Tag Archives: Jeco

Nyheterna från november 2024

Våra Nyheter

Vi har en annan modell av ånglok, förmodligen ett som väldigt få modellbyggare känner till. Den tycks överensstämma med den svenska U-klassen från förra sekelskiftet, med bara några få subtila skillnader. Men intressant nog är det en Tenshodo-modell, troligen konverterad från dess amerikanska specifikation, och dessa prototyper levererades till flera europeiska järnvägar. Vi kommer att försöka modifiera det kosmetiska utseendet för att göra det ännu närmare “U” under nästa år. Eftersom den antagligen är 75 år gammal var den dålig efter leverans, men med en liten städ- och oljarunda fungerar den nästan som ny nu.

Vi förstår nu att Dekas-modellerna inte är avsedda för analoga järnvägar. De levereras endast med “avkodnings”-chips (med eller utan ljud), som felaktigt ryktas vara OK på analoga system. Sådant nonsens prövades på FLMJ och de fungerar inte tillförlitligt på analoga alls. För vår Y2K-modell har vi nu skaffat ett ersättningschip från en tredje part för att passa in i sockeln för att modellen ska fungera korrekt. (Digitrains [www.digitrains.co.uk] säljer sin BP21, en 21-stifts Blanking Plug, för £2 (vid presstillfället), vilket vi är mycket nöjda med.) Det skulle kosta Dekas väldigt lite att göra denna investering för deras modeller (ett analogt chip för att passa uttaget) och skulle öka kundlojaliteten. Ändå förstår vi att de fortfarande utreder problemet som det ser ut.

Tillverkarens Nyheter

De orangea Jeco Rc-loken har blivit försenade på grund av ett färgfel på fabriken, men början av 2025 är den nya leveransuppskattningen för rätt modell. De lägger till ytterligare ett orange (Rc) lok till sitt utbud och ett svart.

Roco har gett ut en ny uppsättning ‘Mas’-vagnar, men som typ ‘Ud’ med UIC-nummer; artikel 6600069. Som vi förstår det är detta ett paket med fyra olika numrerade vagnar, och det fastställda priset är cirka 1600 kr.

One87 har tagit fram det typiska svenska buffertblocket, tillgängligt via Tradera i ett paket om fyra; ett efterlängtat tillskott till den svenska H0-skalan! Dessa gula block ses över hela Sverige, och det är underförstått att de också används i mindre utsträckning i grannlandet Norge. En annan svensk tillverkare har gjort olika buffertstopp av mer generisk karaktär, och ville se hur bra de sålde innan man bestämmer sig för att göra denna gula version eller inte. Det här är en galen policy för om folk inte vill ha fel vara kommer de inte att köpa fel vara! One87 har även producerat för försäljning via Tradera, den typiska svenska telefonkiosken typ M61, en sandlåda i olika färger och en soptunna! Se dem på https://www.tradera.com/profile/items/4123195/one87

Vi är ledsna att höra att innehavaren på Modellproduktion, Bengt Lindberg, plötsligt avlidit. Han hade tillverkat modeller av tåg som r-t-r-tillverkarna hade försummat, som T45- och Tc-diesellokomotiven, som vi har modeller av, men också fler som vi hade hoppats på att skaffa när pengarna tillät. (Vi vet inte om någon annan har tagit på sig produktionen.) Knappt hade dammet lagt sig från denna sorgliga nyhet, vi hörde också att Sven-Olof Olofsson på Entec har dött. Sven-Olof hade tillverkat många komponenter för svensk kontaktledning i H0-skala, inklusive fint detaljerade men fungerande strömavtagare; förutom olika andra mycket användbara artefakter inklusive signalering. Vi framför våra uppriktiga kondoleanser till båda familjerna.

Andra intressanta nyheter

Vi kommer att ha bara en månadsuppdatering till efter denna. Syftet med denna webbplats har varit att främja vår(a) järnväg(ar) och intresset för svensk järnvägsmodellering. Den är inte tänkt som en blogg, vilket den har sett ut att ha blivit! Istället kommer vi att ge uppdateringar i februari, maj, augusti och november, med fokus främst på utvecklingen av den nya järnvägen, men också för att komma med andra intressanta och relevanta nyheter.

Samtidigt, för att göra den här webbplatsen mer anpassad för sitt avsedda syfte, kommer vi att ta ner några artiklar och ersätta dem med mer direkt information om modellering av den svenska järnvägen, lättare att läsa och lättare att hitta relevant information. Vi hade startat denna process under 2024, men vår vision var inte klar. Det är nu.

News from November 2024

Our News

We’ve acquired another model steam locomotive, quite possibly one that very few know about. It seems to conform to the Swedish U-class from the turn of the last century, with only a few subtle differences. But interestingly, it is a Tenshodo model, probably converted from its American specification, and these prototypes were supplied to several European railways. We will try to modify the cosmetic appearance to make it even closer to the ‘U’ during the next year. Being probably about 75 years old, its post delivery performance was poor, but with a little TLC (including cleaning and oiling round), it is running almost as new, now.

