First review

◆ GAUGE ‘OO’ ◆ MODEL Class 86/4, 86634 University of London, Railfreight Distribution ◆ PRICE £219.95 ◆ AVAILABILITY Heljan stockists Web www.heljan.co.uk

The release of an all-new, enhanced Class 86 last year was a welcome move by Heljan. The first raft of models concentrated on the popular AC electric locomotives in their original condition, and we reviewed a trio of samples in MR288. Now, however, we have an example of the refurbished ‘86’, commonly referred to as a Class 86/4.

We don’t have space to get into the nitty gritty of the various sub-classes here but, in short, British Rail had deemed the ride quality of the as-built locomotives to be inferior and undertook a programme of upgrading the suspension and installing low track-force wheels. Work began in the early 1970s and various other technical modifications followed over the years, some of which led to further changes in appearance.

Heljan’s latest models will please modellers of the post-1980s BR and privatisation eras, with a choice of nine different models on offer. Liveries include the original Intercity Executive scheme, two versions of Railfreight Distribution livery, RES red and BR’s 1980s take on ‘heritage’ light blue. For the post-privatisation era, we have a choice of original and ‘Powerhaul’ iterations of Freightliner’s green/yellow house colours, plus the stylish contemporary Caledonian Sleeper livery.