Class 43 and Mark 3 Coaches: A Speedy Pair - Preview

1 year ago

Class 43 and Mark 3 Coaches: A Speedy Pair

The BR Class 43 HST diesel unit has been an iconic sight travelling on British railways for 40 years. Also known as the ‘Intercity 125’ under BR, this high-speed locomotive could travel speeds of up to 148mph. This class currently holds the record of the fastest diesel passenger train with HST achieving 144mph on the East Coast Main Line, between Newcastle and London King’s Cross, on September 27, 1985.

Each Class 43 is adept at high-speed travel due to being powered by a Paxman Valenta prime mover. The prime mover operates at 1500rpm and can produce 2,250 horsepower. The designer, Kenneth Grange, made sure the HSTs were aerodynamic and lightweight with the low axle load contributing to quick acceleration and reduced wear on the railway lines. At nearly 50 years old, the HSTs are still in use and....read more

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