"Prototype model subject to change" - Photos by Aster Hobby

The Japan National Railway D51 ("DEGO-ICHI") are the most popular steam locomotives in Japan. These Mikado locomotives served all over Japan from Karafuto (Sakhalin), Hokkaido to Kyushu, and Taiwan.  They were not only freight locomotives but also were used as passenger locomotives both before and after the war period.  Various manufactures including the Government Railways' major workshops manufactured JNR D51 locomotives. First built in 1936, a total 1,115 were built.

D51 class locomotives were categorized into three groups. The original type had its heater, steam dome and sand box encased in one streamlined dome.  The standard type had its heater relocated on the front of the chimney for ease of maintenance.  Finally, the war period type was manufactured.   

Aster's model is the D51streamlined dome which was the first type or version serving in the main territory of Japan.  The Class D51 was probably the most popular steam locomotive in Japan. One surviving unit is kept in working order by East Japan Railway Company, occasionally hauling excursion trains in Eastern Honshu. 

Specifications

Scale/Gauge: 1/30, NO.1 GAUGE (45 mm)  

Weight: 7.8kg(5.5kg+2.3kg)

Length: 695mm(460mm+260mm) 

Width: 107mm 

Height: 140mm 

Wheel Arrangement: 2 - 8 - 2 (Mikado) 

Driving Wheel: 49mm 

Pilot and Trailer Truck Wheel: 32mm 

Tender Truck Wheel: 32mm 

Axle Driven Pump: BORE 5 mm x STROKE 6 mm  

Cylinder: 2 cylinders　FUNCTIONAL DRAIN VALVE FITTED  

Valve Gear:  Walschaert 

Boiler Type: C type 

Water Capacity: 300ml at 70%full 

Boiler Fittings: 2 x safety valves, water gauge, pressure gauge, whistle, throttle and blower valves, by-pass valve blow-down valve, super heater  

Lubricator:  ROSCOE DISPLACEMENT TYPE  

Water Tank Capacity: 400ml 

Fuel:  Methyl alcohol  

Fuel Capacity: 200ml 

Minimum Radius: 2m  

To view component parts - click here