The RailRoad Class 57 locomotive model brings you a detailed, yet durable version of a classic diesel locomotive. With sprung metal buffers and NEM tension lock couplings, this is a great example of a modern locomtive. Plus, it's DCC sound-fitted, ready for use on your HM7000 layout. The Class 57s were a rebuild of Class 47s, retaining the basic bodyshell. They were fitted with reconditioned EMD engines and similar traction motors to those used on the Class 56s. The initiative came from Freightliner growing increasingly frustrated at the poor reliability of its ageing fleet of Brush-built Class 47s. The work was carried out at Brush Traction in Loughborough between 1998 and 2004, with 33 remanufactured locomotives completed. Freightliner abandoned plans to convert further examples, instead choosing the new Class 66. Operators have since included Virgin Trains, Arriva Trains Wales, First Great Western, Colas Rail, Direct Rail Services, Rail Operations Group and Advenza Freight. 57306 was formerly 47814, it is still in service with GB Railfreight.