Have Accurascale's Standards Slipped? | New Class 31 | Unboxing & Review

[@accurascaleuk1427]

Hi Folks, It looks like a Friday afternoon job has slipped through the net, which is all on us! With around 10,000 Class 31s made, some may slip through the QC checks. Any issues on new or previously purchased Accurascale items, they're fully covered by warranty, just message AccuraCare Support. The A1A A1A bogie setup is by design, matching the prototype. 😅 Otherwise keep up the good work! 😊

[@class66]

10,000! Wow.. At least 5 of them are at church Street models waiting for me😂

[@DualorProductions]

Props to AS for posting a direct reply to the review to address the faults, not at lot of companies have the balls to do that, these days. *Cough* Apple

[@accurascaleuk1427]

​@DualorProductions we won't always get it right, but we will strive to make it right! 😊

[@robmckenzie2538]

Thanks for your contribution, accurascaleuk. We all have the occasional Friday afternoon! I missed your Deltic first time round but ordered a unit from your announced second run. Can you tell us when it will be available, please?

[@mfcpug]

Waiting on my green 31 coming. Looking forward to it 👍🏻

[@callumk5]

Sam, the class 31 was an A1A bogie arrangement. The centre axle wasn’t driven on the prototype. The model is accurate to the real thing.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks for sharing! I don’t think it’s really a matter of realism though - you can’t tell which wheels are driven and which aren’t… it’s more about getting the most you can out of a loco, and for me that means all wheel drive! I believe Bachmann’s is all wheel drive!

[@andrewcalladine2507]

Doesn't leaving the centre axle floating mean it's also more tolerant with imperfect track, such as track laid on carpet?

[@vikingsmb]

@@SamsTrains it isnt as class 31's the middle wheels are unpowered

[@PerProProductions]

@@SamsTrains accurascales motto is realistic models - realistic prices not All driven wheels - Trashy Prices

[@modelrailfan37]

@@PerProProductions yes but is it helps to have all wheels driven on the model, then why wouldn't you not include that feature, it's not visibly noticeable when all wheels are driven, but it help[s with pulling power.

[@Decrepit_biker]

1. The DCC hatch looks like a hatch because in reality on the prototype its a hatch. IMHO a great choice of location for gaining access.... having seen a real class 31 from above in the flesh it actually makes the hatch look more like the real thing. Protypically they are very pronounced. 2. The centre wheels are undriven and compensated for very good reasons, both protypical and practicality of modeling..... as I'm sure many others have pointed out. 3. The Hydrostatic fans on the 31s go like the clappers on the real thing. I think they could have slowed the one on the model a little though.

[@philbartlett7898]

The class 31 was designed with a shaft from the free end of the engine through bevel gears to spin the radiator fan. In the early 1980s BR recognised this similar arrangement to class 37 resulted in over cooling. BR fitted magnetic clutches to the 37e and some of the 31s, so the fan shaft would only spin when the coolant required it.

[@Decrepit_biker]

Very true ​@@philbartlett7898 as far as I know the Hydrostatic coupling was part of the fan, similar to older cars and even relatively modern BMWs, where the fan Is driven from the front of the crankshaft. The bevel gears on the 31 would be for turning the motion through 90°. I haven't worked on a 31 but I think that's how it worked. I'm happy to be corrected though.

[@bendurrant3886]

Many people have mentioned the fact that the actual class 31s had an A1A wheel arrangement and this is prototypical, however I would also like to mention how having an undriven centre axle allows for vertical curves in layouts, Charlie at Chadwick covered this on his video of the class 37, and he makes very good points, I think floating centre axles should be a feature on more models, especially accurascales' as they already supply ample traction, the class 31 is a perfect example, it is far lighter than previous models yet still has power for 40 coaches on level track. I do agree there were several other points that were concerning, but the bogies are perfectly fine in my humble opinion.

[@lynnmorton7544]

Yes, you're spot on

[@sgkingly8392]

It's been a while since 00 gauge diesel and electric locos have been limited by traction, it's mostly torque limiting but even then they can haul more than enough

[@mfcpug]

Bachmann and Heljan bo-bos are the strongest performers on my layout. Better than the same manufacturer’s co-cos. More weight per axle

[@tonyfearn2452]

well ,if "Charlie at Chadwick " (the font of ALL knowledge !!) says its right ,then it MUST be right !! 🤔😏🤔😏

[@bendurrant3886]

@@tonyfearn2452 hi tony, just making an observation, that's all, but based on your reply about the deltics, you seem to have something against them?

[@sansovino4124]

Not Co-Co Sam. The middle axle on each bogie was unpowered (and fitted with slightly smaller wheels than the powered axles). Therefore, it was an A1A-A1A.

[@SamsTrains]

Duly noted - thanks for the info! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@little_britain]

The prototype was A1A-A1A, not Co-Co, so accurascale have it right by not driving the centre axle, which has a benefit in allowing them to float the centre axle for better handling of poor track.

[@BrakeCoach]

Hi Sam, the unpowered axle was an *intended* choice by Accurascale, not a cost chtting measure or anything like that. They have explicitly mentioned it. Its not something like the Rapido loco that you revewed which had "prototypical" unnecessary wobbling. That would be an example of an *unintended* issue.

[@JulianSaunders]

The loco is A1A-A1A not Co-Co so the centre wheels are not driven. They are also smaller diameter. You probably need to gen up on the prototype before reviewing the model.

[@gs425]

The centre wheels are smaller, so wouldn't lend itself to being powered, let alone not being an A1A as prototype.

