Now those wonderful halcyon steam powered days can be recreated in model form with the introduction onto the model tracks of a Hornby Live Steam locomotive. Simply a marvel of model engineering, each Hornby Live Steam locomotive is controlled remotely by the driver at the side of the track, with water being heated not by naked flame, but by electricity, passed safely down the track to the locomotive's tender.

(Each locomotive is fitted with a Hornby NEM style coupling and is fully compatible with all Hornby coaches, wagons, track and scenic accessories.)

After approximately five to ten minutes, the water will be heated sufficiently, and steam will begin to appear from the safety valve located in the locomotive. This will also mean that heated water will be running through the locomotive, ready for it to begin moving.

A few nudges of the speed regulator will send electrical signals, or pulses, to the
locomotive telling it in which direction to go and at what speed. These signals will turn a small motor in the locomotive, which opens the steam valve and releases steam into the locomotive’s pistons, turning the wheels.

After a small amount of practice, the operator can achieve in excess of 20 minutes running from one filling of water. The locomotive also produces realistic steam sounds, from the pumping pistons to a real steam whistle, coupled with the unmistakeable and memorable smells of steam and hot engine oil.

Please note: A Live Steam locomotive requires a dedicated route to run on, and should not be operated at the same time on the same route as conventional 12 volt engines, other live steam locomotives or DCC control.

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