Railbus 4-wheel Waggon-und-Maschinenbau Profile and Models
E79960 at Sheringham on the North Norfolk Railway in July 2010. ©kitmasterbloke
British Rail produced a variety of railbuses, both as a means of acquiring new rolling stock cheaply, and to provide economical services on lightly-used lines. One example of these was the Waggun and Maschinenbau built batch, which were utilised from 1958 until 1967. They were mechanically similar to the Uerdingen railbuses used on the German Federal Railway and in their first year managed to save £66,000 in operational costs. The body was formed of alloy panels rivetted on a light steel frame. Roof plates were crimped to increase rigidity. The body was suspended from four points on the frame, connected by hydraulic shock absorbers. Unlike most BR diesel units, the accelerator was foot controlled. Also unusual at that time, were the power operated central doors and air powered disc brakes. Unfortunately, the lines they worked still lost money and were closed, making them surplus to requirements. Most of the class have made their way into preservation. |
|
Type of Locomotive |
Single-car Railbus |
Builder |
Waggon-und-Maschinenbau GmbH Donauwörth |
Build Dates |
1958 |
Total Built |
5 |
Power Output |
150 hp |
Top Speed |
55 mph |
Passenger Capacity |
56 |
Operated By |
British Rail |
Main Duties |
Rural passenger services |
In Service Until |
1967 |
Surviving Examples |
4 |