Roco BLS Cargo Re 486 501-0 Electric Locomotive VI - HO Gauge
Electric locomotive Re 486 501 from the Swiss rail company BLS Cargo. In September 2007, BLS Cargo...Electric locomotive Re 486 501 from the Swiss rail company BLS Cargo. In September 2007, BLS Cargo was the only Swiss company to order ten Traxx F140 MS2e, with the option to deliver a further ten locomotives. However, the option has never been redeemed. Even though the new building route Rothrist – Matstetten and the Loetschberg base tunnel were completed at delivery and ETCS equipment was mandatory, the Re 486 was still in operation without this. The retrofit was carried out at a later date. The locomotives have been registered in Switzerland and are therefore called Re 486 with locomotive numbers 486 501 to 510. The machines are designed for traffic across the Alps and have the equipment for the countries of Switzerland, Germany, Austria and Italy. The 486 501 is the only locomotive of its series, the coat of arms with the place name Beura Cardezza. The new design with the Alpinists over a glacier column was realized for the first time on the 486 510 in spring 2022, before the remaining locomotives were also newly designed.
Features:
- 1:87 Scale Model
- Analogue DC Model
- NEM Couplings
- Highly Detailed Finish
- Flywheel Fitted
- Directional Lighting
Specifications:
Operator: BLS
Class: Re 486
Epoch: VI
Primary Country of Operation: Switzerland
Interface: Plux22
Lighting Type: LED
Driven Axles: 4
Traction Tyres: 1
Age Rating: 14+ Years
Length: 217mm
Minimum Radius: 358mm
Condition in current design With separately attached plug-in parts, partly made using etching technology Design with rail clearance on the chassis Switchable head/tail light with dip switch The retrofit was done at a later date
This HO scale model electric locomotive from Roco, representing the BLS Cargo Re 486 501-0, is designed for model railway enthusiasts aged 14 and above who appreciate detailed and accurate replicas of modern European locomotives. Its key benefit is the highly detailed finish and operational features like directional lighting, offering a realistic addition to any Swiss-themed or cross-alpine layout. A potential caveat for some users is that this is an analogue DC model, meaning it operates on traditional two-rail DC systems and may require a decoder for digital operation.
All features
Model Part Number
7500101
Brand
Roco
Extended Product Information
FAQs
Is this model ready for digital operation?
This is an analogue DC model out of the box. It is equipped with a Plux22 interface, allowing for the easy installation of a compatible digital decoder (sold separately) for DCC or other digital command control systems.
What is the minimum radius required for this locomotive?
The locomotive requires a minimum track radius of 358mm for smooth and reliable operation. Ensure your layout's curves meet this specification.
What type of couplings does this locomotive use?
The locomotive features NEM standard couplings, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of HO scale rolling stock from different manufacturers.
How do I clean and maintain the model?
Dust regularly with a soft brush. Clean track and wheels to ensure smooth running. Periodic lubrication of the motor and gears with specialized model lubricant may be required; consult detailed guides for specific procedures.
What is the scale of this model?
The model is manufactured in HO scale, which is a 1:87 scale ratio, the most popular scale for model railways worldwide.
Does the lighting work in both directions?
Yes, the locomotive is equipped with directional LED lighting that automatically switches between the front and rear lights based on the direction of travel.
What countries is this locomotive designed to operate in?
The model represents a locomotive designed for traffic across the Alps, equipped for operation in Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and Italy.
Troubleshooting
Locomotive does not move.
Ensure track power is on and polarity is correct for analogue DC. Check for any obstructions on the track or coupling. For digital operation, verify the decoder address and system status.
Lights are not working.
Check track power. If analogue, ensure the locomotive is correctly oriented on the track. If digital, verify decoder settings for lighting functions. Inspect bulbs/LEDs for damage.
Locomotive runs erratically or noisily.
Check for dirt or debris on the wheels and track. Ensure the track is level and curves meet the minimum radius requirement. The flywheel may need lubrication if noise is excessive.
Couplings are not compatible with rolling stock.
Ensure both the locomotive and rolling stock have NEM standard couplings. Minor adjustments to the coupling height might be necessary on some rolling stock.
Model has a loose or broken detail part.
Refer to the detailed diagrams or instruction manual for reattachment points. Use a small amount of model cement suitable for plastics if necessary. Contact customer support if damage is significant.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Highly detailed and accurate model representation.
Smooth operation thanks to the fitted flywheel.
Directional LED lighting enhances realism.
Prepared for digital control with a standard Plux22 interface.
Suitable for analogue DC systems out of the box.
Represents a modern European locomotive with broad operational capabilities.
Cons
Analogue DC operation out of the box may require a decoder for digital systems.
High level of detail might make it less robust for very young or inexperienced operators.
Specific historical detail (pre-ETCS retrofit) might not appeal to all collectors.
Minimum radius of 358mm requires sufficient space for smooth running on curves.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Setup:
Unpacking: Carefully remove the locomotive from its packaging, holding it by the chassis or frame to avoid touching delicate details.
Inspection: Check for any loose parts or damage incurred during transit.
Placement: Gently place the locomotive on a clean, level section of track compatible with HO gauge.
Analogue Operation: Connect your DC power supply to the track. Ensure correct polarity for forward motion.
Digital Operation (Optional): If upgrading to digital control, first remove the locomotive body as per standard procedures for Plux22 interfaces. Install a compatible Plux22 decoder (not included) into the designated socket. Reassemble the locomotive body and connect it to your digital command control system.
Compatibility:
Gauge: HO Scale (1:87).
Track System: Primarily designed for two-rail DC analogue systems. Compatible with digital command control (DCC, MM, SX) systems when a suitable Plux22 decoder is installed.
Couplings: NEM standard couplings ensure compatibility with most HO rolling stock from various manufacturers.
Minimum Radius: Requires a minimum track radius of 358mm for smooth operation. Ensure your track layout accommodates this.
Care:
Cleaning: Dust the model regularly with a soft, dry brush or microfiber cloth. Avoid using solvents or abrasive cleaners.
Lubrication: Periodically lubricate the motor and gears according to manufacturer recommendations (refer to a detailed model railway maintenance guide if unsure). Use only specialized model lubricant.
Storage: Store the locomotive in its original packaging or a suitable display case when not in use to protect it from dust and damage.