General Questions

What's special about Bockholt's locomotives?
Bockholt's locomotives are detailed to the highest possible level, but you can let them run as well, and they are absolutely robust.

Where can I take a look at Bockholt's locomotives?
You can take a look at Bockholt's locomotives in our workshop, after prior consultation. Just contact us for detailed information.

Where can I buy Bockholt's locomotives?
You can buy Bockholt's locomotives from us directly. If you like you can reserve your locomotive in advance. Just contact us for detailed information.

Are Bockholt's locomotives something rare?
Yes. Our series are limited to a few models. A series contains up to only fifty models; and every series contains many different designs. Because of that, many models become rare just a few years after they are made. Every locomotive comes with a certificate with a running number.

Construction

Are Bockholt's locomotives completely made of metal?
Yes. We use either steel or, for the small details, cast brass. All rod parts are milled out of solid steel, therefore they are much more rugged than comparable parts made of cast brass. The wheels of the locos are ring insulated, the tires are made of stainless steel.

Do I have to handle a Bockholt's locomotive with extreme care?
No. Bockholt's locomotives are soldered using silver solder at 750 °C. This makes Bockholt's locomotives absolutely robust.

Can I trust that Bockholt's locomotives will run safely?
Yes. As a standard, our models are constructed following NEM, the leading standard for model railroads. The depth of the wheel flanges is 1.6 mm and ensures a safe run.

Are Bockholt's locomotives available for gauges other than gauge 1 as well?
No. Bockholt's locomotives are for gauge 1 only. We have decided on this gauge because it links the highest level of details with a moderate size.

What's the minimum radius for Bockholt's locomotives?
The minimum radius is 2 m.

Electronical System

How does the lighting of Bockholt's locomotives work?
The lighting of Bockholt's locomotives uses 1.5 V bulbs.

How are Bockholt's locomotives driven?
Bockholt's locomotives are driven by powerful 12 V motors, made in Germany. Old models are driven by motors made by Bosch; beginning in the 90s, our models are powered by different types of motors made by VDO. The motor drives a three current worm gear (not retarding) on bevel system spur gears. Through the bevel system there is nearly no gear noise. Because the spur gears are made of steel and bronze we had no trouble till today, even with Bockholt's locomotives that were many hours in operation.

How are Bockholt's locomotives supplied with power?
Bockholt's locomotives get power through their driving wheels.

Can I use all available digital systems with Bockholt's locomotives?
Yes. Beginning in 1999, we use electronical components with an interface compatible to all available digital systems.