8-plank open SR Profile and Models
Diag. 1379 No.7 at Alton on the Mid Hants Railway in April 2021. ©Hugh Llewelyn
The Southern Railway built/ ordered a huge number of 8-plank wagons for the purpose of carrying general merchandise, as well as coal if no other suitable wagons were available. The wagons had a 12 ton capacity and utilised either 9 or 10 foot wheelbases. Earlier examples used 'Morton' type brake gear which braked one side of the wagon, with later models using 'Freighter' braking which braked on both sides. Many wagons were converted to use vacuum braking under British Railways, who continued to use them for a few decades. Some cascaded into industrial use with dockyards and other sites.
Type of Vehicle |
Open Wagon |
Builder |
Southern Railway Ashford Works Various Private Contractors |
Build Dates |
1926 to 1933 |
Total Built |
Over 6,000 |
Wheel Configuration |
4-wheel |
Operated By |
Southern Railway British Railways Various private industrial operators |
Main Duties |
Goods & minerals transport |
In Service Until |
1970s |
Surviving Examples |
Some in preservation |