New Dapol Class 52 | A Great Value Diesel | Unboxing & Review

[@sansovino4124]

Sam, to correct you on your comment about the tractive effort, the Class 52 at 72,000lb TE trounced similar designs such as the 47 coming in at 55,000-60,000, 50's at 48,000 and 40's at 52,000. Only the Peaks came close at 70,000 but with the added cost of 25 more tons weight and 2 extra axles. The fact that Western's had such high tractive effort gave them a lot of low-down grunt, ideal for heavy stone trains and fast passenger alike. If you played Top Trumps, the Western TE was always a winner!

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks a lot for the info - cheers! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@chrisredding6673]

Yep. The transmissions had three self-changing gears, and first gear (about 0 to 20mph) made the Western good for drag-racing.

[@locomotiveAlex1996]

technically on the peaks only 6 of its 8 axles were powered, like the class 40's they wre just pony trucks on the first axle

[@sansovino4124]

@@locomotiveAlex1996 You are correct - I was just pointing out that the class 45 was a much larger machine than the Western.

[@alfiewenn9440]

i remember the westerns pulling stone trains out of yoemans on the mendips in somerset most other loco,s had to be double headed

[@alanrobertson9790]

A big advantage of NOT applying the nameplates and numbers is you can have any identity you want if you buy some third party plates. I have not had any derailment problems.

[@ypoora1]

The sound from the motor runnign forwards indicates an issue with it, either bearing or commutator. It's likely another unit would run better and torquey-er, but not a great sign.

[@1701_FyldeFlyer]

Ive got 2 of these 2nd release Dapol 52s. Both go around 2nd radius curves fine without derailing.

[@sharkymcsharknose2979]

I have one of these Dapol Class 52 models in BR blue. It's a great-looking model. I cut away the factory speaker clips to add a "mega-bass" speaker along with ESU LokSound 5 and it sounds great now, too! I've not had any running problems with mine but I haven't run it much yet.

[@nigelbaxter583]

Hello Sam, new to this hobby and find your honest reviews invaluable. I did however take the plunge on 2 Dapol Westerns without waiting for a review from you. Like so many others, I would not trust myself to make a decent job of fixing etched name and number plates, but and a big but, I bought limited editions from Cheltenham Model Centre which came with them already fitted. Also, they have 3 Westerns, 2 at £99.99 and one, Enterprise, D1000 at £125, all still available. I did give up on their head codes but bought a set specifically for Westerns from Model Transport Graphics which are better and much easier to apply. The set has huge variety so after some research you can for instance accurately portray the up and down Cornish Riviera Limited. Keep up the good work.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks very much for the kind words Nigel. Brilliant that you managed to get some with everything pre-fitted - were they factory fitted then? Thanks for sharing, Cheers, Sam :)

[@nigelbaxter583]

Yes, Sam, according to the Cheltenham Model Centre website, factory fitted. Not only that but D1000 carries a representation that uniquely she had a larger nameplate and an aluminium BR crest. D1006 is fitted with the failed experiment of a clear view windscreen. Great particular to locomotive factory fitted details. So I guess Dapol could have done it to all models, but complaint from me, infact just the opposite (unlike my view of Hornby!).

[@samgineer9857]

As someone with a minor muscle impairment due to my Autism, putting decals onto a model is extremely difficult for me and I often times mess it up and either have to remove it and put a new one on or I miss it up only slightly to where it's not that big of a deal but it's still a little wonky. It's not something I can so easily just "do better next time". It's an actual physical condition caused by a mental disorder so when looking at models, whether or not the details are pre-applied or have to be applied myself plays a HUGE role in things. I'm glad you're making that argument to manufacturers because there are locomotives out there I want to get at the very least because I think they're cool and I'd love to display them but there are some details I'd have to put on myself and I don't have the skill to apply them appropriately. There's also nobody I know personally that can apply those details for me so I'm quite screwed on that front.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks a lot for sharing - I talk to people all the time who are just the same... they just don't enjoy the process of fitting tiny parts because they find it too difficult to be precise. Very much made that argument with people like you in mind! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@delaray7]

Great review Sam. Thoroughly enjoyed that. Thanks for being the best scrutineer on the internet, bringing us the thorns along with the roses. Nice looking model but has it got it where it counts?! Good Luck 🍀 and take care. Shout out to your family and their support.

