SJ Class A, 1909-22 version
New 1998

Enjoy the rich details!
Photo: B E / Janne Lundberg

The prototype:

The introduction of the SJ Class A express locomotive in 1906 is considered a turning point in the development of locomotive building in Sweden. With its 4-4-2 wheel arrangement ("Atlantic"), superheater, bar frames, high running boards and "wind-cleaver" cab front the Class A ushered in a new era of modern and efficient steam locomotives. All 26 examples of Class A (No. 1000 - 1025) were coupled to 3-axle tenders Class C when delivered. As soon as 1909-11, however, these were replaced by 4-axle bogie tenders Class A. At about the same time this locomotive class started to be withdrawn from the most demanding express duties. Until the final withdrawal of the class in 1939 the engines were used mainly in light express and local passenger traffic. During the years 1926-27 five locomotives were sold to the private "Ostkustbanan" (OKB) railway, which in 1929 had the engines rebuilt to a six-coupled design (designated Class A3). In 1930 the SJ followed the example and had three engines rebuilt in a similar way, at the same time replacing the boilers with larger ones. These engines were then re-classified A2. A 1001 has been preserved at the Swedish Railway Museum in Gävle.

Drawing: SJ Mechanical Dept.

The model:

Our model represents the state of these locomotives during the years 1909-22. Among the special details of this model may be mentioned chemically treated bluish cab and boiler plating, vacuum brake system, kerosene headlights and a different piping layout. This model has been produced in only 10 examples. The propulsion of the model is done 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 rear coupled axle from which the power is transmitted to the front coupled axle through the coupling rods. A balanced lead weight in the boiler enhances the pulling power. The design guarantees a very silent and smooth running locomotive.

Brimalm Class A and A3 engines doubleheading on 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