Dean Park Model Railway 307 | The All NEW Bachmann Class 37 - Fantastic, Flawed or Both?

[@tonyrobinson362]

Great review as always, I worked these double headed from Thoresby colliery to Toton yard with 43 mgrs good days, Have just bought a Colas 37 with working fans £259 new, Take care.

[@Samstrainsofficially]

Looks good, but ultimately nothing is gonna be 100% unless you the customer get to specify exactly what you want which is where the whole RTR model(lol) falls apart. The bigger question to ask than is it any good as a whole is "does it have enough for me to work with or live with" as if you have enough to work with you'll be happy to stick a few detail bits on and be happy, if you can live with it you'll be happy. However to just expect one product that us universally accepted as definitively brilliant and fit for every modellers needs or desires is asking for a bad day and a culture of bad reviews bad bad reviewers. (This is one of the more tame reasonable review creators so nothing about this is aimed at Dean Park.) Good job sir. I'd probably buy one/might if I find a use for it.

[@simonbradshaw3708]

I'm glad you reloaded the video as there were sound issues with the initial version I watched. I wonder if Bachmann has fast tracked the model through its final stages of development to get it out before Accurascale model. Knowing the very high quality of their models I suspect it will give Bachmann's model a real test.

[@craigymac5386]

Great review Dave. I think the model looks great but I agree with you on the snow plough, it looks like a bit of an afterthought again by Bachmann.

[@rhysjones8578]

Ive noticed the volume seems high on this loco straight out the box, been wanting to adjust it but not sure what cv's it is to change. Loco looks amazing on track too, and glad it doesnt make the older ones look obsolete.

[@formidable38]

Good review Dave. The glazing is a negative for me, its like looking through a goldfish bowl. I'm tempted but I think ill wait for the AS version.

[@Hanzo.Azmodan]

Glad you overcame yesterday's editing problems! Great review and I can watch it now properly!

[@DeanPark]

Yes I have no idea what was up last night. Glitches! :-)

[@mercuryscat2703]

Those ploughs are just woeful ! As I model Scottish class 37s and use screw links , these are essential items and i was hoping the days of trying to source and glue in Heljan ploughs were over. Also where is the space for a bigger speaker ? I can’t seem to see anywhere obvious on this model to insert some kind of bass reflex / EM style speaker. Surely not back to having to mill out chassis on a £300 model? I really wanted to like and to buy one (or 10!!) of these but I think I’m just going to have to pray Accurascale actually make a 37/4 in this original guise. I think we may have a long wait though!

[@philbartlett7898]

Many thanks for this very comprehensive and honest review of the new class 37. First a question. Was the initial clip in this video using it's own speaker, or an overload prototype maybe ? If it is it's own decoder and speakers then that is an instant selle. That really is awesome !!! The model is definitely a step up from the previous release, in so many subtle areas. I spotted a couple of negatives, the most important being your point about the snowploughs - especially for you Scottish modellers !! Bachmann should address this problem even if it means a separate buffer beam for snowplough plus lamps and cables, as opposed to the non plough version. It will be interesting to see whether Bachmann produce the models with the distinctive WR style lamp brackets as some of the 37/4s were converted from. Class 37s had several different types of buffers - some with a hydraulic Oleo shank. These buiffers had shiny buffer shanks. Some class 37s however carried oval buffers and from memory the shanks on these were not shiny at all, and I suspect your model is incorrect in that respect, although I recognise this might seem a nitpicky detail. The windscreens size and shape are a subtly huge improvement, however the cruelly close videography shows the thick lense like appearance. I am hoping Brian at Shawplan is able to produce Lazerglaze for this model because it really would lift it to show condition. As we know, the "face" of a locomotive is the most important to us. The impending A/s class 37 will provide the purchasers with a very interesting marketplace and it will be interesting to see how sales develop. For my interests I want a couple of grubby green Welsh examples with small yellow ends, but might be tempted by a blue pre TOPS example - again centre headcode. For this reason I procrastinated against the temptation of one of A/s original D67ers. Having watched your review, and seen what Bachmann are doing with the latest version of the type 3, i might now be waiting to see whether Bachmann or A/s produce the Welsh green centre 37s. Thanks again Dave for a great review

[@tonyarmstrong4843]

I like the snow ploughs included with the model, in fact I’m pleased there are two in the bag of accessories, as one fits perfectly on one of my Deltics.

