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Trix Express 20/59 Pacific Loco |
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The Trix Express Pacific model 20/59 has the same mechanics
as the Trix Twin Coronation, Princess, and Scotsman locomotives. It shares the same AC
motor, reversing mechanism, wheels, connecting rods, and remote control uncoupler. So
although not Trix-Twin, it was the first Trix 4-6-2 scale model loco.
The photo above shows a 20/59 from the early 1950's that I
bought in poor condition. Note that the cylinder and valve gear is missing, and also the
pony truck.
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Assessing the damage |
The other side of the loco looks slightly
better, but the cylinder has been affected by the usual metal fatigue, or 'zinc pest',
that is common in early 1950's Trix models.
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Mechanism |
Testing the loco revealed that it runs, however
the wheels show some cracks. The missing pony truck connects to the black wire just
visible between the rear wheels. This wire carries current from the tender collector shoes
to the loco motor. The other collector shoes should be fixed in the centre channel between
the main driving wheels.
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Paintwork |
The matt black paintwork is in reasonable condition, and it
should be fairly easy to retouch scratches. Luckily, German locos have no lining or
transfers to replace, although it makes for rather a dull model.
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New parts |
On the left is the replacement Pony Truck,
complete with wheels and tender connection prior to painting. The Pony Trucks on Trix
Pacific locos are very susceptible to metal fatigue, this one is a new white metal
casting. On the right are the cylinder castings.
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Ready to run |
Here is the loco after painting and fitting the
new parts. The matt black and red are Revell paints. The red is a good match, although the
black on the cylinders is too dull. A few greasy fingermarks should help! The connecting
wire and plug between the tender and loco was replaced with a wire and plug from a 1950's
TTR coach lighting set.
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Connecting rods and valve gear |
Although the replacement valve gear is shiny new
metal, it doesn't look out of place. The connecting rods are the originals and match the
new parts well.
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Trix spare parts |
The valvegear assembly is hand made by a member
of the TTRCA, and is supplied with a small rivet to attach to the top of the cylinder
slide bar. The castings are made by a German TTRCA member, who specialises in Trix Express
parts. Information about Trix spares is provided if you become a TTRCA member too.
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www.TRIX.co.uk |