Did Rapido Fix Their Quality Issues? | New Metropolitan Class E | Unboxing & Review

[@dylanleonard4982]

I’m happy to report that I received mine today in the US via Rails of Sheffield with none of the problems that yours exhibits. I’m quite impressed with the model!

[@GeoffArnold1]

My example (in the 2013-2020 livery) arrived yesterday here in the US. Zero quality issues. Absolutely gorgeous.

[@philiplimerick2794]

I received mine a couple of days ago from Rails of Sheffield. After I watched your video I had a real good look at mine. I used a magnifier. I Found the smoke box dart at a slight angle. Apart from that, it is really top class. No glue marks at all anywhere. Chimney is perfect. The finish is about as good as it could be.

[@ianroper1960]

Many many years ago I was a guard at Quanto Railway Centre. One of my trainee days coincided with the first run of met no 1 after it's rebuild. In fact I took it out on its first run. I've bought three of these (meant to get two but I'm getting old and a bit forgetful) all three are perfect. I was so hoping your review would classify it as perfect too. I do really think you have been unlucky!. Just looking at the model brings back very happy memories, including riding the footplate at the end of a working day. Thanks for all your videos I find them both honest and informative.

[@ThePaintedArmy-m3j]

Im pleased to say that my version that arrived yesterday from rails of Sheffield and has none of the issues you report, paint and livery is perfect and she runs perfectly. Super happy

[@kevfrombutterley]

We had Met 1 at Butterley for a while after 73129 came out of traffic in 2016. It's a really nice machine in real life. 🥰

[@Sam_loves_trains]

Happy to see a model of the loco I have seen multiple times from my time as a mamber of the partnership club at the Buckinghamshire railway centre! Awesome video sam keep it up!!!!

[@ChrisGBusby]

As soon as you opened the clamshell that chimney stood out. If I had purchased it and didn't need to go further for a review, I would have stopped there, boxed it up again and sent it back. There is NO excuse for something that obvious to get through any kind of quality control, so we have to assume Rapido don't do any.

[@SamsTrains]

Yeah you’re right - not exactly subtle issue was it? Not impressed with it!

[@mikeking2539]

Yes the chimney was the first thing I noticed as well. So you wonder what else is wrong with them! I do tend to scroll forwards on Sam's reviews now to see the scores given, and seeing only 2 stars for quality puts me right off a model. Saves money that I can spend on something else!

[@Tug5Warrior]

I'm Very Worried about their Alfred and Judy 0-4-0STs coming out, with quality like this on Other Models.

[@MrMattMWH]

I just can't look at it running along, Is it the worst QC yet?

[@philkeller4170]

Sigh, yet another person who doesn’t understand how quality control works…. For reference, NOBODY be they manufactures of cars, washing, machines, computers, furniture or just about any consumer product you chose to mention subjects each and every item to a through inspection before it leaves the factory gates (particularly if it’s made halfway round the world from their HQ) let alone unpacks every item when it arrives in the UK before meticulously repackaging it for dispatch to the consumer. Modern quality control practices (which are recognised as ‘best practice’ throughout the business world) relies on the factory checking a small sample of what gets produced (this should not be confused with functional testing of sub-assemblies - in this case the assembled and wired up chassis to check it moves under power) and potentially inspecting a small sample of the product when it arrives in the UK Furthermore doing a quality control check takes time and also increases the risk of damage (the more something is handled the grater the chance of something being damaged). It’s also costly as it takes people away from their core jobs or requires extra personnel to be employed - so what most organisations do is use the threat of financial measures such as withholding part of the payment or threatening to take business elsewhere if the sampling shows up a high level of defects. This method of encouraging factories to lower the level of defects is attractive to business types as it means the manufacturer doesn’t incur any extra costs - costs which would have to be passed on to the consumer through higher prices, but it can fall down when the factory is, how shall I put it, not that bothered about any sanctions the manufacturer can Weald or where the contracts which have been drawn up between parties do not contain the necessary ability to enact certain penalties. Naturally none of this justifies defects coming through - but it’s about time people realised that the notion that every single model should be checked in great detail is totally at odds with what is affordable, feasible or accepted global business practices.

