Electronics and traction features:
- Pre-fitted steam generator system featuring an optical sensor for accurate chuff rate synchronised with the wheel speed. Steam output is created using piezo element technology. This is a cold water-based system (no heating element).
- Pre-fitted 21-pin HM7000 decoder and speaker. The decoder is compatible with NMRA DCC controllers and HM7000 app control.
- Pre-installed Merchant Navy sound profile for accurate locomotive sounds, synchronised with the chuff rate and steam effect.
- Adjustable steam output settings via the decoder
- Water reservoir for up to 20 minutes of continuous steam running
- Die-cast connecting rods and valve gear
- Powerful 5-pole skew-wound motor
- Flywheel with cardan shaft arrangement for smooth running
- Oilite main drive bearings
- Wheel pickups on tender and driven locomotive wheelsets
- Pogo pin wheel pickup arrangement for easy pickup servicing
- 8-way locomotive to tender drawbar, with integrated electrical connection for easy coupling and decoupling.
- Front and rear NEM coupling pockets, with narrow tension lock couplings
- Optional fit rear flanged wheelset (only recommended for larger layouts with sweeping curves or display purposes).
History:
Built in October 1941 at the Sothern Railway’s Eastleigh Works, ‘Cunard White Star’ was the fourth of Oliver Bulleid’s exciting and radical new 30-strong ‘Merchant Navy’ Class, designed for top-link express passenger work. The new locomotives had many innovations, such as chain-driven valve gear that was lubricated by means of an oil bath, electric lighting, one piece Firth-Brown driving wheels, and the distinctive air-smooth casing. The unusual French-style number 21C4 was replaced by the BR number 35004 in October 1949, following nationalisation of the railways. Rebuilt in July 1958, it was eventually withdrawn from Bournemouth shed in October 1965 and scrapped by Cohens at Eastleigh shed in 1966.