[@mikeatpudhamjunction2323]

The Niggle of the snow ploughs is no small thing as you say Scottish 37's mostly had them fitted. a lower volume to fix the speaker is not too big a deal as most seem to be set to high in the 1st place. The body dues look the part. Thanks for using the right side of the T.M.D. for one of the shoots. Stay safe

[@DeanPark]

Yes I’m actually questioning if I will buy more Bachmann 37’s based on this. This model was on loan from a mate so wasn’t mine.

[@ethankerr05]

The one thing putting me off is the plow because the really early Bachmann plows where 3 separate pieces which could be fitted to both ends without obstructing the couplings

[@DeanPark]

Yea I remember those. They were much better

[@20PhantoM07]

It sounds awesome I love the 37 he was always my favourite, lovely layout too mate, all this is taking me back to the 90’s at work with dad (he was a signalman) and all the model shows and swapmeets all over the country.

[@onnomulder9775]

Great review of a stunning loco Dave!!! Thanks for sharing this video! Cheers Onno.

[@ewoodrailway]

Looks an amazing addition. Great review Dave, thanks

[@mrbluesky2050]

with regards to the NEM socket, is it at the RIGHT HEIGHT? the height above rail level IS a standard, and sadly most models don't seem to take this fact on board. it is vital if using Kadee couplers. and of course, if using the socket, that negates the fitting of the as supplied ploughs, there will be a work-around for any skilled modellers, but at over £350.00, there shouldn't need to be, it should be right. Thanks for an informative video, and as others have said, perhaps Bachmann have 'raced' with this to compete with Accurascale, i would have rather seen them do the class 40 to this level though.

[@daviemaclean61]

Not sure what happened yesterday, but glad to see it's back up! A lovely looking Class 37 but, as with a lot of these latest releases from various manufacturers, they're just going to show up my older locos! Nice review thought. Cheers

[@DeanPark]

First video had glitches. :-)

[@HemelDownModelRailway]

A great review of a lovely loco, it’s a real shame about the snow plough though and can see your frustrations with this being overlooked hopefully it can be resolved thanks for sharing 🙂

[@DeanPark]

I think westhill wagon works are working on a 3D printed solution now!

[@tonyrobinson362]

Just dont fit them they didn't carry them all the time.

[@anthonymizen9095]

That’s a really in depth review and is disappointing about the snow plough. I will wait and see what the Accurascale Loch Lomond 37 I have on pre order is like before making a decision on whether this one is worth it

[@DeanPark]

Cheers. Glad you enjoyed it.

[@dougalmcdougal8682]

Another very good review … Honest, fair and to the point 👍

[@treinenliefde]

Havent watched the video as of yet (I mean makes sense since its only been released for like 2 minutes) but I cant wait when this one gets to be compared with the Accurascale model. Both look stunning, and the main difference will probably be if you dont mind gluing on various parts on the Accurscale one seeing as the Deltics appear to break in postage haha. Yeh Im curious. Both havent been announced in green without warning panels sadly apart from an exclusive model for the NRM by Accurascale.

[@doogs126]

Good review Dave, the issue of ploughs vs pipework or indeed, coupling vs pipework is something most manufacturers should really look at.

[@DeanPark]

They have to look at this awful plough.

[@paulgalyet5308]

Half as much play in the axles as the previous model. Mine wont do the inside leg of peco curved points, the older ones will.

[@Mike-kc8rl]

I had no idea there was a new version out! I guess this will be war between Bachmann and the forthcoming Accurascale models? I was given 37 558 Avro Vulcan as a gift and love it ! Only the bogie gap like their Deltic is a criticism for me! But still a good toy train?

[@stuartrichardson9205]

Great and honest review, totally agree regarding the snow ploughs, still looks a great model though. Same with the 47, could do better like the class 20 with the ploughs. Have got 40 plus Bachmann 37s. Have got a couple of Accurascale 37s ordered at my local shop, so will see what they are like. Think Accurascale are gonna beat Bachmann on price though

[@DeanPark]

I won’t be binning my old 37 based on this new one.

[@stuartrichardson9205]

@@DeanPark Yup, same..