It is now understood that Dekas models are not intended for analogue railways. They are only supplied with ‘decoding’ chips (with or without sound), which are rumoured incorrectly to be OK on analogue systems. Such nonsense was trialled on the FLMJ and they do not work reliably on analogue at all. For our Y2K model, we have now obtained a replacement chip from a third-party to fit into the socket to allow the model to function properly. (Digitrains [www.digitrains.co.uk] sells their BP21, a 21 pin Blanking Plug, for £2 (at time of press), which we are very satisfied with.) It would cost Dekas very little to make this investment for their models (an analogue chip to fit the socket) and would boost customer loyalty. Nevertheless, we understand that they are still investigating the problem as it stands.

A modified Tenshodo locomotive, almost conforming to the SJ type U.

Manufacturer News

The Jeco orange Rc-locos have been delayed due to a livery error at the factory, but early 2025 is the new estimate for the correct model. They are adding another orange (Rc) loco to the line-up and a black one.

Roco has issued a new set of ‘Mas’ wagons, but as type ‘Ud’ with UIC numbers; article 6600069. As we understand it, this is a pack of four differently numbered wagons, and the set price is around 1600 kr.

One87 has produced the quintessential Swedish buffer-block, available via Tradera in a pack of four; a long overdue addition to the Swedish H0-scale scene! These yellow blocks are seen all over Sweden, and it is understood that they are also used to a lesser extent in neighbouring Norway. Another Swedish manufacturer has made different buffer stops of a more generic nature, and wanted to see how well they sold before deciding whether or not to make this yellow version. This is a crazy policy because if people don’t want the wrong item, they won’t buy the wrong item! One87 has also produced for sale via Tradera, the quintessential Swedish telephone kiosk type M61, a sand box in assorted colours, and a waste bin for the pre-wheely-bin epoch! See them at https://www.tradera.com/profile/items/4123195/one87

The One87 Swedish buffer stop, of the type seen all over Sweden!

We are saddened to hear of the sudden passing of the proprietor at Modellproduktion, Bengt Lindberg. He had been producing models of trains that the r-t-r manufacturers had neglected, such as the T45 and Tc diesel locomotives, of which we have models, but also more that we had hoped to acquire when funds permitted. (We do not know if anyone else has taken on the production.) Hardly had the dust settled from this sad news, we heard also that Sven-Olof Olofsson at Entec has passed away. Sven-Olof had been producing many components for Swedish overhead electrification in H0 scale, including finely detailed but working pantographs; in addition to various other very useful artefacts including signalling. We offer our sincere condolences to both families.

Other News

We will have one more monthly update after this. The purpose of this website has been to promote our railway(s) and an interest in Swedish railway modelling. It is not intended as a blog, which is what it has seemed to have become! Instead, we will provide updates in February, May, August and November, focussing mainly on the development of the new railway, but also to bring other interesting and relevant news.

At the same time, to make this website more fit for its intended purpose, we are going to take down a few articles and replace them with more direct information about modelling the Swedish railways, easier to read and easier to find the relevant information. We had started this process during 2024, but our vision wasn’t clear. It is now.

Behind the Scenes

Mini-Series about the new railway; 12: Taking Stock

This year, we have described the proposed new railway (or railways (plural)) being built here at our new location in Sweden. As before, none of this will be open to the general public; but guest events will be organised, and anyone interested in joining the guest-list will be welcome to get in touch.

The Railway will continue in 12v analogue. Both arguments (analogue and digital) have their merits, but for us and for what we enjoy with this hobby, analogue is the clear winner. The Railway continues to represent something in miniature, and should be regarded as a Railway, not as a train-set. (There is a Brio train set available, to entertain our younger visitors!) The Signalling is designed to be easily understood, even with the aspects and indications that seem unusual to non-Swedish operators. And yes, there is a timetable being developed, which will have the curious feature of no moving trains at times that coincide with fika and lunch breaks!
Scenery is one of our biggest challenges. Before the KRBJ, there was an indoor layout (not Swedish) which was a scenic diorama that happened to have a railway running through it. The diorama was convincing and very photogenic; but that was a long time ago. The main town scene at Rickbacken is to be inspired by the drawing of a town inside the back cover of a children’s book series; a layout that is perfectly suitable for a very Swedish diorama—Axel and Omar would approve (to appreciate this subtlety; you’d need to be familiar with the books)! The manor house at Skarpa Gård will probably need to be scratch-built (and the last project of that nature was also a long time ago) to be convincing. And making everything fit in at Töjnan could be worthy of a book of its own! Along the Stuverydsbäckens Järnväg, no scenic plans have been made yet; and none are intended along Trädgårdslinjen.
And then, the ultimate enjoyment of sharing what we have created. An article that could be published in the British journal, “Continental Modeller” is possible; and more likely is a similar article in the Swedish journal, “Modelljärnvägsmagasinet”. Our website and a certain video-hosting channel will be kept up to date, also. But, with the Köpingsvik diorama, a physical presence out-and-about will also be possible.

