Category Archives: Diesel Locomotives

Freudenreich Feinwerktechnik: Lehigh Valley Railroad Train Set

Readers of ztrainsweekly know of my interest in FR’s (Harald Freudenreich) Z gauge model trains thru many posts since its start. Lately the brand known as FR Freudenreich Feinwerktechnik is today Atelier Barkvieren. Over the course of its beginnings in the early 90’s FR’s contribution to the hobby includes just over 800 items, its history and reputation rooted in highly precise prototypical accuracy and flawless design + manufacturing. I thought it would be interesting to look back at a model train set produced in 1994 by Harald Freudenreich, and the fourth item ever to be produced in Z by FR.

Known as article number ZF004, it was preceded by 3 other train sets all from 1994 (numbered respectively ZF001-003). Today the discussion is about ZF004 train set painted and lettered for Lehigh Valley Railroad (1846-1976).

Train set ZF004 (1994) limited to 50 sets included a AGEIR boxcab diesel locomotive and 3- 31′ fishbelly hoppers painted and lettered ‘LEHIGH.’ Locomotive is constructed of metal with maintenance free motor similar to ones used by Marklin today. Locomotive is heavy as it appears to be entirely made of metal including truck frames and brass securing screws. Add-on parts include roof details: brass bell and smokestack. A curious characteristic about the loco are the non-rotating wheel sets, but loco’s short wheelbase allow it to negotiate curves perfectly, plus each truck includes pair of freely turning wheels without flanges thus locomotive includes 2 sets of driving wheels and 2 sets of un-powered wheel sets. FR’s distinctive coupler design was already used on their first locomotives as they are unchanged to this day. Couplers comprise simple bent wire hooks which couple easily with Marklin mini-club couplers, they also do not detract from the locomotives prototypical appearance.

Hoppers are constructed of mostly metal with fine detailing, each features prototypical couplers except for lead hopper numbered 25617, it includes a Marklin coupler at one end to pair with simple wire hook style coupler on locomotive. Hoppers appear to have 2 add-on parts: handbrake and platform by handbrake. On the underside: truss supports and coal funnels appear to be cast plastic cemented in place. Wheels are black plastic with each wheel set attached to car with brass screws. Each hopper features sharp lettering with smallest lettering perfectly legible with magnifying glass. Hoppers numbered: 25617, 25322, and 25039.

Train set was delivered in wood display box as was 4 other train sets in 1994. Display box is lined in silk and features metal ‘FR’ logo. Wood display boxes were used over the years by FR each lined with silk. This set as I bought it does not have additional items such as descriptive booklet, I am doubtful one was included. The presentation elevates this train set to the ‘expensive’ item category which in 1994 carried a price tag of 875 Deutsche Marks.

Siding: What’s in a name? ALCO Boxcab diesel locomotive was a diesel/electric switching locomotive referred to as AGEIR Boxcab’s so named after an amalgamation of the 3 builders of this locomotive class: ALCO (American Locomotive Company), General Electric and Ingersoll Rand.

Marklin’s Exquisite Insider Model for 2024: 88820

**Marklin 88820: Insider Model 2024** copyright ZTrainsWeekly.com

Wow! I have every reason to like Marklin’s recent release 88820: detailing, running performance, and appearance: all charm and no disappointment.

Many Insider Members who I know have been waiting anxiously for this model, and several have asked if I could land one for them. Unfortunately I have only one for my collection otherwise I would happily connect collectors with a dealer who could provide one. Best option to secure rare Insider Models is joining the Club for $99/year, membership includes free Insider car in HO or Z, subscription to Marklin Magazine, and invitation/order form for Insider Locomotive Release.

Marklin 88820 (Marklin’s website: with permission): A Rustic Icon on German Tracks
When currently one of the numerous preserved Wismar rail busses comes on stage, even steam locomotives retreat to the background. “Pig Snouts” are the name given to these powered rail cars, which during the world economic crisis kept many small and branch lines from being abandoned. The design was ingeniously simple and at the same time extremely cost effective: A simple welded car body was used and a mass-produced drive system from the truck industry was installed in each direction of travel. As with road trucks there was a motor hood at both ends, commonly called a snout. Most cars had a roof baggage rack for baggage or small freight. The car builder Wismar built 57 units between 1932 and 1941. Railroaders and passengers loved their rustic rattling boxes and gave them the nickname “Pig Snouts”. Currently, the Wismar rail busses enjoy an absolute cult status. This is not the only reason a snout belongs on the roster of every model railroader. In addition, the German Federal Railroad had three Wismar units for a short time on its roster after 1949. The red “Pig Snouts” thus goes on any Era III layout.