[@OlivierGabin]

The Accurascale is more promising, but we'll have to see a real one running to get an idea of what it's worth. I'm not betting on a lemon, but I might be wrong, and hope it won't happen !

[@tobyytlai]

Can't wait for the Accurascale 37 to arrive for a side by side comparison, especially on the nose

[@phillipsiviter2024]

It's a great looking model, needs weathering though as that paintwork looks a little too shiny. I agree with you over the plough - that really is an afterthought by Bachmann

[@DeanPark]

Yeah it’s in ex works condition.

[@Mapplewell_Park]

I’ve got 2 Bachmann 37’s of the previous tooling in DRS livery. I love them. I pre ordered the new Accurascale version in large logo last year, then suddenly saw this exact model in my local shop last week……. Looks amazing 🤩 which one will be best 🫣😬 think you will have to do a side by side video………….. 🤷‍♂️

[@modelrailwaynoob]

I have an Accurascale class 37 (ROG) on order but I will buy one of these with sound. I have a thing for the split headcode versions, so that is what I will go for.

[@DeanPark]

Yes like a split box. But disappointed in the plough.

[@keithedmunds7536]

nice review but spending a lot of time around cardiff and a couple of years ago at queen street and heath high ware they were used on passenger trains the sound seemed very deep and echo s ware as the real thing seems more throaty and not so rattly but good review nice model thanks for sharing

[@DeanPark]

Thanks Keith.

[@farmerdave7965]

Lots of JST connectors. I like that.

[@hermitageroad4713]

Great review dave but do I need another 37 I have 45 oh what the he'll ill go for it all the best

[@Culreoch]

Great review Dave and, yet again, Bachmann have failed to address the plough issue. It is exactly the same problem on their new class 47. Neither models can have full buffer beam detail and plough which detracts from the quality of the model. Personally, I will be waiting to see the Accurascale 37 prior to making any purchases and await Heljan for the 47.

[@DeanPark]

Yes disappointment from me on both locos regarding the ploughs. Bachman 47 is however is amazing and looks better than the forthcoming Heljan one.

[@johndraper7267]

Just bought the sound deluxe version. Have I got to fit a dcc decoder to run on dcc . I haven’t been able to run it yet . I tried to recode on test track to no avail . Is this because I have to fit a dcc decoder ,I can’t find any information whether it’s dcc ready or fitted

[@DeanPark]

If it’s a deluxe it’s already fitted with a decoder and speaker.

[@johndraper7267]

@@DeanPark thank you Dave for getting back to me , keep up the good work at Dean Park . After a brief discussion with Rails sorted my query out and the model is happily running on my novice railway . Look forward to your next video Kindest Regards John Draper

[@michaelwhiles5282]

Great review - hanging on for my AS 37 ( BR green) but frankly disappointed that it’ll be 18 months since I placed an order with a expected date of end 2022 😎

[@DeanPark]

All good things hopefully come to those who wait! :-)

[@Ste1952]

18 months is pretty speedy compared to the logistics and pandemic nightmares of the last few years!

[@craigjones9274]

Hi Dave, been watching your review as I've recently bought one...!!! I have a question, I've the sound version and have noticed when it's off there is a significant amount of running noise at slow speeds is this normal...??? I've recently got back into the hobby after 45years and it's all very different and I'm still learning. Many thanks and keep the videos coming they are very informative. Best regards Craig.

[@DeanPark]

Hi, this might be the need to give it a good run in. Give its a healthy run (without any coaches etc) in both directions for a good 30mins each way. This might bed there motor etc in. Cheers Dave

[@bionicgeekgrrl]

When the accurascale models are out, a comparison video would be good. Another video idea, for the 37 and 47 especially, show them in comparison with the older lima and hornby tooling to show how far diesel models have come since then.

[@DeanPark]

I’ll do a Bachmann v Accurascale 37 video in time :-)

[@TanVasinTrains]

Found this model on Kernow model centre, Eventhough I’m not really a fan of the class 37 ( I’m more interested in Thai locomotives) it still looks nice and I might think of getting it if I can get 300 quid.

[@charlemontparkway00gaugemo31]

Good review dave i dont have one of the new 37s as have a few accurascale on pre order, but detail and paintwork looks good on new model however the price of 374 for deluxe or 344 for sound version models puts me off compared to accurascale models but nice just the same atb phil pace

[@tonyrobinson362]

Monks at York have sound bachmann 37s at moment for £239 good price, Take care.