All this requires time, effort and money. As we found in the last year with the FLMJ especially (though, we already knew, of course), the availability of time and money are exact opposites when one’s income provides the money, but the time needs to be spent earning that income! The effort now needs to include maintenance of the basement in which the Railway is located (the house owners have been getting it ready for us to use). But, as before, this will not be the work of one person. It needs a team effort, and that is why we have the Friends.

The phoenix has risen. “Adnalms Järnvägar” is ‘back in play’. Välkommen tillbaka!

Nyheter från oktober 2024

Våra Nyheter

Vi monterade ersättningschipet från MJ-Hobby på vår T23, och efter lite justeringar här och där fick vi loket att fungera som det skulle, med bra kontroll av långsam hastighet. Tyvärr, efter att ha tagit bort huvudkretskortet under vår tidigare undersökning, gick den wafer-tunna bandkabeln till lamporna i B-änden av (ganska odramatiskt) och därför har vi inga lampor i den änden nu. Förhoppningsvis kan Jeco leverera en ersättning (det är en plugin-del). Märkligt nog är chipet märkt LP5, som en av våra vänner identifierade som Loco-Pilot 5, ett DCC-tillbehör; men bortsett från behovet av att köra in verkar loket vara OK på analogt med detta chip.

Dekas Y2K i analog form, har samma problem som T23! En har kommit hit och vi är i dialog med vår leverantör om att få detta problem åtgärdat; förhoppningsvis behöver den bara ett ersättningschip. Som vi förstår det har modellen levererats med ett DCC-chip som även kan fungera på analogt. Vi vet av erfarenhet att detta är hopplöst opålitligt, och ett ordentligt släckchip bör installeras. Dessa chip med dubbla funktioner fungerar inte på PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) strömförsörjningssystem, som fortfarande är populära på analoga layouter – inte våra ännu; men vi skulle vilja ha valet, med tanke på de fördelar som PWM har att erbjuda!

För att finansiera köpet av Y2K bestämde vi oss för att skiljas från ett annat tåg som sällan användes på FLMJ och som är ännu mindre sannolikt att “passa in” på RTJ; de två X10-tågen (komplett med ersättningschassit som köptes ganska nyligen). Köparen är en vän till RTJ så kanske vi fortfarande kommer att se den i fotoformat under åren framöver.

Tillverkarens Nyheter

Under de senaste månaderna har Jeco levererat sina nyare Rc2-versioner, mestadels med ex-ÖBB-belysningsarrangemanget. Man kan bara spekulera i hur snart Rc1 och Rc4 (båda i orange) kommer också.

Precis när vi slutförde den här uppdateringen kom PCX87-modellen av den moderna Volvo V90 till butikerna.

Andra nyheter

Något att tänka på… Efter att X1-tågen introducerades följde X10 efter, och en av förbättringarna var en bättre hytt, starkare för att skydda föraren i händelse av en mindre kollision eller plankorsning. I september körde ett ännu nyare X40-tåg ett traktorsläp på en korsning, och som den publicerade bilden visar fick föraren inte särskilt mycket skydd (föraren hade lämnat sin plats i sista stund och befann sig bakom skottet vid punkten av inverkan). Hytten är gjord av glasfiber eftersom det är ett lätt material att arbeta med för att få tågen att se trendiga ut (något som X40 inte riktigt lyckas med ändå). Men det verkar som att branschen behöver ompröva sina prioriteringar.

News from October 2024

Our News

We fitted the replacement ‘chip’ provided by MJ-Hobby to our T23, and after some tweaking here and there we got the locomotive to work as it should, with good slow-speed control. Unfortunately, having removed the main circuit board during our earlier investigation, the wafer-thin ribbon cable to the lights at the B-end snapped (quite undramatically) and thus, we have no lights at that end now. Hopefully, Jeco can supply a replacement (it is a plugin part). Curiously, the chip is marked LP5, which one of our Friends identified as Loco-Pilot 5, a DCC accessory; but aside from the need to run-in, the loco does seem to be OK on analogue with this chip.

The Dekas Y2K in analogue form, has the same problem as the T23! One has arrived here and we are in dialogue with our supplier about getting this problem fixed; hopefully it just needs a replacement ‘chip.’ As we understand it, the model has been supplied with a DCC chip that can also work on analogue. We know from experience that this is hopelessly unreliable, and a proper blanking chip should be installed. These dual-function chips do not work on PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) power supply systems, which remain popular on analogue layouts – not ours as yet; but we would like the choice, given the advantages that PWM has to offer!

