FIRST LOOK: Dapol ‘N’ Class 59

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Dapol has received a hand-built Engineering Prototype (EP) sample of its all-new ‘N’ gauge Class 59 diesel for assessment, together with first shots of the many small detail parts.

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The manufacturer announced the restart of its ‘N’ gauge Class 59 project last summer with seven general release models planned initially as 59005 Kenneth J Painter in Foster Yeoman silver (Cat No. 2S-005-000), 59103 Village of Mells in ARC livery (2D-005-001), 59206 John F Yeoman in DB Schenker red (2D-005-002), 59204 in National Power blue (2D-005-003), 59104 Village of Great Elm in Hanson livery (2D-005-004), 59001 Yeoman Endeavour in Aggregates Industries colours (2D-005-005) and 59201 Vale of York in EWS livery (2D-005-006). An exclusive model of 59206 John F Yeoman in G&W Freightliner livery (2D-005-RS1) has also been commissioned by Rails of Sheffield, while a special edition of 59003 Yeoman Highlander in GB Railfreight colours (GM2210501) is being produced for the Gaugemaster Collection.

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Dapol’s new ‘N’ gauge Class 59 will feature a die-cast chassis, five-pole motor, all-wheel pick-up and drive, Next 18 Digital Command Control (DCC) decoder socket, independent directional lights and switchable day and night mode lighting functions.

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In addition, the extensive tooling suite covers three different cab fronts to reflect the detail differences between sub-classes, together with alternative cab handles, rubber and metal-style cabside windows, choice of two silencers, left and right exhaust positions, alternative damper configurations, GSM-R antenna (as appropriate), fire bottles (where applicable), finely moulded bodyside and roof grilles, detailed cab interiors and a removable exhaust silencer which provides access to a series of light switches.

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Following assessment of the EP sample and mouldings, any necessary amendments will be made and artwork is due to be prepared.

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Dapol has also confirmed that DCC sound-fitted versions of the all-new ‘N’ gauge models will now be available to order from retailers.

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Prices for general releases are set at £160 DCC ready, £190 DCC fitted and £270 DCC sound-fitted.

Visit www.dapol.co.uk for more information.