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.
One of the few Derby type 4s to retain its number through to TOPS this locomotive was delivered as D106 in June 1961. At some point air brake and eletric train (heating) supply equipments were added, placing it in the TOPS 45/1 sub-class and, by chance as the re-numberings were rather random, 45106 was allocated and applied in May 1973.
During the 1980s locomotives expected to be retained for a few years were fitted with square sealed beam headlights to enhance the visibility of approaching trains and 45106 was one of these locomotives. In addition as the class 45s were steadily being withdrawn from service 45106, being in a reasonable condition was selected to receive a heritage green livery for railtour service before the final end of the class which, for 45106, came in February 1989. The locomotive was stored for several years however, not finally being recycled until April 1992.