Bachmann 31-676K

British Rail Class 85 85101 British Rail Railfreight Distribution Triple Grey

Contents

Tooling

Announced in 2012, Bachmann’s British Rail Class 85 marked the company’s first UK-outline AC electric locomotive in OO gauge. The prototype Class 85, originally designated AL5, was built between 1961 and 1964 for the electrification of the West Coast Main Line. Bachmann’s decision to produce this model filled a long-standing gap in the market for accurate AC electrics, following mixed reception of earlier models from other manufacturers.

Tooling Features

  • Construction: Combination of plastic and metal components for durability and weight.
  • Detailing: Factory-fitted separate details including handrails, bufferbeam detail, roof-mounted electrical equipment, Stone Faiveley AMBR pantograph, window wipers, and fully detailed cab interior.
  • Couplings: NEM pockets with tension-lock couplers; cosmetic screwlink couplings supplied in accessory pack.
  • Buffers: Sprung metal buffers.

Mechanical & Electrical

  • Motor & Drive: Centrally mounted motor driving all axles via a gear train.
  • Lighting: Directional headlights and tail lights, plus cab lighting.
  • Weighting: Integrated into chassis for smooth running and traction.

DCC Capability

  • DCC Ready with a 21-pin socket.
  • Provision for sound installation with speaker connections on PCB.
  • Lighting functions controllable via decoder (F0 for headlights/tail lights, F1 for cab lights).

Liveries Produced

  • BR Electric Blue (early condition).
  • BR Blue (TOPS era).
  • Railfreight Distribution triple grey (limited edition).
  • Weathered variants of BR Blue.

Reviews & Commentary

The model was widely praised for its accurate body shape, fine detailing, and exceptional roof equipment, particularly the pantograph which was considered superior to previous offerings. Running performance was reported as smooth and reliable. Minor criticisms focused on pantograph adjustment and calls for finer-scale grilles in future reissues. Enthusiasts on RMweb and YouTube highlighted its appeal as an essential addition for West Coast Main Line layouts, with many fitting sound decoders for enhanced realism.

Interesting Notes

  • The tooling included poseable pantographs and etched cab emblems.
  • Accessory packs provided additional detailing parts for bufferbeams and pipework.
  • The model was considered a turning point for AC electric representation in OO gauge.

Class & Prototype

No prototype found.

Operator & Livery