In order to finance the purchase of the Y2K, we decided to part company with another train which seldom got used on the FLMJ and is even less likely to ‘fit in’ at the RTJ; the two X10 units (complete with the replacement chassis that was purchased quite recently). The purchaser is a Friend of the RTJ so maybe we will still see it in photo format in years to come.

The chip from the T23 (left) and its replacement!

Manufacturer News

Over the last few months, Jeco has been delivering their newer Rc2 versions, mostly with the ex-ÖBB lighting arrangement. One can only speculate how soon the Rc1 and Rc4 (both in orange) will also arrive.

Just as we were finalising this update, the PCX87 model of the modern Volvo V90 arrived into the shops. Quite recently, the Minichamps 850 arrived also, both sedan and estate.

Other News

Something to think about… After the X1 units were introduced, the X10 followed, and one of the improvements was a better cab, stronger to protect the driver in the event of a minor collision or level crossing strike. In September an even newer X40 unit hit a tractor’s trailer on a crossing, and as the published image shews, the driver didn’t get much protection (the driver had left his seat in the last moment and was behind the bulkhead at the point of impact). The cab is made from fibreglass as it is an easy material to work with to make the trains look trendy (something that the X40 doesn’t quite achieve anyway). But it seems that the industry needs to reconsider its priorities.

X40 after a level-crossing incident! [Media picture]

Behind the Scenes

Mini-Series about the new railway; 11: Making it all work

The FLMJ had a simple analogue electrical system, and this is planned for the RTJ and all of the ‘attachments’ to it. Each track section had a two-way, centre-off (DTCO) switch. Switched one way, the track was connected to the local controller; switched the other way, the track was connected to a remote controller (from another station, for example), and there was a rotary switch to select between different remote controllers.

This principle worked well, but it is possible that it can now be made even easier. There were vague thoughts about how the FLMJ’s switching could be made easier, and as we prepare the RTJ, these thoughts can be put into practice. Each section within any location (through tracks and sidings at a station, for example) could have an on-on switch, and the DTCO switch. The first of these would determine if the track is switched to the local controller directly, or to the DTCO switch. The DTCO would then select station throat at one end or at the other end (or off). (If the station throat serves two lines, as a junction for example, then the position of the points would determine which ‘line’ is connected.)

Going to a much more intense level, we have often played with the idea of latching sections with relays (solid-state to keep the cost down). The thought is that a controller is selected by push-button on the track diagram, and a relay latches that section on. Using the polarity in the track, the next section then connects to the same controller, and as the train passes certain predetermined locations, the sections ‘to the rear’ disconnect and become available to the next train. (To some extent, the correct use of signals can assist with track selecting.)

We are also developing a train detection system for analogue, which in its simplest form uses electronic treadles at key locations, but in its more advanced form can use axle counters. (Being analogue, we can use the track polarity to determine the direction of travel!) This can be used in conjunction with signalling and interlocking; but it’s still under development so no more ought to be said at this stage!

In all cases, we are able to keep the control system easy to create and to use. (This is what DCC was supposed to achieve, but in practice we have observed people struggling to make it work and layouts coming to a complete standstill; not exactly conducive to an enjoyable hobby!) The purpose of simple cabling and switching with Analogue is that it is easy to install, easy to trace, easy to fix. It just needs a very basic understanding in natural logic. And each step forward in creating something like this, or modifying it, or repairing it, gives a great sense of satisfaction and achievement that is not available with DCC.

Next Month: Taking Stock.

Nyheter från september 2024

Våra Nyheter

På modelljärnvägsmässan på Nässjö under september fick vi chansen att prata med någon från MJ-Hobby/Jeco om problemen vi har med dieselloket T23. Problemet är känt och är begränsat till den första batchen; de har skickat ett ersättnings “blanking”-chip utan kostnad.

Vi har köpt ett modellhus; inget speciellt att skrika över förutom att den har egenskaper från flera av husen i vårt närområde. Det är alltså ett ”typiskt småländska hus” från 1940-talet, som vi kommer att hitta plats för!

Tillverkarens Nyheter

Dekas Y2 har äntligen kommit in i butikerna. Vi räknar med att ett antal av de Heljanska dyker upp på andrahandsmarknaden!

Dekas har annonserat ett par intressanta nya föreslagna vagnar. Den ena är ‘His’-vagnen, som är en korsning mellan ‘Gs’ och ‘Hbis’ – eller enklare uttryckt, som ‘Hbis’ med skjutbara sidoväggssektioner istället för dörrar, men på den kortare längden av ‘Gs’ vagn. Till en början kommer det att finnas tre tillgängliga. Den andra artikeln är en öppen version av “Udg” av vilken det bara kommer att finnas två, plus tre som pre-UIC typ “Kö”.