[@minos5548]

Hi Sam ,I have just bought 2 x L 48 examples of these, 1 for me and 1 for brother in law. Both I can truly say are better quality than your examples not having wonky chummily and I cant spot any excess glue marks. My only complaint is the red fire box glow, its quite bright but lights at very low speed. One thing you did not mention was the amps that it pulls, on both of the samples I got there was so small amps registered that I had to check amp meter was working, also the crawl and running was as you showed and both run very quietly. This is the first model you have reviewed that I have bought as usually buy second hand thank you for your videos and your skills john

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks a lot for sharing - yes I have had other comments from people reporting no problems - seems like there are good examples which is good news! If they're drawing low amps, that's excellent - that suggests an efficient motor that should last a long time - must have nice meaty windings! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@michaelgoodwin6565]

I have the L44 version, and have not (yet) found the same quality problems . Looks like you've got a 'Friday afternoon' example. As for the weight distribution, I used to drive the loco back in the late 80s,early 90s, and she always seemed rather light on her feet. Better traction bunker first, due to weight transferrance. At about 54 tons gross the load was less than some other locos I drove. I am very happy with mine. I loved the bogie pickups, which kept the coupled wheels turning smoothly when I lifted the front off the rolling road .

[@AlanR038]

Great video Sam, I must say in Rapido's defence, the E class that I pre-ordered arrived a couple of days ago and going over it I must say that there are no wonky parts or glue marks that I can see. I ordered the London Transport L44 model with DCC sound, it is a great runner with no problems.

[@deviousbadger]

My model of No. 1 (in the same livery as the one reviewed) is also fine, no build issues or glue marks. Sam seems to have the worst luck when he buys new tooled locos, maybe he is cursed to get the locomotive lemons in every batch!

[@davidford85]

That was my thought as well, the examples I've received (albeit in the other liveries) are all fine. I'm just not sure whether it's Sam's luck that's bad, or Rapido's 🤣

[@deviousbadger]

@davidford85 I think it's Sam getting all the bad luck. If there's a bad one in the batch he seems to get it, even when a model is mostly bad (like the new Black 5 or the 15xx) he seems to receive the worst of the bad bunch...

[@dexecuter18]

@@davidford85 going to be honest. More it goes on, more it feeds into the suspicion he mangles the bodies trying to get into the mechanism.

[@modelrailfan37]

@@dexecuter18ummm no. And you need to remove the body to get at the mechanism anyways. Plus he films detail before performance, then running in, then mechanism, the haulage. Also how would that cause glue marks?

[@dexecuter18]

@@modelrailfan37 parts falling off then being reglued on. Just seems unusual. Rapido US does not glue on parts, they are usually press fit.

[@joshslater2426]

Shame about the crooked chimney; that must be worth a refund. At the very least, it’s a lovely looking model with a lot of detail, and I’d love to see Rapido try and model some more dark red pre-grouping tank engines (the Furness Railway and North Staffordshire Railway are a goldmine for potential modelling).

[@philkeller4170]

My model arrived earlier this week and didn’t have anything noticeably wrong with it. Granted that is obviously not the case with everyone - and if I looked hard enough I could probably find a few minor issues as statistically speaking Sam is right to say that a large number of quality issues on one model is unlikely to be a one off.

[@peters1127]

I like your comment "If I look hard enough" That is true for so many things.

[@Charliejashworth]

Fantastic review! And Perfect timing to tune into a new Sam train vid after I met you last weekend at the Awdry Extravaganza 4! And ,I’ve been thinking too while watching how can you make a 0-4-4 in tomy style 🤔 it’s also my cup of tea ☕️

[@RobA500]

I have the same version of the model, I’ve not noticed any of the issues you have the only minor one is the cab doorway front handrails are a bit warped because they are plastic as are the boiler side rails but those are at least straight.

[@jackstrains4468]

The colour and livery of this loco is beautiful! Great review as always sam

[@joshslater2426]

Pre-grouping liveries are always a visual treat, especially in model form. I’d love to get my hands on the Bachman 1P or G5 in their original colours.

