No smoke units or special effects - this is real Live Steam, brought to you for the first time in '00' gauge by Hornby. Such a revolutionary model has never been seen in so much detail, but thanks to the latest technology from Hornby, these nostalgic memories of real steam engines can be replicated with your own model.
This first Live Steam locomotive comes in a special set, which contains :
- Live Steam Locomotive - Mallard
- Live Steam control box and transformer box
- Large oval of '00' gauge track (approximately 2440mm x 1070mm). 1 x R600 Straight, 7 x R601 Double Straights, 8 x R609 3rd Radius Double Curves and 1 x X5041 Terminal Track
- Oil and water syringes and protective gloves
- Lubrication oil and distilled water (please note that the distilled water will be sent separately to the train set)
- Instructions (in CD-Rom and paper formats)
Without using naked flames, flammable spirit or gas, the water in this superbly engineered model locomotive can be safely heated by electricity, and then superheated within the locomotive to produce enough steam energy to run the model for at least 20 minutes. In the locomotive's tender, a small water tank is filled with distilled water, which is then heated by a mini immersion heater located within the tank. A safe, low voltage current is passed along the track by a remote regulator which in turn powers the immersion heater.
After approximately five to ten minutes, the water will be heated sufficiently, and steam will begin to appear from the safety valve located in the locomotive. This will also mean that heated water will be running through the locomotive, ready for it to begin moving.
A few nudges of the speed regulator will send electrical signals, or pulses, to the locomotive telling it in which direction to go and at what speed. These signals will turn a small motor in the locomotive, which opens the steam valve and releases steam into the locomotive's pistons, turning the wheels.
After a small amount of practice, the operator can achieve in excess of 20 minutes running from one filling of water. The locomotive also produces realistic steam sounds, from the pumping pistons to a real steam whistle, coupled with the unmistakeable and memorable smells of steam and hot engine oil.
Please note: A Live Steam locomotive requires a dedicated route to run on, and should not be operated at the same time on the same route as conventional 12 volt engines, other live steam locomotives or DCC control
The Model
Mallard is the first Hornby Live Steam locomotive to be released, and is included in a special Live Steam set, along with control box and transformer unit, maintenance tools, large oval of track and instructions. The large oval of track is standard Hornby '00' gauge, requiring a space of 244cm x 107cm. All the items in the set are intended for use with Hornby Live Steam models only.
Each Live Steam set contains a CD-Rom and paper booklet of instructions. It is important to read and fully understand these instructions before embarking on your 'Live Steam experience'. Currently, the CD-Rom instructions are not suitable for users of Apple Mac computers.
Do's
- Use a suitable surface to lay out your track - baseboard, concrete floor etc. Only operate Live Steam inside
- Look after your Live Steam components
- Always use distilled water
- If the locomotive derails while running wait for the wheels to stop turning before replacing it on the track
- Always use the cloth gloves provided when handling or attempting to re-rail the locomotive
- Ensure that children are either kept away or are fully supervised when operating. Live Steam is intended for adult use only and is not suitable for children under the age of 14
Don'ts
- Do not place the system on a carpet, the operating nature of Live Steam means that steam, water and oil will come into contact with the floor beneath the set
- Do not keep the controller and transformer close to water
- Do not leave the Live Steam components unattended
- Do not use tap water or melted ice from a fridge or freezer when filling the boiler. Do not use de-ionised water as this will weaken the solder joints on the boiler
- Do not stand directly over the locomotive while the locomotive is heating up or running
- Do not attempt to handle the locomotive without the protective gloves provided. The locomotive and tender will become very hot during use
- Do not attempt to add distilled water or steam oil while the locomotive is still hot as there may still be some steam pressure left in the system
- Do not, under any circumstances, try and operate standard 12 volt DC locomotives with the Live Steam system as this will permanently damage the model
A model with so many moving parts requires some care and regular maintenance. There should be no need to take the model apart, but light lubrication of the locomotive's axles should be carried out regularly. The con rods and coupling rods may also need tightening occasionally, using the special tool provided with each Live Steam set. Just like a real steam locomotive, your model requires reasonable care and attention for a prolonged life.
Carrying out this maintenance is an easy task, providing the step-by-step instructions, found in the instruction booklet, are followed. Any other maintenance of your locomotive is explained in the instruction booklet. If you have problems with your locomotive, under no circumstances take it apart - your Live Steam locomotive is a fully working model with many intricate parts. Contact Hornby Customer Care on 01843 233525 or email customercare@hornby.com
Battery Requirements
Mains transformer (included)
Age suitability: From 14 years +
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