Ace Trains LMS 5XP Jubilee
Reviewed by Martin Bloxsom
<GaugeOGuild|tradeinfo|Ace Trains>
Having now done several reviews for ACE Trains 28mm back-to-back, two and three rail models, it was pleasant task to review this latest LMS version, albeit they are selling out quickly as I write this (July 2017). The model follows the now normal ACE practice being well boxed and supplied with details on maintenance, etc. The locomotive has a large can motor with flywheel, neat wheel profiles with all of them flanged yet it will negotiate 2ft 0in curves. Although the model lacks brake gear, the frame and wheel detail is good. Gazette readers will note the by now familiar details. The bodywork with fine rivet detail is of note. As before, the firebox glows when the engine moves off. Cab detail seems to have improved when compared to earlier ACE models.
The model can run either two or three rail using spoon pick-ups for the latter.
A skate system can be substituted with relative ease. For permanent two rail
running removal of the spoons is recommended. Performance is excellent; outof-
the-box is easily hauled, 14 Ace coaches, weighing in total approximately
27lbs(!), at a scale 60mph at the June Harringworth meeting as reported in
August 2017 Guild News, page 16. The current consumption reached no higher
than 0.6amp after 20 minutes. A photo of that actual painted pre-production production model appeared in the Gazette, August 2017 on page 71. Livery
colours and application are very good. Several LMS/BR variations are available
– if you’re quick – including a black/silver version of No. 5552 Silver Jubilee.
Plans for new Ace releases are well advanced for 2017-19; these include a Warship Bo-Bo diesel, coaches including a SR/BR Tavern Car, plus a LMS Class 5MT 4-6-0, Caledonian 0-4-4 Tank, a SECR Class D (unrebuilt); all three to be in various liveries. Availability and plans ahead may be seen on the ACE Trains website. Developments may also be located on Facebook.
Detailed dimensions are as follows:
| Model | Prototype | |
|---|---|---|
| Loco overall length | 39ft 6in | 39ft 7 ¼in |
| *Tender overall length | 24ft 7in | 24ft 6 3/4in |
| *Total length (close coupled) | 64ft 8in | 64ft 8 3/4in |
| Overall height above railhead | 13ft 0in | 12ft 11 3/8 in |
| Loco width | 8ft 9in | 8ft 7 1/2 in |
| Driving wheel diameter | 6ft 6in | 6ft 9in |
| Coupled 3 axle wheelbase | 15ft 4in | 15ft 4in |
| Bogie wheel diameter | 3ft 0in | 3ft 31/2 in |
| Tender wheelbase | 15ft 0in | 15ft 0in |
| Tender wheelbase diameter | 4ft 4in | 4ft 3in |
*Stanier 9 ton tender, 4,000 gallons type
*Excludes large coupling, easily changed