This is the first Marklin Z Gauge Wismer ‘Snout’ locomotive, but the now shuttered company Z-Modellbau produced it first. Both companies use similar motors, and both appear built to scale, but Z-Modellbau have slightly better build quality than Marklin: Z-Modellbau locomotives used brass gearing and metal construction. BUT Marklin’s example could be seen as better design with just the right combination of plastic and metal. Although Z-Modellbau locos were entirely handmade masterpieces now considered very rare, Marklin is offering a much more affordable solution with working headlights.

Marklin 88820 is based on an Era III class VT 88.9 (former DRG class VT Cvt-34) rail bus painted and lettered for the DB (German Federal Railroad).

The model is a charmer with metal hoods and frame, efficient maintenance free motor, headlights and interior lighting, and metal add-on parts including roof rack and ladders.

On the test track the rail bus moved flawlessly at slow speeds. Tiny tiny headlights unique to this Marklin model: brilliant and realistic.

This release will be remembered for years as a truly exciting new addition to the Marklin Catalog of Z gauge items. Mine received yesterday from ZscaleHOBO.com is already proudly displayed alongside equivalent examples by Railex, FR, and Z-Modellbau.

Siding: Viaduct Bridge (128171) featured in this post is non other than Archistories, it can be infinitely expanded with 2 Arch Extension (129171). 128171 + 129171 can be built single or double track. Kits available in USA: https://zscalehobo.com/ and http://www.zscalemonster.com/

Repair Notes: Trans Europe Express 8873-88735

I was contacted recently by someone asking for 8873 spare part couplers, unfortunately I could not help them out, but this inquiry turned into something interesting that I decided to explore and perhaps help others.

Marklin Part #452540 (unique coupler for 8873)

Released in 1994, the 8873 remained in production until 1998, it was my first large single purchase of a Z gauge train, but it was worth every penny. My excitement was quickly dashed trying to run it: train sputtered and dragged on the track, but a repair solution turned out to be easy: simply bypass both diodes on each circuit board, I posted about this repair early on in this blog thus more detailed and illustrated instructions are available.

A total of 6 VT train sets have been released thus far commencing with the 88735 (“Blue Star Train”) in 2012 which was a limited one time series, it was delivered with a certificate.

Eighteen years covers the history of Marklin TEE releases in Z with few changes over the years. One important change Marklin made early was couplers, 8873’s unique coupler was redesigned for subsequent releases. Not only was a new coupler introduced with the 88731 release the entire apparatus leading from the circuit board was a redesign with new parts added. But was the change needed? Maybe/maybe not, I have never seen a failure of the original 8873 coupler which simply gathers electrical current from brass rings with spring tension around coupler.

Top to Bottom: coupler (8873) coupler (88731 + 88732) coupler (88733 + 88734 + 88735)

Describing the couplers used after 8873 includes several changes including shortening posts from circuit board and the addition of plastic parts (red and black). Posts now engage with brass strips on plastic parts, brass also holds coupler under light pressure thus supporting a good electrical connection. Couplers after the original coupler fall into 2 types with subtle differences although Marklin Collection Guide only lists 2 for this type of train set: ‘Kupplun 3B (8873) and ‘Kupplun 6A (88731/88732/88733/88734/88735). I distinguish two types of 6A couplers based on their construction: version 1 (88731 and 88732) uses more brass to cover coupler, brass (version 1) is solidly laminated to both sides of inner plastic core, version 2 (88733 + 88734 + 88735) features two small holes in each brass side of coupler which appear to be melt points. Of all the coupler types I have experienced 2 failures with the latest coupler design: brass separates from coupler.

Marklin Circuit Boards: 8873 (top) and 88731 (bottom)

Marklin Circuit Boards: 88731 (bottom) and 88734 (top)

Repairing the latest generation coupler is easy with a pin size dot of super glue, but it requires very precise alignment. In my opinion it is best to replace coupler with a new part, but new couplers require modification to work correctly. As can be seen in the attached photos a brand new replacement coupler from Marklin needs modification to work correctly, they seem to be delivered a little too big to fit properly plus plastic edges can be a little rough. For the coupler to work correctly in needs to move freely back and forth.