[@stevenpryce7808]

Totally different to the 37/4, does anyone on here know any information with regards to the Clyde cement bogie wagons ? I think it's a glaring omission by all the model companies,can't understand why both bogie cement wagons haven't been produced especially when you look at the era they were from & what motive power pulled them ?

[@ClydebridgeStation]

You're correct, 31 37/4s were created, from 37/0s. They were the first of the refurbished 37s. 37401-13/22-5 went to Eastfield, 414-21 to Inverness, 426-31 were at Cardiff Canton. After 156s were introduced to the West Highland in 1989, some of the 37/4s moved elsewhere, with initially 37407/8/22 going to Cardiff, 37412 going to Laira (for china clay traffic) along with 37414 from Inverness, 37411 moving to Tinsley.

[@tonyrobinson362]

But remember they can stray ive seen Scottish 37s on Par shed in Cornwall.

[@bobbyrayofthefamilysmith24]

This hobby is too expensive for me at £200 per train but I like watching the videos and love how detailed the models are

[@DeanPark]

Hi, thanks. Yes it’s become extremely expensive. Hobbies aren’t cheap, but with the price of every thing just going up and up it’s getting concerning. We need people of all budgets enjoying this hobby and of all ages.

[@mattsmith4605]

Great review, it sounds like a 37 although horn samples are always a bit dodgy. Shame about the snowplough.

[@DeanPark]

Cheers

[@S92driver]

For me the biggest weakness is the nose join. I think comparing it to the Accurascale Deltic nose seam, which is barely visible and is not a "gap", is really understating the poor design of this model by Bachmann. I think once the Bachmann and Accurascale models are compared side-by-side, then the nose join and poor cab handrails on the Baccy 37 will really stand out as a disappointment.

[@DeanPark]

There are seams on every model sadly. I’ll be looking forward to my Acurascale 37 too

[@Kristian.S.Bristowphotography]

is the high intensity head light on a separate function or is it not working ?

[@DeanPark]

Yes separate function :-) I show that in the last sequence when it’s sitting at the depot :-)

[@Kristian.S.Bristowphotography]

@@DeanPark Ah i must have missed that bit,Glad it has that separate function,looks like a model worth buying :-)

[@maringarvanovic8011]

I think it was a weird choice for Bachmann what with the Accurascale one around the corner. I'm sure many like me are saying "why buy this at over £200?. I will wait for the Accurascale one then decide". I have 14 Class 37s and I have never had an issue with the Bachmann one. However I cannot see me going near this at that price.

[@lapiswake6583]

It looks good. However, it's way more expensive than the accurascale one, and does have its faults. I may be tempted by one of these, because I want to collect all the /4s and this is the only modern spec release of 430 currently available (bachmann having done 422 in the previous itteration in weathered Regional Railways livery. The only ones missing now are 404/407/413/414/420, now Accurascale are doing 423 as well).

[@falken_gt4]

404 - loco not found

[@hotdogpilot6319]

There's a curious noise as it starts/stops, sounds like the gear towers complaining! Doesn't sound Speaker/sound related. Tell me I'm wrong. ATB, Andy.

[@DeanPark]

Speaker related. It can’t cope with the sound!

[@marklittlejohn1457]

A fair review Dave thankyou for the video

[@DeanPark]

Cheers

[@hughoconnor9172]

My only criticism has got to be the chosen livery. As far as I can tell, the loco was never allocated to a Scottish depot and only carried the name for 5 years - the scottie dog logo is therefore erroneous. Even if the Scottish connection was correct - doesn't that limit it to layouts based or very close there? Having said this, clearly a superb model, which explains why it is out of stock at anywhere near rrp prices!

[@tonyrobinson362]

I've seen Scottish 37s on Par shed in Cornwall locos move, We sometimes had cl20s at Shirebrook West for a few weeks based at Gateshead.

[@clipperrail8988]

In an ideal world we’d have a choice of buying the older 37 for about £130, which as really good (but maybe not perfect) model and the new one for £209, which isn’t perfect either. The lower priced model for those of us either not interested in, or can’t afford, highly detailed models. Bachmann have priced my out of the 37 market and I won’t be buying one. I’m sticking with my old Bachmann 37s which I love. Thanks for the detailed and honest review.