HNoll har sagt att de kommer att förbereda SJ B2/B10-vagnarna för produktion, och tycks inse att marknaden är för svag för att överväga produktionen (för närvarande) av deras andra förslag. Detta är klokt med tanke på att 1980-talets vagnar har en kundbas och folk vill färdigställa de HNoll-tåg som de har startat; medan Ma-loco och X10/X11/X12/X14 enheterna (och andra serie personvagnar) skulle vara en ny osäker marknad för dem. Naturligtvis välkomnar vi dessa nyheter och väntar ivrigt på B2 (och första serie A7/B7) vagnarna. Förhoppningen är att B2/B10-vagnarna ska vara tillgängliga under 2025.

Andra intressanta nyheter

Det verkar inte finnas några andra relevanta nyheter för tillfället!

News from September 2024

Our News

At the model railway exhibition at Nässjö during September, we got the chance to speak to someone from MJ-Hobby/Jeco about the problems we’re having with the T23 diesel locomotive. The problem is a known one and is limited to the first batch; so they’ve sent a replacement ‘blanking’ chip free of charge.

We have bought a model house; nothing especially to shout about except that it has characteristics from several of the houses in our local neighbourhood. So, it is a “typical Småländska house” from the 1940s, which we will find a location for!

A model of a house with Småländsk characteristics!

Manufacturer News

The Dekas Y2 has arrived into the shops at last. We expect a number of Heljan ones to appear on the second-hand market!

A ‘Y2’ diesel set, exactly like the Danish ‘IC3’ class.

Dekas has announced a couple of interesting new proposals. One is the ‘His’ wagon, which is a cross between the ‘Gs’ and the ‘Hbis’ – or more simply put, like the ‘Hbis’ with sliding sidewall sections instead of doors, but at the shorter length of the ‘Gs’ wagon. Initially there will be three available. The other item is an open-top version of the ‘Udg’ of which there will be only two, plus three as pre-UIC type ‘Kö’.

HNoll has said that they will prepare the SJ B2/B10 carriages for production, seemingly recognising that the market is too weak to consider the production (at this time) of their other proposals. This is wise given that 1980s carriages have a customer base and people want to complete the HNoll rakes that they have started; whereas the Ma-loco and X10/X11/X12/X14 units (and other series carriages) would be a new uncertain market for them. Naturally, we welcome this news, eagerly awaiting the B2 (and first series A7/B7) carriages. It is hoped that the B2/B10 carriages will be available during 2025.

B10 5547 seen at Stockholm Centralstation. The B10 was rebuilt from the B2, which didn’t have the circular window, among other things.

Other News

There seems to be no other relevant news at the moment.

Behind the Scenes

Mini-Series about the new railway; 10: Köpingsvik revisited
Most modellers in Sweden, tend to build, as we are, layouts that are permanently fixed into place. Model Railway Exhibitions in Sweden are few and far between; the public events that are organised are mostly for buy-and-sell (where there might be the one layout on display also), or for the so-called modular systems, where the members build sections for a display layout, sections which have to meet certain criteria, especially at the ends, so that any two can be joined together and they will line up! Thus, very large layouts are created. But, they’re entirely DCC, and so have a limited following (and also require an enormous amount of planning and setting up, somewhat dependent on who is actually going to turn up with a module)! So, what about the odd one or two stand-alone layouts that make it to the buy-and-sell events?

There is a bit of a personal attachment to the Köpingsvik theme. This is where it all started, for us. And, although we know now that the diorama is a very unlikely one, it was an interesting model and continues to invoke fond memories, even though both track layouts (remember there was Mk.1 and Mk.2) were quite a challenge. Maybe a Mk.3 can carry the memory and the theme; but by taking advantage of all that we have learned over the last 30 years, can it be much more authentic in how we present it?
How would we present it? The golden rule offered to us when we were building the first, was sugar beet traffic! Loads of ‘O’ wagons with sugar beets would be the most authentic trains that we could run, and so this is easy to do. There would also be a few other goods trains carrying general goods, so the ‘G-’ wagons would be good here, but not things such as container wagons! Passenger trains would have diesel railbuses (Y6, Y1, or Y2 according to epoch) for the local routes, and probably electric units or loco-hauled trains for the main line to the mainland. And the idea of sleeper carriages detached from passing trains on the mainline at Alvesta is quite appropriate in the summer timetable.

Any new Köpingsvik would be independent of the RTJ, and time could only be afforded to it, if there is a situation causing a pause in the development of the RTJ. (This could be due to glue-drying time, or awaiting delivery of materials, or whatever.) Operationally, better-suited models are now available, and the mere thought of it is causing quite a stir among our Friends.

Next Month: Making it all work.

