G-scale model scenery - Avery hardoll 4000 Petrol Pump - very suitable for GN15

FAQ – Product FAQs

What exactly is this product?

This is a G-scale model of the Avery Hardoll 4000 double-window petrol pump, a style commonly seen in the 1960s and 1970s and still found in some rural locations today. It is supplied as an unpainted, resin-printed model for use on model railway layouts and dioramas.

What is included in my order?

Your order includes two grey resin-printed pump pieces, two laser-cut glazing pieces, one length of flexi cable for the hose, one nozzle, and two paper printed faceplates. All parts are supplied unassembled, unprimed and unpainted, with all supports removed.

What scale layouts is this pump suitable for?

The pump is designed for G-scale layouts and also works very nicely on GN-15 layouts. It can be used as a feature for a garage, in an industrial setting, or as a fuel point for diesel locos.

Is the figure shown in the photos included?

No, the figure shown in some reference photos is not included with this pump. He is there purely for scale and scene-setting and can be purchased separately from the shop.

Does the model come painted or assembled?

No, the model comes unassembled, unprimed and unpainted. The photos of painted pumps are for inspiration only. The parts are cleaned, cured and have their supports removed, ready for you to prime and paint in your own chosen livery.

How fragile is the model?

The pump is resin printed, so it is quite detailed but also delicate. It will withstand normal handling on a layout, but dropping or rough handling can cause breakages. Please take care when assembling, painting and installing it.

What should I do if my pump arrives damaged in the post?

If your pump arrives broken, please take clear photos of the damage and contact the shop. While we cannot be responsible for breakages after delivery, we will always look at postal damage and see what we can do to help.

Can you replace parts if I break them after it arrives?

We cannot take responsibility for accidental damage once the item has arrived safely, but you are welcome to get in touch. If we can help with advice or possible replacement options, we will always try to do so within reason.

Are there any safety considerations when handling the parts?

The parts are fully cleaned and cured before dispatch, but as with any resin model it is sensible to work in a well-ventilated area when sanding or spraying and to wash your hands after a modelling session. Avoid dropping the parts, as the resin is delicate.

Can I use this pump outdoors in a garden railway?

The pump is printed in resin and supplied unpainted. With careful priming and painting you can improve its resistance to the elements, but it is fundamentally a detailed model part rather than a rugged outdoor item. If used outdoors, try to protect it from prolonged direct sunlight and severe weather.

Does the pump actually light up or operate?

No, this is a static model intended purely for visual realism on your layout. There are no internal electronics, moving parts or working lights supplied with the kit.

What type of primer should I use?

A standard car grey primer works very well on this resin. Apply light, even coats to avoid obscuring detail, and allow it to dry thoroughly before painting with your chosen colours.

What paints work best on this model?

Once primed, the pump can be finished in acrylic paints in any livery you like. Acrylics adhere well to a properly primed resin surface and are easy to work with for weathering and detail work.

How should I prepare the surfaces before painting?

All parts are cleaned, cured and have supports removed, but you may wish to lightly sand any remaining support marks or tiny imperfections with fine abrasive paper. After sanding, gently brush or blow away dust before priming.

How do I attach the glazing pieces and faceplates?

After painting the main body, you can fix the laser-cut glazing pieces into the window openings and then add the paper printed faceplates behind or in front, depending on the look you want. Use a small amount of clear-drying adhesive and avoid excess glue near visible surfaces.

What is the best way to fit the hose and nozzle?

The flexi cable acts as the hose and the separate nozzle attaches to one end. It is usually easiest to paint the hose and nozzle first, then glue the nozzle to the cable and finally fix the hose to the pump body in a natural-looking curve. A small drop of superglue or similar model adhesive is normally enough.

How can I avoid obscuring the fine details when painting?

Use multiple thin coats rather than one heavy coat, both for primer and colour. Allow each layer to dry fully and keep paint away from sharp edges and panel lines as much as possible. A fine brush or airbrush is ideal for the final colour and weathering.

Any tips for weathering the pump to look realistic?

After your main colours are on, you can add gentle weathering with thin washes, dry-brushing and a little rust or grime around the base, hose connection and panel edges. Study photos of real 1960s–70s pumps for inspiration, and build up the effects gradually so you do not lose the underlying detail.

The parts do not seem to fit perfectly. What can I do?

Because each piece is resin printed and hand-finished, a tiny amount of variation is normal. If a part is slightly tight, carefully fettle the mating surfaces with fine sandpaper or a small file. Test fit frequently and remove only a little material at a time until everything sits neatly.