[@SamsTrains]

It's a pleasure Ray, glad you liked it. Many thanks for all your kind words, Cheers, Sam :)

[@chargoesboom6990]

"Aha, there's the blue puffball!"

[@SamsTrains]

haha!

[@bennickss]

The 52 isn’t even what diesel 10 is based on…

[@srajfnly2]

@@bennickss I believe that was the class 43 Warship right

[@tinkiwinks]

@@srajfnly2 nope, it’s the 42. The 43 is the worse version of the 42.

[@kenjimaurerfromdisneyland2001]

@@bennickss Sylvester Jr wearing his blue sweater with yellow trims and red pants: Run, Lady. Quickly! And now I’m going to help you! Buster Bunny: Let’s get out here, Babs! Montana Max: [Chasing Sylvester Jr] Come back here you dirty cat! Sylvester Jr: Father, Help Me!

[@Tom-Lahaye]

I got two from the first release some years ago now, and having worked on the real thing in preservation I can say that this was the first model released which has the front profile spot on (took my models to the workshop to compare with the real deal). Detail is superb, but fitting some of the detail is somewhat challenging. I'm not talking about name and number plates, these are straight forward for me, but the tiny lifting rings which go on the roof panels, you will need a very steady hand, fine pointed tweezers and magnifying lenses to do these, also they may be very susceptible in getting detached when handling the locomotive. So unless you don't handle your models a lot or very carefully better leave those off! I haven't run my models yet, so I can't comment on performance.

[@petersmith4455]

hi sam. at least Dapol got the shape correct. unlike others.its a good model of a great loco.remember them well in the 70s

[@SamsTrains]

Yep - looks like they put some decent research into this! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@CMDBob]

Ooooh, excellent, the Dapol Class 52. Got this exact one myself, and I love it. Hauls pretty great, the lights are great, and it looks GORGEOUS (and has the nice etched nameplates). Can be a bit slow, but I just give it 60-70% power on analog and that helps for the lighting as well. Got mine from Rails of Sheffield for £125.50 last year (and it's still that price now). I should at some point get the detail stuff attached, I've not put it on yet. My only major complaint is the derailments, but I've taken to running it without the rear valance, as that avoids a lot of the derailments, as it seems there just isn't quite enough clearance on the tight turns with a coupling and valance installed. (it's even worse as most of my stuff has to have the large NEM couplings...)

[@SamsTrains]

Yeah overall a pretty good effort I think - certainly looks gorgeous! At least it's not just me with the derailments... was pretty sure it wouldn't be! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@gilbertporter4992]

Is this the new 2022 batch? When where they announced?

[@Teesbrough]

Fascinating and instructive review as ever, thanks Sam. Interesting to compare with EuviRail’s new ‘Long Term Review’ video of his weathered Dapol 52 where he’s escaped derailment issues. Used to have a Trix ‘Western’ when I was a kid: lovely finish, great runner, etched nameplate fitted and streets ahead of anything Triang/Hornby we’re producing at the time (1969).

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks a lot Will - I'm sure better laid track would solve the problem, but it's clear these are much more sensitive to that than other models. The Trix ones sound awesome - will have to try and track one down! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@4kandles]

Cracking review as always Sam .. I viewed it with interest as I have been looking to buy this DAPOL WESTERN .. taking into account your remarks and the comments left by followers, I have decided to make the purchase .. I've therefore ordered this very model from Jadlam Racing for £135 inc PP .. the future is bright, the future is maroon! 😎

[@superdave6889]

It looks like the side of the rear valance is getting hung up on the terrain in the curve, you may need to shave off a bit of the "turf" in the outside of the curve. or remove the rear valance.

[@thhseeking]

I noticed that too. And I may be seeing things, but it seemed to me that the "superelevation" on that curve is going the wrong way, leaning locos to the outside of the curve.

[@AutoMotive_Vision]

Hey Sam, brilliant review. Would you consider /have you ever considered doing a review on one of dapol’s class 68? Keep up the amazing work

[@ronjohnston8693]

hi Sam, I recently bought one of these class 52 locomotives, I had a similar problem with derailing, this was. caused by the nem pocket catching on the slit in the buffer beam, I tried different couplings even magnetic ones, once I took the lower part of the buffer beam off the derailment problem stopped, it does not look very good but once you have carriages fitted you don't notice it missing, love all your reviews please keep them coming, happy new year Regards Ron

[@marcdempsey5850]

Thanks Sam, a great review from yourself. This Class 52 looks fantastic, a head turning once all the extras and normal features are added, nameplates !! The shame is the derailments, something that sometimes can’t truely be accepted especially if it comes down to the fine scale wheels and the lack of free movement of the mechanisms. Design floor which once would normally expect from H…. Thankyou for your review at least it’s not like the HushHush. Very best Marc

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks a lot Marc - yes I bet this does look even better with all the extras. Not perfect by any means, but pretty decent for the price! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@nickbannister775]

As a youngster remember standing at Twyford Station collecting train numbers of the 52s in the late sixties/early 70s, very oily exsteriors and as previously mentioned they did sound like 37s.

