Category Archives: Siding

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.

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.

Just In Time: 88963 DRG Class 86 (new at USA dealers)!

New at USA dealers is Marklin 88963 tank locomotive Class 86 painted and lettered for DRG (German State Railroad) from Era II. An early German tank locomotive built in the years 1928 – 1943 for passenger and freight. Used on main and branch lines, Class 86 is one of the “Jack of All Trades” locomotive types. According to the Wikipedia page: 775 Class 86’s were built by various German Factories for use in the Mittelgebirge Region. Have a look at the Wikipedia Page for other historical details.

Marklin’s latest model of this fine locomotive is outstanding with great detailing of body and running gear. Two LED headlights illuminate its path, water tanks run length of boiler up to the cylinders, its a treat to watch the lively action of the moving locomotive.

Marklin’s first class 86 for mini-club was in production for a number of years starting 1980 until 2008, its item number 8896 painted and lettered for DB thus Era III. In 1996 the locomotive was reintroduced as a One Time Series for the MHI Program: painted “photo gray” and lettered for DRG with item number 88961. Both locomotives were powered by 3 pole motors.

As it happens (often) Marklin did not release a coach or freight set to go with this Era II locomotive this year, but there are plenty of good choices already produced including the very finely detailed 4 car coach set: 87681. The set is so good I am expanding this post to include lots of photos of it.

To fully appreciate the interesting architecture and detailing we look at each car independently thus next 4 photos are 87681-1: Baggage Car with 2 pair of hinged doors each side. Car number 101 976.

87681-2: 2nd and 3rd Class coach with curtain drawn over lavatory window (one side). Car number 35 909.

87681-3: 3rd Class coach with curtain drawn over lavatory window (one side). Car number 79 867.

87681-4: 3rd Class coach with curtain drawn over lavatory window. Car number 79 847.

Released in 2002, Marklin 87681 was offered until 2008, it followed the earlier release and first time introduction of identical car types as set 8768 (1990 – 1995), this set was painted and lettered for DB.

Final photo includes Faller’s new laser cut building: “Old Spinning Mill” article #282742. A good building design, but roof material is challenging to work with as its heavy texture gives way to damage during bending for assembly. Only trick I have found with this material is to score bending joints with a sharp knife otherwise material frays and you won’t have clean folds for assembly. Expect some less than desirable results.

Siding: hard to find ‘dealer old stock’ of this set thus the secondary/used market is likely only possibility. Check car numbers to confirm you have to a complete set.

Christmas Comes Once a Year: Marklin Delivers 2 in ‘Z’

I am a self professed Christmas Toy nut thus collecting all things Christmas in Z comes easy. But because they are fantasy designs serious railroading fans scorn the addition of such rolling stock on their layouts: many are good friends that I respect a lot for their knowledge and commitment to the hobby and history of trains thus I get it, but for all others Marklin’s 2 offerings this year are a hit!

First there is 80633 Christmas Ornament Car continuing the yearly special edition begun in 2000. This year it is the first Christmas car designed around the all familiar baggage/luggage car painted chocolate brown with a tasty ornament design strung along its sides. This beautiful car is housed in an acrylic gingerbread house. And a ribbon is included for the tree. Outer carton carries the label “Made in Germany” which is unusual these days for Marklin Z items: no matter however. The outer carton is beautifully printed and designed, but with Marklin Z Christmas Ornaments the carton is often dented and creased, this year is no different: too bad! Car and ornament are always delivered perfect by contrast.

Big deal for Christmas this year is the Christmas steam locomotive and tender, it is based on the classic heavy freight Class 50 loco and features a beautiful wispy Christmas themed design previously incorporated into design of Marklin 55389 Gauge 1 ‘P8’ (2016) and Marklin 37899 HO Class 50 (2016). Both former releases featured lit Christmas trees on the front buffer beam as well Christmas tunes from the sound-board as a digital feature. It took Marklin a few years to produce and offer 88847 design used previous, and I believe it will be as popular as the Gauge 1 and HO Christmas locomotives. But there is an additional surprise: custom wood box housing locomotive features a pressure-sensitive device which plays “Jingle Bells” when box is open thus converting display box to music box too!

Siding: USA Dealers recently received loco 88847 already sold out at the factory.

Siding: Marklin produced a 2nd HO Christmas themed Class 01 with different design perhaps it will follow for Z? Hope so!

“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.”

Marklin 88146: Already Rare or at Least Hard to Find

I plan to spend a little more time with this model in a future post, but for now I am sending a shout out to anyone interested that now is the time to track one down even if you have a preorder for it.

In October (2021) Marklin sent a letter to dealers announcing a limited release of this model, they further explained the release would be smaller than anticipated and not all customers with preorders would receive one. I am one such customer thus when one became available on Ebay I ordered it. Some models might still be available through Marklin’s USA Dealer network or German dealers on Ebay.