Marklin Part #E213 702 (coupler for 88731, 88732, 88733, 88734, 88735)

Marklin Coupler E213 702 (left as delivered: too big side to side plus plastic needs smoothing) (right: modified to freely move)

Marklin Coupler E213 702 as delivered (does not fit properly too big: it needs to move freely inside red part)

Other important changes include 5 Pole Motors in both powered end units (introduced 1998), it is used in 88732 + 88733 + 88734 + 88735. Even today you might still find fans of the 3 pole motor who describe it as “very robust.” But also a little more noisy than 5 poles.

After having roofs off coaches I decided to add another Marklin improvement: larger weights in coaches.

Marklin 8873 with silver weight and Marklin 88734 with large blackened weight

If you need or desire to gain access to the interior of VT11.5 coaches carefully pull up roof panels from corner with finger nail: DO NOT USE ANYTHING METAL AS THIS AREA IS SUSCEPTIBLE TO SCRATCHING!!!! Roof panels snap back on easily.

Unlike the interior of the 88731 (Max Liebermann and train sets in this class that followed) 8873 has long pins the circuit board slides onto.

Marklin 8873 with pins in car body which circuit board slides onto

Releases since 1994 of this train set: 8873 BR VT 11.5 for DB (1994-1998), 88731 BR 601 for DR Trans Europ Express “Max Liebermann” (MHI-1997), 88732 BR 601 for DB “ALPEN-SEE-EXPRESS” (2000-2002), 88733 VT 11.5 for DB “Saphir” (2007), 88734 BR 601 for DB “Mediolanum” (2010), and 88735 BR 601 for ESG “Blue Star Train” (MHI-2012)

Marklin Mystery Model based on EuroSprinter 8837

A new post for a older locomotive: “Marklin/Shimano” 8837 EuroSprinter, I have never seen this loco before. This one came up on Ebay coming to me with no information, but it was clearly based on Marklin’s EuroSprinter 8837 (1994-1998). Upon receiving the locomotive I inspected the shell, I determined the original shell was simply sprayed over with new paint and lettering: a professional job? yes. It turns out the original loco was recycled to make a new one as can be seen by ghosting of original graphics in the paint. Who made it is an open question, but it looks on par with Marklin production versus what is referred to as Industry print (third party without using Marklin’s design and production team) which tend to use thicker paint with less detail.

One other loco of this class was produced in a limited release: 88371- German Federal Railroad (DB) BR Eurosprinter electric locomotive. One Time Series 1998. Special imprint model with inscripton: “Help for MUKO Mukovizidose-Hilfe eV.” Limited edition of 200 worldwide. This locomotive does not have a ghost image of an original 8837 thus confirming this mystery: who produced the ‘Marklin/Shimano’ loco?

Further complicating matters the MUKO loco was assigned article number 88371 and presented in Marklin’s brown mini-club box of the day also imprinted with article number 88371. If you were to google 88371 you’ll end up with entirely different locomotive: class 285 diesel loco painted and lettered for the firm ‘ITL.’ If you have the 2015 complete regular production Marklin Z catalog this locomotive was assigned a unique article number 88371A03 thus correcting a numbering mistake 16 years before. The new number allowed Marklin to place the ‘ITL’ loco in succession to 88370 class 246 ‘Metronom.”

Incorporating both brands as advertising on sides of loco suggest a collaboration of sorts thus likely produced by Marklin further based on the high standard of production. It was likely produced around the end of production for 8837 in 1998 corresponding to MUKO’s release.

Siding: ‘SMI’ is an abbreviation for “Special Marklin Imprints.” Marklin has produced commissioned special imprint models (mostly rolling stock) since the late 1970’s. Most of these models are identified by a small ‘m’ printed on sides of box cars and other rolling stock. This identification has not been found on locos designated special imprints.

Lötschberg Tunnel: Railex Autotransportzug der BLS

Railex Autotransportzug (BLS) + Z-Modellbau Vanoli-Kof Schweiz (3107) + Marklin 8904 Autos

More than 8 years ago I shared a short post on the Railex Auto Transport Set for Lötschberg Tunnel. Today I revisit this set with an expanded post partly as tribute to 2 companies that cease to produce items for the Z Gauge Modeler: Railex and Z-Modellbau. Both companies expanded an idea: “What’s possible in Z?” Precision and execution of prototype accuracy has been the mission of both companies.

