Prototype History
The prototype Southern Railway Schools Class was a high-performance 4-4-0 express passenger locomotive designed by R.E.L. Maunsell. Introduced in 1930, the class was developed for operation over the Hastings route, which featured steep gradients, sharp curves, and a restricted loading gauge.
Its design incorporated proven elements from the Southern Railway’s King Arthur Class and Lord Nelson Class locomotives. Locomotive No. 901 was named “Winchester”, following the class tradition of naming engines after prestigious British public schools.
Main Specifications of the ASTER Model
Item Specification Approximate Release Date 1975–1976 Scale / Gauge 1:32 scale, 45 mm Gauge 1 Wheel Arrangement 4-4-0 Overall Length Approx. 56–57 cm Weight Approx. 3.9 kg Cylinders 2-cylinder, slide-valve engine Valve Gear Slip-eccentric valve gear Boiler Smithies-type boiler, approx. 170 cc capacity Fuel Alcohol-fired Approximate Running Time 10–15 minutes Minimum Recommended Radius Approx. 3 metres Production Quantity Approx. 3,024 models in kit and ready-to-run form
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Approximate Release Date | 1975–1976 |
| Scale / Gauge | 1:32 scale, 45 mm Gauge 1 |
| Wheel Arrangement | 4-4-0 |
| Overall Length | Approx. 56–57 cm |
| Weight | Approx. 3.9 kg |
| Cylinders | 2-cylinder, slide-valve engine |
| Valve Gear | Slip-eccentric valve gear |
| Boiler | Smithies-type boiler, approx. 170 cc capacity |
| Fuel | Alcohol-fired |
| Approximate Running Time | 10–15 minutes |
| Minimum Recommended Radius | Approx. 3 metres |
| Production Quantity | Approx. 3,024 models in kit and ready-to-run form |
The full-size Schools Class locomotive had three cylinders, while ASTER simplified the model to a reliable two-cylinder arrangement. Despite this simplification, the model features an attractive and well-proportioned appearance, finely finished running gear, and the robust construction associated with early ASTER production.
Operating Features
This locomotive represents an early generation of ASTER live steam design and uses a straightforward single-fill operating system.
- No pressure gauge or water-level gauge is fitted as standard.
- The tender contains the alcohol fuel tank, but does not include a water tank or hand-operated feed pump.
- The boiler is fitted with a clack valve for additional water feeding, although extra equipment is required to replenish the boiler while in steam.
- The alcohol tank uses ASTER’s traditional chicken-feed fuel system.
The locomotive is therefore best suited to operating sessions of approximately 10 to 15 minutes, rather than extended continuous running.
Compared with later ASTER locomotives fitted with tender pumps and more advanced boiler controls, the Schools Class requires slightly more careful operation. However, its relatively simple and durable mechanism also makes it an appealing example of classic early ASTER live steam engineering.
This is a masterpiece that needs no introduction—an early model produced over 45 years ago.
There are some minor paint chips here and there; please refer to the photos. It runs smoothly, and the engine should give you no trouble.
It is still fully capable and ready for the road.
Shipping
Normal shipping (FedEX,Japan Post) will arrive in 7-14 days. Please note that irregular delays may occur due to weather or customs issues.
【Expedited】FedEx or EMS : with tracking number
Foreign Buyers - Please Note:
Import duties, taxes and fees are not included in the price or shipping. These charges are the responsibility of the buyer.
Please check with your country's customs to see how much these additional costs will be before you bid or purchase.
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