News from May 2024

Our News

T23 120 was taken onto the workbench during May. We removed the ‘chip’ and the circuit-board that it was connected to; and then connected the cables from the wheels directly to the cables to the motor. This done, the loco gave a very smooth performance; and that is before low-speed running-in or the fitting of a suppressor! Now that we KNOW the problem lies with the chip (or circuit-board) we can ask Jeco to fix the problem. We were unable to tell if it was the chip or the circuit-board that was at fault because there was no means of hot-wiring the circuit-board with the chip removed!

Jeco T23 120 with the circuit-board (and chip) removed so that it can run properly (just needs a suppressor to be fitted).

Manufacturer News

We have no news from the Manufacturers, this month.

Other News

Nässjö Railway Museum held an open day at the beginning of the month, where amongst other attractions, the steam railbus from the former Halmstad Nässjö Railway was giving rides along Nässjö station, and there was an opportunity to get photos of a T21 diesel loco ready for when we make new handrails for the Heljan models!

Nearer the end of the month, the same museum celebrated the 150th anniversary of the Nässjö Oskarshamn Railway, a line which passes through the village where we are now located, so a day out was organised with them. Because today, there are no turning facilities at Oskarshamn, the steam loco (SJ class A5 number 1545, formerly Kalmar Railway number 17) at the front was assisted by a diesel loco (SJ T41 200) at the back, and the diesel headed the train on the return, at least as far as Berga. The train was delayed at Berga, so with sufficient loops at the station, the steam loco was moved to the front, albeit running tender-first. There had been a fear that the steam loco would not have been allowed to run, due to the hot dry weather (and line-side fire risk), but thankfully there was quite a lot of rain on the day before…!

Behind the Scenes

Mini-Series about the new railway; 6: Sörlidsbanan

A third narrow-gauge element is possible, at Rickbacken, to be seen as a remnant of a much larger system, but now only permitting a shuttle service between the station and the town’s main school. But why? Well, this would be H0m (12mm gauge) to represent Sweden’s 1067mm gauge (not exactly, but close enough), to add to the variety. This section would include, using commercially available components, a dual-gauge section (H0+H0m), because that is so Swedish, and is therefore, the reason that we want to do this! Given that this will be a graded line (station level to town level), Sörlidsbanan seems a good name (and it has a local connection). We mentioned earlier that 891mm was seemingly Sweden’s most popular narrow gauge, and it is one of the two where railways were absorbed by the State. Some of the 1067mm gauge railways were also absorbed by the state. At the very minimum, we would need one railbus, a YBo5t which would have been regauged from the 891mm YBo5p!

A dual-gauge point where the 891mm gauge splits from the 1435mm gauge; this to be fitted at Jenny, near Västervik. Similar track components existed for the 1067mm gauge!

(As a rule-of-thumb, the final SJ suffix ‘p’ indicated trains gauged for 891mm, and ‘t’ for trains gauged for 1067mm. Other narrow gauges did not have a suffix, but were also not owned by SJ. Pre-1970±, the small ‘o’ indicated rolling stock fitted with bogies instead of 2 (or 3) axles.)

Next Month: Zätaspåret.

Nyheter från maj 2024

Våra Nyheter

T23 120 togs upp på arbetsbänken under maj. Vi tog bort “chippet” och kretskortet som det var anslutet till; och kopplade sedan kablarna från hjulen direkt till kablarna till motorn. Detta gjorde loket en mycket jämn prestanda; och det är innan låghastighetsinkörning eller montering av en dämpare! Nu när vi VET att problemet ligger hos chippet (eller kretskortet) kan vi be Jeco att åtgärda problemet. Vi kunde inte säga om det var kretskortet eller kretskortet som var felet eftersom det inte fanns något sätt att koppla kretskortet med kretskortet borttaget!

Tillverkarens Nyheter

Vi har inga nyheter från tillverkarna denna månad.

Andra intressanta nyheter

Nässjö Järnvägsmuseum hade öppen dag i början av månaden, där bland annat ångjärnvägsbussen från före detta Halmstad Nässjö Järnväg körde längs Nässjö station och det fanns möjlighet att få bilder på ett T21 diesellok redo för när vi gör nya ledstänger till Heljan-modellerna!
Närmare slutet av månaden firade samma museum 150-årsjubileet för Nässjö Oskarshamns Järnväg, en bana som går genom byn där vi nu ligger, så en dag ute med dem anordnades. Ångloket (SJ klass A5 nummer 1545, tidigare Kalmar Järnväg nummer 17) låg längst fram och fick assistans av ett diesellok (SJ T41 200) baktill, och dieselloket styrde tåget på returen ända till Berga. På Berga flyttades ångloket till fronten, om än att det gick tender-först. Det hade funnits en rädsla för att ångloket inte skulle ha fått köra på grund av det varma torra vädret (och brandrisk på linjen), men tack och lov kom det ganska mycket regn dagen innan…!