[@DeanPark]

I won’t be throwing out my previous Bachmann 37’s based on this new model.

[@johnwalker9750]

Couldn't agree more about the snow ploughs. Bachmann haven't got this right: it is either ploughs or pipes as you say. It is the same of course with the 24/1s and 47s, which is a big pain for those of us modelling the Scottish Region. I have an Accuruscale 37 on order and hope this problem doesn't arise with this.

[@DeanPark]

Accurascale have addressed the plough issue. :-)

[@johnwalker9750]

@@DeanPark Oh goody!

[@sapphirejunction8993]

Excellent honest review but to me this Bachmann Class 37 isn't that great to be honest especially for the price attached to it. The issues I have as follows... 1. roof fan grill is too prominent and doesn't have the fidelity compared to the AS 37, yes I'm comparing photos but to me it is obvious. 2. the cab windscreens have a pronounced prism affect and way too thick looking like something from Hornby Railroad with colour. 3. the ploughs on this are still like the old ones and awful. 4. the cab door hand rails appear to stick out too far, slight but noticeable. 5. the nose end join...not good. 6. the sound is sub-par and still sounds hollow which Bachmann to be honest struggle with on all their sound models to get it right in regards to fidelity and bass Overall the Accurascale 37 appears to have the presence of the real 37 based on their sample photos, this model is ok but not something I'll purchase considering the over inflated pricing and what Accurascale has to offer in a couple of months which to me is a class above this Bachmann effort. I have 6 Accurascale 37's coming and will only be sticking with them in regards to the Class 37 because IMO I don't think a Bachmann version will sit that well next to them when it comes presence and fidelity, the AS version based on photo's just has more finesse and yes a lot cheaper even after retailers discount...just my opinion.

[@DeanPark]

Thanks for that feedback, good to see a lot of your points I focussed on during the video too. Cheers. Dave

[@OlivierGabin]

Same for me, mainly due to the price of the Bachmann model, and no green version incoming soon. There is enough small drawbacks on this model to makes me stick to the AS offer. And I have already blow up my model railways budget this month with the Dapol Manor...

[@Rob-Slot]

I live in Cwmbran 😀 I'd like 37 Cwmbran in O Gauge !!

[@tail_lamp7538]

It's definitely a step up from the previous model. The enhanced windscreens in particular really help to give that well known look of the 37's. I'll probably get a couple myself, hopefully we get some Scottish beasts 👍

[@DeanPark]

Yes, as long as you don’t want to fit a snow plough you’ll be fine with this new model.

[@tail_lamp7538]

@@DeanPark I'll probably modify the existing one with a couple of sections of brass rod and attach it to the bufferbeam.

[@johnoneill5661]

Nice but no way is it worth over £100 more than the accurascale model Bachmann are just taking the piss.

[@Simon-Davis]

Its not £100 more. I paid £260 for the sound fitted Accurascale RFD 37026 I have on pre-order while the same spec Bachmann 37/4 (sound but not deluxe) cost me £293 from Cheltenham this afternoon. I make that £33 difference for the direct comparison with the SF model, as the Accura 37 doesn't specify a motorised fan or that glazing so there is no point comparing with the higher spec SFX model. Or alternatively £170 for the base Accura 37 vs £208 for the base Bachmann model, again, NOT a £100 difference. Based on the Deltics I initially received I prefer to have my models arrive in one piece rather than several to be honest, though still nowhere near THAT Heljan 128 for self disassembly. As a paying customer with several future models on order, that has me worried about what condition the Accura 37 and three 31s I am waiting for will arrive in. Yes their conduct in sending replacements was very good, but even those arrived with detached parts and still with speaker problems albeit to a lesser extent. I'd gladly pay the extra £30 knowing I'm not going to be receiving a kit of parts to be honest, but Bachmann haven't announced a split box RFD 37...yet.

[@kevinhickson8099]

well for me dave it seems strange how bachman brought this out at the same time as accurascale..for me although it's a great model.i find the accurascale version much better and cheaper .sams trains does a good review on this.

