RevellBig Boy Locomotive

Best model kit ive ever put together. A little dated tho compared to some kits.

This model has a lot of detail work. Wheel assemblies that will turn if done correctly. There are linkage and wheel links that require a lot of attention. Painting is not a big issue. An older guy like me didn't have enough patience but it is turning out pretty good. If you buy, just don't expect a fast job if you want a good model when done.

Fun

I am still in building process. So far, it has gone together well. I was disappointed in the molded in hand railing on each side of the engine. But I like it and I would build it again!

First this model kit was marketed for Europe. Instructions are in 6 languages and English is not primary. The 8 paint colors called out in the instructions will have to be researched and cross referenced to available US colors. Not paint codes included. Not for a beginner. Revell ranks it a skill level 3, it's more like a 4. Painting alone requires time on the myriad of parts. A good challenging kit and great display. Only downside was that the model was shipped in a cardboard box from the UK. It was left out in rain/water(?) along the way, very wet when I got it, and the outer box was almost completely dissolved when I received it. The original Revell box and instructions inside were soaked as well but salvageable after drying. Model kit itself in a large plastic bag (not sealed). Somehow decal sheet survived outside of plastic bag.

For less than $30, this is a pretty alright kit. It's fun to build, and with some paint, you can get it to look pretty good. You also have your choice of two running numbers.I have several issues with this kit, though. First, poor molding. Some of the pieces don't fit properly. There are visible gaps and seams in a few places on my model, and filing can only do so much to help. Also, the handrails running along the boiler are part of the molding, meaning there's plastic between the rails and the boiler where there should be air.Second, missing parts. In my glamor shots, I only show my model from the right side. That's because one of the pilot wheels was missing out of the box. You can get replacement parts directly from Revell, but they weren't shipping to the US due to Covid, last I checked.One more thing. The listing claims that the model has "movable wheels." This is true, but not on the driving wheels. You aren't going to be rolling this thing around.If you want an inexpensive project, go for it. I definitely enjoyed building this kit. But you can also do a lot better if you care about how your Big Boy looks.

This train is great! The instructions are easy to follow and I was able to build it within 4 hours!The details are amazing! Very realistic! Fast shipping too! Thank you!

Great looking model, minus a few details as noted in previous reviews. I'm an HO train enthusiast and bought this because I didn't want to spend $500 for a working model. It looks great on the tracks of my 12' x 6' layout.The model went together well. Most of the instructions were accurate (the tender's linkage pin is depicted upside down in figures 38 and 40). To begin, I shot every part with flat black plastic spray paint. I painted the wheel rims, firebox, smoke box, headlight, linkage rods, cosmetic lines, and a couple handrails with metallic silver. I painted the bell with metallic gold. I painted the control valves and tender taillight red. Final assembly went fast using quick setting thick CA. Finally, I applied the decals.In closing, this is a great looking, easy to assemble display model.