Hornby CASTLE CLASS - User Manual

This document describes the Hornby Castle Class 4-6-0 Steam Locomotive and Tender, available in both DCC Ready and DCC Fitted (SOUND) versions. It provides operating and maintenance instructions for this precision-built model railway locomotive.

Function Description

The Hornby Castle Class locomotive is a highly detailed model designed for use on model railway layouts. It is powered by a variable 12-volt DC supply, typically obtained from a suitable power controller connected to the domestic mains electricity supply. The locomotive is capable of pulling rolling stock on track curves of 438mm radius or greater (Hornby 2nd radius track). The DCC Ready version allows for easy installation of a Digital Command Control (DCC) decoder, while the DCC Fitted (SOUND) version comes with a pre-installed DCC decoder that includes sound functions, enhancing the realism of the model.

Important Technical Specifications

Power Supply: Variable 12V DC.
Motor: Sealed, long-life, 5-pole electric motor, requiring no maintenance.
Current Draw: Normally between 2 and 4 amps, with a current surge on starting.
Minimum Track Radius: 438mm (Hornby 2nd radius track).
DCC Compatibility: Available as DCC Ready (socket for decoder installation) or DCC Fitted (pre-installed sound/DCC decoder).
Scale: Not explicitly stated, but implied to be a standard model railway scale (e.g., OO gauge) given the Hornby brand.
Construction: Precision-built with fine scale standards, incorporating small, delicate, and protruding parts. The bodywork is spray painted, and decoration is applied by a printed process.
Safety: Not suitable for children under 14 years of age. Intended for indoor use only. Transformers used must be "Transformer for Toys" type, checked regularly for damage, and never opened or repaired by the user.

Usage Features

Operation: The locomotive is controlled by a power controller. Ensure all electrical connections are correct, the wall power socket is on, the power connecting clip is correctly inserted into the track, track sections are fitted tightly, and all fishplates are secure. The direction control switch on the controller must be set to either forward or reverse, not the central 'OFF' position.
Close Coupling: The tender can be connected to the locomotive using a closer coupling hole on the drawbar for display purposes, creating a more realistic appearance.
Accessories: Detailed parts are provided to be fitted into designated location points on the locomotive. Some accessories are specifically for static displays.
Brake Rods: Before fitting the locomotive brake rods, transit brackets must be removed by loosening screws, removing the brackets, and then retightening the screws.
Television Suppression: The locomotive incorporates radio and television interference suppressors. If interference occurs, it may be due to close proximity of the layout to receivers, aerials, or their 'downlines', in which case moving the layout further away is recommended.
Body Removal (for maintenance/DCC installation):
1. Turn the locomotive upside down.
2. Remove the first assembly screw and the front bogie.
3. Remove the second assembly screw.
4. Turn the locomotive right way up and ease the chassis down, pulling forward to disengage the rear chassis lug from the body.
Tender Body Removal:
1. Turn the tender upside down.
2. Remove the two assembly screws.
3. Push the two lugs out through the holes in the chassis.
4. Turn the tender right way up and ease the chassis down, pulling forward to disengage the chassis from the rear of the tender.
DCC Installation (DCC Ready): The DCC Ready version has a designated socket for easy installation of a DCC decoder. Users should contact a specialist dealer for advice on DCC installation.
Packaging: The locomotive is protected by a 2-part polystyrene pack. To remove, lift off the upper half after removing securing bands. Transit brackets should be removed from the product where fitted.

Maintenance Features

Track Cleaning: Regular cleaning of track and wheels is essential to prevent the accumulation of a blackish deposit that reduces traction and power to the motor. Surfaces should be wiped with a clean, non-fluffy cloth. Stubborn deposits can be removed using the Hornby Track Cleaning Rubber (R8087).
Wheel Cleaning: Similar to track, locomotive wheels must be kept clean to ensure optimal performance.
Lubrication:
- Only apply small single drops of light machine oil to the valve gear, connecting rod pivot points, and axle bearings (indicated in red in the diagrams).
- A simple oil dropper can be made using a straightened paper clip inserted into a cork, with a bottle cap serving as an oil container.
- Lubrication should be carried out approximately every 6 months or every 100 hours of running.
- Immediately wipe off any excess oil, especially from the locomotive body.
- Before cleaning any part, disconnect the transformer from the mains electricity supply.
- Do not use liquid for cleaning.
Chassis Cleaning: The chassis may accumulate fluff, fabric fibers, and pet hairs, which can entangle in gears and around axles. It is not advisable to run the locomotive on carpeted track. Regularly check and remove debris using small tweezers.
Motor Maintenance: The sealed, long-life, 5-pole motor requires no maintenance. If replacement is needed after extensive use, it should be carried out by a Hornby Service Dealer.
Spare Parts and Service: Spare parts packs are available from Hornby Service Dealers, who also offer repair services.
Safety Notes:
- Never connect the locomotive directly to the mains electricity supply.
- Do not connect the locomotive to more than the recommended number of power supplies.
- Output terminals of the transformer must not be connected directly or indirectly to the output of any other AC circuit derived from a transformer or mains power supply.
- Retain the details and address for future reference.