@@fildowns That's good, I noticed the issue the first time I tried to couple them to a loco. Commonwealths are great bogies with them being well sprung. I did have a slight issue with mine as they came from ECT with 3'0" wheels but after a call to them Eliis sent me some 3'7" ones FOC but those fouled the brake shoes causing a short. They also then rode too high. Another call to ECT and they sent me some shorter ride springs FOC of course. I've done a mod and now mine have stretchers with plastic brake shoes (will show you a pic sometime) I'm really pleased with them overall though. Like the weight and running qualities of them. Plus they sound 'metal' coach too. Ross

[@fildowns]

@@rosspeacock2956 Yes the BR1 bogies with the scale wheels seem to foul the chassis on curves when there is even very slightly uneven track...thus my parcels stock I have left with the smaller wheels and packed out bogie for now.