[@williamsquires3070]

One thing I wish Sam had done, was to temporarily fit a decoder so we could see the cab lighting, and if the fan speed was more controllable. Also, it would have been nice if Sam had fitted the head code boards so we could see if those light up as well. I mean, Accurascale went through all the trouble to make a sheet of head codes - and a sheet in the instructions showing the modeler which head codes were for each route (or train.) It’d be a shame to not use them. 😢

[@russellbenton2987]

I think you are a little heavy handed with this one Sam For a start the Bachmann one is more expensive . It’s only £169 after discounting . I wonder what price it would be if Accurascale weren’t building theirs ? I think we both know Bachmann would be a lot more expensive . Yes it’s not all wheel drive . This means it runs much better to me . I have a Deltic with all wheel drive that is very fussy and derails frequently . I think by not having the middle axle driven this loco is much more forgiving of dodgy trackwork . Mine glides over my layout , through points etc . This is a much better runner than the Deltic . I certainly prefer this and whether it’s been done for EM modellers or not , I think it’s an improvement on OO. Has it affected haulage ……no . So what would be the point of all wheel drive? I don’t have any quality issues on mine . I really don’t care about the fan . To me this is a bit of the Emperor’s New Clothes. We’ve got to have it because it’s the latest thing . I’d rather just have it switched off . Remember the Bachmann one doesn’t have it unless you pay £300+ . A frippery we just don’t need . I think this is a superb loco , well up to Accurascale standard. I wish they would use this mechanism on other models (4 axle drive). I have not ordered the 37 or 50 because I fear all wheel drive will make it the same as my Deltic which I can’t leave to run with confidence . Build quality ……..room for improvement , Really ? Aside from a bogie grill that’s fallen off what’s wrong with it?

[@tonyrobinson362]

Door handles in the open position, Bachmanns are in proper position, Check the real ones out, Details count.

[@russellbenton2987]

@@tonyrobinson362 nah . Already been shown that the door handles can be in that position . In any case do you really notice that when the loco is going round (considering the gauge OO is not correct in the first place) . Also it’s not part of Sams review so irrelevant here .

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks for Sharing Russell - that’s fair enough. You asked what else was wrong with it - paint coming off the buffer beams, missing screws holding the circuit board down, flimsy clips holding the base keepers on, and paint flaking off the bases as soon as you touch them! Bachmann’s almost certainly would’ve cost more if not for Accurascale’s, but it didn’t! If you prefer the non driven wheels that’s fine - I personally didn’t have a problem with the deltic or any of the other all wheel drive locos… and with my layout being on the floor, I’m not convinced there’s an issue with it!

[@russellbenton2987]

@@SamsTrains cheers Sam . I think you’ve been unlucky with this one but fair enough you can only report as you see it . That’s one of the refreshing assets of your channel , no pampering to manufacturers or fan boys ! I think the all wheel drive does give a stiffness to a loco that means they can be very uncompromising when it comes to track that isn’t billiard table smooth . My issue with the Deltic is the back bogie which occasionally details coming off a curve . No such problems with the 31 that really does glide round the layout .

[@ItzChaza]

@@SamsTrains thats just being ignorant then. theres loads of people that have had issue with all wheel powered locos charlie from chadwick being one, this is a factual issue and i think a floating centre axle is the way forward so not only is it more realistic but also helps layouts with less than imperfect track or track that goes from inclines to flat. your being very uptight on this review

[@alantoms3263]

Accurascale proactive as ever with a direct reply. Don't forget the Class 31 was NOT a Co-Co. 4 axles are powered as 4 were in real life (A = powered, 1 = non-powered) being A1A - A1A.

[@ianhudson2193]

The real 31 has a fan that is hydrostatic driven and belts round at a hell of a lick in nornal operation

[@nounoufriend1442]

Class 31 doesn't have hydrostatic fan , its mechanically driven off free end of engine , we retrofitted an electrically operated fan clutch at IMM TMD were I worked . In the hope it would warm up engine faster help prevent stuck exhaust valves and seized turbo's , class 47 and 56 had hydrostatic fans though

[@grahamallen1970]

​@@nounoufriend1442well done for correct facts a rarity on sams trains reviews😮

[@nounoufriend1442]

@@grahamallen1970 Helps to have worked on 31's for many years , sams trains history on the class 31 was fairly accurate and model looks pretty good

[@grahamallen1970]

@@nounoufriend1442 traveled many miles behind them and also worked on them as a driver too

[@mikeking2539]

Please do a review on the Bachmann class 31! Then we can see how the two models stand up against each other!

[@ReggieArford]

To be fair, the "DCC hatch" actually IS a hatch on the prototype. Having the hatch actually look like a hatch is a plus, IMHO. :)

[@HorsehayRailwayModeller]

Hi mate, as a few have mentioned the floating centre axle makes running far more reliable across complex junctions and baseboard joins particularly using code 75 track even in 00. Moreover the fan is excellent on Dcc and ramps up and down with throttle, also aligning with the Dcc sound. Must admit the dc running of the fan is poor but the Dcc is incredible

[@1maico1]

I've got Piko, Trix and Roco electric and diesels in Ho and all have floating middle axles. It is standard practice to ensure the locos can negotiate R1 and R2 smoothly.

[@1471SirFrederickBanbury]

I've never had an issue with my Hobbytown all wheel drive H0 E-units, which begs the question of is it really necessary? Then again, with how heavy they are, the track would probably break before a wheel lifted!

[@1maico1]

@@1471SirFrederickBanbury On inspection it seems I was wrong. My Roco DB 103 has drive on all 6 axles.

[@James_Rivett]

The 30s (known as skin heads as they didn't have headcode boxes) and the 31s WERE NOT a coco design, but unusually A1A A1A meaning the centre wheels were not driven. This was done for weight reasons, as they would have been too heavy for a BO-BO design (much how the 40, 41 etc wee 1co co1). Has zero to do with EM scale modellers and everything to do with realism (better research required!). All other class 31s from other makers have also Followed this on the powered bogies (albeit normally only a single powered bogie on a lot of older models). Triang were even weirder than the prototype, by using a flat bottom molding on the driven bogie. Another issue the 31 had when new was the steam heat Boiler had no solinoid valve on the fuel feed when new, so when the pressure switch shut the feed pump down, fuel oil would still leak into the furnace, and when the pilot light kicked in, it would ignite the excess oil and flames could be seen coming out the roof where the boiler was.

[@richardmarshall4322]

@@James_Rivett They were all Class 30s as built with the Mirrlees engine, irrespective of cab style. Whole Class became 31s later when re engined. As you say early locos were 'skinheads' but some later locos were also 'skinheads', due to a lack of headcode boxes being available during contruction.