Z-Modellbau #3107 painted and lettered for the firm Vanoli is not associated in real life to the Lotschbereg Tunnel, but it is Swiss so therefore I use it for scale. The prototype locomotive for the tunnel is the BLS class Ae 4/4. Electric locomotives are used throughout Switzerland with countrywide limits on emissions: in Switzerland trucks are transported by rail.

Note: So far only Shapeways offers a Z Gauge class Ae 4/4 by Swiss Z Scale Models (Julian Ryf). Not to digress I will follow-up soon with a posting on my experience with printed Z models from the Shapeways platform.

There is little known about the company Railex except they were a German firm and one of the first to make precision Z scale locomotives and rolling stock, Railex was a company offering something else in Z. Marklin invented the scale and covered the gauge by offering electric, steam and diesel locomotives plus numerous accessories and well designed track sets which could be expanded, their unballasted track remains the benchmark for many modelers today. After more than 10 years, Marklin’s new gauge inspired a new company, Railex offered precision unpowered metal locomotives made of brass and nickel plated parts. And presumably a lot more expensive than Marklin. The unpowered locomotives could be powered by ‘ghost’ cars: motors hidden within box cars or coaches. I am not sure how successful ‘ghost’ cars were or if Railex manufactured them: were they after market retrofits? I don’t know the answer, examples I have seen over the years were non working and not identified. Today we know Railex by their products produced many years ago: their surviving legacy. And although most Railex locomotives and rolling are based on early German rail history today’s example is based on auto-transport cars used at the Lotschberg Tunnel in Switzerland. Along side my photos of the models please compare online photos of the trains operating today. Plus someone generously provided a movie.

Detail: 3 position coupler/draw-bar to allow wider gap between cars (Railex Autotransportzug (BLS) + Z-Modellbau Vanoli-Kof Schweiz (3107) + Marklin 8904 Autos)

Railex Autotransportzug is comprised of 5 cars: 2- open deck cars and 3- cars with roofs. Brass and stainless steel make-up the ingredients of these models, and the set utilizes a draw-bar coupling with 3 positions. The draw-bar is easier to use and operate than it appears, and the coupling is secure. Cars utilize a highly detailed filigree framework which demands delicate handling, but the parts are robust: not prone to bending unless roughly handled. And not for children!!! Signage is installed on the prototype at eye level and further up near framework for roofs, these signs are also installed on the Railex cars not that they can be easily seen which is interesting. Knowing all details are present on the Railex cars kind of completes the accurate portrayal of the prototype even if these details have to be sought out to see. I bought this set more than 20 years ago thus it was secondhand, it was delivered in a long black box with Railex sticker, set did not include cars. I used Marklin 8904 autos for the photos which is a great collection of 12 cars to assemble and glue. As a freight car set this is one of my favorites and one to look out for.

Railex Autotransportzug car detail: extensive prototypical signage

Railex Autotransportzug car detail: classic Railex logo

Railex Autotransportzug car with open deck for autos or high roof vehicles

Railex Autotransportzug car detail: stainless steel road bed with simulated timber car deck

Stainless steel roadbed sits atop suggested timber car floor. Note: stainless steel roadway was originally attached with double-stick tape, more than likely one or more will be pulling up from car body, my best suggestion is removing the entire loose section and scrapping off residue glue which will make part go flat instead of curling plus it will form a more permanent bond.

Z-Modellbau and its owner Dr. Andreas Scheibe produced the finest small locomotives for Z, he was unsurpassed by any manufacturer for the gauge. Dr. Scheibe has retired and his catalog of 45 distinct locomotives will be marveled at for many years to come. Z-Modellbau locomotives are powered by a maintenance free motors, they are highly detailed cast metal with very fine paintwork and lettering. Most of the locomotives are based on German prototypes, but other railroads are represented in his electric and shunting locomotive range including OBB, SBB, CFL, NS, NSB, and Banverket. Lacking electric lights, headlamps are suggested only but hardly noticeable. All of my Z-Modellbau’s were purchased from Quality Toy Trains in Napa, CA, but they could be purchased directly: made on demand with months to wait for delivery. No limitation was applied to production, but models are likely very small in number. Since operations ceased a used model sold for 3 times its original purchase price, but I won’t list values and prices since that is not the aim of my blog. I can’t think of a more valued company to the hobby of Z railroading than Z-Modellbau.

