N Gauge Forum

General Category => N Gauge Discussion => Topic started by: Les1952 on October 08, 2020, 10:44:06 PM

Title: KR Models expressions of interest
Post by: Les1952 on October 08, 2020, 10:44:06 PM
It might just be that I've not managed to find a mention BUT-

KR Models are inviting expressions of interest on their website for the following-

Tyne Dock to Consett bogie iron Ore hoppers.

No money required at this stage.

They are also still asking for expressions of interest for

GT3 in N
Fell diesel in N
and Shark brake in N, though the last one has a price tag attached so might be close to the pre-order stage.

If this duplicates a thread I've failed to find would the moderators please move it to the appropriate place in the forum

Les
(I've put me down for 9 hoppers and a Fell- the latter a rule 1 engine)
Title: Re: KR Models expressions of interest
Post by: JonMann on October 09, 2020, 09:12:23 AM
Put my interest down a couple of months ago for the GT3 and the Fell, especially want the GT3 as I saw a beautiful 5 inch gauge version at the Model Engineering Exhibition a few years back which was powered by a turbine and sounded awesome. Did ask them about a N version of the Bulleid Leader that they are looking for interest in OO but got a negative for that.
Title: Re: KR Models expressions of interest
Post by: njee20 on October 09, 2020, 09:38:17 AM
They seem, like a handful of other brands, to be in that category of not really pushing N gauge, and then not offering anything because the volume isn't there. The OO gauge ones sell well, so they always go ahead.

There are lengthy threads for most of KR's models on RMWeb. For me there are still some pretty big warning flags, but we'll see when the first GT3s arrive shortly.
Title: Re: KR Models expressions of interest
Post by: Bob G on October 09, 2020, 05:41:48 PM
Another interesting choice. Very restricted region, restricted era, and requiring specific versions of 9F not yet made in N.

Can I suggest as an equally esoteric alternative the 92t glw bogie aggregates hoppers Diag PH003A built 1970/71 at Hartlepool by IMC Ltd. Just 11 made Nos. 17001 - 17011 and owned by Francis Parker Ltd.  Ran from Lavant to Chichester, about 6 miles on a freight siding (former branch line) because the roads around the gravel extraction were very small C class roads and unsuitable for road traffic. At least the locos for hauling these exist in N. (33 and 73).

https://www.rmweb.co.uk/community/index.php?/topic/64295-wright-writes/page/1689/ (https://www.rmweb.co.uk/community/index.php?/topic/64295-wright-writes/page/1689/)

Bob

IF ANYONE WAS IN ANY DOUBT, THIS IS VERY MUCH TONGUE IN CHEEK
Title: Re: KR Models expressions of interest
Post by: jpendle on October 09, 2020, 05:45:52 PM
According to the bods on RMWEB, the detailed underframe is a great idea, it's just a pity that they've got it wrong. :doh:
Should be 4 air cylinders not 2, and they should be connected to the doors not the brakes.

Regards,

John P
Title: Re: KR Models expressions of interest
Post by: Bob G on October 09, 2020, 05:53:24 PM
FWIW I've now got two NGS Shark kits on the go. I reckon that it will be another decade before there an RTR one (unless Kernow/EFE has one up their sleeve).  I just can't see KR getting round to doing this model.
Title: Re: KR Models expressions of interest
Post by: emjaybee on October 09, 2020, 07:03:20 PM
I think they're going to struggle in N until such time as something is actually produced and critiqued. Until then they're pushing themselves further into a DJM situation by frequently announcing new models before anything is tangible.

I still think they're also wildly into the 'far out' zone with chosen models. I can't help thinking that they ought to get something produced that's more 'mainstream' before heading off into the niche section of rolling stock.
Title: Re: KR Models expressions of interest
Post by: njee20 on October 09, 2020, 08:49:20 PM
Quote from: jpendle on October 09, 2020, 05:45:52 PM
According to the bods on RMWEB, the detailed underframe is a great idea, it's just a pity that they've got it wrong. :doh:
Should be 4 air cylinders not 2, and they should be connected to the doors not the brakes.

