The Brush Class 31

Brush Type 2: Class 31

One of the most recognisable and longest-lived of the Modernisation Plan diesel locomotives is the Brush Type 2, which later became much better known as the Class 31. EVAN GREEN-HUGHES examines this design, which despite its longevity has not been without its problems.

HM167 train on track near station moving towards camera

The pilot scheme batch and the first of the production locomotives had disc headcodes and no roof mounted headcode box. D5526 illustrates the original appearance at Stratford Depot in April 1967 alongside two classmates. MikeJefferies/Railphotoprints.uk.

When British Railways caved in to the inevitable and decided the future was with diesel traction, there was no clear market leader that could provide all the locomotives that the country needed To combat this the decision was taken to commission small batches of engines from different manufacturers, as well as from BR’s own works, in effect to see which was the best, and decide on a solid specification for future requirements.

<

Want to read more?

This is a premium article and requires an active Key Model World subscription.

Existing subscriber? Sign in now

No subscription?

Enjoy the following subscriber only benefits:

  • Unlimited access to all Key Model World content
  • Exclusive product reviews, latest news, builds and highly detailed layouts
  • Read 5,300 articles, in a fully searchable archive of modelling content growing daily!
  • Access to read the official Hornby Magazine and Airfix Model World online, brought to life with video and additional imagery
  • Access on any device- anywhere, anytime
  • Choose from our offers below