Z-Modellbau (Dr. Andreas Scheibe) Vanoli-Kof Schweiz (3107)

Z-Modellbau (Dr. Andreas Scheibe) Vanoli-Kof Schweiz (3107) + Marklin “Administration Building from Set 89982 + Marklin “weathered funnel flow car: wascosca” (82482)

Bringing examples together from 2 of the great manufacturers of Z is due no only to my passion for these articles, but Railex and Z-Modellbau’s key participation in the history of Z scale railroading.

Thanks for looking and happy railroading.

FR MY Diesel Loco Versus Marklin 88633 for DSB

Marklin released 88633 more than 10 years ago, it was their 4th NOHAB Diesel Locomotive. There have been another four released to date with little to no difference in appearance with paint and lettering for various railroads as the exception. This is a favorite locomotive type for me, I have all versions released by Marklin thus far. And one by FR which I would like to explore by way of contrasting the 2 companies interpretation of this locomotive. I chose DSB Class MY models with varying paint schemes to be close enough for this posting. Both companies are known for historical research based tooling and paint schemes, but when FR released their loco they claimed a higher level of accuracy concerning the NOHAB: time to consider the claim.

I will break down the post into the following categories: dimensions, weight, color, shell details, coupler system, wheel arrangement and mechanics.

Dimensions: buffer to buffer (FR 87mm / Marklin 86mm), body shell end to end (FR 81mm / Marklin 84mm), height from wheel flange (FR 19mm / Marklin 19mm) and width of body (FR 14mm / Marklin 15mm). Note: Marklin’s locomotive features buffers that are tiny and do not reflect what can be seen on prototypical locomotives (simple Google search will verify this conclusion). Further, Marklin’s DSB MY locomotive buffers appear to be comparable in size to the headlights. FR has modeled their buffers and body mounts more accurately to the prototype.

Weight: using a postal scale the FR weighs 1 1/2 ounces and the Marklin weighs 1 ounce. The weight difference is obvious in hand thus the FR model should be able to outperform the pulling capacity of the Marklin loco. Note: current Marklin Z NOHAB locomotive shells are cast with metal impregnated plastic which makes recent NOHAB’s a little heavier. Stayed tuned for a future post on this topic.

Color: as can be seen in the photos each locomotive exhibits different paint schemes which could be explained by the research each company performed. FR states the paint scheme they used is referred to as ‘economy without white striping.’ Examples can be found online with similar paint scheme as that used by Marklin.

Shell Details: this category maybe of particular interest to some collectors due to the number of differences. Marklin’s loco is clearly longer than FR, and Marklin 88633 is clearly wider. Roof is more rounded on the FR model. Roof equipment is slightly different on both models, but both appear accurate to their respective prototypes. Two styles of vents are used by each company, both are correct as can be seen from online photos of the prototypes. FR’s venting is very detailed almost 3 dimensional. One of the more consequential differences between the 2 models is body shape with the FR’s front and rear nose sloping at a dramatic angle versus the more squared off appearance on the Marklin, FR is closer in appearance to DSB ‘MY’ prototypes depicted in online photos, but the appearance of Marklin’s 88633 is very similar to other versions of the NOHAB painted and lettered for other railroads depicted in photos found online. Doors on the FR’s front and rear nose are cast versus suggested thru imprinting as on Marklin 88633 thus giving the Marklin a smoother finish. Add-ons for Marklin include lower step for cab access, on FR they include cab steps and railings. Marklin’s wider body shell gives its locomotive a boxier appearance, and its windows are small compared with the FR model. On the flipside, FR’s body shape is dramatic with narrower body and angled nose pitch plus those large windows.

Coupler System: connecting rolling stock to these locos could not be more different. Marklin uses their tried and true system which allows easy coupling and uncoupling with track #8587 whereas FR uses a simple wire which works well with the Marklin mini-club couplers, but it does not allow automatic uncoupling with Marklin uncoupling track section. If you display your locos the FR wire coupler virtually disappears.

