Bachmann 32-160

Tooling

The Bachmann Branchline model of the South Eastern & Chatham Railway (SECR) N Class 2-6-0 steam locomotive was first introduced in 1998. This tooling marked a significant step in Bachmann’s commitment to representing pre-grouping British railway prototypes in OO gauge. The release coincided with the 50th anniversary of Kader Industries, Bachmann’s parent company, and included several special edition models.

Tooling Features

• Scale: OO gauge (1:76)
• Construction: Plastic body with separately fitted details; metal chassis and components for durability
• Detailing: Fine rivet detail, accurate cab fittings, separately applied handrails and lamp irons
• Couplings: Standard tension-lock couplers; some models feature NEM pockets

Mechanical & Electrical

• Motor: Smooth-running motor housed in the boiler
• Drive: All-wheel drive with pickups on both locomotive and tender
• Minimum Radius: Recommended second radius (438 mm)
• Lighting: No factory-fitted lighting
• Weighting: Balanced for traction; some tenders include cast coal loads

DCC Capability

• DCC Status: DCC compatible but not DCC ready; no socket fitted
• Upgrade Options: Requires hardwiring for DCC installation

Liveries Produced

The tooling has supported a wide range of liveries across multiple eras:

• SECR Grey (Austerity wartime livery)
• Southern Railway Olive Green
• Southern Railway Black
• Southern Railway Malachite Green
• British Railways Plain Black
• BR Black with Early Emblem
• BR Black with Late Crest
• Córas Iompair Éireann (CIE) Irish Rail liveries

Reviews & Commentary

Upon release, the N Class model was praised for its level of detail and smooth running characteristics. Reviewers noted the crisp livery application and accurate proportions. The model was considered ahead of its time in terms of detail, with many examples still performing well decades later. Some criticisms included the lack of DCC socket and the need for careful handling of fine detail parts.

Media & Social Media

The N Class has featured in various enthusiast reviews and forums. It remains a popular choice among collectors of Southern Region and pre-grouping stock. Special editions, such as the Kader 50th Anniversary twin pack, have been highlighted in collector communities and social media posts.

Interesting Notes

• The N Class was designed by Richard Maunsell in 1914 as a mixed-traffic locomotive for the SECR and later Southern Railway.
• Preserved example No. 31874 influenced several model liveries and was withdrawn from heritage service in 1998 due to mechanical issues.
• Limited edition models were produced for retailers including Modelzone, Murphy’s Models, and Beatties.

Class & Prototype

No prototype found.

Operator & Livery

The Southern Railway (SR), formed in 1923 through the amalgamation of numerous railway companies, became Britain's most passenger-focused railway company. The three principal constituents were the LSWR, LB&SCR, and SE&CR, alongside several smaller railways including the Plymouth, Devonport and South Western Junction Railway and various light railways. Operating 2,186 miles across southern England, the SR pioneered extensive third-rail electrification and developed distinctive locomotive classes under Chief Mechanical Engineers Maunsell and Bulleid. The company's malachite green and olive green liveries, Art Deco architecture, and premium passenger services like the Golden Arrow established new British railway standards. Nationalised in 1948, the SR's innovations in electric traction and passenger comfort influenced modern railway practice. Today, SR locomotives remain highly popular with railway modellers for their elegant designs, varied operational roles, and distinctive Southern Railway heritage that connected London with the Channel ports and southern resorts.