MSS O Gauge Live Steam Loco - Review, almost. 

Okay, lemme give you the run down; Be wary of buying an MSS one, I've had parts from him that were shocking. We're talking wheels so poorly machined that they didn't fit the track AT ALL, safety valves with incorrect gaskets, and valve springs that are gunked up, and corroded. I don't know if you've bought one by now, but buy an OLD Mamod one. Yeah, they're old, but they're basically the same as this, and I would also say the dome looks better too. If you buy one, you will want to modify it. The tablets are garbage, and I would recommend the gas burner, or meth's burner. Be advised the boiler paint is likely to flake off, however. And be careful about buying anything MSS that isn't track. Look at Roy Wood Models, for upgrade parts, too. You can sink some pretty decent money into these, and learn about the engines in the process. I'm planning a major, major, overhaul of 2 of these SL1 engines. These engines are good for 2 things: 1) Being a very basic entry point for SM32 scale, and garden railways 2) Being used as platform for learning to modify a live steam locomotive mechanically, and aesthetically.

Hi, thanks for the comment. I never knew there was a difference; I'm guessing the kit comes with screws where the pre-built will be rivetted? By the state of my ancient Mamod stationary engine, I would guess that these engines won't need much in the way of heavy maintenance. if it does it won't be rocket science to drill out the rivets.

Sorry David, I wouldn't know. My only experience is with the tablets or meths.

Actually I didn't. I suppose it would involve removing one of the cylinder end caps. I'll have a look next time I'm in the garage. Thanks for the question.

There's no link for any place to get one I don't really know how to buy

never mind way too expensive for me

Thanks for the interesting comment. In the interest of fairness could you say how the issues you had were resolved? Presumably you got your money back or the items replaced? I bought the one in the vid. Just my opinion but as far as I'm concerned, these are toys; if the Grandkids accidentally break anything it doesn't matter, which is why I would never sink any serious money into them. I just paid a whole £2 for a rusty old carriage in an antique dealers!

@@floydraser4603, they were resolved. However, what I would say is, the amount of problems these engines have, MSS have become notorious with how poor their quality control is. In a few instances, I've had to go out and buy parts to remedy issues with the items issued. I've lambasted Mamod in the past, especially given some of the issues I've had with the Brunel, but the fact is these models should come out to a good standard. You've likely gotten very lucky here. Useless gasket seals, and incorrectly gauged wheels are really just not acceptable, especially with someone who's making pressure vessels. They're toys, but expensive ones, and you should have some idea what you're doing when messing with them, which is why it's important to get it right first time, you know? Especially at about £250.

Interesting experience. I have a loco exactly the same as the one in the video and it now is only fit for display. Shocking leaks from the reversing block, cylinders and gauge glass and one of the wheels fell off whilst going round a corner. Spent money on upgrades and wished I never bothered. Now have a RWM Janet on order, which is basically one of these made properly.

@@MrSteamywindows Honestly, I have a lot of respect for Roy, but I'd have spent the extra £150 and bought a Roundhouse basic engine. How old is your MSS engine? Because I'd be reaming the guy from MSS out for selling a shitty engine. The leaking reversing block can be likely sorted, but I'd advise a total strip down, and run the port face of the reverser over oiled sandpaper, placed on a flat surface. MSS are terrible. Even the rolling stock kits I got were shoddy.