43018’s cab transformation completed at Crewe

on the interior of the cab and luggage compartment of Class 43 HST power car 43018 has been completed in time for the reopening of Crewe Heritage Centre (CHC). The power car was donated to CHC by Angel Trains in heavily stripped condition, having been used as a spares donor at Haymarket for the Scotrail Inter7city project.

Following the external cosmetic transformation of the power car into as-delivered yellow blue and grey Intercity livery last year, attention has recently turned to the restoration of the cab and luggage area of the power car.

Work was completed in mid-february on the restoration of the cab, with all the instrument panels and controls reinstated, along with the cab seats. The cab interior has also been repainted.

At the other end of the power car, the luggage area has been restored and the guard’s compartment has been reinstated.

Mechanically, the power car is completely stripped internally, so cannot be operated, and it is intended that it will remain a static exhibit at Crewe, although it will be open for visitors to view the restored cab and guards’ section of the vehicle. Vp185-fitted 43081 has also been preserved by CHC and this power car, donated by Porterbrook, is complete and has been started since arriving. There are no plans for 43081 to leave Crewe for visits at the moment.

Brian Porter Brian Porter How the cab of 43018 looked when it was first delivered to Crewe Heritage Centre, having been extensively stripped for the Scotrail Inter7city fleet. The transformation of the HST cab is clear to see in this view from February 12, 2021, with all the cab instruments reinstated and the cab fully restored. The HST power car will form a key attraction at Crewe Heritage Centre. The guards’ compartment of 43018 has also been reinstated.