[@chrissouthgate4554]

This is an interesting review. I think if the model Had been from Heljan, you would have complimented them on their improved quality. If it had been from Hornby or Bachman, you would have congratulated them on producing a model that does not require financing to purchase. It's mainly because it's Accurascale that you feel disappointed, which, while understandable, says something about Accurascale and your expectations of them.

[@SamsTrains]

Yeah that’s very fair actually - I think I did go into this with very high expectations!

[@paolomargini7904]

When the other products were so good it is natural to have a strong expectation, so in this case a D was given, but anyway, . what a model!

[@markpackham6361]

Damned if you do, damned if you don't!Rapido got slagged off for making the rear pair of wheels powered on the Stirling Single. Would have been useless pulling power without.

[@paulbrealey3200]

The driven wheels are true to the prototype as the 31 was not a CoCo it was actually an A1A=A1A i.e centre wheels etc on each bogie was undriven

[@sapphirejunction8993]

Got 31128 with sound and its perfect out of the box. There are tooling errors with this model such as a hole in each bogie frame that shouldn't be there and the roofs for 31402 & 31409 are apparently incorrect, apart from that it is the best Class 31 on the market.

[@formidable38]

I believe they mixed up the roofs between the 2 didn't they ??

[@sapphirejunction8993]

@@formidable38 Yes correct.

[@a2020vision_official]

Technically, as Callumk5 points out, it is prototypically accurate to leave the center axle of each truck undriven. However I will chime in that that would technically be accurate for models of EMD E-units like that Bachmann E7 you have but it is still standard to have all axles driven on the models. It's a matter of cents or less for a model vs hundreds to thousands of dollars to power it at 1:1 scale, so it makes way more sense just to put the gear on. I suppose the point about being easier to refit for EM gauge is probably fair enough; models of E-units and Alco PA's generally don't need to worry about that. I guess there's "proto87" and the like which I think sometimes involves fitting wheels with finer flanges, but that's got to be an even smaller percentage of the HO market than EM is of the 1/76 market.

[@SamsTrains]

Yeah that’s true - I don’t think it’s a question of realism though, and like you say most models do have all axles driven as it just makes a more powerful loco… the Bachmann 31 does have all wheels driven according to the description… would be interested to see how the weight/pulling power compares!

[@mccarronfamily]

@@SamsTrains The 31 has correctly scaled middle wheels, motoring them, like on the real one, wouldn't work as well

[@timhubbard8895]

Class 31's were Type 2's and were not all that powerful. Drivers have said that they couldn't pull the skin off a rice pudding! Sam rates it as able to pull 40 coaches,. Fat chance of that in real life! I think the review was overly harsh. I certa8nly wouldn't be tearing the base keeper plates off a brand new loco! Knocking a star off because of performance because of the fan was a bit of a joke. The fan does not affect affect the performance of the loco, so why?

[@tumbleweed6458]

Easy, it's an advertised feature that doesn't work as promised, so the rating goes down. If it had stated it only worked on DCC. Then it wouldn't affect the rating.

[@mccarronfamily]

@@tumbleweed6458 It does work it’s just not as effective at speed. Alternatives with fans spinning cost rather a lot more too and don’t work on DC at all.

[@miniroll32]

Please review the Bachmann one!

[@bennickss]

31s are not CO-COs. They are A1A-A1A. The middle axle is unpowered on the prototypes.

[@dakshanbalaramesh]

I never thought I’d live to see the day where Sam gave Accurascale a “D” rating.

[@peterwilliamson4663]

Its time you started fitting DCC decoders so that you can give a full review.

[@andydavidson9440]

Good call 👍

[@chugwaterjack4458]

I agree strongly, even if just temporarily.

[@dalecherne5377]

He'll never do it. He thinks the only way to give a baseline review is on Analog. People have been telling him this for years. We're beating a dead horse at this point.

[@davew2452]

Hello Sam - much better to have the centre wheel undriven and floating. This will prevent any chance of rocking. It is basically near impossible to have all 3 wheels exactly in line as tolerances especially for moulding which have variable shrinkage can cause the centre wheel to be proud and cause the rock. It also helps when a layout has a change of gradient. I agree that the serviceability is poor and having potential paint contamination and broken clips would be a pain. Also wiper pick ups must be better. I remember issue with Bachmann Class 40 which had poor pick ups through the bearings and they reverted to wipers. Can't understand how they missed the fan speed on DC. Surely a standard test would have picked this up? Screws missing from the circuit board - need to get the body off mine then to check. I really appreciate your thorough reviews.

[@NWRLYLLA]

Sam how do you calculate the amount of coaches a loco can pull?

[@stephendavies6949]

My first ever loco was a class 31 from a Triang Freightmaster train set back in about 1971, so I've got a soft spot for this class. I was going to buy an Accurascale example, but TMC was selling Hornby's latest for £128 at GETS, so I bought one, and am very happy with it. Which is more than can be said about your experience with this model! A "D"? very unexpected! But no-one can argue with your methodology, although I guessed you'd have scored it a C. Perhaps this one has been designed to a price, and not to a standard, as previous Accurascale models? Judging by the other comments, I bet you're now well versed in the differences between Co-Co & A1A-A1A locos...... Keep up the great work.

[@alfiewenn9440]

have hornby fixed the mazak issues with their 31

[@stephendavies6949]

@@alfiewenn9440 I hope so. They've had 50-odd years to sort it!

[@alfiewenn9440]

@@stephendavies6949 the current railways model is 20 years old look great but are bloody terrible

[@stephendavies6949]

@@alfiewenn9440 I'm very happy with mine. Easily pleased, I guess!

[@richardhiggins6471]

The middle (undriven) wheels on the class 31 are a smaller diameter than the driving wheels (about 9% smaller), so it would require a different number of teeth on the gears to the centre axles if Accurascale wanted them to be driven. If the model gives adequate traction anyway, there's no point adding extra complication to the mechanism. By the way, another cheap source of a Class31 is the Airfix model. I have two of them - each cost less than £20 off ebay. One is an excellent runner, the other okay, and I'm perfectly happy with them.

[@Valleys56xx]

That grille and the paperwork didn't get in the bottom of the box by itself. I think someone's been at the example you have... Re the fan its only prototypical on DCC. This loco is optimised for DCC control.