[@tonyrobinson362]

The 52s didnt have spoked wheels, We used them around Bristol Bath Road depot in the early 70s

[@thewildsimon1418]

LOVE THESE MODELS got two already (the cheltenham model centre edition ones) with a third waiting for me and don’t think I’ll be stopping with that just yet!

[@Sparky-Tim]

Hi Sam. Check your scenery. At 29:40 & 29:59 you can clearly see the tail end of the Western catching on your scenery in front of the house with the Police box (Tardis) on the front lawn. Maybe this closeness to your track has caused other de-railments for your locos & stock because this seems to be a regular occurrence at this point. Hope this helps. Enjoy your videos, keep up the good work.👍

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks for that! Yes does look very close there - will double check! Though you can clearly see the derailment happening before that point Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@Sparky-Tim]

@@SamsTrains Thanks for reading my comment. Nice to know it got through. 👍 BTW it was a lovely looking loco. 🙂

[@patrickmurphy6775]

I like your history section. Good job!

[@andrewbrown4985]

Looks like in the repay the trailing buffer beam is catching on the scenery causing it to stop. i maybe wrong but that is what is see

[@SamsTrains]

Yes it does look very close - that scenery piece needs shoving back a bit... the derailments were happening before that point though as you can see, Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@StormmyStormmy]

Hi Sam, great video as always, i always wanted a class 52 loco, they are very nice looking, i will have a look at the Cheltenham model centre special models, keep up the good work.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks so much - and for sure, see what you can find! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@chrisdombroski7933]

Hi Sam nice review I have 5 dapol westerns and none of them derail, in fact they are some of my best running loco's. I've had more problems with my accurascale Deltic with bits falling off derailing speeding up and down on one of my lines but I do like them both.

[@SamsTrains]

That's very good to hear Chris - glad yours run well! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@linesided]

Good call out for people who can't do the fiddly bits. Your channel just rose in my estimation. Nicely done.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks Jonathan - quite an important point for some people! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@20thcenturyfoxauttpofflori33]

Hey Sam! I love your videos so much I watch almost all the time but I love your videos !!!!!!!!!!! Make more when you get new locomotives!

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks so much for the support - I sure will do my friend! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@20thcenturyfoxauttpofflori33]

@@SamsTrains ok ! Subscribed to you

[@exarkun42]

I think Dapol has innovated an analogue sound system with this one!

[@TomPrickVixen]

"It may contains traces of a German diesel " Mine is a few years old now and I'm mostly satisfied with, (those "roof rings" are impossible to fit without issues), and our tightest curve is 500mm so no noticeable derailments, but it could use some more metal. BTW the "see trough wheels" means that u can see trough the "holes", not spoked wheels!

[@westerngloryd1072]

Thank for your review Sam. However, I have to admit to being very surprised by some of the comments you make. I have eight Dapol Westerns and I am looking to buy two more when the latest release comes out later this year. I regard these models as truly stunning. I have never had a derailment. I would suggest that the model is not designed to run on sharp Hornby curves. It should be run on higher quality Peco track work or similar. They also run very smoothly on DCC. I find them the most reliable locos I own and very powerful. I have a selection of Hornby, Heljan and Bachman diesels, but I would rate the Westerns above them all. The lack of movement in the bogie and the poor finish around the fan housing on the roof is something else I have not come across and I would suggest if people have problems like these then the model should be returned to the retailer for a replacement. All the manufacturers have a model that's made on a Friday afternoon! I returned a Hornby Class 50 that grossly underperformed and the replacement was fine.

