The steam locomotive road number 18 314 of the German State Railroad (DR) of East Germany (GDR) later nicknamed "Schorsch" has an unusual, even extraordinary life history. Once placed into service in 1919 as a Baden class "IV h" "High Stepper", the DRG took over it as road number 18 314. After the end of World War II, this locomotive went to the Soviet Zone in trade for a Bavarian class S 3/6, where the subsequent VES-M Halle (Railroad Research and Development Locomotive Management Department in Halle) urgently needed a fast four-cylinder compound steam locomotive for experimental work. In 1960, it was equipped with a "Reko" (rebuilt) boiler, partial streamlining, a new cab and tender, as well as a green paint scheme in order to run faster. Conversion to oil firing in 1967 was the icing on the cake. It was put into storage at the end of 1971 and was sold in 1984 to West Germany. Since 1986, it has been one of the showpieces at the Automotive and Technology Museum in Sinsheim. It is on permanent loan from the HEF (Frankfurt Historic Railroad). (Trix Item No. 25027)
Prototype: German State Railroad (DR/GDR) of East Germany express train steam locomotive, road number 02 0314-1, with oil main firing and an oil tender. Converted version as an experimental locomotive for the VES-M Halle (Saale) (Railroad Research and Development Locomotive Management Department). Version with a "Reko" (rebuilt) boiler and partial streamlining, based on road number 18 314 (former Baden class IV h). Witte smoke deflectors and an inductive magnet on one side included. The locomotive looks as it did around 1970/71.
As 18 314 it pulled the Rheingold luxury train and as 02 0314 was one of the legendary test locomotives of the German State Railroad (DR/DDR). Märklin and Trix are now bringing this very special "contemporary witness" to the rails in H0 - with prototypical partial panelling and dynamic smoke exhaust.
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