[@tonyarmstrong4843]

The paperwork is at the bottom of the box in all boxes. Not sure how the grill got there though.

[@azuma892]

Can you call an A1A-A1A diesel a Co-Co? I believe a Co-Co is when all 6 axles are driven. Just an observation not complaining! This is not RMWeb haha. Edit: I think this is the reason why they have made the centre axle free rolling, that's realistic to the prototype.

[@tahornaday9961]

Locomotives like that are a lot more difficult to Categorize compared to Steam Locomotives.

[@Danse_Macabre_125]

Yep, it'd be an A1A-A1! Co-Co does indeed mean all wheels driven. A similar example would be how a Peak or 40 would be a "1-Co-Co-1" instead of a "Do-Do" as the end axles aren't driven

[@lcain4944]

@@tahornaday9961 No, they aren't. There is a very clear set of designations. The Class 30/31 was, is and always shall be an A1A-A1A. It's just called accuracy.

[@NW-gi1cp]

*insert coco puffs joke*

[@bennickss]

No you can't. A1A and Co are not the same. A1A means the middle axle is unpowered, Co means all are powered

[@cmdrflake]

This looks like a later Friday afternoon example, although it was made in China, where Saturday was just another work day.

[@TIMMEH19991]

OMG I had to laugh so much...."I can't think of another reason for not having a driven centre axle" REALLY Sam???? They're not driven in real life, these are only type 2s. They don't need it, it would just be silly. Do some research for crying out loud!

[@SamsTrains]

It’s not about accuracy though - who can tell which axles are driven when it’s running? I just prefer all wheel drive, and I believe Bachmann’s is indeed all wheel drive!

[@janissamuel9246]

@@SamsTrains Find it strange you say this is not about accuracy but almost everything else is.

[@carlbentley80]

It looks like a reject or sample model was sent by mistake, instructions in wrong place, plastic loose part in a place it wouldn’t be able to get on its own, the plastic wrap over the loco when it sits in the cradle was missing when he first opened it. I would send it back and get a replacement, it has a lifetime warranty.

[@SprattyHeath]

Big yikes here, I think this 31 has slipped through quality control considering that the PCB was literally not screwed in place. I definitely think you should get into contact with Accurascale and get that replaced. I'd send mine back if I knew there were parts missing. Really not good at all if you ask me. I also saw glue marks around the front cowlings and they looked to be warped too.

[@GregPalmer1000]

Well cleared that mystery for me...same grill found....on my 31-248.. although the Bachmann 31 does drive on all 6 wheels it only picks up on the outer wheels....oh yes 31 is a A1A-A1A which means centre wheel is not a driving wheel such as a Co-Co...so Accurascale is accurate...

[@robertcharlessceats3647]

Excellent appraisal. Wholly agree with your comments. Well done

[@marvinhensbergen1515]

The fan is for extra downforce, not just looks! Works great I would say. I gues in DCC the speed could be controlled instead of variable direct voltage?

[@class66]

The facility of the fan is really only fully appreciated with dcc..

[@NextEevolution]

Besides the loose circuit board and large use of clips holding the base keeper plate covering the mechanism together, I do like this diesel and think I'll pick on up eventually. I got a Class 66 and Manor Class from Accurascale and really enjoyed how well made those locomotives are. Edit: as someone who works with PCs and the small fans that reside in them, that small fan running at ludicrous speed was a pretty silly flaw. And I assume Accurascale knew it was since they decided to ship it turned off instead of finding a way to rein it in.

[@chorlton4]

Silver stripe? really. Co-Co? Your rearch standards slipping here Sam, despite enjoying your other reviews.

[@lcain4944]

@chorlton4 Research? What? When?

[@robertstrainset6556]

Hi Sam, Its a shame when our new "toy" is not perfect as it should be but in the model railway world that is becoming standard I have the Accurascale 55 & 37 along with the steam Manor class and although super very well priced models have except for the manor had irritating problems like the chains loose or falling off etc but as runners they were great so you have the Accurascale 31 and I have the Bachmann 31 now all mine are Dcc sound fitted models and the 31 is the Deluxe one as I wanted the AUTO UNCOUPLER for D couplings so is it worth you testing one (DC) yes it would be good to have a comparison between the two so that you can really know if you made the right choice now my 31 was not without faults one buffer was lose in the box and more worrying some of the pickups were not touching all the wheels at all times (there is no pickup to the centre sets) so had to take the boggy apart to correct it but am I happy with mine yes I am and it runs great also. I hope you can do a test on the Bachmann as it would give us all a definitive conclusion on these very simular priced models and just for the record my one was £305 odd not cheap but a good £50 cheaper than Bachmann wanted. Well done for doing these test you are the man to come to for fair testing and conclusions and long may it continue. Cheers Robert.

[@goupigoupi6953]

Why are we so much obsessed with weight? There is such thing as too much of a good thing. The loco needs just enough weight to insure good wheel contact with the track for optimal traction. Anything extra will just waste motor power, which will result in poor crawling performance.

[@robmckenzie2538]

Having a decent weight is essential if a loco is to pull a realistic load. A Hornby Mallard (main range) I purchased about 20 years ago looked impressive but couldn't pull more than 5 bogie coaches on level track and 4 coaches on a slight gradient. The reason: not lack of torque, but lack of adhesion due to lack of weight.

[@Simon-Davis]

@@robmckenzie2538 A realistic load for a 31 is 5 coaches, and they often struggled with that! 31s were that underpowered in real life that they had to be double headed for a lot of engineering tasks back when I used to see them at Bescot day in, day out. There is a difference between enough weight to do the job, and excessive weight just for the sake of it. Well designed diesel models tend not to suffer with traction issues and usually outperform realistic expectations. There are exceptions to this but they tend to be Hornby Railroad models which are lacking the steel weight Lima originally provided.

[@chompette_]

It is quite funny to be critical of the weight for pulling power and then reveal that it can pull ~2.5x the amount that a real 31 could manage.

[@1471SirFrederickBanbury]

Locomotives are heavy and thus have a lot of inertia which causes them to move and bounce the way they do. Most models shake quickly and looks less realistic as they dont have much inertia, so we try to add as much weight as possible to increase the inertia to get more realistic movement

[@mikeyt4243]

I just dont get the point of running Accurascale locos in DC mode. You lose 50% of the features. 21st Century Sam?

