DHR ‘GKP 2nd / Luggage / Guard ‘High Window Carriages 153 / 157 Kit

Note: This is a single kit which can be used to represent either carriages153 or 157. This vehicle represents DHR GKP 2nd Class /Luggage / Guard Carriages 153 and157 as they were rebuilt with ‘High Windows in the 1980s. Available in MDF or Plywood, this 16mm scale, laser cut kit features proven, hidden slot and tab construction throughout as an aid to easy and accurate assembly and all of the ‘split windows’ are modelled in full relief. For those potentially concerned about fitting the roof to the compound curve, the roof sheet is a hybrid design, featuring individual planks cut right through, but held together with small tabs to form a highly flexible fret, which can be easily applied and formed to shape. Lateral and longitudinal alignment is provided by a central row of slots, locating with tabs on the roof ribs and a substantial jig is also provided to hold this fret in position on the roof, whilst the glue cures. Once cured, the result is a strong, rigid structure over which you can apply a covering of your choice. Due to the wide range of preferences expressed on this matter, no final roof covering is supplied. However, the prototype shown here, is covered with ‘Duck Tape’ of all things. It is easy to cut and apply in strips and with a coat of satin varnish to finish gives a good representation of aluminium sheeting; at least to my eye. Whilst the interiors are comparatively spartan, all of the relevant furniture is catered for as part of the kit including the guard’s area. The louvres on the sliding doors are supplied as 3D printed items to capture the distinctive profile. Other incorporated details include the bevelled sides to the doorways supplied as 3D printed insets, safety chains with Binnie Engineering nylon hooks, as well as wire and base fittings to make up the handrails. Not to mention the distinctive, semi-circular ‘Dumb Buffer’ couplings, which are integral to the construction of the kit. Available for 32mm or 45mm gauge, the kit is supplied with steel wheelsets as standard, running in phosphor bronze bearings, mounted in prototypical arch-bar bogies. On test these vehicles have negotiated curves down to 2ft 6in radius on 32mm gauge without issue, but may require a larger minimum radius on 45mm gauge. These kits are of course a perfect accompaniment to your Blue Liveried ‘Darjeeling, B class locomotives. However, these carriages being comparatively short, but not otherwise ungenerously proportioned, means they should fit right in on any garden line and look well in company with a wide variety of motive power, particularly if you are looking for a slightly more modern outline. At the time of writing, Endon Valley Custom Transfers are putting the finishing touches to the respective decal packs. Keep an eye on their Facebook page and website for full details. Specifications – 16mm Scale Laser Cut MDF or Plywood Kit – 32mm or 45mm Gauge (2ft 6in Min Radius on 32mm, 45mm please enquire). – Proven, hidden slot and tab construction to aid accurate assembly – Interior detailing and seating framework supplied – Individual glazing panels modelled in full relief – Wire and base components supplied for handrails – Includes prototypical outline ‘Bogies’, complete with steel wheelsets as well as suitable bearings. – Includes DHR style ‘Dumb Buffer’ couplings as an integral part of the kit. Dimensions Length Over Headstocks: 388mm Length Over Couplings: 420mm Max Height: 138mm Width Over Sides: 107mm Extreme Width: 120mm Availability First batch expected for despatch mid-July 2026, then available at 28 days’ notice thereafter. Prices (All Prices + P&P) DHR ‘GKP 2nd High Window Carriage 103’ Kit MDF: £130.00 Plywood: £160.00 If you would like to place an order, please see our ‘Ordering Page