Nyheter från februari 2024

Våra Nyheter

Som rapporterades under Manufacturer News, förra månaden, har ett T23-lok anlänt hit. Jeco har gjort ett snyggt detaljerat lok, men det verkar finnas ett T2x-jinx i det som Heljans T21, det är överarbetat och opålitligt. Den har ingen låghastighetsprestanda, vilket är en besvikelse med tanke på att det är ett “stort växlingslok” med en topphastighet på 75 kmh. Vrid upp strömmen långsamt, den riktade belysningen flimrar, hyttens ljus och motorrumsbelysningen lyser fullt ut, och loket kämpar för att krypa, morrande när det gör det. Sedan, när spårspänningen har nått cirka 8V, skjuter loket av i nästan full fart. Om du stänger av strömmen igen, kommer loket att fortsätta att gå till cirka 6V; sedan går den tillbaka till morrande läge! Efter omfattande körning på en testbana som vi satte ihop med hjälp av spårkomponenter som lånats ut till oss (de flesta av dem är inte riktigt funktionsdugliga), blev dens prestanda i långsam hastighet lite bättre, så inkörningen kommer att fortsätta – kanske med bättre spår!
Men under vår utredning tog vi bort kroppen och blev bestörta. När ett modelllok är utrustat för DCC används ett så kallat ’blanking chip’ i DCC-uttaget för analogt bruk. Med denna modell har det så kallade blanking-chippet så många elektroniska komponenter på att det inte är helt kompatibelt med dess syfte, och det gör det nästan omöjligt att fixa digitala problem. (När vårt tidigare IORE-lok blev defekt, kunde vi ‘varmkoppla’ spårmatningarna till motorkablarna och få igång loket igen; även med fungerande riktningsljus! Detta är inte möjligt med T23.) Det fanns också andra problem , men med så mycket hantering, om det här hade varit en Heljan T21, skulle vi ha haft en arbetsbänk laddad med bitar som hade ramlat av; med det här loket lossnade bara en uppsättning trappsteg och de fixerades mycket enkelt tillbaka på plats och med ledstängerna korrekt inriktade. Sedan det första testet i januari har vi inte haft några fler problem med att kopplingsstänger lossnat; och vi har isolerat beröringskontakterna för hyttens ljus (gillar verkligen inte det) och satt tejp över motorrumsbelysningen (borde inte finnas där eftersom det inte finns någon autentisk interiör)! Vi har dock nu beslutat att inte köpa en andra även när pengarna tillåter.

Tillverkarens Nyheter

HNolls B4-vagnar har anlänt till butikerna och nu kan ett komplett 1980-talståg monteras! Ur vårt perspektiv är B2 fortfarande önskad; och med tanke på att HNoll måste pausa produktionen, på grund av den dåliga svenska ekonomin och människors oförmåga att köpa modellerna, räknar vi med att det tar ett tag innan de (eller UAF7) dyker upp som modeller. Tillbaka till B4R (som senare blev BF4 för att betyda att den hade ett bagageutrymme (F:et i typkoden)), den är upp till HNolls vanliga höga standard och är en verkligt vacker modell. Rätt modellerad har den till och med den lilla telefonkiosken bredvid tågpersonalens kupé; en funktion som snart försvann i och med den omfattande introduktionen av mobiltelefoner. Modellen finns även i nyare färger, inklusive BF7, vilket egentligen inte är annorlunda förutom att SJ ville ge de renoverade en ny beteckning (men SSRTs renoverade är fortfarande BF4)!

PCX87 reklamerar en modell av Saab 9000 i 1985 års skick. Vi känner till fyra olika färger för detta, svart, vitt, grått och silver; men åtminstone en leverantör vi känner till har också beställt en mörkröd. 1985 är inom vår epok av intresse, så vi är hoppfulla om att skaffa några.

Andra intressanta nyheter

Förra månaden rapporterade vi om förlusten av Warley National Model Railway Exhibition på NEC, vilket vanligtvis inträffar i slutet av november. Det verkar som att det i stället kommer att hållas The National Festival of Railway Modeling den 23 och 24 november på NEC. Som vi förstår det kommer detta att organiseras av Warners Group (samma organisation som bland annat gör Alexandra Palace-evenemanget), en kommersiell enhet, snarare än av frivilliga. Oavsett om det är kommersiellt eller inte, hoppas vi att det är ett lyckat evenemang och att det visar att denna hobby är mycket levande.