[@benforster6254]

will you review the bachmann 31 aswell just to compare the 2. id be interested to see which is better in your opinion. I also had the same loose part in the bix of my 31 i believe its a step off one of the bogies. And one last thing the centre wheel wasnt powered on the real things but on the model it doesnt really make much different to the pulling power

[@lcain4944]

@benforster6254 I have two Bachmann 31s. They're built perfectly and run perfectly, but annoyingly the finish is quite shiny, which looks a bit like an 80s Lima. I imagine othres would say that's 'quality'. I find it rather cheap looking. But they are built perfectly.

[@andrewclarke6899]

The unpowered axle seems to have been a Modernisation Plan speciality, due to the fact that British manufacturers of the day built extremely heavy though moderately powered locomotives to whose ample weight was added that of an oilfired water boiler for use with steam heated coaches in winter. English Electric were masters of the art with their portly 2000 hp 1Co-Co1s and the slightly more powerful 'Peaks'. They also produced A1A-A1A narrow gauge hood units at their Rocklea works in Queensland, but these were found to cause problems with unequal track wear and adhesion and so Co-Cos became the norm. In fact EE was the only British manufacturer to produce reliable diesels for the Australian market, otherwise dominated by EMD and Alco.

[@Madonsteamrailways]

This is a lovely locomotive!! It deserves to be cherished and appreciated by all. The livery is accurate, as is normal for Accurascale. Love it!!

[@gc7820]

If you don’t read that card then the loco becomes the large hadron collider and will unleash a universe destroying black hole in the middle of your layout

[@mikeyratcliff3400]

Aah! 21st c. Tunnelling techniques!

[@blinard1]

Great video title! Engaging and im excited to see how it turns out! Thanks for listening to feedback

[@tobythehairlessdog8876]

I'm pretty sure the fan's sucking not blowing. Woof!

[@paulcartlidge9454]

Thanks Sam. That was really helpful. I have several Accurascale models (including this one) and I tend to agree that they have dropped the ball on this one. The roof is not easy to remove - I see people gouging the roof with scalpels, pulling on the little handles that aren't always glued in that well etc. When I tested my model only one pick-up worked out the box. I think they have a lot of brand loyalty for good reason, but I hope they note these issues, it's not just one model on a Friday afternoon. There are some design flaws.

[@Britishrailwaystories]

I’ve now seen a Bachmann 31 and an Accurascale in the flesh and it’s the Accurascale, hands down. Face on, the latter nails the look of the prototype. The prototypical A-1-A bogies are excellent - I don’t think it’ll be a poor performer. Both seemed sure footed to me, but the Bachmann just does not capture the look of the real thing anywhere near as well.

[@SamsTrains]

Ahh fascinating - I’ll have to look at the Bachmann one too to see the difference!

[@Britishrailwaystories]

@@SamsTrainsmy advice is look at them head on. You will realise the Bachmann detailing looks a bit - not sure how else to describe - “overpainted” or “melted” - the Accurascale is correct height and Bachmann bodyshell is shorter, noticeably so. This means for me, Hornbys bodyshell is suddenly more viable. The old Lima 31 looks seriously good still for its age! Accurascale definitely the most accurate overall Sam.

[@James_Rivett]

​@@BritishrailwaystoriesI have 2 31s on my layout, one is a Lima 31 detailed, and it's a fantastic looking model. I even still have a Airfix one! My first ever 31 was a Triang one. I have to admit I'm biased towards steam though lol

[@tonyrobinson362]

At least the Bachmann model has the door handles in the closed position, Unlike Accuruscale check the real ones out.

[@mikeparkin903]

@@tonyrobinson362 Check out photo's of the real thing - the closed position of the door handles varies a lot especially as the loco's got older. No doubt its wear in the mechanism and maybe something that eventually got depot or works attention to return to as built spec.

[@johnbrown9092]

I must say that I have 31432dcc sound fitted and cannot fault it. It has probably the best sound file I have ever heard on a model diesel loco and the cold start function is a delight. The body detail is superb and lighting spot on. Well done Accurascale.😊

[@worthingtonmodelrailway8628]

When are you going to invest in DCC? See pretty much all new locomotives are primarily designed for DCC. Much as enjoy your reviews it would be so much better if we could see the DCC features. Any your price comparisons would be so much more accurate when comparing DCC (sound and light) fitted models.

[@mfcpug]

And running is better and more controlled on dcc

[@SamsTrains]

I guess the reason is that if I spent an extra £100 per review to get the sound version I wouldn’t be able to eat any more😉

[@dalecherne5377]

@@SamsTrains Doesn't have to be sounded for the majority of your models. Just needs a DCC chip. How much extra would that cost?

[@chrisvaughan159]

NAH, you were not trying to couple too slowly, the coupling hook looks too long and was fouling on the bottom of the corridor connection on you close-up. Great review as always from you. I have one and I like it a lot. Mike's clearly pleased with his too. There is always "something wrong" with Accurascale models - usually a minor or annoying point or two, but from this it seems clear to me that they are finally having to make compromises to meet their pricing points. Thanks Sam.

[@dansmodelrailways7886]

The roof fan sits way way too low too. It should he close up to the grill, as the real ones ( and bachmanns) are! The one looks very bad sitting so low as it does

[@tobythehairlessdog8876]

It also spun the wrong way round when Sam switched it on. Woof!

[@Colin454]

As a child, I used to have the Tri-ang model of the Brush 2 (before the name Class 31 came about). It was called the 'Brush Type 2 A1A-A1A Diesel-Electric.' It just had one power bogie - and the centre (non-driven) wheels were not real wheels on the model - just half-circles of metal, part of the bogie casting. The non-powered bogie had three sets of wheels however. I seem to remember selling this to buy an electric guitar !

