Hornby R2663A

British Rail Class 90 90019 First ScotRail Blue

Contents

Tooling

Hornby introduced an upgraded Class 90 tooling in 2004 to refresh its long-standing model of British Rail’s AC electric locomotive. This revision aimed to improve detailing and construction while retaining affordability. It was positioned as a mid-range offering during a period when DCC was becoming mainstream, but before full digital readiness was standard.

Tooling Features

  • Construction: Plastic bodyshell with metal reinforcement; improved chassis design for stability.
  • Detailing: Factory-fitted separate details including Brecknell Willis high-speed pantograph (poseable but unpowered), roof electrical gear, bufferbeam detail, front valance, cab interior, flush glazing, and underframe battery boxes.
  • Finish: Chemically blackened wheels for enhanced realism.

Mechanical & Electrical

  • Motor: 5-pole motor mounted in one bogie.
  • Drive: 4-wheel drive via powered bogie; pickups on the power bogie only.
  • Power Collection: 2-rail DC; pantograph is cosmetic only.
  • Weighting: Integrated within chassis for traction.
  • Lighting: No factory lighting provision.

DCC Capability

The 2004 tooling was DCC compatible but lacked a factory-fitted socket. Conversion requires hard-wiring a decoder. No provision for sound installation.

Reviews & Commentary

Reviews at the time noted improved body detailing compared to the original 1988 tooling, though the mechanism remained basic with single-bogie drive and limited pickup. Lack of a DCC socket was seen as a drawback during the digital transition era. Enthusiasts appreciated the cosmetic upgrades and liveries, but performance was considered modest compared to emerging competitors. Online discussions often describe it as “a step forward in looks, but not in mechanics.”

Interesting Notes

  • The pantograph was retained as a poseable feature, though no longer functional for power collection.
  • This tooling bridged the gap between the original 1988 release and the fully retooled 2008 version with DCC readiness.
  • Models from this era are still popular for repainting and upgrading due to their accurate body shape and relatively low cost on the second-hand market.

Class & Prototype

No prototype found.

Operator & Livery