The distinctive shape and beautiful design of the Pannier Tanks were an important feature of the GWR's train fleet, and this OO Gauge model re-creates the 64XX Class to perfection.
With a highly detailed body shell – including metal tool hooks on the back of the bunker – a comprehensive and decorated cab interior, and a smooth-running chassis with a 6 Pin DCC decoder socket, this model will make an excellent addition to your railway fleet.
MODEL FEATURES:
- Pristine GWR Green livery
- Running No. 6414
- Accessory Pack
- NEM Coupling Pockets
- Powerful 3 Pole Motor
- Equipped with a 6 Pin DCC Decoder Socket
- Length 138mm
HISTORY OF THE 64XX PANNIER TANK
The 64XX Class was originally developed by the Great Western Railway in 1932 and is an extension of the classic GWR Pannier Tank family, with its basic structure dating back almost 60 years.
The 64XX was created by Charles Collett, who reimagined the classic Pannier Tank concept as a train for the twentieth century.
The Class was designed specifically for push-pull passenger trains, also known as auto trains. This mode of operation was more successful since it eliminated the need for a train's locomotive to be uncoupled at the conclusion of each trip, saving time and money.
The GWR was the first railway to apply the auto train principle on a large scale, owing to its many branch lines. For over 30 years, the severely graded valleys of South Wales were associated with the 64XXs, and all members of the Class were outfitted with equipment to work with auto trailers.
They were not limited to South Wales, and examples of their operations were well-known across Devon, Gloucestershire, and on other parts of the GWR network.
The 64XX's were a modest batch of locomotives produced between 1932 and 1937, with a final total of 40 examples (Nos. 6400–6439).
With the introduction of DMUs in the 1950s, withdrawals began towards the end of the decade, and all were withdrawn from BR service by 1964. They were all handed over to BR ownership, but they were taken out of service due to DMUs in the 1960s.
Three 64XX locomotives were saved from the scrap yard and these can now be found operating on heritage lines in the UK.
