OO9 NATS Wickham Inspection car for KATO 109 - OO9 as used on the Manx Railway

This OO9 Inspection car is based on the NATS Inspection car that were sold to the Manx railway and are currently in service. This requires for a KATO 109 (KATO 11-109) chassis which is the newer coreless version of the the KATO-103 . It fits easily and the sub chassis is designed so that it clips into place. The main body is also a push fit onto the chassis to allow for painting prior to assembly. Printed using high detail resin in the UK .

The sale is for the body, chassis, interior seats and service load only, it is unpainted without the KATO chassis which is shown for information only. Picture of the real vehicle is shown by Clayton Equipment Ltd for reference only and shows it after refurbishment. This model has no affiliation with them.

May require some minor finishing if required before painting. Condition is New and is dispatched by Royal Mail 2nd Class.

FAQ – Product FAQs

OO9 NATS Inspection Car – Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is included with this OO9 Inspection Car kit?

The sale includes the resin-printed body, sub chassis, interior seats and service load. All parts are supplied unassembled (where applicable), unprimed and unpainted. The KATO 109 (KATO 11-109) chassis is not included and is shown in photos for information only.

Which chassis does this body fit?

The model is designed specifically to fit the KATO 109 (KATO 11-109) chassis, which is the newer coreless version of the KATO 103. The sub chassis clips onto the KATO chassis, and the main body is a push-fit onto the sub chassis.

Is this an officially licensed Clayton Equipment or Manx Railway model?

No. The model has no affiliation with Clayton Equipment Ltd or the Manx Railway. The photograph of the real vehicle is provided for reference only and shows the prototype after refurbishment.

What scale and prototype is this model based on?

This is an OO9 scale model of the NATS Inspection Car that was sold to the Manx Railway and is currently in service there. It is intended for narrow gauge OO9 layouts.

How is the model produced and finished before shipping?

The model is 3D printed in high-detail resin in the UK. All items are cleaned and cured by hand, with all supports removed before dispatch. You receive the parts ready for any minor finishing, priming and painting.

How is the item shipped and what condition is it in on arrival?

The item is supplied new and dispatched by Royal Mail 2nd Class. It is sent unassembled (if applicable), unprimed and unpainted, ready for you to finish and install on your layout.

The body doesn’t seem to clip onto the KATO chassis properly. What should I check?

First, ensure you are using the correct KATO 109 (KATO 11-109) chassis. Check that there are no bits of cured resin, sprue or flash inside the sub chassis or body that might obstruct the clip points. A very light clean-up with a fine file or sanding stick around the clip areas usually solves fit issues. Do not force the parts; they should locate with a gentle, firm push.

The fit feels too tight. Can I adjust it?

Yes, but only very slightly. Resin is delicate, so remove material sparingly. Lightly sand the inner faces of the sub chassis or the locating edges on the body with fine-grit paper, test-fitting frequently. Stop as soon as the parts push-fit securely without excessive force.

There are faint marks where supports were removed. Is this normal?

Yes. While we do our very best to remove support marks, some faint marks may remain. These are easily dealt with using fine sanding sticks or wet-and-dry paper. A quick pass with a primer will also highlight any remaining areas that need a final polish.

My model arrived damaged in the post. What should I do?

If the piece has been damaged in transit, please take clear photos of the damage and the packaging as soon as you notice it. Contact the seller with these images, and they will do their best to help make things right.

I broke a part after it arrived. Can it be replaced?

Resin can be quite delicate and is easily damaged by drops or heavy handling. Breakages after safe delivery are not covered, but you are welcome to get in touch with photos; where possible, the seller will advise on repairs or potential replacement options.

Do I need to wash or clean the parts before painting?

The parts are already cleaned and cured by hand, so you can usually prime straight away. If you prefer, you can give them a gentle wash in lukewarm water with a tiny drop of mild detergent, then allow them to dry fully before priming.

What preparation is recommended before painting?

Most modellers will:

• Inspect the parts for any tiny support marks or print lines.
• Lightly sand any imperfections with fine-grit paper.
• Dry-fit the body, sub chassis, seats and service load to understand the assembly.
• Prime all parts with a suitable primer for resin before applying colour coats.

Should I assemble or paint first?

The model is designed so the main body is a push fit onto the chassis, specifically to allow painting prior to final assembly. Most builders paint the body, interior seats and service load separately, then push-fit everything onto the KATO chassis once the paint is fully cured.

What type of paints work best on this resin model?

Any quality model primer suitable for resin is recommended as a first coat. After priming, both acrylic and enamel hobby paints work well. Always apply in thin coats and allow each layer to dry thoroughly before handling or masking.

Any tips for handling the parts during assembly and painting?

Because resin is delicate, handle parts by the thicker sections where possible and avoid flexing thin details. Use gentle pressure when clipping the sub chassis to the KATO 109 chassis and when push-fitting the body. During painting, mount parts on holders or sticks so you don’t have to grip the model directly.