Note about the model: small steam powered locomotive with passenger compartment based on the Era II prototype with paint and lettering for the German State Railroad. Manufactured in China, Marklin 88146 is a companion to the earlier release 88145, both are similar in appearance with the exception of paint and lettering, add-on parts and mechanism are identical. Collectors sometimes comment on Chinese manufacturing as a problem, but every add-on part which there are many was individually applied. And this level of production with a Marklin Z release is usually well done in China. “Usually” is the word of the day: my first 88146 was missing the left hand side rod, my second one was missing the add-on part installed behind left cab window. Both defects are covered by Marklin’s 2 Year Warranty, but I will be without this locomotive for quite some time.

Marklin 88146 (released 2021) + Nuremberg Toy Fair Cars (White Box Edition)

Paint, lettering, and details are finely produced on this model, it is a perfect locomotive to feature in a small railroad perhaps in a country setting too! It could be conceived to be a railcar propelled with steam propulsion, this all-in-one locomotive with passenger compartment can be hitched to a coach or freight wagon as the prototype required. Two Nuremberg Toy Fair cars from 2008 and 2017 complete the train each commemorates German Railroad history. The 2008 Toy Fair car painted and lettered for the RHEINGOLD train, and 2017 Toy Fair Car commemorates the 60th anniversary of Trans Europ Express.

Siding: Laser-cut cardboard building kit featured here is newly released (2021) by Faller as item #282773 (Eutin Pharmacy).

German E 18 Electric Locomotive: Marklin 88080 + 88088

Noticeable differences apply to Marklin’s Era III Class E 18 electric loco both on the outside and inner workings.

The Class E 18 electric locomotive was designed for express train service, it was built over a 20 year span starting in 1935 in Germany and Austria. Although it was designed for express train service it subsequently became an important general purpose locomotive. Marklin’s 88080 and 88088 are based on post war (Era III) prototypes.

Marklin 88080 was released in 2002, it stayed in the program until 2008. This attractive locomotive was the first mini-club Class E 18, its features include 5 pole motor and LED headlamps.

The recent release 88088 features a new motor designed to be maintenance-free: no longer are worn brushes changed out as was the case with the earlier 3 pole and 5 pole motors. The paint scheme is similar for both locomotives, but paint sheen varies: 88088 is matte (prototypical?), and 88080 is glossy which gives the paint an appearance of more saturation and maybe bluer looking.

Both generations of the E 18 are good runners with the 88088 running a little quieter and better at slow speeds. It should be noted that earlier versions of the E 18’s performance are exceptional: in my opinion no great improvement between the new release and the older versions, I don’t think a trade-in of the old for new is warranted: save your money for other new releases (?). Perhaps others may feel differently, but I have felt since its release in 2002 the 88080 ran superbly, and I still do, including all the various releases since 2002.

Marklin 88088 + Faller 282774 (Quakenbruck Town/City Hall)

How do they look? Paint scheme of 88088 maybe more prototypical (?). Paint is brighter on the 88080 due to its gloss finish.

Siding: releases of the E18 have included a bright pink/red instruction sheet placed over loco in box with instruction to store loco in box with pantographs fully extended thus to avoid breakage of the delicate roof details and wires rendered in plastic. This loco did not include this warning slip, but it is advised to store your loco with pantographs up!

Black Forest Railroading – “Höllentalbahn”: Marklin 87507

BR 85 003 tank locomotive without smoke deflectors traveling across *Ravennabrücke* Viaduct (circa 1933)

Sometimes photographs are key evidence for prototypical modeling this one capturing the moment a BR 85 tank locomotive crosses the Ravennabrücke Viaduct in the Black Forest. Trailing behind are 5 coaches and baggage car of the type included in the new release “Höllentalbahn” Passenger Car Set: Marklin 87507.

Built in 1926-27, the Ravennabrücke Viaduct replaced a much earlier bridge (circa 1885) whose foundation sidings can be seen on the right. A rack railway was originally used until the BR 85 tank locomotive was designed and built in the early 1930’s .

This photograph and others in our collection are mostly stamped as belonging to Lokomotivbild-Archiv, Reichsbahn-Filmstelle, Berlin or Deutsche Reichsbahn and each includes numerous classifications and hand-written historical details. The photograph in this post however appears to have the correct operating number crossed out in the upper right (85 003) with the incorrect number more boldly represented on the photograph: only 10 class 85’s were produced. Our collection of vintage photographs from the Deutsche Reichsbahn archives will be included in upcoming posts including narrow gauge class 99’s so stay tuned.

Onto the model 87507, included in the 5 car set are coaches and baggage car: 3- type Bie 2nd class coaches, 1- type ABiwe 1st and 2nd class coach, and 1- type Pwie baggage car. And based on prototype from Era IIIb thus circa 1960. A great set featuring matte paint and very fine extensive lettering, it is also the announced mate for the upcoming release of 88889: BR 85 007. The new loco will be delivered with a build kit for a locomotive inspection station. And of course the new loco will have improved running gear detailing and new brushless motor, plus added treats include warning stripes painted on buffers and painted boiler bands. Please look for a future post featuring my favorite steam locomotive and its coach set! Plus more BR 85 historic photos too!