[@kimcason8764]

Great Review Sam as Always. But OMG, how Pissed was the Guy/Gal who fitted that Chimney. I would have Thrown that Back in the Box & Sent it back instantly..! The Loco looks nice, Great Colour, but sadly, all those Little issues and that Smoke Stack. 'Once Seen can Not be Unseen..!' And this from Rapido, if it came from Hornby. I could understand, even if I didn't like it..! I Guess it was Built on the Last Day of the Working Week, after 6 days of 12hour Shifts. And the Poor Bugger was using Tooth Picks to keep his/her Eyelids Open..! Great Review as Always Sam well done. Please keep doing what you do..! You Save a lot of People ( like me ) who save & spend their Dollars up for these things..! Thanks for Taking One for us all out here. So we don't waste or $$$ or £££'s Well Done Young Sir..! Cheers to All from the Land Downunder..! 😎🦘😎🦘😎

[@SamsTrains]

Thank you very much! Yep - that's 2/2 new Rapido locos with a wonky chimney now - can't be unseen indeed! Otherwise lovely though! Thanks a lot for your kind words, Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@andrewlikestrains]

This looks like a decent model, it reminds me a lot of the Victorian Railways Suburban Tank Engine, those were 2-4-2's and 0-6-2's though and I believe they only had green and black liveries. Nice coverage on the model Sam. Edit: The chimney really is noticeable, even in the thumbnail.

[@RonCooper-nl4pn]

Hi Sam, even after your review of the 1500 class I still purchased one and I found no problems or issues with the model at all. I think that you must be very unlucky but then you do purchase a great variety and quantity of them. I see from the comments that many people have purchased the E Class and not found any problems, but I agree with you that quality control is an issue that should be addressed. A brilliant review Sam so keep up the good work. Regards from Ron 🚴🏽‍♀️🚂✔️😃👍🚂

[@sbee9373]

Glad to say that my one's funnel was not wonky! Nice review Sam, thanks.

[@busterdragon1]

Hi Sam, I got the same one as yourself and for the most part its fine. the Crest and the running plate are the same as yours though. Thanks for the review as always. 😊

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks a lot for sharing - yeah pity about the running plate, and the crest is down to the simplified way it's printed - overall lovely though! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@johnlunnun9769]

That chimney is definitely leaning forward! Inexcusable!

[@timbervalleyproductions]

Great vid Sam, and a lovely looking loco too!

[@peteraustin3918]

I have 2 examples in different liveries and they're both perfect. It seems odd that at time of writing everyone else posting pictures on social media seems to have had good experiences with the finish of their models.

[@blatherskite9601]

Lovely paint job! What a pity about the poor quality - especially the wonky funnel.

[@cirseltoo]

Given how closely this follows behind the 15xx any feedback will only have arrived at the factory AFTER the models are mostly assembled.

[@juliansadler6263]

Sam The Last Steam Train on the Underground was in 1971 and was hauled by a ex-WR 0-6-0PT. I was at the Open Day at Neasden Depot and saw it.

[@ianjeffery6744]

Yes, I was there, too!

[@jonny_vdv]

that finish and colour are gorgeous

[@johnstephens649]

Enjoyed the review and went to re-look at my L44. Pleased to say I have none of the build issues you have on yours Sam so continuing to really enjoy this delightful loco! Concur with everything else you say, particularly about the balance over driving wheels but this is not affecting the running. She does struggle a bit on 2nd radius curves with four Dapol Toplight coaches but they are quite heavy coaches on tight bends. I run DC so missing the flickering firebox and have to agree that an orange rather than red light would have been better. Otherwise a great and smooth runner.

[@richardsimmons1331]

My LT No. 44 arrived from Rails this morning. Beautiful model, no defects. They must pick you to receive the Friday afternoon jobs, Sam! Pulls a LT engineering train easily, which is what I want it for. Wish I'd noticed the OLE warning flashes before I ordered as I want to run it in 1946 and the 1960s. Seems a shame to weather such a lovely livery but it may be necessary to hide the flash.

[@paolomargini7904]

Moving forward by 1.5 cm the DCC socket they could have fitted a flywheel, so also adding weight upon the driving wheels.

[@catinarage5538]

21:50 Michael Caine: 'ang on lads, I've got a great idea.

