This new Dapol model of the GWR 57xx class features a diecast metal chassis and running plate for excellent adhesion and a smooth running 5-pole motor geared for fine speed control when shunting. A large number of detail parts have been designed to allow body and cab variations to be replicated, including those engines modified for London Transports' Metropolitan line gauge. Between the frames is a partial representation of working inside motion while the fully detailed cab interior is found below a roof secured by small magnets, making easy access for fitting a crew and working cab doors are fitted where appropriate. Below the footplate the visible sides of the ashpan have been modelled, along with correct style of brake rods.
The 8750 class can be distinguished from the 5700 class by the totally enclosed larger cab. Whistle shields and bunker steps with handrails were added from 1936. A new water feed was introduced in 1942 with the clack valves being fitted inside a case on top of the boiler in front of the dome, which became standard for builds after 1944. Between 1956 and 1963, thirteen 5700 locomotives were sold to the London Transport being painted in the attractive lined red livery. The NCB bought five 5700 locomotives between 1959 and 1965, with number 7754 still working in 1975.
Last of class withdrawn: 1966. Preserved examples: 3650, 3738, 4612, 5764/L95, 5775/L89, 5786/L92, 7714, 7715/L99, 7752/L94, 7754, 7760/L90, 9600, 9629, 9642, 9681, 9682
The 9600 series were among the last of the panniers to be built, outstanding GWR orders being completed under British Railways ownership. 9669 was completed at Swindon works in early 1948, going new to Croes Newydd shed near Wrexham on the 12th of June. Except for a brief period allocated to Duffryn Yard (Port Talbot) from 1962-1964 9669 was a Croes Newydd engine until withdrawn at the beginning of 1966.
Croes Newydd supplied engines for the many branch and goods lines serving local industries, quarries and collieries in the North Wales and border region. These included the route to Barmouth via Llangollen and Dolgellau and the Bala to Blaenau Ffestiniog line. Photographs of 9669 at Bala can be found in 'The Pannier Papers' (Irwell Press) and 'The Bala Branch' (Lightmoor Press) on trains over the Bala to Blaenau Ffestiniog line. Llangollen is home today to 57xx pannier 7754.
Features of the 57XX & 8750 panniers include:
- Die cast Chassis and footplate for excellent adhesion and pulling power
- Powerful 5 pole motor providing fine power control
- Beautifully detailed body with correct body type variations applied where relevant with many separately added details
- Partial representation of working inside motion and many other exquisite fine details
- Four cabs for original 57XX, Later 57XX, 8750 Collett cab and London Transport cab
- Sprung Buffers
- Removable roof, secured with magnets for ease of fitting engine crew
- Working cab doors, where fitted
- Flickering fire box glow
- Ash pan with correct double brake rodding
- Expertly applied livery
- Wheels conform to the new O Gauge standard, suitable for O Super Fine
- DCC Ready with a 21 pin decoder socket
- Sound fitted versions offered