OO Works GSWR ‘101’/ CIÉ Class J15 0‑6‑0

◆ GAUGE ‘OO’ ◆ MODEL OO Works CIÉ Class J15 (EX-GSWR ‘101’) 0-6-0, CIÉ grey ◆ PRICE £315.00 plus p&p ◆ AVAILABILITY OO Works, Brendon, Langham Road, Robertsbridge, East Sussex TN32 5DT Web www.ooworks.co.uk

The latest addition to the OO Works range of hand-built steam locomotive models is a rendition of the GSWR Class 101 0‑6‑0, more commonly known as the ‘J15’. Representing Ireland’s most numerous steam locomotive class, the new model follows the 2019 release of the ‘101’ in its earlier, non-superheated format

(see review in MR257).

In this case, the model now sports a ‘Z’ type superheated boiler, complete with Belpaire firebox, and is coupled to a larger tender, with a more ‘modern’ style of suspension.

Designed and built in England, the OO Works model definitely captures the character of the real ‘J15’ perfectly, and all key dimensions have been scaled correctly, excluding the compromise of reducing the Irish 5ft 3in gauge down to 16.5mm ‘OO’. Indeed, it’s worth pointing out that the model’s running frame does not allow for easy regauging.

Rendered in cast and etched metal components, the model is fairly heavy for its size, which offers extra adhesion. It feels rugged and well put together, so it can be handled with much less risk of tiny plastic details being broken off. While less ‘fussy’, in terms of flimsy parts, the overall level of detail is impressive, with fine wire handrails festooning the locomotive and tender, along with lamp brackets, smokebox door handle and wheel, plus brake gear rigging and an array of cab interior fittings. Sprung buffers adorn the headstocks and the turned brass whistle, safety and snifter valves add a touch of style. The metal castings forming the footplate, boiler and cab are free from imperfections and feature sharp relief, especially the chimney and dome.

Below the footplate, sets of good-quality metal wheels are installed, with extra power collection from the tender axles linked to the motor via a discreet cable. The tender-locomotive drawbar is bolted in place, but there’s plenty of play to allow the model to negotiate a minimum radius of 432mm.

The chassis has been well designed and expertly assembled, allowing the model to run superbly straight from the box

Moreover, the central tender axle features inside bearings, increasing the amount of side-play on curves, which is a welcome feature.

Similarly, two of the coupled axles on the locomotive also feature plenty of sideways movement, aided by a small degree of compensation in the centre axle. With power transmitted to the rear coupled wheelset, brass thrust washers are fitted to limit sideways play.

All in all, the chassis has been well designed and expertly assembled, allowing the model to run superbly straight from the box.

A small, but powerful coreless motor sits within the firebox and the worm and gear are exposed below the chassis. This makes servicing simple, as there’s no need to remove the bodyshell. However, regular inspections are recommended to remove debris or fibres from the mechanism.

As with most coreless motors, it’s best to avoid the use of feedback controllers and high-frequency electronic track cleaners, as stated in the model’s handbook.

There’s no provision for DCC, although there is space within the hollow boiler for those wanting to convert to digital. No instructions are provided, although the handbook does warn that DCC installation will void the one-year warranty.