[@FutureGPTranscoDriver]

I have noticed that Rapido tends to have the same problem across the pond here in the United States. While they do make stunning models of Locomotives and Rolling Stock, quality control is an issue here too. Thankfully it is very easy to communicate with Rapido and get the problems resolved which is why I am happy to buy Rapido products.

[@hotel_alpha_321neo]

The E Class is probably my favorite tank engine. Would have been interesting if they had fitted the model with a condensing apparatus.

[@jonathanpan6110]

First thing I noticed was crooked chimney

[@SamsTrains]

Haha yeah!

[@alanwagstaff16]

Yeah me too stood out a mile. If that was me I would have sent it back .

[@kenh3344]

Maybe they will supply a crooked brush , to clean the chimney ? 😮

[@attuslebeard5133]

I am interested in 3 of Rapido's forthcoming locos (Jones Goods, Manning Wardle and S160) but I am 'keeping my powder dry' until they start to live up to their claim to be 'a high end manufacturer.' Another great review Sam thank you

[@star86703]

Wow the paintwork on this model look incredible 👍😎😊🤩

[@jamesdunloptrains]

Awesome video today Sam such a shame about the quality you should do a video showing how to fix the problems

[@SomeGuynamedOtto]

lovely video i love the metropolitan engines and their liveries andthanks for making this video, And also i recently started purchasing things for a layout to put on my second desk (1 hour after uploading)

[@SamsTrains]

haha fantastic to hear that - I love the idea of the second desk layout! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@munamart1852]

I've never been so early! Love the color of the loco. Looks like the E2 without the extended side tanks and a 14xx combined. Plus the extra trailing wheel. Great vid

[@johnarmstrong3782]

Actually the colour is off a bit. Too brown. But to be fair this is an as preserved example.

[@williamsquires3070]

Hi Sam. Given that you noticed the weight seems to be e centered between the drivers and the bogie, you should try running it counterclockwise around the layout to make sure it doesn’t have a problem going down the hill with a load of coaches (or wagons.) 😊

[@kclassproductions]

I also love the look of 2-4-2 tank engines. Hopefully Rapido can solve their quality issues soon.

[@AllensTrains]

That wonky chimney makes this loco look a good addition to the Sam's Trains Steam Punk Collection! A possible explanation is the model was subjected to a high temperature during transit. I can't imagine why the factory would have fitted the chimney like this. If you want a loco in your collection that's not Hornby or Bachmann, then this quite unusual livery will make a good addition to the fleet. Thanks for your efforts in making all these videos. It is such a lot of work, I know!

[@thisisaduck]

The geared wheels would reduce stress on the rods which could increase the working lifespan of the model.

[@yvoheaton6402]

Sam, I have just purchased a Rapido Liverpool & Manchester Lion. Beautiful and amazing in all respects. However, I have coupled it with some Hornby carriages/trucks of the same era. What a disaster! The coupling from Hornby is a tiny piece of plastic meant to resemble a chain. It is minute. Almost impossible to connect especially for this 70 year old whose eyes are not what they were. If you or anyone else has an idea about how I could actually connect them together using an alternative means then please advise and before I tear my hair out. PS: Love the channel. Keep up the great work!

[@johnclapperton5556]

I was born in england ( steam was still in use ) but came to Canada when I was five and I seem to remember passenger trains except main line were mot very long, about 6 to 19 coaches long. Even godds trains were not by Canadian standards huge. so this loco seems reasonably capable.

[@johnclapperton5556]

six to 10 coaches, sorry.

[@SamsTrains]

Yeah absolutely - on a reasonably flat layout, this should be able to do prototypical loads!

[@NWRJ_WStudios]

I really love this model Sam, I'll be getting one of these for sure. Although I'm probably going to wait a while until the price comes down a little. Cheers Jasper & Willow

[@rogerevans425]

Received mine today, it's the other Met 1 livery. I really think you are unlucky with the Rapido models you get to test, because the 15xx I bought had only one, almost undetectable, spot of glue, and Met E is as perfect as any model I've ever purchased. I've also seen a few more examples at local model railway club, and all were more than acceptable (one had a minor glue drip that could be seen when examined very closely) As for pulling power - remember that the most they ever pulled were 7 coach trains

[@azuma892]

That funnel looks very wonky in the thumbnail, think I'll give this one a miss. Rapido really should up their game. There's no room for shoddy quality in this day and age, unless they are aiming to compete with Heljan! 😅

[@formidable38]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 Thats a low bar, lets be honest.😂

[@sullivanrachael]

Once you’ve seen that chimney - you can’t unsee it. That is awful. It’s a shame the Chinese assemblers cannot maintain the standard of work befitting the overall design. It is a beautiful thing, spoilt by hurried / careless assembly.

