HELJAN CELEBRATES 60TH ANNIVERSARY OF CLASS 45 WITH NEW ‘OO’ GAUGE MODEL FOR 2020
All-new Derby/Sulzer Type 4 in ‘OO’ now being tooled and featuring a large number of authentic detail variations – including the first-ever specific models of ETH-fitted Class 45/1s.
No fewer than four versions are being prepared initially, depicting vacuum-braked and steam-heated locomotives in split-centre headcode condition, dual-braked, steam heat Class 45/0s with rebuilt ‘sealed beam’ nose ends and, for the first time, dedicated models of Class 45/1s with or without the high-intensity headlight fitted in their final years.
Variations will include open or plated boiler steps and roof hatches, bodyside grilles or plated panels (or a combination of both), original or modernised underframe tanks with air cylinders, optional inner sandboxes and boiler hatch covers and more.
Features include a 21-pin DCC interface, NEM coupler pockets neatly designed as part of the bufferbeams, ample provision for DCC sound installation, LED lighting appropriate to each version and separately switched cab and tail lights.
Detailed design work was completed earlier this year and tooling is in progress with first releases planned in the third quarter of 2020.
Delivered as D40 this locomotive was sent to Bristol Bath Road shed for service on the former Midland route to Birmingham in September 1961. The locomotive was equipped with air train brakes and an auxiliary generator for electric train (heating) supply, the date of air brake fitting being recorded as October 1971. As one of the ETS/ETH locomotives D40 was placed in sub-class 45/1 for TOPS numbering, receiving number 45133 in July 1974 while allocated to the Midland regions London division for Midland mainline services. All of the 45/1 class were regular performers on the NE/SW services in the 1970s and early 1980s until displaced by HST trains and 45133 was withdrawn in May 1987.
Fortunately 45133 was secured by the Class 45/1 Preservation Society and has been returned to service at the Midland Railway Centre.