Without further ado:

Marklin 87507.1 (1st and 2nd class standard mainline coach)

Marklin 87507.2 (2nd class standard mailine coach)

Marklin 87507.3 (standard design baggage car)

Marklin 87507.4 (2nd class standard mailine coach)

Marklin 87507.5 (2nd class standard mailine coach)

Siding: Archistories Viaduct kit is a worthy candidate if you plan to model something similar to the above scene. Check it out at Z Scale Monster Trains or Z Scale Hobo. Note: your partner will enjoy the peace and quiet as you build this fun kit!

Archistories #128171 + #129171 (extension “add-on” kit)

Marklin’s 8800 Golden Lok from 1972

Marklin 8800 special Golden Loco (1972) and Archistories ARC-104171 Transfer Table Shed

In two years Marklin “mini-club” will be 50 years old, and this loco too! The common theme of course is gold in celebration of this milestone. The 1972 Nuremberg Toy Show would introduce ‘Z’ as Marklin’s new model railroad gauge; they touted it as the smallest in the world, it would eventually be eclipsed by T gauge thus becoming the second smallest gauge today, but who cares at this point.

Marklin produced the gold 8800 locomotive on the occasion of the 1972 Nuremberg Toy Fair and announcement of their new ‘Z’ gauge model railroad. Presented in a special box the gold locomotive was given to Marklin’s business partners (some have suggested it was a gift for members of the press?) at the 1972 event. Edition size is unknown, but it is fair to say limited. Interest in the model has waned over the years after reaching auction prices of $2000 twenty years ago (based on other collectors’ information and not verified by this author), today examples sell for $150- $300 sometimes missing the original box.

Many details about this model have been gathered over time from numerous sources thus some inaccuracies maybe unavoidable, as new information comes forward I will seek to update this post.

Note: plating reveals texture in the casting similar to gold-leaf which is not seen in painted versions

Looking out for counterfeit versions: one dealer told me years ago following high auction prices that Chinese firms were making fakes. I haven’t seen any fake versions, but another dealer told me fake ones have 5 chrome gears whereas originals have 5 openings in the oil pan with 4 bronze gears and 1 chrome one. The locomotive also featured the original 3 pole motor which was used in mini-club locos until the introduction of the 5 pole motor in 1998. Original shells were gold plated metal casting thus no tarnishing will further distinguish it as authentic. An original box is another helpful article to find with this loco, it featured wood grain in its design as other mini-club locos, but also featured metallic sheen too. Note to collectors: original complete box is perhaps equal in value to the locomotive.

Original presentation box for Marklin 8800 special Golden Loco (1972)

“Goldene Lok (Golden Lok)” and “Goldiloks (Goldilocks)” are nicknames given by collectors for the locomotive, but Marklin may have originally named it “Goldene (Golden)”. Produced in gold perhaps distinguishing it as being made during the Olympic year of 1972?

First fold-out: “She is a delightful present for her (you?) and much more” -Google Translate

Box features multiple fold-outs and text: “it (locomotive) is the symbol of the <Golden> chance 72” thus marketing the new gauge as “the first world record of the olympic year.” Further describing the attributes of the new small gauge we have all come to know and appreciate.

Note: 50 years on and this little loco runs like a top due to the extremely good design and manufacturing at Marklin: here’s to fifty more!

Siding: rough performance and shaking with steam locomotives maybe due to bent side rods, if the side rods are bent inward they can impede smooth running, bending the side rods outward with great care should remedy it

Marklin Insider Car 2019: 80329

Marklin 8800_Goldene locomotive and Insider car 80329 “Miele” (2019)

Two bits of history hitched together: 47 years apart. This year’s (2019) Insider car for Z (released 2020) is painted and lettered for the German firm Miele pictured here with Marklin’s “Goldene” locomotive from 1972.

Recently released 80329 is the 26th freight car given to Insider Members as part of membership in the club which also includes other perks including subscription to Marklin Magazin, Marklin Insider magazine, yearly catalog, invitation to purchase Insider locos and last but not least the bi-annual DVD showcasing news from Marklin as well as railroading highlights from around the world.

German firms chosen for the Insider Club release cars are sometimes known to collectors in the United States and sometimes not, Miele may fall within the latter partly due to little advertising in the United States and small dealer network for their products, but this appliance manufacturer who opened their doors in 1899 has revolutionized household appliances including inventing the vacuum cleaner, electric dishwasher and household laundry machine.

The type GI 11 high capacity box car forms the basis for this release and used on the German Federal Railroad (DB) during Era IV.

Forty seven years is a long time since the release of the 8800 “Goldene” locomotive, but we are fast approaching the 50 year anniversary of Marklin mini-club thus the little loco type 8800 with version 1 tooling is appropriately finished in gold to celebrate this upcoming milestone.

Siding: Insider Members belonging to the club for 5 consecutive years receive the special imprint car “marklin INSIDER – 5 Jahre”.

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