[@AceNX]

Noticed it in the thumbnail, and it looks wrong the whole video. Kinda gross

[@reeheehee9615]

​@sullivanrachael agreed its really jarring how distracting that and the safety valves are. Shame coz it looks gorgeous was looking forward to this.

[@harold6442]

They’re much better than Hornby or Bachmann. Cheaper too so not much room for complaints

[@davidhall5868]

The odd one out is the N2 because it’s a 0-6-2 locomotive, plus great review Sam’s trains

[@anthonywillis5249]

I am awaiting the Jones Goods from Rapido, let’s hope they have definitely improved these issues by then.

[@NWRJ_WStudios]

I'm really surprised about the quality issues Sam, hopefully Rapido will fix it. Cheers Jasper & Willow

[@darreno9874]

I don't know where Rapido have their locos built but if it's in one of oriental countries there is a problem with not offending anyone, I worked for a company that had items made in Taiwan and it took years of complaining and rejecting shoddy work and eventually they made improvements. It's up to Rapido to complain and refuse to pay for poor quailty work, or bring it back in house. Great looking loco and great review. God bless you both

[@SamsTrains]

Yeah that's right - though it isn't Rapido's fault directly, I would have been checking every one after the fiasco with the 15xx! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@kenh3344]

I was told never trust anyone you can blindfold with dental floss. ? Some stuff have come my way that some parts have been put on backwards. Or back to front .

[@philkeller4170]

@@SamsTrains And how much time / cost do you think that would take? Rapido are a small company with a small workforce and taking one of those people away from the day job would be hugely problematic. If you recruit addition temporary labour then that adds to the wage bill and you wouldn’t want just anyone to come and do it in case they damage the product while checking. Then there is the little matter of being ultra careful opening every box, inspecting the contents, then putting it back leaving no trace of said inspection. Of course if you mean have someone inspect every loco as it comes off the production line then you can add in plane ticket, hotel costs and the acceptance of the factory to have such an inspection take place. These sorts of problems are why virtually no organisation in the world be they making cars, refrigerators, light fittings, ceramics, etc goes round checking 100% of their products…. No, the reality is that inspection of every model is IMPOSSIBLE to achieve for financial and logistical issues. If Rapido need to take action over poor quality then it will have to be addressed by contractural means like dumping poorly performing factories or having financial clawbacks / delayed payment schemes built into the contracts with factories allowing them to be punished for poor quality products. Obviously the problem with contractural solutions is that they take time to put in place - for example (and I emphasise it should not be taken in any way to be based in fact) if a factory was given a contract to make 3 models and their aren’t enough provisions in the contract to address / let it be terminated in the event of quality issues then Rapido may be unable to take any meaningful action until the contract has run its course.

[@mavikchen10]

Hi there, real shame on the quality issues, I've got the L44 version and it is perfect, everything fitted straight and no glue I'm very glad to say, the dodgy chimney alone on yours deserves a replacement I rekon, get a gooden!

[@holy_Moley317]

A beautiful locomotive. The issues definitely worry me as I’m eyeballing the S160 used for the GWR. I’m not too worried about the decoration. It’s on par with steam locos over here in the States with minimal graphics for the liveries. I’ve got faith they won’t bodge the numbers and lettering on them, but here’s to hoping they get everything sorted before then

[@DJ_K666]

Hi Sam. I definitely think the build quality thing is a factory issue. Ig looks like the locos are being thrown together and then thrown out of the factory door, so there's someone on the production line (probably more than one) who's going for quantity rather than quality. Regarding the dome, have you tried rub 'n' buff? Its something I saw Iron Horse Railways use so maybe asking him might be eorth actry. You only need an absolutely minimal amount, but it looks awesome. Plus, the more you polish it the better it looks. On reflection, I'd probably buy one of these despite the issues.