[@nigelcurtis218]

Hi Sam. No excuse for poor assembly or flash on plastic parts but turn your Western upside down and check if the air tank under the cab is catching the NEM pocket on the end of the loco which derails. I had this issue and found excess flash on the air tank where it ' slides ' along the NEM pocket to be the cause. I unclipped the exchangeable bottom valance , filed the open end of the air tank down , now the loco runs perfectly.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks Nigel, that's a good thought on the air tank, will have to double check this! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@adamwilliams192]

Phew As one of the people who recommended / mention this to you I am glad it’s not awful! I do fully agree with you point about the name plates etc, having no tampo prints is a bit poor. I am used to this with Dapol as they have done the same with N gauge models (I can’t comment on the N westerns though), and some of them didn’t even come with etches! A fair review and look forward to the next.

[@SamsTrains]

haha it certainly isn't - definitely a great model! I didn't realise this was a thing with Dapol - this is the first time I've seen a loco without number/nameplates printed! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@maltnz]

I have a similar but slightly older version 4D-003-007 W .. instructions sheets appear exactly the same. Do not have the derailing issue, glue marks or the slight noise your model exhibits. However on mine, the the NEM coupler front cover works loose easily and one of the coloured wires underneath the base had to be glued back in. Like yours , mine needed the excess oil cleaned up and gear grease can affect the pickup connectivity to the wheel bearings. I had the dealer fit the name plates for me before delivery. Overall I am very pleased with my Dapol class 52.

[@SamsTrains]

That's interesting to know, duly noted! Sounds like yours was in better shape than mine then, and great thinking to have the dealer fit the extras! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@darrenrees3284]

I remember seeing these running on full chat, they sounded amazing, Even saw Western Talisman when she crashed at Eailing Broadway.

[@SamsTrains]

Ahh fantastic - I bet they do sound awesome! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@johnoneill5661]

Very nice loco and a very good review especially for pointing out that not everyone is able to fit the small details. 👍👍

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks John - I think it's a really important point! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@joginns778]

Sam I notice on eBay a lot of second hand dapol westerns where people stick the name plates on with glue and make a right mess it's madness, I use double sided tape trimmed round the edges and it works wonders and if you want to change the name plates you just peel them off again,

[@mikeking2539]

Please NOTE the very good advice Sam* "DO NOT operate the model on track laid onto carpet as dust and fibres will impair the mechanism" * Direct from the instructions as shown in you very own video at 7:43 into the video!

[@SamsTrains]

That's true Mike - though I politely disregarded this, as my track is free from dust and fibres thanks to the wonderful innovation known as the vacuum cleaner! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@TheHoplites]

Yes mine derailed too ! I am praying that the class 22 doesn't have the same issue?

[@brooklynroad8581]

Ive got one. Bit noisy like yours. Mine is the older batch, comes with headcode and printed name plates. Bought in 2017 for about the same price. no issues with derailing.

[@michaelcampin1464]

I really think that given the choice of headcodes etc is an advantage although the plastic buffers let it down. In my view for the price its a steal

[@LleshGordon2122]

How does get the working the dapol class 52 is always so excellent got make yourself happily so let see a locomotive the diesel.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks for the comment Llesh, appreciate it! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@Olivers-trains]

I am using the model centre for my Accurascale 37, I am hoping it gets released soon, I have seen things saying September but Accurascale say October. Excellent video, I do like the westerns but they are not my sort of thing.

[@edmundtan4577]

Got mine from Hattons for £150 including P&P, mine came with the etched name plate missing, I contacted Dapol and they sent me one, The only complain is the gear noise, at a certain speed, I'd say 30-40%, the gear noise noticeable to say the least.

[@22whizzo56]

Have to disagree with you regarding the tractive effort ot the Class 52s - they had a tractive effort of 72,600 lbf - Class 47 was 60,000 lbf - Class 45/46 was 55,000 lbf - Class 50 was 48,500 lbf. Incidentally, the Class 42/43 Warships had a tractive effort of 53 400 lbf - so the diesel electric locomotives were not superior to diesel hydraulics in that department.

[@mikeking2539]

Re the De-railing issues with the other Dapol Diesel locos, do they dr-rail in the same location? As for the class 73 been a Bo-Bo therefor a shorter wheel base, I don't get why it should de-rail on that curve! Hummm I wonder why I don't have any Dapol locos?

[@leonkernan]

That noise and poor running in one direction is identical to one of my Australian locos. I wonder if they come from the same factory?

