Bachmann MR-102

Tooling

In 2016, Model Rail Magazine introduced an exclusive ready-to-run model of the Southern Railway “USA” Class 0-6-0T, based on the USATC S100 design. Originally commissioned from Dapol, the project was cancelled and later offered to Bachmann Branchline, who developed entirely new tooling. These locomotives were built during WWII for shunting duties and later adapted by Southern Railway for use at Southampton Docks. Fifteen were purchased post-war, earning the nickname “Yank Tanks.” Several survived into preservation, making them a popular subject for modellers.

Tooling Features

• Scale: OO gauge (1:76.2)
• Construction: Injection-moulded plastic body with fine rivet detail; die-cast metal chassis for weight and stability
• Detailing: Two cab variants (USATC & SR), two smokebox styles, separate wire handrails, turned brass safety valves and whistle, detailed cab interior with glazing, full brake rigging, chemically blackened wheels, correct-thickness rods
• Couplings: NEM pockets with tension-lock couplers; sprung metal buffers

Mechanical & Electrical

• Motor: 5-pole skew-wound can motor with flywheel for smooth running
• Drive: Worm and gear drive to all axles; pickups on all wheels
• Minimum Radius: 2nd radius (438 mm)
• Weighting: Internal chassis weighting for adhesion
• Lighting: None (prototype had no lights)

DCC Capability

DCC Ready with a 6-pin NMRA socket. No factory provision for sound, but aftermarket installation is possible. Any NMRA-compliant decoder can be fitted.

Liveries Produced

The range included USATC black, Southern Railway black, BR black (early and late crest), BR green, Longmoor Military Railway blue, National Coal Board black, and preservation schemes such as Keighley & Worth Valley golden ochre. Two additional variants were released in 2018.

Reviews & Commentary

Reviews praised the model’s exceptional detailing and smooth, slow-speed performance. The mechanism was described as “one of the slowest and smoothest runners straight from the box,” ideal for shunting layouts. Social media and YouTube reviews highlighted the fine cab detail, accurate valve gear, and robust build quality, though some noted fragility due to the level of detail.

Video Reviews

• Sam’s Trains Review – “American Engines Used In Britain? | Bachmann USA Tank” – Unboxing, detail close-ups and running tests.
• Model Rail Exclusive Review – “Limited Edition Bachmann USA 0-6-0T Class” – Focuses on the MR-103 catalogue version, running performance and comparisons.

Interesting Facts

• The tooling was exclusive to Model Rail and not shared with Bachmann’s standard range.
• Initial batch of ten versions sold out quickly; prices ranged from £124.95 to £129.95.
• The project marked one of the first collaborations between a UK magazine and a major manufacturer for a fully tooled RTR locomotive.

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.