[@RandomWombleP]

In terms of value for money one thing which may well have impacted the price is the claim it is an officially licensed TFL product. I have no insight into what the licensing fee would be but I would not be surprised if it ends up putting £10-20 on the final cost. For most models obviously this does not apply but there are some where it will and for those it may be worth factoring/highlighting when discussing pricing.

[@oo0spartanized0oo]

Hey Sam! Lovely video but I had a question. I was looking back on your J15 video and forgot how incredibly it ran. Aside from the Andrew Barclay 0-4-0, can you think of any locomotives that ran THAT smoothly. As far as I can tell, the J15 is undefeated.

[@toucan221]

AH just what I was waiting for- A locomotive with the Big wheels at the front, I can't see these working properly but lets see. but I it don't mind being proved wrong.

[@mrbigbadtrev]

My Met Tank certainly better finished. Everything straight, no glue marks but the running plate may be very slightly out but not obvious.

[@NextEevolution]

I'm an absolute sucker for 4 wheel driven tank engines like the GWR 14XX and L&Y Class 5/6. And I really want one of these models, especially one with red coupling rods. However, I've gotten two Rapido 15XX's second hand, one has massive glue blobs, both buffers fallen off since the glue failed and even chipped paint, and the other waddles. Both are spectacular runners and I still very much like them. But as someone who would have to pay shipping from the UK to the US for this model, I would very much come away underwhelmed if the quality wasn't spot on, especially if I paid full price. I wish they got their quality on point like their 16XX Class, a model I very much missed out on.

[@deviousbadger]

@@NextEevolution plenty of 16xx models still available, albeit they're a little pricey.

[@ShukakuTheCrazy1]

It looked so lovely when you were taking it out of the packaging. Then again that could've been the glorious looking paintwork

[@SamsTrains]

The paintjob certainly is glorious! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@ShukakuTheCrazy1]

@@SamsTrains of the quality issues the only one I noticed or was bothered by was the chimney. Fix that and I'd honestly rank it higher.

[@speleokeir]

Another very helpful review Sam. Especially since I don't have any Rapido models. It mostly seems very positive except for the quality of assembly. As you say the chimney shouldn't be to hard to rectify yourself, but you shouldn't have to. I did think l about this one as the livery is gorgeous, but gave it a miss due to limited budget and the fact it's a bit of a stand alone so doesn't quite fit with my layout and lack of appropriate rolling stock to go with it. Instead I've gone for the upcoming SECR O1. Both the SECR green and 'What if' Bluebell livery look stunning. The Jones Goods are also tempting and again have some lovely liveries, however I didn't want to order TWO locos from a manufacturer I've no experience with. If I'm happy with the O1 and they're still available I might go for one, if funds allow.

[@SamsTrains]

Yeah absolutely - all positive except for the assembly. It's one of the loveliest liveries available I think. Really looking forward to the Jones Goods! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@minnesotarailfan12]

I find it so funny how Rapido is seen in the UK because in the US and Canada they are very highly regarded and seen as top of the line.

[@russellbenton2987]

Nice looking loco. That chimney is pretty obviously not sitting correctly and would drive me mad . Got a Jones Goods on order which will be my first Rapido loco . Hopefully the build quality will be better .

[@Jetthehawk1994]

1763 is the odd one out. That loco is an 0-6-2, the others are 0-4-4s.

[@davidrobinson8700]

Thanks for this Sam. I'm disappointed that there are issues with things like the funnel & glue marks. I'm keen on getting one though. I hope it'll do better than my Hornby M7.

[@danprice7973]

I know the Bachmann G5 is more expensive but it is just the best loco that I own. Its such a great model

[@christopherbellamy639]

I hope Bachmann does the GNR G5 and G1, G2 back tanks as they have done the GER G5

[@madduckuk]

Hi Sam, Ignoring all the other QC issues the funnel alone would be an instant return for me. If you really think you can fix it then good luck to you!

[@michaelwhiles5282]

Smooth - fingers crossed for this one !