[@StormmyStormmy]

Hi Sam, great honest review of a cool locomotive, I believe Accurascale had a few issues with this loco and that held up the delivery date, the noisy fan remind me of the Hornby 21pin HST packs, they are horrible and spoil the general running of the train so I disconnected mine until I can sort some bearings for them, Accurascale will sort any issues you have if you let them know which is the total opposite of a well know manufacturer we know, it’s a shame things weren’t great for you, I have a Network Rial yellow model on order, I hope it’s a lot better than what you experienced with yours, Bachmann roof fans are superb in my opinion and probably the best on the market, thanks for sharing.

[@melchestermodelrailway]

Since I purchased Acurascale's derailing Deltic, I haven't purchased any further co-co arrangement locos from them, however the non driving wheel on this bogie arrangement is probably an improvement to running ability, so I'd be prepared to give their 31 a go.

[@philipbancroft]

Regarding pickup cleaning, I would recommend contact cleaner.

[@lcain4944]

@philipbancroft It might be a little awkward to clean the pick ups without risking spraying lubrication out of the gearbox, and it certainly doesn't look like a gear train I'd want to access to lubricate.

[@philipbancroft]

@@lcain4944 It is possible to buy contact cleaner that isn't aerosol, and you can also spray it into something like an airbrush cleaner pot and then apply with a small brush.

[@Planestrains-d5e]

I reckon the model you’ve been sent is well suspect - and it might even have been some kind of return. Someone else has said that the instructions and the grille in the bottom are very suspect (how would that grille get down there, right in the bottom, by itself?) and, under the light on film, the circuit board looks like there’s scoring around the top of the screw holes as if there had been screws there that have been removed… very suss and looks like you’ve been sent a dud that someone else returned. Also, it’s hard to tell, but it looks as if the centre wheels have a slightly different diameter than the driving wheels, which is prototypical for the A1A configuration and would make it tricky to power. I wonder if the other manufacturers just bung in the same wheels in each position.

[@mikeking2539]

I haave both Hornby and the New Bachmann class 31's and the center wheels are smaller like in real life and work fine! ... But as you say, it does seem odd that the instructions and the detail part were at the very bottom of the box. There is no way on earth that the top of the steps could have found it's way under the foam packaging, and also the instructions. I would be contacting both the shop and Accurascale themselves about this model!

[@DaveT-ii8wq]

The bearings have been used for year's on north American HO, last a lifetime, no need to service, great idea. When was the last time cars had their wheel bearings lubed, 40 years ago.

[@lonelysignalbox]

Anyone know if there’s a way to disable the fans? Like cut wires? I’ve never been a fan of the moving fans on diesels.

[@mccarronfamily]

The fan is optimised for running on DCC, on the blanking plate, under the magnetic hatch, you can toggle switch 7 to switch it off on DC, where it's only really realistic when shunting.

[@mikeking2539]

Did you not bother to watch Sam's full review of this model? Like mccarronfamily has said, you would just have to turn it off using switch No. 7!

[@lonelysignalbox]

@@mikeking2539 no bro I didn’t watch

[@RoyLangridge]

Have standards slipped? Sorry to say yes Sam, that is one of your worst reviews. To criticise a model’s mechanism on the basis of your lack of knowledge and then defend yourself on the basis of your preference rather than by holding your hand up and admitting you were wrong is, I am afraid, laughable. It pulls 40 coaches, how can you criticise a mechanism that does that? The company is called Accurascale, not make-a-toy-ascale. If you don’t like accurate models, don’t buy them, but if you do, judge them on what they are intended to be, not what you want them to. This review gets a D also.

[@SamsTrains]

Seems a bit harsh Roy - I overlooked the fact that the real thing was an A1A A1A, I hold my hands up on that one… but that’s one point in an almost hour long review. To claim the floating wheels are better for the sake of realism just doesn’t hold water in my book… because it just doesn’t matter. So you have to look at it in terms of mechanical advantage… and I’ve never had any derailment issues with accurascale co-cos, so for me there is none… that’s all! It was by no means the main point of the review, and it was far from my biggest issue with the model… but I do apologise for calling this a co co!

[@RoyLangridge]

@ it was not just that though Sam. The guard rail is clearly above rail level early on, but later is not, that is perhaps not a factory fault to me and perhaps a result of handling whilst showing the mechanism? And on that note, mechanical advantage is about weight on driven wheels By only having four powered axles and the other floating, therefore with less weight, mechanical advantage is greater - better on a smaller loco. Look at the haulage capacity of a Heljan Class 128. I have way too many locos from pretty much all manufacturers of UK 00 and I have to say the Accurascale 31 and SLW 25 are the stand-out models. To see this scored so low just doesn’t sit right. Anyhow, thanks for taking the time to reply. Roy

[@SamsTrains]

The guard rail was indeed clear... as it was when I refitted it... but because it wasn't secured properly and just slotted in place, it worked its way out. The mechanism section was filmed after the performance, so definitely wasn't handling - all in the video. How can there be more mechanical advantage on a loco with fewer driving wheels? An all-wheel-drive loco has all its weight supported by drivers, so this design will be weaker, not stronger. There won't be much in it, but the non-drivers are sprung against the rails, so they support some weight. The model is undoubtedly amazing - but there were issues, and the serviceability was particularly poor. So while I agree my scores were harsh, I do think they reflect that this wasn't quite up to Accurascale's usual standard in all areas! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@RoyLangridge]

@@SamsTrains The laws of physics are why the two axle drive is better here. Put your finger on a surface and slide it side-to-side, then push harder and harder as you move it, this simulates increased weight. When it is lightly pressed there is little friction, and steel on steel needs friction to move a load. The more weight the more friction, the more grip and the more you can move. If that weight is split across more wheels, i.e. less on each wheel, the point at which friction is overcome and slipping starts is earlier. Anyhow, we will have to agree to differ, personally I would just like you videos to be consistent in scoring, and in this case I do not feel that is the case.

[@SamsTrains]

No, that’s not how it works with model trains - I’ve done the experiments which showed it doesn’t matter about the number of driving wheels, only the total amount of weight supported by drivers. It’s true that more weight on a driver means more friction, but add more wheels and you multiply it… check out my video about removing driving wheels from steamers… the same loco has exactly the same haulage even with some wheels missing! You’ll find I don’t speak on a subject unless I have personal experience on it… and I’ve been doing this for a long, long time!

[@alanwagstaff16]

If you issues with said model send it back to Accurscale . Then they can screw down said plate.

