New locomotive steams in from China

Bachmann China have recently introduced their third steam locomotive type. Representing the JS Class, it features a type still in widespread industrial use in China.

The JS (Jainshe) Class 2-8-2 locomotives were built from 1957 initially at Dalian Locomotive Works and was a result of close co-operation between the Chinese and Russian’s. It utilised an improved JF Class chassis and a new boiler using Russian technology.

Between 1957 and 1965 a total of 1,135 JS Class locomotives were built at Dalian, Qishuyan, Datong and Bejing before production ceased. After a sixteen year gap Datong began building further examples in 1981 and another 358 were built to the original specification between 1981 and 1986. That year a revised design known as JS”B” was adopted and a further 423 locomotives were built before the building programme finished in 1988.

Used for freight work principally in North and North East China, many have subsequently seen use on industrial lines in China particularly in coal mining areas.

The first of the Class No.5001 has been preserved in China and one example No. 8419 (JS”B”) was exported to the Boone & Scenic Railroad in Iowa, USA in 1989 where it remains in service hauling heritage trains.

The Bachmann China model is produced in HO scale and will be available initially with six different running number options (catalogue numbers CS00301-6). It will be available shortly through Bachmann dealers in the UK at a recommended retail price of £188.30.

BF 2009-22

19 July 2009

-ends-

 

For further information please contact :

Dennis Lovett, Public Relations Manager,

Bachmann Europe PLC, Moat Way, Barwell, Leicestershire, LE9 8EY

Telephone:+44 (0) 1455 847097