SJ Class A3, 1929-69 version
New 1994/95

SJ A3 1008 in Gävle in 1939
Photo collection: S. Nyberg

The prototype:

The "Ostkustbanan" private railway had their five Atlantic A Class locomotives, which they had bought from the SJ, rebuilt to tenwheelers (wheel arrangement 4-6-0) in 1929. The original boiler was kept. These engines were taken over by the SJ in 1933 with their original numbers but with the new class designation A3. During the years 1939-40 two Class A2 engines were converted to Class A3 by installing boilers of the original type. All seven engines were re-classified A (1000, 1007, 1008, 1012, 1017, 1021 and 1022).
For further information please refer to the description of Class A.


Brimalm Class A3 model photographed on the MRW pike in Gothenburg
Photo: B E / Jens Dahlström

The model:

The Brimalm Class A3 model was produced in a series of only 35 examples. The model engines, like their big prototypes, were converted from our model of the Atlantic engine Class A, which we have equipped with new frame details and a third coupled axle. The propulsion of the model is by a flywheel equipped tender mounted Swiss precision motor (Faulhaber M1724-1). The power is transmitted by a slender cardan shaft to a gear box of a unique design with a hardened steel worm and bronze gear. The gearbox drives on to the middle coupled axle from which the power is transmitted to the front and rear coupled axles through the coupling rods. A balanced lead weight in the boiler enhances the pulling power. Like the prototypes, the Class A3 has a somewhat higher pulling power than the Class A. The design gives the model fascinating running characteristics.

A picture with real steam age atmosphere from the MRW pike in Gothenburg
Photo: B E / Jens Dahlström

The model is characterized by

• Exact scale 1:87 (H0)
• 2-rail DC with current collection through 12 wheels
• 616 hand-mounted parts
• Simulated inside motion with a fully functioning double crank axle
• Cab with detailed interior and removable roof (the steam whistle functions as fastening screw)
• Detailed smokebox interior and smokebox door which can be opened
• Glazed windows and headlights
• Sprung driving wheel axles with ball bearings
• Wheel rims made of stainless steel with RP 25 flanges
• Sprung couplers and buffers
• Detachable snowploughs and top headlights
• Realistic running characteristics 0-110 kph

Five years technical warranty.