[@orsoncarte8536]

Odd that some of the paperwork was at the bottom of the box, somebody had opened the box and removed the loco just to have sly look and screwed up putting it all back. Used to drive these out of Stratford MPD in the middle 70's. Drove the last toffee apple 31014 on a Channelsea Yard to Poplar Dock before it was retired Stratford; all now gone😢

[@redrooster12000]

Sorry. I really don´t get it. What sense do spring buffers make when there is no short coupling so buffers do not even touch?

[@thestocktonflyer4059]

I have ran my 31 for around 9 hours sam and the fan noise is not as loud. Great running model 👌 keep up the good work sam 👏

[@railway187]

Great review! Very interesting that this DC locomotive has stay alive capacitors. Do they function under DC? I thought stay alive only works under DCC? Am I wrong? In that case: would it be possible to install capacitors in for instance an old DC Lima Class 33?

[@chompette_]

The stay-alive is just for dcc to keep the lights, sound and chip running while the flywheel keeps the motor spinning. Likely included to make chipping the locomotive easier.

[@hsjcarrier707]

When I look at the bogies on that model, hard to get to and packed with grease, I'm reminded of the automatic transmission on modern cars. The manufacturers say "lifetime of vehicle, non-serviceable." What they mean is that they're confident it'll outlast the warranty, and after that they don't care. I get the same sense about this - a modeller will have to run it for a very long time before it needs service by which point it's an old model so they won't complain. Sam, you're a brave man to explore your new purchases so thoroughly and to take them apart for our benefit! I wouldn't want to mess with those eight clips. I only model in N and my trains only get light use in the evenings - in other words , other than light lubrication on obvious parts, I only go delving deep inside if I really have to. It would have gutted me to break clips on a brand new loco - you're a skilled modeller and that's what happened. So it's design, not the technique you used. Sorry it happened to you, and appreciate your work as always.

[@philipemery7328]

Although my experience regarding quality has been very different to yours, I think this is a very fair review Sam. You can only review the model you receive. I think you've been very unlucky though - which is a shame because Accurascale's quality control is reputed to be better than this. For the record, nothing has fallen off mine and everything seems to be screwed down the way it should be. I also run my 31 on analogue. I've not tried to get the fan going and now I think I'm quite glad about that! However the cab lighting does work on mine, so maybe there's yet another fault with yours! Mine is a different variant with a high intensity headlight - which I don't think yours has - so maybe the wiring is different somehow.

[@BritishRail60062]

Lovely model this is. Anyone else remember seeing these on the Cambridge to Blackpool North intercity services back in the late 1980's? I think I will have to get one of these for Christmas :).

[@grantlassing7055]

Given A1A drive is prototypical I suspect you are being a little harsh

[@Madonsteamrailways]

On the Class 31 at the Epping Ongar Railway, we only haul around five carriages. It’s looking lovely with the Blue Pullman cars.

[@davidshaw5979]

I hope Accurascale takes note of your comments and offer to replace and improve for future releases.

[@lcain4944]

@davidshaw5979 It can pull 40 coaches (if his assessment is correct) and ran perfectly under all the usual tests. So, *replace* ? Why?

[@warrenlehmkuhleii8472]

I wonder if the decision to leave off the gearing the centre axle isn’t just for EM/P4 and prototypically, it may also be because Cavalex left off the centre axel on their Class 56 for OO modelers and apparently it was still had adequate pulling power. I know at least one man who had an issue with his 37 on his helix, so possibly this was to prevent that issue. If it can still haul a scale length train, then I don’t have an issue with it. As for the quality, as beautiful as these models are, I don’t think there is any excuse for the bodies to be clipped on. I had an issue with my 37, and I was told to remove the body. But now the body won’t sit flat, and I am still waiting for Accurascale to come up with solution. I’ve given up till the customer service man gets back to me because I’ve taken the body on and off more times than the average 37 will go through in its life trying everything he had already suggested. I get the impression that, if it had just been screwed on in the first place, this wouldn’t have happened. Edit: And I’d say try the Bachmann, unless Bachmann has made a similar slip, then I think it would be the better option.

[@bluesfish98]

The real life class 31 has an unpowered middle axle, that's probably why they've done it. Seems very harsh of Sam to critisise them for following the real life example

[@mikeking2539]

That man would be Charle of Chadwick model railway fame! lol 😉😊

[@Roethorn_pb]

Less waffle, less bias, more reviewing please. Losing my viewership as well as respect with the lowering video quality over last 3 months. by 2:36 already turned into a bachmann/hornby slam vid.

[@bertbristow7172]

I agree. Click bait and confected dislike hard at work here. The 4 axle drive “problem” is nonsense. If this is a D then there is not a shred of objectivity here and it’s the tabloid shock tag line that needs an F.

[@kc5402]

I remember having the Triang-Hornby version of this loco back in the late 1960's when it was listed as the "A1A-A1A". Models have come a long way since then. Unfortunate that all axles are not driven. The "accuracy" of the A1A layout adds nothing to the visuals, so it's pretty pointless.

[@chompette_]

It improves the handling of the locomotive over difficult track, Cavalex's Co-Co Class 60s are being manufactured with the same layout just for that improvement.

[@phil36310]

To come to a final verdict you could compare the Accurascale with the Bachmann Class 31 ?

[@michaelhannam9659]

Hi Sam, great review. I have one of these, 5544 in blue, luckily without the issues, except for the fan, and bogies. Send it back for a replacement perhaps?

[@thedragon7442]

Great review sam best thing to do is get the bachmann 31 and compare it.

[@janissamuel9246]

If you don't like it send it back, I have one and it's perfect, fantastic model.

[@mikeking2539]

I have the BR blue class 31 from Bachmann, because my BR blue one from Hornby suffered splits to the lower corners of the cab ends. So I sold it some time back. I am planning to order the Accurascale Civel Engneers "Dutch" livery one, again as a replacement for my Hornby one were the chassis fell to bits.