They've got form, they hastily announced and then sort of cancelled IQA/KUAs, but the wagons they were proposing were a composite of both prototypes, and were basically fictitious. Then it all petered out when Accurascale announced the KUAs.

They took out adverts in the press advertising the second run of GT3s with quotes saying something like "following the overwhelming success of the first run" despite no one yet having received one. They've announced at least 5 projects, again despite not having delivered one. There remain unanswered questions about handling of shipping and returns, given they're based in Canada.

I'm a big advocate for new players in the industry, but I'm not rushing to give them money.
Title: Re: KR Models expressions of interest
Post by: Roy L S on October 10, 2020, 01:24:00 PM
Quote from: Les1952 on October 08, 2020, 10:44:06 PM
It might just be that I've not managed to find a mention BUT-

KR Models are inviting expressions of interest on their website for the following-

Tyne Dock to Consett bogie iron Ore hoppers.

No money required at this stage.

They are also still asking for expressions of interest for

GT3 in N
Fell diesel in N
and Shark brake in N, though the last one has a price tag attached so might be close to the pre-order stage.

If this duplicates a thread I've failed to find would the moderators please move it to the appropriate place in the forum

Les
(I've put me down for 9 hoppers and a Fell- the latter a rule 1 engine)

I believe the GW King in N is also among their proposed models?

From what I have seen of the 00 GT3 it looks rather good based on my limited knowledge, as others have said feedback on production samples of these will help cement their reputation.

Roy

Title: Re: KR Models expressions of interest
Post by: njee20 on October 10, 2020, 03:41:21 PM
Not sure about cementing it. It'll quash some of the concerns!

They certainly seem to be very receptive to feedback from customers, they changed the drive of the GT3 in response to feedback, but the flip side of that is that it feels like they require "design by committee" due to some of the glaring errors their designs include.

I don't want to be unduly negative, I'd just wait and see myself. I'll also eat my hat if they ever release anything in N gauge; until they accept it's a smaller market and therefore lower volume. Can't blame them - OO is just a bigger pie to go at.
Title: Re: KR Models expressions of interest
Post by: Dalek on October 10, 2020, 05:05:31 PM
Quote from: emjaybee on October 09, 2020, 07:03:20 PM
I think they're going to struggle in N until such time as something is actually produced and critiqued. Until then they're pushing themselves further into a DJM situation by frequently announcing new models before anything is tangible.

I still think they're also wildly into the 'far out' zone with chosen models. I can't help thinking that they ought to get something produced that's more 'mainstream' before heading off into the niche section of rolling stock.

I've tried to share info on models they have been looking to produce in the past in n as i want them as well but i agree about the choice. Easy ones to choose would be the the LMS twins, Metrovic co-bo, a rtr brake tender even would be welcome ! Lots of other early diesels etc to choose from as well.

Craig
Title: Re: KR Models expressions of interest
Post by: emjaybee on October 10, 2020, 05:23:17 PM
Quote from: Dalek on October 10, 2020, 05:05:31 PM
Quote from: emjaybee on October 09, 2020, 07:03:20 PM
I think they're going to struggle in N until such time as something is actually produced and critiqued. Until then they're pushing themselves further into a DJM situation by frequently announcing new models before anything is tangible.

I still think they're also wildly into the 'far out' zone with chosen models. I can't help thinking that they ought to get something produced that's more 'mainstream' before heading off into the niche section of rolling stock.

I've tried to share info on models they have been looking to produce in the past in n as i want them as well but i agree about the choice. Easy ones to choose would be the the LMS twins, Metrovic co-bo, a rtr brake tender even would be welcome ! Lots of other early diesels etc to choose from as well.

Craig

Exactly, there's a myriad of things they could produce which would be easier and quicker to manufacture. Then they'd have a track record to lean on for the more exotic items.

I really DO want them to succeed, as the more people that enter the fray, the greater chance of somebody doing the 'Twins' or the Beyer-Garratt (although that's probably a poisoned well with Hattons 'supposedly' manufacturing it) or many of the other locos/stock that's missing.
Title: Re: KR Models expressions of interest
Post by: Paddy on October 10, 2020, 09:42:12 PM
Never really understood the concept of announcing numerous projects.  I would have thought it better to choose a relatively "simple" piece of rolling stock (like the Shark), get it right and deliver it on time at a competitive price.