[@SamsTrains]

Ahh interesting - they could do?! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@davidmason1443]

Another comprehensive review. Must comment that I don't have any running issues with my Dapol class 52 on Peco radius 2 track or Peco set track points arranged to cross from up to down lines. Overall I feel Dapol have produced a superb Western locomotive. 😁 Think I would of returned it especially with the glue marks around the fans.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks for sharing David - that's very good to hear! Mine seemed fine on r2 as well, except for when combined with a slight incline. Overall agreed - wonderful model! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@lindaoffenbach]

Great review again Sam, and surviving the attic as a "Sauna" with the summer heat, lol. The class 52 is epic, but this as a Dapol does mix feeling here. With prototypical flanges and 'freedom' of bogie movement, she would most certainly require a proficient lay out to start with, but too many niggling poor design and manufacturing practices are quite a bit concerning really, at any price. The score is a tad too generous we think. Quality shouldn't exceed 3 stars, and the total score would lean towards a 6.5 for us tbh. Interestingly, the class is mostly based on proven continental technology in a sense that it was a political no no to import diesel-hydraulic parts (new for the UK) from Germany after the war. Hence, made in the UK under license (with motors from Maybach or Mercedes) and does explain the entire arrangement somewhat resembling the German V200, specially the Bogies. Both V200 and Class 52 are genuine classics. Cherio and Ciao.

[@SamsTrains]

haha thanks Linda - yes couple of Dapol issues as per, but no major complaints this time. Could have been a bit generous - might be right there! Thanks for the extra info, Cheers, Sam :)

[@andrewdking]

I think our Swindon built Warships (Class 43) were based upon the German V200 more so than the larger Western, certainly in the looks department.

[@lindaoffenbach]

@@andrewdking From the looks certainly, I agree. Diesel-hydraulic was new for the UK, so they had to import all that technology from Germany, but this was politically not done. It was agreed to make all parts under license which does include both the 43 and 52. The V200 did serve as a template essentially.

[@RailwayDan]

I have 2 of these (along with an old Hornby one) and they are both great models. Both run really well and haul a twelve coach train with ease. I'm really starting to like Dapols stuff and they are in a great position to take a lot of business from Hornby (who are struggling with a really c@@p reputation right now) with very reasonable priced, good quality rolling stock.I have a couple of their 73's and an A1X and they are all great. I'd like to see them to add more to their range. Try a 31 next. Not many decent ones around. Great review as always Sam.

[@SamsTrains]

Great to hear that - yes these do seem to be pretty decent runners, and can't go wrong at that price! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@fyfieldjunction]

Excellent review as always Sam. Shame you seem to not always have the best luck with dapol. If you’d be interested in looking at another dapol diesel then I’d highly recommend there class 68. Hope you do one in the future. All the best to you 👍

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks very much - yeah true, had a fair few lemons from Dapol, though this is far frmo the worst one! The 68 sounds amazing, will try that some time :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@tobyytlai]

Consider regauging the loco with a back to back gauge? Hopefully we'll hear an update from you that you've fixed the derailing issue

[@iceeblueburst03]

I like the red and yellow for the Class 52

[@SamsTrains]

Yes it's a great livery! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@markdunwell3288]

Good morning Sam, thank you for the video. Very interesting. This version of the Western by Dapol is a superior locomotive compared to Haljan's Western. I have a very old 1980's Blue and Maroon version's by the big H, with ringfield mechanism very dated but at least they have names and numbers. Thank you Sam. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟👍🚄🚅

[@mikewalder9733]

Got a couple of these, I think the problem is with the split axles, combined with the fine flanges, which are difficult to make square and true as the plastic gear is pretty imprecise way of joining axle halves, necessary as it electrically isolates each wheel. This makes them derail on even perfectly level curves and points as the wobble can be sufficient to lift the other axles sufficiently to ride off the track. Fixed mine by buying spare axles and replacing the worst. Not had a problem with the pickups, actually like them as they are noise free, the bearing stays in place, so it’s not wearing the phosphor bronze pickup strips, and shouldn’t be arching, so shouldn’t need as much maintenance as traditional pickups, and only has the same drag as a traditional bearing, and no drag from the wipers. But detail wise, if you get a good one, it can’t be beaten. QC on the axles and glued parts could be better I think, and the design will never be any good on anything but very slight inclines.

[@alantoms3263]

Be careful with the circuit board. I purchased an 'as new older stock' one from a regular dealer on Ebay, but not one of Dapol's regular merchants a couple of years ago. It looked great, was running well, then stopped - PCB burnt out. Dapol / agents wouldn't assist in any way. Original supplier accepted to receive back for full refund, which was great, but said couldn't sell at a profit so would have to break for parts a nearly perfectly good locomotive just for this. I much prefer my Heljan - only needed a touch of oil, and still looks definitely like a Western to me - with a pretty decent performance. I still hope to get a Dapol one, one day, but not just yet - one bitten ... Al.

