- Description
| Brand | |
| Hornby | |
| gauge | |
| OO gauge | 16,5mm |
| power supply | |
| DC | |
| product type | |
| steam loco | |
| gauge OO models | |
| technical & model details | |
| running number | 4468 |
| couplers | NEM 362 coupler pocket, English hook couplings |
| Length (mm) | 291 |
| light | no |
| scale | 1:76 |
| material & finish | Metal casing |
| with motor | yes |
| Age notice | not suitable under 14 years |
| digital & sound | |
| digital plug | NEM 652 8-pin |
| country | |
| Great Britain | LNER |
| era (continental) | |
| era (Great Britain) | 3-11 |
The LNER Gresley A4 is one of Britain's most iconic express locomotives. Its streamlined body is a classic symbol of the attitude towards speed and design in the 1930s, when railroads faced increasing competition from road and air transport. The LNER Board knew that inter-city travel needed to be faster, more comfortable and more reliable.
Nigel Gresley, LNER's Chief Mechanical Officer, toured Germany on the "Flying Hamburger" diesel railcars and was impressed by their streamlined shape, although he knew they were only efficient at high speeds. Gresley was confident that a modified, streamlined A3 Pacific could haul heavier loads than other locomotives at equal or greater speeds, and a series of tests were conducted to confirm the A3's suitability. With testing successfully completed, the LNER Board gave Gresley the go-ahead for development of the Silver Jubilee streamlined locomotive, the first of the new A4 locomotives.
Streamlining the A4's steam cycle, increasing the boiler pressure and enlarging the firebox to create a combustion chamber made them more efficient than the A3, using less coal and water - especially later when they were also fitted with a double Kylchap chimney were equipped. This further improved their free-steam performance.
Their streamlined design not only allowed for high speeds, but also created a plume of smoke that obstructed the driver's view - a major problem for the new Class A4 engines. It is rumored that during wind tunnel testing, after several unsuccessful attempts to clear the smoke, a thumbprint was accidentally left on the clay model just behind the chimney. This allowed the smoke to be cleared and the imprint was incorporated into the final design.
The most famous of the A4 locomotives is certainly 4468 Mallard, the locomotive that still holds the world record for the highest speed achieved by a steam locomotive. This record was achieved at the height of the streamlined battle between Gresley's A4 and Stanier's LMS's Streamline Coronation. Mallard later served under BR as 60022 before being phased out in early 1963. In the 1960s it was designated for preservation as its historical importance was recognized and understood.
Hornby is a renowned model building and model railway company. The British company was founded in 1901 by Frank Hornby and has since become the leading manufacturer of model trains, accessories and other model building items in Great Britain.
Hornby: model railways based on the UK model
Hornby Hobbies Limited, based in Margate, stands for high quality model railways worldwide. Hornby's product range includes a wide range of railways in a variety of scales and is characterized by attention to detail, quality and authenticity. The attention to detail in the recreation of locomotives, wagons and routes is impressive and gives the models a high level of realism.
Detailed steam locomotives
Steam locomotives have a special place in British railway history and Hornby has managed to capture this historic charm in his models. From the majestic express locomotives of the steam age to regional and industrial steam locomotives, the product range offers a variety that captures the charm of different eras. The steam locomotives are characterized above all by their attention to detail, from the faithful replica of the locomotives themselves to the delicately designed elements such as rails, wheels and buffers.
Diesel locomotives and diesel railcars
The diesel locomotives and diesel railcars represent faithful replicas of British rail vehicles, from the characteristic regional trains to the powerful diesel locomotives that were used on the main lines. Whether commuter trains, express trains or industrial freight trains, the range of diesel locomotives and diesel multiple units cover various aspects of British railways.
Electric locomotives and electric multiple units
The electric locomotives and electric multiple units are characterized by their detailed replica of British electric locomotives and modern trains. From signature electric regional trains to powerful electric locomotives, the British model railway manufacturer offers a wide range of models that represent the diversity of electrified rail transport in the UK. The electric multiple units, often with modern designs and high-speed capacities, provide a glimpse of the future of British rail transport.
Freight and passenger cars
The covered freight wagons provide protection from rain and wind for all types of goods. The attention to detail in lettering, coloring and construction elements makes these freight cars an impressive part of any model railway layout. The passenger car collection offers a wide range of models that represent the travel comfort and diversity of British passenger transport.
Models and figures for landscape design
Hornby also offers a wide range of models and figures for landscaping. The landscaping models include buildings, bridges, walls and other architectural elements. Every detail, from the tiles on the roofs to the shutters on the buildings, is true to the original and gives the models an impressive authenticity. In addition, the company offers a wide range of landscape elements such as platform lamps and water pumps, which model enthusiasts can use to make their model railway layouts realistic and attractive.
Figures such as villagers also bring life and movement to the model railway system. From passers-by and train staff to travelers and street scenes, the figures offer the opportunity to enliven scenes with human presence and activity.
Accessories and spare parts
The British model railway manufacturer offers a wide range of building kits, signals and other detailed accessories to enrich model railway systems with additional realistic elements. With these accessories, model makers can customize their models and create a unique atmosphere.
The availability of spare parts also enables model building enthusiasts to maintain their systems and quickly provide replacements in the event of wear or unforeseen damage.
Frequently asked questions about Hornby products
For which tracks does Hornby produce model railways and accessories?
Hornby's product range ranges from small to large gauges to suit the needs of different model building enthusiasts. They are available in 00 and TT gauges.
Are the Hornby models operated analog or digital?
Some models can be driven in traditional analogue mode. This mode offers an uncomplicated way to control the models and is particularly suitable for everyone who appreciates the charm of traditional model railway operation. The manufacturer also offers a wide range of models suitable for digital operation. This enables precise control. Features such as lights and sound effects can be controlled and multiple locomotives can run independently on the same route.
Can Hornby Gauge 00 models drive DC systems on Gauge H0?
Yes, Hornby Gauge 00 models can run on H0 DC systems. The 00 gauge and the H0 gauge both have a track width of 16.5 mm, which means that the rail spacing is identical. Therefore, Hornby Gauge 00 models designed for the British market segment are compatible with H0 DC systems.
Buy model railways and accessories from Hornby at Modellbahn Union
Are you looking for a reliable partner for the perfect model railway experience? Then you've come to the right place! With an extensive range of renowned brands such as Dapol and Bachmann Branchline, we offer an incomparable variety for model building enthusiasts of all levels of experience. With us you can quickly have your models and accessories in your hands. Our team is characterized by a high level of experience, which is reflected in competent advice. This support also extends to additional service requests, be it the digitization of locomotives, the replacement of axles or the installation of lighting. With our bonus program you also benefit from additional free items as a reward for your loyalty.
