Ratio Lineside Kits OO/HO

Water Crane and Fire Devil

Stations often had these Water Cranes at the end of the platforms so the locomotives could be refilled without detaching them from the train. Also included is a coke brazier, called a 'fire devil' to keep the cast iron pipe from freezing up during the winter. These cranes were usually supplied by a large water tank (see Ratio 506 and 551 and Wills SS34 kits). Supplied with pre-coloured parts although painting and/or weathering can add realism; glue is required to complete this model.

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Ratio Scale Models was started in 1950 by Jack and Dev Webster, producing fine coach kits made from sheet plywood pressings in Chorleywood, Hertfordshire. They commenced manufacturing plastic kits in 1959 and the name was changed to Ratio Plastic Models. The factory was moved to Goring-on-Thames in 1961, and to Sturminster Newton in 1972. As the range continued to grow, they moved to larger premises in Buckfastleigh in 1986. Ratio was sold to PECO in 1996; production now takes place at a new factory in Buckfastleigh, along with the Wills and Parkside ranges.