[@jamesdunloptrains]

Awesome video today Sam beautiful modle might have to get one

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks James - it's certainly pretty impressive! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@danielwalker2613]

I think it looks strange with the full yellow ends ? .... Was this applied with the maroon livery, as I'm sure that come later when painted in BR blue !!

[@georgethepatriot2785]

Love the video. Dapols 52 is better than Heljuns version But at least you can place a driver in the Heljun. Any advice on 'breaking' into the Dapol cab welcomed.

[@Tombola1993]

One of my favourite diesel locomotives in the world.

[@Yorkmedia1]

Hello sam I’m the same I just want to get models out the box ready to go you could call me a lazy modeller but I have poor eyesight great review Sam

[@SamsTrains]

Yes absolutely - to some it is laziness... but to others who have issues with sight, dexterity or a number of other things, it's anything but laziness! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@donsharpe5786]

The third reason why hydraulics were not retained while diesel electrics were used, was the inability to heat trains electrically. Diesel electrics had a source of power to enable the heating to take place whereas the hydraulics would require an electric generator and there was insufficient space to fit one.

[@SamsTrains]

Ahh interesting stuff Don, thanks for this! :D Cheers, Sam :)

[@michaelcampin1464]

I think youd need to install wheels with larger flanges to get it perform as intended

[@joshuaW5621]

Nice to see ya Sam.

[@SamsTrains]

You too Joshua! :D

[@debbiemilka2251]

Sam, I just now went to World of Railways website and they have a fairly thorough run through of applying the detail bits to this Dapol Class 52. I had hoped to find the location of the 'builder's plate'. They speak of it,but don't say where to put it. It would be lovely to have a speed indicator cable attached to the bogie and mains frame.

[@davidstrains4910]

Just found an image online of the real d1016 Western gladiator and looking at the image the builders plates go on one side of the frond valences, looking at some other images some class 52s had shed plates fitted on the front valence as well.

[@SamsTrains]

That sounds very handy Debbie - thanks for sharing this! Cheers, Sam :)

[@jeffreysmith156]

So far I have Trix / Liliput (one from new in 1975), Hornby and Lima versions. I have not so far ventured to get a Heljan one. Do I risk a Dapol one? One thing that is surprising between the makes of my three are the differences in the appearance of the cab. Hornby's version seems to have windows that are too small. Anyway, your great review leaves me with things to ponder.

[@SamsTrains]

That's very interesting - only just learned about the Trix one for the first time today! Ahh interesting about the cab windows - will have to compare those! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@jeffreysmith156]

@@SamsTrains The Trix ones are their normal 3.8mm scale and so are slightly smaller than OO but I have an affinity to them from my childhood so forgive them for all sorts of things. The Hornby and Lima ones run nicely as one would expect for models from the 1980s and 1990s. The last time Hornby made one was in about 2004.

[@Robin.s-Rails]

Hi Sam, re fitting name plates, accessories etc, I note you purchased from TMC who offer renaming, renumbering etc. Perhaps you could enquire re the cost for TMC to fit these at the time of purchase per your specific requirements and see what changes this makes to your review scores?

[@James-ih4gz]

i have a class 52 from lima back in the 1980s my dad got ther model

[@superdave6889]

From what i understand, the class 52 was basically a copy of a german V200 with a badly designed copy of the V200's maybach diesel prime mover. i am told that a few 52's had a real maybach, and worked well, whereas the ones with the copy were allegedly roundhouse queens (broke down a lot)

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks for this Dave - very interesting background to these locos! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@thhseeking]

Having "crappy" track is not necessarily a bad thing for testing locos. Trying frame-by-frame at one point seemed to me to show the loco leaning outwards as it went around the curve, as if it was "superelevated" the wrong way. That might exacerbate any locos with less "loose" bogies (52 & 73, I'm talking to you!). I think that most locos are made with sloppy bogies to cater for tighter curves. I wonder if the noisiness will ease over time?

