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General Category => N Gauge Discussion => Topic started by: geofff on March 26, 2023, 12:34:30 PM

Title: Dapol - non-tender locomotives
Post by: geofff on March 26, 2023, 12:34:30 PM
Hello

I have had numerous issues with Dapol tender driven locos (mainly the connecting cable). Is anyone aware of any  issues with Dapol non-tender driven models?
Title: Re: Dapol - non-tender locomotives
Post by: ntpntpntp on March 26, 2023, 01:11:59 PM
Early models (14xx, 45xx) not well matched motor and gearing, can be tricky to get decent slow speed (though I have to say my early 14xx is much better than my two 45xx).  Not particularly high quality motors.  Also possibilities of the quartering going out of position as the axles aren't keyed.

I believe some have stub axles and live bearing bushings (rather than wiper contacts) which must be kept clear of lubrication otherwise the conductivity deteriorates and they lose pickup.

Some detail parts are glued to body and chassis, hindering disassembly for maintenance.

the 0-4-4T seems to be renowned for poor haulage (they're redesigning that one).

They do offer some attractive models though. The Terrier seems to be a lovely little thing, mine's very good.
Title: Re: Dapol - non-tender locomotives
Post by: Chris Morris on March 26, 2023, 02:21:04 PM
I put wires with stronger connectors/soldering between loco and tender. Works fine. The gearing of the earlier models was too high but my 45xx runs fine. 57xx - do not under any circumstances get oil on the axles - runs fine otherwise.
Title: Re: Dapol - non-tender locomotives
Post by: Newportnobby on March 26, 2023, 04:19:38 PM
Quote from: ntpntpntp on March 26, 2023, 01:11:59 PM
Early models (14xx, 45xx) not well matched motor and gearing, can be tricky to get decent slow speed. The Terrier seems to be a lovely little thing, mine's very good.

I agree with everything above, although my 14xx and 45xx were from the very first runs. My Ivatt 2MT is not a particularly decent runner.
I look forward to getting the improved (?) M7 whenever Dapol extract the digit.
Title: Re: Dapol - non-tender locomotives
Post by: Bigmac on March 26, 2023, 04:41:57 PM
Quote from: geofff on March 26, 2023, 12:34:30 PM
Hello

I have had numerous issues with Dapol tender driven locos (mainly the connecting cable). Is anyone aware of any  issues with Dapol non-tender driven models?

ive given up with those cables--now i make my own using the type of flex used in dcc wiring.  I got a 10 metre spool for a reasonable price.  I just strip the ends and wind it round a tiny screwdriver to create a loop--no soldering.
Then the next issue is those tiny scews--but a touch of tacky wax on the screwdriver tip helps.
Title: Re: Dapol - non-tender locomotives
Post by: joe cassidy on March 26, 2023, 05:44:47 PM
My Dapol locos (A3/A4/Schools) run OK without connecting wires.