[@mels4796]

wonderful video

[@WilliamHBaird-eq2hp]

Bringing out this high quality model (which is easily one of the most popular diesel locomotives) is a logical decision

[@richardserridge2767]

It doesn't sound quite right for a 37... That start up is far too muted and quick to settle without the proper turbo spooling sound. I also agree with that horrible muffled distorted sound too! Otherwise it seems interesting 🤔

[@Reidy82]

I like bachmann models apart from the extra thick glazing. Which ditracts from what is otherwise a very good model.

[@andrewdonaldson6225]

Another interesting video of one of my favourite UK locos. I couldn't quite see what the problem is with the plough. Does the loco have bogie mounted NEM style pockets? If so they don't match any NEM standard - 362 or 363 - and I can see why the plough has an issue as it swings with the bogie. I saw from your Class 47 vid that it has bogie mounted couplers. Very poor design and a real step back. Look forward to the next update. Thanks.

[@DeanPark]

Bogie mounted nem yes.

[@mytinplaterailway]

I imagine Accurascale would rather this didn't exist. Will be interesting if theirs is in any way significantly better.

[@DeanPark]

I’m sure even accurascale predicted this would happen and I don’t think it will affect sale of their ones when they arrive.

[@davidstrains4910]

Great video on the new Bachmann 37 Dave, in my opinion I think it’s a fantastic model and again shows Bachman still have the capabilities to produce a brilliant product like they did with their new class 47, I would like to get a new 37 one day as the only one I have is an old Lima one in mainline livery that has been detailed up but a whole new class 37 would be very nice, if I do get a new one I may go for large logo because on this version it looks fantastic Bachman has also done a better job with the chains from the looks of it because another video I watched on this new 37 states that the attachment to the loco itself is metal and not plastic like accurascale did on their Deltic which I had issues with mine and decided to just glue the attachments to the body.

[@mccarronfamily]

The accurascale 37 chains are bogie to chassis and entirely metal

[@davidstrains4910]

@@mccarronfamily I have heard that the chain attachments on your 37 are metal from other sources however I was talking about the deltic which I unfortunately had issues with but since gluing the attachments to the body they have been much better and I’m happy with my deltic now.

[@marksinthehouse1968]

Nice one Dave ,it must be there 5 attempt of getting the 37 right ,I’m happy with the ones I have ,but we need new models like a good class 81 for eg or a really nice overhead EMU imagine the price though ,all the best mate ,Mark 👍🏻

[@DeanPark]

Maybe they need a 6th attempt? Lol

[@marksinthehouse1968]

@@DeanPark I’ve pre ordered Mary queen of Scot’s ,blimey I’ll Never be rich hehe

[@2bruced]

I noticed in the video that the high intensity headlight wasn’t working is this on a separate function if not then that’s poor by Bachman

[@davidstrains4910]

Most likely a separate function, I think in bachmanns launch video for this model they showed the lights are separate functions.

[@Simon-Davis]

Its a separate function. My gripe with it is that you can't run with the markers off but high intensity light on, and that the marker and tail lights are WAY too bright as usual.

[@tonyrobinson362]

Today 37s sound £239 with fans £259 at Monks Yorks.

[@tonyrobinson362]

Change the horn cvs alot better take care.

[@tracya4087]

the price , come on bachmann

[@markjackson8789]

I wont be buying any as the costs are getting absolutely ridiculous especially by Bachmann and Hornby. The shipping companies have taken us all for a ride since the two evergreen groundings. I am broke now and I blame all these companies greed. I hope people do the same and leave them on the shelves.

[@markjackson8789]

Ive also told Gaugemaster Im not buying the 86's due to high cost £235 for non sound disgusting!

[@DeanPark]

The deluxe models are certainly not disappearing off the pre order lists of the big retailers as quickly as they did with previous deluxe class 47. I think the bubble might be about to burst and models will indeed be sitting on shelves of retailers for a lot longer than they once did. I have a massive list of pre orders about to be released and I’m not going to be able to justify paying all that money out at once. Tough times ahead for both modellers and the manufacturers. I hope smaller independent retailers can weather the storm.

[@northamptonwest9077]

Jebus. That sounds terrible.

[@WayneAtkinson89]

Was just thinking the same

[@DeanPark]

The iPhone speaker might not help, but yes I’ve sounded better myself.

[@paulypyro]

shame about the niggly things like snowploughs and handrails, it spoils a good looking model but nonetheless inexplicable given that Accurascales 37s seem to have been done properly

[@DeanPark]

Will be interesting to compare the two.