The LOWMAC, for low machinery and originally an implement truck, dates back to the Great Central Railwyay MAC N 20ton machine wagon. In 1938 the LNER produced a new LOWMAC design rated at 22 tons load capacity and equipped with vacuum train brakes, making them suitable for traveling in fast 'fitted' goods trains.
The wagons modelled are based on the next batches of these wagons built to diagram 173 with the main structural members increased in size from 12 x 6in to 14 x 6in, allowing an increase in load capacity to 25 tons. 60 of these wagons were ordered from the LNERs Shildon wagon works in 1943 and delivered by early 1944, ready for conveying military traffic as the reserves of war material were built up in preparation for the invasion of Europe.
Produced under the control of the Railway Executive Committee ownership of these wagons was allocated between the LNER and LMS, each company receiving 30 wagons. The LNER subsequently ordered two further batches of 25 wagons as the railway companys' prepared their requirements for post-war service, bringing the production to 110.
Under British Railways the 173 MAC PV wagons were reclassified LOWMAC EP and having proven a successful and modern design with vacuum train brakes British Railways ordered another batch, allocating diagram 2/242 in the BR diagram book. 38 wagons were built by P & W Maclellan in 1950 and as demand for lowmac wagons for revenue service declined many of these wagons from all of the batches found their way into the engineering fleet, carrying plant and machinery to remote worksites though to the privatisation era.
The Rapido Trains LOWMAC model features:
- Combination die-cast metal and injection moulded plastic construction
- 11 variants covering the original 1944 wagons through to BR and early 2000s
- Brass bearings
- Moulded lashing rings
- Optional load that represents a set of 4 replacement wheels and their carriers
These load wheelsets will feature scale axles and are ideal for scenic use if not required as a load.