MTH Rheingold set (2 rail)

Steve:

  1.  It would appear, by observation [ see below ! ], that by moving the Lenz couplers to more-inner pin position, that the gap between the corridor connections and pairs of buffers would be removed.  BUT [ DISCLAIMER ]  I haven't done this yet.  Hopefully someone else on the forum has.

   Whether you would be able to traverse R2 [ 41" R, I think ] curves, or a reverse curve/crossover, in this configuration would be another story.  The buffers are spring loaded, but not too strongly;  the corridor connections however are a pretty firm, not-easily compressed rubber.

   If you are going to buy this set in the UK, I think I would take some R2 curves + some straights to the dealer and ask to try it.

2.  These are pretty nice cars, and I think you should consider getting a set even if they can't meet all of your criteria while in the same configuration.  Of course, the German Toy Fair is a month away, and you might want to wait to see what Busch/MTH will be offering;  "surely" a later edition R'gold in lilac + train name will appear, one would think, at some time.

     I'd examine the set carefully upon purchase, though.  I don't think I mentioned in my review that the Chinese gals who stuff the silica packets into the boxes have a tendency to bend the Lenz coupling, break off the Schluss signal holders, etc;  they're obviously not used to packing real models instead of toys.

With best wishes for a healthy, safe, happy New Year,

SZ

SZ

Thank you SO much for your kind reply - and also for the very helpful 'pointers' too!

I have always loved these cars adn am sorely tempted to get a set regardless!

(I'm hoping MTH will oneday make a set of English Pullman cars - in 1:43 - which would sell really well - the English hold pullmans in great affection!).

Very best wishes to you too and thanks again. I enjoy reading your posts on here very much.

Steve