For the second month in a row, Heljan has delivered a brand-new ‘O’ gauge ready-to-run locomotive, and this striking model of the Southern Region Class 73 electro-diesel could be its best yet. MIKE WILD explains why with video of a sample running on Britain's Biggest Model Railway.
The Class 73 electro-diesels have had a strong following throughout their careers. The first were built by BR at Eastleigh Works in 1962 and designated ‘JA’, later Class 73/0, and set the template for the production of 43 locomotives at English Electric’s Vulcan Foundry between 1965 and 1967 which were classified ‘JB’ – later Class 73/1.
For the Southern Region, they were essential traction. Their main power source was the 750V DC third-rail system, the same as its Electric Multiple Units (EMUs), but importantly they also had a 600hp English Electric diesel engine on board which meant they could be used away from the electrified network in yards and during engineering work.
Above: New for ‘O’ gauge is the Class 73/1 from Heljan. Finished in early BR blue with small yellow warning panels, our sample of E6020 really looks the part.
The class totalled 49 locomotives between the ‘JA’ and ‘JB’ variants and even today they are in daily service with GB Rail…
