Bachmann H598

South Eastern & Chatham Railway N Córas Iompair Éireann Green

Contents

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