Description
The Class 52 diesel hydraulic locomotive was introduced by the BR Western Region in 1962 to provide high speed passenger and freight services. To achieve this the locomotive was fitted with two Maybach engines coupled with a Voith 3 speed hydraulic transmission. This had the added advantage that the locomotive could still run if one engine failed. Problems with the transmission however, meant that the locomotive experienced very high maintenance and operating costs and could only achieve the acclaimed 90MPH top speed in certain circumstances. In the end these disadvantages meant that the class was replaced by 1977 with the more efficient and faster Class 50’s and Class 143 HST’s. The classic elegant design with sweeping curves and unmistakable presence has always meant that this locomotive has been a firm favourite with Diesel aficionados. Dapol have managed to capture this character through detailed laser scans and in-depth collaborative research with fellow modellers and the model features:
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FEATURES
- Detailed body with etched roof fan grilles and separately fitted handrails
- Finely detailed cast wheels
- Metal sprung buffers
- All wheel drive and pick up
- 5 pole Super creep motor with twin brass fly wheels for controlled pulling power and incredible slow running speed
- PCB board to incorporate independent directional lights and cab lighting
- Alternate valance supplied for negotiating tighter radius curves
- NEM Coupling pockets
- Separately etched name and number plates
- Accessory bag with optional fitted components
