Bachmann 32-575

Tooling

Bachmann Branchline introduced its LMS Ivatt Class 4 2-6-0 model in 2005, representing the mixed-traffic ‘Mogul’ locomotives designed by H.G. Ivatt for the LMS and later BR. The prototype was built between 1947 and 1952 and became a versatile workhorse across the network. Bachmann’s tooling aimed to deliver a highly detailed OO gauge rendition for enthusiasts seeking accuracy and reliability.

Tooling Features

• Scale: OO gauge (1:76).
• Construction: Combination of plastic and metal components for durability and weight.
• Detailing: Factory-fitted separate parts including handrails, injector pipework, lamp irons, tablet catcher equipment, tender ladder, and turned brass safety valves and whistle. Cab interior fully detailed with glazing.
• Finish: Chemically blackened wheels and fluted connecting rods with an oily finish for realism.
• Couplings: NEM pockets with tension-lock couplers; cosmetic hooks supplied.

Mechanical & Electrical

• Drive: Loco-driven mechanism with a 3-pole motor located in the locomotive body.
• Pickups: On driving wheels only; 2-rail DC operation.
• Minimum Radius: Recommended Radius 2 (approx. 18 inches).
• Weighting: Integrated within chassis for improved adhesion.
• Working Features: Functional roof vent; sprung front bogie for smooth running.

DCC Capability

• DCC Ready with 8-pin socket.
• No factory provision for sound speaker; sound installation requires modification.

Liveries Produced

• LMS Black (pre-nationalisation).
• BR Plain Black.
• BR Black with Early Emblem.
• BR Black with Late Crest.
• BR Lined Black variations, including weathered and limited editions.

Reviews & Commentary

Initial reviews praised the model’s fine detailing and accurate proportions, particularly the cab and tender features. Performance was generally smooth, with good slow-speed control and adequate haulage for typical layouts. Criticism focused on limited space for DCC sound installation and occasional tightness when removing the body for decoder fitting. Enthusiasts noted that the model runs best on curves larger than the minimum recommended radius for visual realism.

Media & Social Media

The Ivatt Class 4 tooling has featured in numerous YouTube reviews and running sessions, often highlighted for its authentic appearance and reliable mechanism. Collectors appreciate the breadth of liveries and occasional limited editions, making it a popular choice for LMS and BR-era layouts.

Interesting Notes

• The prototype locomotives were nicknamed “Mucky Ducks” and “Flying Pigs,” a heritage reflected in enthusiast discussions.
• Despite being nearly two decades old, the tooling remains competitive thanks to its strong detailing and robust design.

Class & Prototype

No prototype found.

Operator & Livery

The London, Midland & Scottish Railway (LMS) was Britain's largest railway company from 1923-1948, formed by merging over 120 independent railways under the Railways Act 1921. Operating 7,790 route miles across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, the LMS became the world's largest transport organisation and the British Empire's biggest commercial enterprise. Famous for iconic locomotives like the streamlined Princess Coronation class, versatile Black Fives, and Royal Scots, the company evolved from inherited pre-grouping designs to revolutionary Stanier innovations. The LMS operated major routes including the West Coast Main Line from London Euston to Scotland, serving as the UK's second-largest employer after the Post Office. Nationalised in 1948 to form British Railways' London Midland Region, the LMS legacy continues through extensive preservation efforts and remains a favourite subject for railway modellers seeking authentic British steam-age prototypes.

The LMS plain black livery served as the standard finish for freight locomotives and represented practical railway economics during the company's existence. Applied without lining or embellishment, this utilitarian scheme recognised that goods engines operated in inherently dirty conditions where elaborate paintwork proved both expensive and impractical.

Most LMS freight classes including the ubiquitous 0-6-0 goods engines, 0-8-0 heavy freight locomotives, and tank engines used for shunting duties wore plain black throughout their service lives. The scheme extended beyond locomotives to goods wagons, where black paint provided adequate weather protection at minimal cost.

During World War II, plain black became increasingly common as material shortages and wartime economies forced the abandonment of more elaborate liveries. Even some passenger locomotives temporarily adopted unlined black finishes when crimson lake supplies became unavailable. The practical benefits of black paint - its ability to hide dirt, soot, and industrial grime - made it ideal for locomotives working coal trains, mineral traffic, and heavy industrial duties.

For modellers, plain black represents the workhorse reality of LMS operations, particularly appropriate for freight yards, colliery branches, and industrial settings where authentic weathering and operational realism take precedence over passenger train glamour.