Assembled samples of the forthcoming PFA/KFA container flats in N have been received by Rapido in Canada and are being tested.
These models were put together using some of the very first sprues out of the mould.
The high levels of detail we were expecting from Rapido are evident with lots of separate parts and even an etched brass cover over the cosmetic coupler fixing at the end to give an authentic “see through” appearance.
The pipework and cross bracing also looks commendably fine, though of course this can be better judged when we see the models for ourselves. The longitudinal members below the deck are cast in metal to maximise weight, though the spindly nature of these wagons means, inevitably, they will be a little light.
Both types of bogie (top VNH-1, bottom Gloucester GPS) can be seen here:
According to Rapido there are some issues around the moulding of some of the parts – one of the decks is a tiny bit bowed and the buffer heads have small sinkholes – but these will be ironed out as they were with the TEA tankers when the tools are prepped for production moulding.
The wagons are being delivered to us next week when we meet with Rapido’s MD Jason Shron and the designer working on these models; this will give us the chance to examine and test run them for ourselves.
Assuming this goes according to plan we will be in a position to check liveries and begin production fairly soon.
If you are intersted in acquiring some of these models but have not yet ordered then please do so soon, or at least register for our email updates so you don’t miss out.
Remember – we only produce models to order, which may explain why a triple pack of our highly regarded TEA tankers recently sold on Ebay for £190 – a profit of £100 on the original £90 price or a cool 111% yield!