[@idiot-cd6pl]

Maybe you should try liquid tape, b y micro sol, it's a water based adhesive that when dry allows the part to be temporally glued and removed and replaced. That might fix the errant guard-irin after you've bent the guard a touch to give more clearance. Maybe your sample is faulty especially the circuit board not being screwed down, and maybe Accurascale will see this review, and offer you a replacement. Otherwise as usual I enjoyed your review. Liquid Tape should be available at most decent model shops, and it lasts for ages.

[@tumbleweed6458]

I would be interested in a Bachmann class 31 review as well. You often review different manufacturers of the same model, such as the B17 4-6-0

[@lukejackson8741]

Did you ever do the accurascale 37? A lot of people found they had a habit of derailing, was wondering if you had any experience of those issues

[@SamsTrains]

I don’t remember exactly but from what I remember it was fine - their 60 is fine as an all-wheel drive too, at least in my testing!

[@mikeking2539]

My Accurascale 37 is fine, no derailments!

[@lukejackson8741]

@@mikeking2539 good to hear, Charlie at Chadwick did a video where he had 2 do it, and wasn’t a lone, must be a case of being lucky or unlucky with them

[@alasdaircook5673]

Have received my 2 accurascale 31s with sound and it has run perfectly and the sound one is brilliant. I found it is much better than the Deltic and 37 which kept derailing at a certain place and parts kept falling off and the chains on the deltic I removed.

[@That1Redhead28]

Hello Sam, off topic but as someone who has a collection of exclusively DC models, I’d like to get just one special DCC model. Specifically that new dapol A4 or something else with a smoke generator. Anyway, I’ve been having trouble researching how to go about this as there are conflicting results. Would my DC models work with a DCC controller? What would you suggest? Great video, btw! 🤗

[@SamsTrains]

Hi there - generally your DC models won’t work on a DCC controller - some DCC controllers like the Hornby select do have the ability to control a DC loco, but it’s not very good for the motors, so I don’t recommend it. I think if you’re looking to run just a single DCC loco, a loco with one of the Hornby Hm7000 decoders would probably be the way to go - you can control the loco through your phone without the need for a DCC controller, and just a 12v power supply connected to your track!

[@That1Redhead28]

@@SamsTrains Thank you for such a quick and informative reply. I did have a quick Look at your HM7000 video just now but wondered if that works for non-Hornby models that are already DCC fitted. Do you know or guess whether they would be capable of running the new dapol A4 or not?

[@SamsTrains]

So yes they’ll fit into most models with a DCC socket, but I suppose it’d be wasteful to remove one decoder to replace with another as they are expensive, though yes it’s possible. With the Dapol A4s they have lots of special features, so you’ll only be able to run those with the decoders supplied… so for that you would need to buy a DCC controller.

[@That1Redhead28]

@@SamsTrains thank you :)

[@bennickss]

DC loco on DCC controller is a major no no

[@GaryNumeroUno]

Hi there mukka, Cavalex's beautiful class 56s also have a free rolling centre axle... and they work wonderfully. I have a couple of 'gargoyles' arriving here in Oz next week. Looking forward to them adorning my depot. Cheers. Gaz 😮

[@NWRJ_WStudios]

22:07 First Heljan, now Accurascale what next?

[@rvsjimbo]

Well, my Deltic had several parts loose in the box and one of the chains had one end loose. Ultimately it went back under their warranty program but actually came back worse with a different chain issue and loose windscreen glazing. Apart from that it is a lovely loco and it's possible that all the damage could have been caused by rough handling during the shipping. My son wants one of their class 66 locos, but we will probably buy from a shop and inspect the loco prior to leaving.

[@rogerking7258]

7:28 Sam you need to keep each page in view slightly longer. Before I had chance to read it properly my brain interpreted the headline as "The downside of urinating"!!!!! Your comment about it being able to haul less than the Deltic or Class 37 simply means that it is prototypical because that is what the real thing was like. I'd love to know if the loose circuit board is a mistake or a sign of cost cutting. I'll find out soon when I get my green one (which I had to order via a retailer because Accurascale sold out so quickly; as a customer it's good to see the same price wherever I buy it, which is a refreshing change from certain other manufacturers who will rip you off if you go direct).

[@trainman86trainstramsandmore]

Pause and read?

[@lapiswake6583]

I'm considering getting one from Accurascale and one from Bachmann, both the highest spec available since the accurascale one has features on the basic version, but the bachmann premium one has the window tint and the auto uncouplers. I'll get one as a 30, one as a 31, because they have different engines. So the 30 will be BR green, and the 31 will probably be BR blue as a 31/4 (like this one). Problem is, I'm currently out of money. Plus there are several models due soon that I'll need to pay for: Accurascale's P class and 89 and 2nd run of Deltics, and I'm sure there's more. As for this model. One loose etched step piece is a minor gripe. The 31s are A1A-A1A, so having the centre axle unpowered is accurate to the prototype (plus, your own experiments showed that removing the centre axle on a model 3-axle vehicle makes little to no difference to its haulage power), nothing to do with EM and P4. I agree that the pickup arrangement is odd. Never seen that on a drive bogie before. And the missing screws are an odd omission. And that fan, very odd. I would've had a switch on the loco's PCB for DC/DCC/off (unless of course someone installed a higher-speed motor than was planned). I'd love to see you review a Bachmann one, albeit in a different livery. And it'd also be great if you could pick up a hornby one in the sales (or cheap 2nd hand), and maybe a railroad one too for completion.

[@philiplimerick2794]

I believe the bogie frames are prised off first. This then gives access to the base keeper plate tabs. I know this is how they are accessed on the class 37s. I think the bogie side plates are just a push fit onto the bogie.

[@jeremyhyman5056]

Good review. I have a couple of Accurascale locos which I find to be excellent. They are all DCC sound equipped and I wonder if, given the advanced features on their locos, they should only produce DCC sound locos.

[@Alpha-oo8]

There’s only one real way to know if you made the right choice Sam… you have to review a Bachmann one to compare!

[@mfcpug]

Have recently bought an Airfix class 31 in great condition £20, decoder £13. Simple fit. Fitted dcc decoder to it and runs fine. 50 year old model. Just thought I’d add this manufacturer to the list.

[@GGS1956]

Good review, keeps manufacturers on their toes

[@Citalopram40]

Hi Sam, would you please review and compare the Bachmann Class 31.