[@juliannaudimanche1094]

Hello again from Malta! Just a random question here, what's your favourite class of locomotive? Mine is the southern railway Q1 class

[@thomasfrancis5747]

Rapido could do with learning a bit about Poka Yoke from the automotive world and also design their subcomponent tolerances so they can't be fitted at the wrong angle.

[@SDD3204]

Is the front right offside driver true? Just lining showing? Even though it clearly runs well, suggest you test this loco on a piece of glass/mirror to be sure Sam? Initially I thought you were being a bit hard on Rapido. Valid criticism on detail/assembly quality, but did they deserve to be double nixed so much on both quality and price?

[@PlatformONE]

You said in the video that it's above the Kernow Rail Motor, not below it. But didn’t you rate that brand the best for last year?

[@mikeyratcliff3400]

Starting to everso slightly fret about my pre ordered O1... oh well just means that a little bit of modelling ( remember that?!) In order to get it up to spec, hopefully!

[@dogyslime9954]

The wonky funnel makes it look unique

[@davidsheriff8989]

Stylish looking and runs well.....Bachmann for me always good on presentation...

[@TalonAvalon]

YES!! I've been waiting for this one! A grade C because the person who put the model together didn't do that well of a job? Ya know what, given the fact that everything else was rated 5 stars, I'll take it, grabbing one asap.

[@SamsTrains]

Yep - if you like it, I'd recommend it... worst case scenario you might have to exchange it if there are quality problems... it's worth it! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@David_Mattox]

36:32 Standout is the Gresley N2 0-6-2. Rather proud to notice that as an LNER fan. That being said, this low quality has me concerned about Rapido’s upcoming releases, the Stirling Single and H/Y7 specifically. I can only hope that any models I get will turn out alright…

[@speleokeir]

Yes I've an O1 on order and was looking at the Jones Goods. However as I don't have any Rapido models I just went for the O1 as I wanted to see that first and see what I think of it, before committing to another model.

[@johnarmstrong3782]

Usually I agree with you but the build quality on my example is excellent. Also I think they have managed to get the weight balance about right. What I don't like is the shiny smoke box and cab roof.

[@SamsTrains]

Glad to hear your example was better - good news! Yeah nothing wrong with the way this runs at all, brilliant runner!

[@exarkun42]

Your odd one out is the N2, an 0-6-2 Let's hope their quality improves, because they have a few models on the docket that I am excited for. Particularly the Bagnall tanks and the BR class 04.

[@SamsTrains]

Very well spotted! I hope so too - fundamentally their products are awesome… they just need to be presented as such!

[@Jimyjames73]

A Lovely Loco Sam - Thanks for sharing 🤔🚂🚂🚂

[@neilharbott8394]

Probably suitable for a set of GWR toplights!

[@Antluvstrains]

Where did Rapido’s quality go? We were just talking about them in the top 5 best models of 2023.

[@caw25sha]

The chimney is straight but the rest of the loco is wonkey 🤪

[@charlescarmichael1]

Having spoken to Rapido, due to some very incorrectly applied running plate steps 😞, I actually got through to the guy who developed the model, apparently the running plate is accurately modelled as not being straight, and you can see this in some of the footage from the LU150 events. This doesn’t excuse the shoddy workmanship of the model in some cases though.

[@Trainspotter_1015]

Ive got mine the front spectical fell out and the whistle is 2mm to the left on a wonk but in my honest opinion i love it and to be honest its the luck of the draw with how good the quality nonetheless for a £175 modle you would not expect fults but nothing is ever perfect

[@roberthocking9138]

A shame it has so many assembly issues, it’s one of the most beautiful locos I have ever seen and seems to have a solid mechanism.

[@dannyvanstraelen3273]

Hi Sam, I also ordered one, still have to pick it up with relatives in the UK. Really been looking forward to this model, as I'm building a part of the MR., I do hope mine doesn't have the issue with the chimney of Pisa. What a disappointment that is from Rapido, as I have a few loco's from them and they all look perfect. It's always possible one slipped under the radar of quality control, in that case we have to call you unlucky Sam😜. Curious to hear what other buyers have to say on the finish of their model? As for the rest it really looks fine, but that chimney is a real scar in the face, any possibility to correct it without sending back? Cheers, Danny

[@malcolmmyatt9092]

Another test to consider Sam is will it climb and descend a 1 in 36 incline without jerking its way particularly downwards. This was a major issue with my 15XX from Rapido, I returned it and got it back with the same issues also other reviewer said the same. So if testing anything from Rapido an incline test would also provide potential problems for viewers. I am too afraid to part with so much money for anything from Rapido.