Wheel Arrangement and Mechanics: one curious feature of the FR model is of course the snowplows which are standard equipment on Scandinavian trains, but missing on Marklin 88633. Marklin is missing the large pair of diesel tanks installed on the FR model’s chassis: not sure what is depicted between the Marklin’s wheel sets. The engineering and design of FR’s trucks conceal the wheels unlike Marklin’s design, I would further comment FR’s truck design is true to prototype, Marklin appears to be using a standard design they have used before which leaves top part 1st and 3rd pair of wheels exposed. Marklin wheel sets include metal gearing, FR fully nylon. Motive power on the Marklin 88633 is the very reliable 5 pole motor which was replaced in later models with motor featuring bell-shaped armature. FR has been using a similar motor for many years. And FR has been providing a choice: DC or DCC. FR’s digital (DCC) option includes extensive sound functions.

Conclusion: overall I would rate both locomotives as very good with the FR representing the prototype of a DSB MY locomotive more accurately plus FR offers a digital option. Marklin adopted a very interesting new casting feature: metal impregnated plastic thus current and future models have gained some weight which I will follow up on in a future post. Plus is there a difference between early versions of Marklin’s NOHAB locomotives and recent releases? I will follow up with a look at all released NOHAB’s to date.

Siding: FR Freudenreich has rebranded, the new company is named AB-Atelier Barkvieren. Packaging for the new company features red logo versus FR’s blue logo otherwise packaging is identical: clear acrylic boxes lined with dense white foam.

Starter Set: Marklin 81875 “Modern Freight Service”

Marklin’s new addition to their starters sets was introduced in 2023, it is still in production and widely available. The box consists of two-parts: cardboard top with molded styro-foam. Less clear in the photos are 2 tape seals: after the sets are made and packaged in Hungary each one destined for the USA is opened (tape seal cut), original transformer is exchanged for USA suitable transformer then re-taped and shipped to America. The big ugly warning sticker (this time!!!) was placed on the styro-foam bottom. As some may remember my post for the anniversary starter set, big ugly sticker was placed smack dab on the the front of the beautifully designed box top.

Heading the train set is a class 285 diesel locomotive mated with 3 freight cars lettered for VTG: 1- Eaos gondola, 1- Falns dump car, and 1- Shimmns sliding dump car. No one would say the freight cars are rarely seen as they have been in the Marklin mini-club line-up variously over the years, but this is the first representation of the Class 285 painted and lettered for RheinCargo (Neuss, Germany).

A port and rail freight service company RheinCargo’s logo sports two arrows of corresponding red and blue suggesting the dual enterprise of rail and port freight service. The company is of course large with their primary origination ports in Dusseldorf and Neuss, Germany also their headquarters and registered city.

Finding photos of the prototype Class 285 diesel is a bit limited, but it appears simply with logo against silver body with little imprinting otherwise. Smooth body locos are perfect for advertising thus it is kind of refreshing to see the loco simply presented without other graphics.

Marklin 81875 starter set includes all that’s needed to start in ‘Z’ including transformer and track. And of course the set’s basic oval of track can be expanded with track sets which are a good deal and cost less than ala carte track buys.

The handsome silver Class 285 locomotive is of course built with the new generation motor both silent and smooth. Does anyone miss the hum of the old 3 and 5 pole motors? Maybe performance wins out in the day, but I like the new and old technology equally.

Is this set something to add to a collection that is already underway? Perhaps not if budget is a concern, but seasoned collectors whom I have known over the years pick-up every starter set because each is unique and complete: everything you need in the box. For me the decision to put this in my collection was easy: beautiful locomotive!

Good luck railroading and be well!

Siding: Faller laser-cut cardboard building “Old Spinning Mill” is featured in this post, it is available under article #282742. Note: still available ask your retailer!

Marklin 81372: Train Set for Freight

Released to USA Dealers at the tail end of 2023 is the train set 81372: depicting a modern Era VI freight train painted and lettered for the firm EfW. Heading the train is the recognizable Class 212 known to mini-club collectors due to numerous versions released over the years. There have been fewer examples modeled after private firms, this one for the traction construction company operating out of Frechen, Germany.

Marklin describes the set as EfW (Westerwald Railroad Enthusiasts Transportation Company). I haven’t found information on the Westerwald Railroad Enthusiasts Transportation Company.

The train set includes a class 212 diesel locomotive and 4 DB AG type Fas 126 dump cars. Hydraulic dump cars include loads of gravel.

The locomotive on close examination reveals the logo for ‘EfW’. Crimson paint scheme is similar to that used by ‘DB’.

The set maybe based on the prototype used in Westerwald, Germany (concerning Marklin’s description). A Google search for Westerwald translates to “Western forest.” Westerwald comprises a mountain range and various mining activities: slate, iron ore, basalt, and clay.