[@briandesens144]

Awesome video Sam's trains

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks Brian! :D

[@briandesens144]

@@SamsTrains you're welcome

[@Damocles178]

Have to say the paintwork on that looks phenomenal. I keep looking at it and expecting it to be metal even though it's plastic. Certainly is a first to see a model with no placeholders to give people an option on the plates. Pity they weren't a bit more conventional with the bogies . If their lack of movement is indeed the problem it would certainly make this model more universal if they made them more flexible. Still a stunning model. If they play their cards right they will go far.

[@alantraish3368]

Im sticking with my beautiful reliable 3 Heljan 52s. Body off problem is in fact a benefit and its twin drive cardan shafts.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks for sharing Alan - yes I suppose it could be handy, though the dapol is twin shafted too

[@andrewcalladine2507]

Explains why so many on ebay have glue marks where people have tried to add the name plates etc

[@SamsTrains]

Oh do they really? That'd certainly make sense! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@michaelcampin1464]

Try putting a Bachmann A4 over a 2nd radius curve. They fall over

[@darrenrees3284]

I have four of them that i got a few years ago., Very good model.

[@ivovanzon164]

What wheel standard did they use on that, HoFine? They look like they are even lower than a Rp25 type.

[@SamsTrains]

They do look ridiculously fine - bit of a strange choice! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@ikea_tank7193]

I have a old Lima class 52 that probably 40-50 years old. It works well but is very loud

[@SamsTrains]

Ah yeah the Lima ones are very cool - I have one of those too! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@Crepello100]

Very useful review - you've saved me a lot of money as I was considering buying one of these. Seems the wheels have the same problem as Ultrascale as in looking good but totally impractical, because models have no suspension hence the derailments. It fails my stall test too as your's didn't wheelspin but stalled against your finger which risks a burnout. Also it's sold as a one ended loco with just one coupling and even that goes through a narrow slot with no vertical freeplay. On that I'd even rate the old Hornby Margate version of the Class 52 higher with it's valences attached (falsely) to the bogie. As for your performance test, I get better low speed control on my Lima ones than you did. In a nuthshell Dapol have gone for looks with no consideration for performance. They've made it too heavy for it's motor. What's the point of being able to pull 47 coaches? And I've no doubt that this loco is difficult to completely dismantle if needed. It's sad because it seems every manufacturer makes the same mistakes, including making locos too heavy for the motor. I guess the reason is because everyone seems to associate weight with quality. Even you said it's heavy - that's good! Why is this? Anyway, I'll stick with my Lima ones which sure have their faults, but at least they're still working after 50 miles over 12 years. They cost me about £20 each secondhand. Now I can afford more but it seems there's absolutely nothing worth getting. It' seems today that looks and sound are all they care about with very little advance on the perfomance side over the last 40 years. Anyways, thanks for a really good review. I now know not to get one of these.

[@richardmarshall4322]

Nice looking loco. I have several examples, but i think Dapol products are generaly mechanicaly poorer than other manufacturers. Noisy motors and wobbles. Best combo would be Dapol body, Heljan mechanicals.

[@europacifictradersltd3717]

hi sam. the class 52 i think is one of the best shaped diesel loco. a decent model with down to earth pricing...

[@SamsTrains]

It really is - absolutely iconic shape! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@darrenrees3284]

Uae goss varnish to fix rhem on use a small amount, as it drys it will pull the plate onto the model, For the build plates look at a photo of the real thing.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks a lot for sharing Darren!

[@johntennant1265]

Lovely review Sam but what carriages did you have this locomotive pull around the layout please?

[@corinheathcote9868]

So far Lima, Hornby, Heljan and now Dapol have made the 'Western', all we need now is a Bachmann one.

[@SamsTrains]

haha that's true - come on Bachmann!! ;D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@BrokenIET]

Not sure what you meant by transfers being a specialist task, all you need to do is put it into some warm water for a few minutes and then guide it off the sheet with a brush

[@SamsTrains]

Exactly - for some people that’s very difficult, as some precision is needed. Those with dexterity or vision issues seriously struggle with anything like that, and there are many of them!

[@alantoms3263]

Opening data by Dapol is wrong as well. They were only withdrawn for reliability / standardisation reasons. They were very powerful haulers, 70,000 lb ft maximum tractive effort against 48,500 for the 'Hoover' Class 50's which essentially replaced them, before the HST did on mainline passenger services. Al.

