I've read somwhere that the Hornby M7s are known to have traction problems, being able to pull only 2-3 coaches. It sounds a little extreme to me, so has anyone actually had this problem? If you have, how many could you pull? It's just I am thinking about getting one, and I'd like it to be able to pull 4 coaches…can it do this?

Thanks

Jack, a lot depends on the individual loco so it's difficult to say. I was intrigued by your point however because I have heard the same so I went to my railway room and undertook a little experiment. My M7 is a Southern livery No.111 which I think was one of the earlier batches. She took four (Beefy Hornby Maunsells) up a 1 in 34 incline as if the incline didn't, exist even from a standing start on the incline. I then put her on the flat and just kept adding coaches. I have to tell you that although she moved them she slipped badly with 12 up. With 11 there was some slippage but she was fairly comfortable with 10. (I'll do a little video to prove it if necessary).

If mine is anything to go by I wouldn't hesitate. Hope it helps.:thumbs

Les

Thanks alot Les :doublethumb

I have found with my m7s each one is slightly differnt some will pull up to 6 couches some only four.Also if the curves are less than say 36 inches they are liable to struggle.Hope this helps a little.Piran

Thanks Piran, as long as it can pull 4 coaches that's alright as that is all my layout will cope with.