Accurascale shares first EPs of Class 37

Accurascale has said it has “received a substantial parcel containing a myriad of Class 37 bodies and various tooling parts” from its factory, allowing the team to produce a model of class doyen D6700, as commissioned by Locomotion Models. In the weeks ahead, Accurascale has promised operating samples of its other announced variants, including the highly-anticipated WIPAC-equipped Class 37/6, Scottish car headlight Class 37/0s, the modern Class 37/4s, and its manufacturer exclusive 97301 with its unique roof, distinctive flush noses and underbody-mounted radar equipment.

Announced at the Warley Model Rail Show in 2019, the models proved popular with modellers, showing an appetite for a new generation of ‘Syphons’. The manufacturer opted to assemble the prototype sample as D 6700– a locomotive that recently celebrated its 60th birthday and is the subject of a special edition model with Locomotion Models, due for release next year.

This pre-production model represents the first five locomotives of the class constructed, delivered from English Electric’ sVulc an Foundry at Newton-le-Willows between December 1960 and January 1961. Distinctive when compared to the other 114 split headcode machines due to their characteristic riveted multi-part cantrail grilles, Accurascale’s model represents this and a range of other ‘as-built’ features. The prototypes haven’ t previously been produced RTR in this condition in O O gauge, offering modellers variation in their fleet for 1960s and 1970s BR era layouts. These include a four-character headcode display, frost grille, double-riveted roof, buffer beam cowling with large round Oleo buffers, body side water filler access door and steps, and accurate early buffer beam with vacuum/ steam/ control piping only.