[@KRSBU]

Hi Sam, after watching your video I double checked my Met No 1 2013-20 catalogue no 909004. I couldn’t fault it in any way, so it sadly looks like you’ve again been unlucky. ☹️

[@Alpha-oo8]

I do like rapido, they seem like a fun bunch of guys and they make models based on interesting prototypes. But they really need to get their game together on the quality front. Not only is their build quality hit and miss, multiple products they’ve had to recall. I don’t think there’s any malice here (I’m being optimistic) and I’m rooting for them. Which is why I’d love to see them do better, because they do make good stuff

[@ManiaChat83]

Class E are wonderful engines but I agree that the quality isnt the best on this Class E although they've should've made a better paint job on ich side of the engine. But i do like alot the purple color of the class e wich makes the fact that it is amazing and that it makes it useful. Still a Nice video though Sam. Continue that hard work!👍

[@damianinCanadaTT-OO]

Two questions. Are the problems you are seeing an inherent problem or one offs? Would a company have time to improve quality in the timeframe between your last review and this loco being manufactured?

[@peters1127]

Well said.

[@gc7820]

That chimney looks like the leaning tower of pisa! Preordered Omaha (the USATC) after seeing the real one on the Paignton & Dartmouth Railway earlier this summer and now I’m very concerned. Oh well I sent back a 1501 and then it’s replacement as they were both crap so should’ve learned my lesson.

[@lonelysignalbox]

Hey Sam. I ordered mine and it came yesterday with the paint scrapped off by the front left buffer. I can see a part of the black diecast molding still. I contacted rapido and they just brushed me off to their warranty team. I live in the USA so I have no idea how this will go. I’ve got over 80 locos and never had this problem. Hopefully they’ll fix this. I’m so frustrated waited 10 months for this model

[@philkeller4170]

But surely the warranty team is EXACTLY who you need to be speaking to! You have a model with a defect - and if the defect is covered by the warenty then it’s the Warenty department you need to be speaking to. Obviously I am not familiar with the training rules in the USA but assuming it’s similar to the UK then Rapido will be obliged to take the loco back (postage at their expense) and either send a replacement or refund. Yes it’s frustrating to have this happen after a 10 month wait - but Rapido are a small UK company with only a handful of staff, not a global cooperation with offices full of customer service personnel or sophisticated chatbots which can offer 24/7 assistance. Before venting your frustration on here how about giving them a chance to sort things out first.

[@lonelysignalbox]

@@philkeller4170 I did and I’ve been waiting for an answer and I can vent what I want. I’ve had to send it back. Are u an incognito rapido employee??

[@lonelysignalbox]

@@philkeller4170 I can vent whatever I want bro. I don’t need u to send me an essay to tell u this model was a massive disappointment. Rapido missed the bar after all the hype and I’m sure my model and Sam’s aren’t the only ones with issues

[@thomashambly3718]

That funnel is certainly quite wonky, but the rest looks lovely and I don't think I'd notice any of the other issues while its running on a layout

[@stevenhaneklaus8087]

Just extra traction, looks like a good loco. Thought about getting some European models to add to the collection

[@x-tareverything]

Rapido better make some changes. Its clear they have cut corners on the factory front. And I've got an E1 on order from them and it cost an arm and a leg, if it arrives and I've got to send it back, especially after a long wait since preorder deadline. I'm going to be furious

[@SamsTrains]

Yep - two for two messy models now, and they’re no more complex than the other perfect locos I’ve reviewed recently!

[@nathanbowers6364]

I've got three Isle Of Wight ones on order, I'm now concerned.....

[@x-tareverything]

@nathanbowers6364 Yes I went into ordering it having heard rapido was on par with accurascale bar the price. Obviously not. I still have hope. I don't mind glue stains they can be fixed and arnt very obvious. But a wonky chimney is appalling

[@nathanbowers6364]

@@x-tareverything I only expect glue marks on the model when my renaming locos is off target!