Sadly there have been too many "let downs" in models over the years and not surprisingly people are wary.  Revolution have shown that there is no substitute for delivery.

Having said this, I wish KRM every success and hope the Shark does make it.

Kind regards

Paddy
Title: Re: KR Models expressions of interest
Post by: longbow on October 10, 2020, 10:14:53 PM
Inviting multiple EOIs is a sensible way of assessing what might fly, especially as here where the projects are already under way in a larger scale. There's no harm in it provided no money is taken prior to a definite Go decision.

I agree though that having too many EOIs on the go looks bad, so it's a good idea not to let them go stale. Give a deadline to create some urgency, then pull the proposal if it's an obvious no-hoper.  There's always the possibility to revive it once KR have established a reputation.
Title: Re: KR Models expressions of interest
Post by: icairns on October 11, 2020, 10:21:17 PM
Amazing!

First the class 17 Clayton appears out of nowhere and now the possibility of Tyne Dock - Consett iron ore hoppers (a prototype I never thought would ever get produced). 

I already have 9f no. 92060 (a 52H Tyne Dock loco) ready to go, complete with Westinghouse air compressors to operate the hopper doors. 

Ian

(https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/gallery/100/3276-111020221836.jpeg) (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=100354)
Title: Re: KR Models expressions of interest
Post by: acko22 on October 12, 2020, 02:09:11 AM
Hi all,

So another expressions of interest coming from KR Models and so far nothing to show in N gauge after what is it 3 or 4 years?

I just find their whole logic well backwards, they have been told and no doubt watch the whole DJM Saga unfold yet they are determined to repeat the same mistakes:

Poor research - Lets be honest the Consett Iron Ore Wagon was on RMweb for a matter of hours when the errors were picked up and they were duly taken back to school over the errors! The the same with the nuclear flasks which was well about as accurate as an member of the RAF armed with a rifle!

Announcing another model - May that be to purchase or EOI but doing this showing zero progress on any projects that are on going, well people aren't going to show any interest as well there so far seems to be nothing to show any interest for!

Saying they want to do it in N gauge - Then hardly making an appearance on the largest Gauge specific website for your target audience, and even then ignoring what people are saying to them on the forum or at least not answering some of the common questions.

They have the Cad for the Shark and I honestly do not know how good or bad it is (some of you more into that can answer that one) but just get that done then we can either say yes its a good model and I would be willing to hand over some of our cash for a model of an xxx or nope for that price I expect better or finally its a good start but I want to see more before I hand over cash to get it made! Until then it is following the same weary road that DJM laid down and that will quickly lose them potential customers.
Title: Re: KR Models expressions of interest
Post by: longbow on October 12, 2020, 03:07:00 AM
Rather harsh, don't you think? Their main pitch is clearly to 4mm modellers, so it's reasonable enough to test the waters for N Gauge versions of the OO offerings. They are modelling esoteric prototypes that aren't easy to research. And unlike DJM they aren't taking money up front for their 2mm proposals.

Scepticism is understandable given the DJM debacle and the fact that they have yet to ship their first product. However the sledging that KR have been getting, especially over at RMWeb, has gone completely over the top. Forums like this should be encouraging RTR initiatives - heaven knows there aren't many of them in our scale. They deserve the benefit of the doubt.
Title: Re: KR Models expressions of interest
Post by: acko22 on October 12, 2020, 03:52:23 AM
Quote from: longbow on October 12, 2020, 03:07:00 AM
Rather harsh, don't you think? Their main pitch is clearly to 4mm modellers, so it's reasonable enough to test the waters for N Gauge versions of the OO offerings. They are modelling esoteric prototypes that aren't well documented. And unlike DJM they aren't taking money up front for their 2mm proposals.

Honestly no, sometimes you have to be harsh to be kind....

I remember KR at Warley their first year I think 2016 and I did ask questions as there was some more niche stuff that despite not been my era of modelling I would like to see (Bo-Co, class 15) and was told that 2mm was the primary audience as Keith was a 2mm modeller, now with such niche model I am in no way surprised that 4mm has been more the go to scale for these models.