[@SamsTrains]

Oh really? That's surprising - thanks for sharing anyway Alan! Cheers, Sam :)

[@brianmicky7596]

Hi Sam, Yes nice engine, ( like your one mine has a few problems, I think mine is a Lima, rubbish motor can't find a replacement??) Good review , All the best Brian 😃

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks for sharing Brian - yes seen a couple of comments already about others having problems with these... it's a shame, but at least we're not the only ones! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@mynx_uk]

nice Loco. I am just wondering what the best reasonobly priced n guage unit would be to build a custom body on? my idea is to make a minecart with furnace and other types of minecraft carts so i could build a minecraft themed layout.

[@SamsTrains]

That's a good question - N isn't my thing unfortunately, though maybe others will be able to help?? Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@seeleymainline8293]

Hey Sam I’m loving your videos but as an American the only model I want you to review is the broadway limited 844. Please can you review it. I’ve asked over the course of two years

[@grahamlawrance6173]

Hi Sam. Is there a viewable copy of your full ratings list available please? Thank you. Graham

[@SamsTrains]

There isn't unfortunately - though I'll share the ranking at the end of the year! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@tom_brix6766]

Would you review one of the new heljan class 14's as they are meant to be quite good

[@pettra1]

I wonder if the bogies on your model are fitted too tightly Sam? That said, I don't know how they are connected. Attached to the chassis with screws, like the Blue Pullman power cars? If so, then loosening them slightly might work, in that they would have some greater movement. But hey, what do I know? Lovely model though. Best, Pete.

[@SamsTrains]

Could be Pete - though I'm fairly sure they'll be a clip fit, with no real way to adjust the tightness... worth a look though! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@Perrygallo]

hi Sam - aside from the aesthetic, why is the crawl an important test?

[@AVFCAM]

I bought one of the first batch of these, paid £100 from TMC I think at Warley and that was years back, so £120 at today’s prices is ridiculously cheap!

[@michaelschultz5127]

I think it's those flanges, if can change those wheels then maybe it might be a little better.

[@jasonjohnson892]

Hey Sam, I have the previous generation that came out I think around 2016-2017. Bought it used for about £90. Mine is BR Green. It had everything that that the current edition has. It looks the same externally. However mine runs amazing, never had a derailment even at high speed. My strongest and smoothest model. Maybe it's the factory. Large employment turnovers means that one edition can be amazing, then the same edition built and released 4-5 years later could now be shitty due to poor quality control. Btw, Intercity82 reviewed the same 2016/2017 model as mine(even same name and color) and his runs smoothly just like mine. Heljan's version is not too far behind. Dapol does beat them by price.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks Jason - appreciate the info - great to hear that yours was so much cheaper and runs better... not much more to ask for! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@chrissouthgate4554]

Name plates etc; not being fitted might help keep the price down. For those not wishing to faf about, would it be worth a supplier offering this as a service (hint -hint) & how much would people be willing to pay?

[@SamsTrains]

Yeah that's true - don't have a problem with the plates not being fitted ,but would like to have seen them tampo printed too, just so the model is ready right out of the box! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@louisbuscarino7330]

I am not a diesel man my self but I do like the looks of this one. At the price it is definitely a good deal. But I see shades of the 121 Bubble car detailing problem. But I don’t think it has motor problems. Still it has a lot of good merits going for it. I hope Dapol can solve this problem with their diesels .

[@SamsTrains]

Yeah me too - it's very iconic looking isn't it? Very much so - the 71 and the bubble car were very much the same... not an isolated issue! True though, glad to see the motor seems sound this time, Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@OlivierGabin]

@@SamsTrains I have a 121 and I didn't notice the derailment problem. I will test it again next time I run something in HO/OO (no permanent layout possible in my house).

[@mikeking2539]

So far I had been put off buying one of these to re-place the Heljan one that I had, were you had to drill tiny holes everywhere on the cab fronts, in order to fit the Limp irons, the window wipers, and other things. At least Dapol have fitted these for you. But yes there is a but, like you I don't want to have (unless I am in the riight frame of minde) fit the Names, numbers and builder's plates, if you use super glue you can make a right mess of the body, ... so that was the main reson that I was put off buying one. But having watche this video to the 26 mins point, and hearing you say derailment issues, made me think oh dear!!!! Nope, I don't want a loco that derails.

[@TheoMonaghan]

Hey Sam, you should review the Bachmann Wilson model from their retired Chuggington range. It’s about £60 from TootallyThomas I think. Might make an interesting video haha

[@SamsTrains]

That does sound cool - always wondered what those are like!! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@TheoMonaghan]

Yeah they’re pretty cursed looking haha