Prototype/History
The Class 59 is a Co-Co formation diesel locomotive and the first US produced, privately-owned locomotive to operate regularly in the UK. The ordering of the first Class 59 was a result of quarry company Foster Yeomans dissatisfaction with the performance of the BR Class 56. The first 4 locomotives built by GMs Electromotive Division were delivered to Foster Yeoman during 1986 and 59005 in 1989. Proving very successful; one locomotive setting a new UK haulage record for a single locomotive of 4639 tonnes. Foster Yeomans rivals, Amey Roadstone Corp. (ARC) also ordered four modified Class 59s (59/1) as did National Power, who ordered six (59/2). GM invested in this initial UK success by extensively modifying the class 59 internally to produce the Class 66, also hugely successful, within both the UK and Continental Europe. Other than 59003 (which after return from loan to HHPI in Germany, is operated by GBRf), the Class 59 fleet is operated today by DB Schenker and Mendip Rail (an ARC and FY joint venture).
Model
Based on the huge success of the first production run of OO Gauge Class 59’s Dapol have decided to announce the launch of the second production run of this fantastic model.
These models will feature lots of era specific details and markings and lots of external body details. They will also include a fully detailed cab.
Features
- DCC ready
- Finely moulded body with many applied fine details
- Printed name plates (Etched plates supplied separately)
- Cast wheels with fine relief and appropriate colouring
- Heavy diecast chassis with all wheel pick up
- NEM coupling pockets as standard
- All class 59 versions tooled
- Operating, independently controlled headlight and cab lights (all lighting variations tooled)
- DC lighting with independent control of #1 & #2 end lamps (push/pull/light engine) and cab lighting (controlled by switches)
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