But they are asking for interest in lots of niche models that even on their own with a known and established brand would struggle, it's exactly what DJM did of course with the exception that KR are not taking peoples money for them which I do applaud them on not repeating that exercise!

As for esoteric prototypes that aren't well documented, maybe they could be excused for the ball being dropped for 1 or 2 minor issues but when they have been called for major issues on the GT3, FELL, IQA/KUA Nuclear flasks (Which was a complete balls up) and now the Consett Iron Ore Wagon for glaring errors which the material is easily available (NRM has the complete drawings for the GT3,FELL and Consett Iron Ore Wagon of course at a price), these kind of mistakes do not inspire confidence!

I am sure that I am not the only thinking right now they need to concentrate on producing one or two good quality model without errors and are more mainstream, such as their shark and maybe a follow up. Before they start chasing these ultra niche one off prototypes that are never going to be massive sellers and struggle regardless of who offers them (there may be a reason Farish or Dapol have zero interest in them).

As of right this minute they aren't a huge presence on forums to their customers / crowdfunders and making plenty of announcements but little actual progress this is identical to DJM and that doesn't inspire confidence for people to be willing to part with cash especially those who were stung before!

Honestly I wish them success but on current form I don't see things boding well for them in N gauge especially, unless they get out of the ruts of the wrong path taken before!
Title: Re: KR Models expressions of interest
Post by: RailGooner on October 12, 2020, 08:35:19 AM
Quote from: acko22 on October 12, 2020, 02:09:11 AM
..
about as accurate as an member of the RAF armed with a rifle!
...

During my sixteen years service in the RAF I could very often be found carrying a rifle and unfortunately on more than one occasion had cause to use one for the intended purpose. :censored:
Title: Re: KR Models expressions of interest
Post by: woodbury22uk on October 12, 2020, 02:25:25 PM
I believe that KR Models were at Warley in 2018 not 2016, so only two years since announcement of the first 00 gauge project.

The Kickstarter for the Pendolino was live at Warley 2014 and the RevolutioN  trains started to be delivered in early 2018. I know it was a vastly more complicated project, but there was at least a chance to scan the full sized one. And RevolutioN announced and delivered other things along the way.

I do not believe that KR Models have the level of expertise that the RevolutioN team exhibits, but none the less, moving them towards being better would surely be a good move. There is always a string of arguments about how poor others are at running their business, and looking at the recent posts on the RMWeb topics it is very clear that there are a few individuals keen to undermine everything that the Revell family try to do. The clue is the vehemence in the posts, reminiscent of pulling the pin from a grenade and tossing it over a balcony, just to see how much damage can be done.

Title: Re: KR Models expressions of interest
Post by: Bingley Hall on October 13, 2020, 04:54:33 AM
Quote from: woodbury22uk on October 12, 2020, 02:25:25 PM
I believe that KR Models were at Warley in 2018 not 2016, so only two years since announcement of the first 00 gauge project.

The Kickstarter for the Pendolino was live at Warley 2014 and the RevolutioN  trains started to be delivered in early 2018. I know it was a vastly more complicated project, but there was at least a chance to scan the full sized one. And RevolutioN announced and delivered other things along the way.

I do not believe that KR Models have the level of expertise that the RevolutioN team exhibits, but none the less, moving them towards being better would surely be a good move. There is always a string of arguments about how poor others are at running their business, and looking at the recent posts on the RMWeb topics it is very clear that there are a few individuals keen to undermine everything that the Revell family try to do. The clue is the vehemence in the posts, reminiscent of pulling the pin from a grenade and tossing it over a balcony, just to see how much damage can be done.

Well said.
Title: Re: KR Models expressions of interest
Post by: Bob G on November 03, 2020, 06:56:46 PM
Quote from: Bob G on October 09, 2020, 05:53:24 PM
FWIW I've now got two NGS Shark kits on the go. I reckon that it will be another decade before there an RTR one (unless Kernow/EFE has one up their sleeve).  I just can't see KR getting round to doing this model.