News from February 2024

Our News

As reported under Manufacturer News, last month, a T23 locomotive has arrived here. Jeco really has pulled out all the stops to make a nicely detailed locomotive, but there seems to be a T2x jinx in that like Heljan’s T21, it is over-worked and unreliable. So, we set to work on it (just to investigate in case there should be a need to return it). It has no slow-speed performance, which is disappointing given that it is a ‘large shunting loco’ with a top speed of 75 kmh. Turning the power up slowly, the directional lighting flickers, the cab light and engine-room light come on full brightness, and the loco struggles to crawl, growling as it does so. Then, when track voltage has reached about 8, the loco shoots off at nearly full speed. Turning the power back down, the loco will continue to run until about 6v; then it goes back to growling mode! After extensive running on a figure-of-eight test-track that we assembled using track components loaned to us (most of which are not really serviceable), it’s slow speed performance did get a little better, so running-in will continue—maybe with better track!
But, during our investigation, we took the body off and were dismayed. When a model loco is equipped for DCC, anyone not wanting this function can operate the model on analogue, with a so-called ‘blanking chip’ in the DCC socket. With this model, the so-called blanking chip has so many electronic components on, that it is not entirely compliant with its purpose, and this makes fixing digital-related problems almost impossible. (When our former IORE loco became faulty, we were able to hot-wire the track feeds to the motor cables and get the loco running again; even with working directional lights! This is not possible with the T23.) Getting the main circuit board off the model for investigation was made very difficult by one of the cables to the motor being too short to enable safe removal of its electrical coupling. With so much handling, if this had been a Heljan T21, we would have a workbench loaded with bits that had fallen off; with this loco, only one set of steps came off, and they were very easily fixed back into place and with the handrails correctly aligned. Since its first test in January, we’ve had no more issues with coupling rods coming loose; and we have insulated the touch-contacts for the cab light (really don’t like that) and put tape over the engine-room light (shouldn’t be there because there is no authentic interior)! We have, nevertheless, now decided against buying a second one even when funds permit.

Jeco’s T23 with the body removed, shewing a disappointing array of components on the ‘blanking chip’ (seen left, covering part of the red wire)!

Manufacturer News

HNoll’s B4 carriages have arrived into stores and now a complete 1980s train can be assembled! From our perspective, the B2 is still desired; and given that HNoll is having to pause production, due to the poor Swedish economy and people’s inability to buy the models, we expect it to be a while before they (or the UAF7) appear as models. Back to the B4R (which later became the BF4 to signify that it had a baggage compartment (the ‘F’ in the type-code)), it is up to HNoll’s usual high standard, and is a truly beautiful model. Correctly modelled, it even has the small telephone booth next to the train crew’s compartment; a feature that soon disappeared with the widescale introduction of mobile phones. The model is also available in more recent liveries, including the BF7, which is not really any different except that SJ wanted to give the refurbished ones a new designation (but SSRT’s refurbished ones are still BF4)!

PCX87 is advertising a model of the Saab 9000 in 1985 condition. We are aware of four different colours for this, black, white, grey and silver; but at least one supplier we know of has commissioned a dark red one also. 1985 is within our epoch of interest, so we are hopeful of acquiring a few.

B4R 5417, seen just after couplings were inserted. Note doors for baggage at the far end, and the tiny window is opposite a telephone booth!

Other News

Last month, we reported on the loss of the Warley National Model Railway Exhibition at the NEC, which usually takes place late November. It seems that in its place, there is to be The National Festival of Railway Modelling on November 23rd & 24th, at the NEC. As we understand it, this will be organised by Warners Group (same organisation that does the Alexandra Palace event among others), a commercial entity, rather than by volunteers. Regardless of whether commercial or not, we hope that it is a successful event and that it demonstrates that this hobby remains very much alive.

Behind the Scenes

Mini-Series about the new railway; 3: Trädgårdslinjen

One of the FLMJ’s defining factors was its outside location. We were determined (and advised) that in Sweden, we would move indoors due to the weather being more severe than it had been in the UK (even despite many open events in the UK getting rained off), and ‘minor damage caused by neighbouring cats’ being replaced by ‘major damage being caused by roaming elk and other wild animals’!
Nevertheless, there is consideration for a summer-only outdoor section, also operating between Rickbacken and Töjnan, but allowing trains to avoid the fiddle-yards. For simplicity and safety, there should be no stations along this route, but this has not been totally ruled out. A halt, with or without passing loop could be included to add interest to the line, and the location for this potential addition has already been chosen with very little difficulty, a large boulder in the garden which in scale terms, would be a small natural mountain! It has been given the name, Vävarberg; but no more has been decided about it. Furthermore, there would be no signals or overhead cabling; just good photo opportunities of trains running through the garden, again. Such an extension would be at ground level in the garden, but in the basement however, the railway will be about 1,3m up from floor level, giving ample storage underneath without being too high, but high enough also for access to the outlets to the garden for the Trädgårdslinjen. Swedish basements are rarely 100% below ground level, and they often have windows. Operationally, this would be a ‘preserved railway’, which within a heritage railway might seem a bit odd, but it gives the older outline stock (steam locos for example) a good excuse to be used. The name simply translates as “The Garden Line”.

Next Month: Stuverydsbäckens Järnväg.