Siding: cooling towers depicted in photos are laser-cut build kits by Archistories. And available from ZScaleHobo.com and ZMonster.com.

German Federal Postal Train: 81341

The motive power of this train set has origins to World War II. Designed to be less visible to Allied bombing than steam locomotives the Class V36 diesel locomotive was produced in small numbers with just over 250. Many V36’s survived well beyond the 2nd World War due to its reliability and easy maintenance, its removable side panels allowed easy access to the engine. Not sure how many perished before War’s end or their numbers Post War, but those that did survive seem to have served branch-line railroads for both passenger and freight plus shunting operations.

Marklin has thus far released V36’s alone and in train sets for various eras, this train set based on the 1960’s prototype for the German Federal Postal Service (Era III).

A couple of box cars along with one stake car are included in the set. Plus a Tempo 3- wheeler delivery vehicle painted yellow and lettered for the German Federal Postal Service.

The locomotive is small but fully capable of hauling the 3 freight cars in the set. Marklin describes locomotive’s construction mostly of metal. It might stall out in a turnout at slow speeds due to its short length, otherwise a good reliable locomotive in ‘Z’.

Z-Modellbau.de was the first to produce powered ‘Z’ gauge locomotives of this scale, but Marklin has caught up with their V36 models. Marklin has further surpassed what was possible in ‘Z’ with the release of Volkswagen Klv 20’s: 88025 + 88026. Of course all these developments are only possible due to the new generation motor Marklin is now using.

Set is delivered in Marklin’s current white box and includes: 1- Class V 36 Diesel Locomotive, 2- type Gmhs 53 boxcars, 1- type Rmms 33 stake car with a brakeman’s platform, and 1 Tempo 3-wheel delivery vehicle with movable rubber tires.

This is an MHI Release thus it is only available through MHI Dealers.

Siding: buildings featured in this post are Faller laser-cut kits recently released.

“50 YEARS MARKLIN Mini-Club!!!” SETS 81873 + 87402

Celebrating and commemorating fifty years of miniclub with two terrific releases: starter set 81873 and supplemental coach set 87402.

With reference to the first and second generation box designs, the new releases incorporate wood grain from the 70’s mini-club articles and later beige/orange stripes into box designs of the anniversary releases, further referencing mini-club history through depictions of Marklin’s clever advertising from the 70’s included on the starter set box.

A lovely passenger train with diesel locomotive, baggage car and 2 coaches in “Pop Colors” paint scheme further referencing the early 70’s: 1972 to be exact. A whole lot of effort went into these sets, Marklin designed something very special for the diehard mini-club collector.

Link to Marklin for a very special 50 Year chronology: https://www.maerklin.de/en/lp/2022/50yearsz#chronik

Talking trains: what comes inside the boxes?

Set 81873 includes everything you need to set-up a basic oval layout (according to Marklin: homage to set 8901) with train and transformer. The train (German Federal Railroad (DB): 1- class 216 diesel locomotive (includes new generation motor), 1- type Düm 902 baggage car, 1- type Aüm 203 1st class compartment car, and 1- type Büm 234 2nd class compartment car. “Pop Colors” paint scheme from 1972, Era IV.

Supplemental set 87402 extends the train set with 3 additional coaches painted variously: 1- type Bcüm 243 express train 2nd class slumber coach (bluish lilac), 1- type Büm 234 express train 2nd class compartment car (blue), and type Bcüm 243 express train 2nd class slumber coach (reddish violet).

Additional comments about 81873: I bought mine from a USA dealer, the set arrived with wear in the corners plus tape seals holding clear acrylic lid to styro-foam tray were slit open, it looked like an open-box item. It turns out the Marklin factory opened up sets destined for the USA to insert correct transformer. I have heard condition of some sets are better than others so wise to check with your dealer before buying. Additionally there is a big ugly ‘USA’ electrical warning sticker on the cover of the box which is too bad. Box appears to be fragile and susceptible to shelf scuffing, I have placed mine in an archival plastic sleeve just to be safe! Lastly plastic lid covering train in styro-foam tray is rigid plastic (great protection), it has a slight warm color: not neutral.

Big anniversary with 2 great items of celebration, I highly recommend these sets.

Siding: MHI (Marklin Handler’s Initiative) Release for “50 Years of Marklin Mini-Club.”

Z Trains Weekly

World of Z scale trains!