Now that it is proven that I have extraordinary psychic powers, I shall go further and predict the shrink ray on the Kernow PBA Clay Tigers  :D

Bob
Title: Re: KR Models expressions of interest
Post by: emjaybee on November 03, 2020, 07:21:22 PM
Quote from: Bob G on November 03, 2020, 06:56:46 PM
Quote from: Bob G on October 09, 2020, 05:53:24 PM
FWIW I've now got two NGS Shark kits on the go. I reckon that it will be another decade before there an RTR one (unless Kernow/EFE has one up their sleeve).  I just can't see KR getting round to doing this model.

Now that it is proven that I have extraordinary psychic powers, I shall go further and predict the shrink ray on the Kernow PBA Clay Tigers  :D

Bob

I am convinced of, and am in awe of your superlative powers.

Now be a good fellow and send out some positive waves for 'The Twins'.

Thanking you in advance, I'll get my cheque book ready.

:D
Title: Re: KR Models expressions of interest
Post by: Bob G on November 03, 2020, 10:48:35 PM
Quote from: emjaybee on November 03, 2020, 07:21:22 PM
Now be a good fellow and send out some positive waves for 'The Twins'.

Following a quick time travelling trip, I can confidently predict that the Twins will be announced by Bachmann in 2022 at TINGS :) But we wont be able to buy them until 2025.
In 2022 there will also be a female republican president in the White House and Wales will be the second country to separate from the Union.
Covid-21 will be like a bad head cold but will wipe our long term memory, so we will be like goldfish living every day like it is full of amazing discoveries.
Musically we will have 30 second songs because we won't be able to remember anything which is longer than a post on TikTok.
A 3 minute Eurovision song will feel like a 25 minute Yes track.
Amazon and Apple will merge to form Mackeson and will be the largest personal computer, personal protective equipment and personal milk stout supplier globally.
KR Models announce a crowdfunded model of DJM's ill fated HUO hopper, only to pull it when EFE release 25 weathered versions at once.

Need I go on?

HTH
Bob
Title: Re: KR Models expressions of interest
Post by: emjaybee on November 03, 2020, 11:27:09 PM
Quote from: Bob G on November 03, 2020, 10:48:35 PM
Quote from: emjaybee on November 03, 2020, 07:21:22 PM
Now be a good fellow and send out some positive waves for 'The Twins'.

Following a quick time travelling trip, I can confidently predict that the Twins will be announced by Bachmann in 2022 at TINGS :) But we wont be able to buy them until 2025.
In 2022 there will also be a female republican president in the White House and Wales will be the second country to separate from the Union.
Covid-21 will be like a bad head cold but will wipe our long term memory, so we will be like goldfish living every day like it is full of amazing discoveries.
Musically we will have 30 second songs because we won't be able to remember anything which is longer than a post on TikTok.
A 3 minute Eurovision song will feel like a 25 minute Yes track.
Amazon and Apple will merge to form Mackeson and will be the largest personal computer, personal protective equipment and personal milk stout supplier globally.
KR Models announce a crowdfunded model of DJM's ill fated HUO hopper, only to pull it when EFE release 25 weathered versions at once.

Need I go on?

HTH
Bob

I'm in !    :laugh3:

Sign me up!

I stopped reading after you said we'd be getting The Twins, I'm assuming the rest is nothing to worry about.

I'm off to open a savings account to amass the, what will be, sizeable sum required to buy the 2025 Twins, which I'm assuming with the march of technology will have DCC controlled crew with realistic roll ups in the corners of their mouths waving at people trackside who are marvelling at these steam-less wonders.

Cool!
Title: Re: KR Models expressions of interest
Post by: Newportnobby on November 04, 2020, 11:59:17 AM
@Bob G (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=profile;u=1517)
You appear to have forgotten the moon was indeed found to be made of cheese and that Wallace & Gromit have obtained exclusive mining rights.
Title: Re: KR Models expressions of interest
Post by: Bob G on November 04, 2020, 02:55:21 PM
Quote from: Newportnobby on November 04, 2020, 11:59:17 AM
@Bob G (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=profile;u=1517)
You appear to have forgotten the moon was indeed found to be made of cheese and that Wallace & Gromit have obtained exclusive mining rights.
@Newportnobby (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=profile;u=264) nah that's on page 2 :)