It's update bonanza time here at Accurascale with so many new models arriving in the coming weeks!
This time its for our much loved PTA/JTA/JUA family of iron ore and aggregate wagons, which land on our shores in mid August!
Heavy Haul Rail
There are few sights in British railfreight more impressive than a full rake of PTA tippler wagons snaking their way through the countryside behind a hard-working diesel locomotive or even multiple BR heritage locomotives. Whether carrying limestone from Merehead and Whatley, steel traffic from Consett or South Wales, or latterly operating under JTA and JUA classifications, these mighty heavy haulers were built for one thing; moving vast quantities of material as efficiently as possible.
They certainly weren't subtle about it, either.
With their enormous payloads and equally enormous trains, they quickly became firm favourites with enthusiasts, and it's easy to see why. They epitomise the transition of British Rail's wagon load to block train operation, working in some of the heaviest trains seen on Britain's railways and finding themselves hauled by everything from BR electric locomotives, right through to mighty Class 59s and 60s.
It's perhaps no surprise then that our first production run proved so popular, selling through rapidly and becoming a layout staple for modellers of heavy freight operations.
Now, they're back.
And they're better than ever.
Bigger? No. Better? Absolutely!
Whilst we'd all love to announce that we'd somehow managed to squeeze another 50 wagons into each box (your postman and wallet may disagree...), we've instead spent our time making this latest production run even better than before.
Improvements have focused around the bogie area, where we've enhanced the detail around the bogie centres for an even more authentic appearance.
We've also incorporated beautifully fine etched brake discs on this latest run, adding another layer of detail to what is already one of the most impressive wagon models we've ever produced.
Finally, we've addressed one of the most requested enhancements from the first run, with track pick-up now incorporated for the working flashing tail lamp supplied with every Outer set. The result is more reliable operation and an even more eye-catching finish to the rear of your heavy haul formation.
Of course, all of the features that made the original run so highly regarded remain present, from their intricate pipework and separately fitted details right through to their impressive heft and authentic operation.
Prototype Correct To The Last Wagon
One of the defining characteristics of PTA tippler wagon formations was their unusual coupling arrangements.
The wagons operated in dedicated formations, with the outer vehicles featuring buffers and conventional coupling arrangements to connect to locomotives, whilst the intermediate vehicles were connected using the higher-mounted knuckle couplings found on the prototype.
Replicating this arrangement was something we felt was essential from day one, and we're delighted to continue that approach with this latest run.
ARC, Yeoman and British Steel Consett liveries are each represented by two five-wagon sets:
- One Outer set featuring two wagons fitted with buffers and traditional tension lock couplings mounted at NEM recommended height for coupling to your locomotive.
- One Inner set featuring the prototype higher-mounted knuckle couplings used between wagons within the rake.
Meanwhile, the British Steel South Wales formation comprises:
- One Outer set.
- Two separate Inner sets.
As per our first production run, the Inner sets are designed as bolster packs for the Outer sets and will not couple directly to locomotives. They are intended solely to recreate the intermediate portions of the prototype formations, with only the Outer sets featuring the necessary coupling arrangements for locomotive operation.
Each Outer set also includes its own fully working flashing tail lamp to complete your train in authentic fashion.
Heavy Haul Doesn't Have To Mean Heavy On Your Wallet
Each five-wagon book set is priced at £179.95, representing exceptional value when you consider the sheer amount of detail and engineering that goes into every box.
Purchase both the Outer and matching Inner sets together and you'll receive a 10% multi-buy discount, making it even easier to assemble one of the most impressive freight trains ever to grace your layout.
Limited Stock Remaining
Whilst we've substantially increased production quantities compared with our original release, demand has once again proven exceptionally strong and stocks are already looking limited across several versions.
These wagons are due to arrive into stock in mid-August, and with limited quantities remaining we would strongly recommend getting your order in sooner rather than later.
After all, if you're going to run a freight train, why not make it a very, very long one?
Limited stock remains available, so place your order today and prepare to put your locomotive's haulage capabilities to the test this August!
