RSS Class 08 modifications precede Anglian shunter duties
Railway Support Services has hired out 08511 to Greater Anglia to shunt electric multiple units at Cambridge’s Coldhams Lane depot.
The contract includes what RSS believes is a ‘first’ for the Class 08 shunters, with the fitting of a permanent ‘tightlock’ coupling to the RSS locomotive. Delivered in 1958, 08511 is one of the growing RSS fleet, and was delivered to the depot earlier in March following overhaul.
The component fitted differs to standard buckeye couplings, in that they prevent vertical movement within the jaws while traversing uneven track. While Class 08s have been used to move tightlock-fitted vehicles previously, this has been done with the use of an emergency tightlock/buckeye-to-drawhook coupling unit as opposed to a permanent fixture. The coupling has been fitted to the No.1 end (the radiator end) of 08511.
Coldhams Lane depot is part of Arriva TrainCare’s operations, but is used for running repairs on the GA Class 317 fleet. As it is not electrified, the ‘08’ is used to move the EMUs from nearby sidings into the facility.