British Rail Class 41 (HST)

British Rail Class 41 (HST)
41001 is inspected after arrival at RTC Derby in 1972
Power type	Diesel-electric
Builder	BREL Crewe Works
Build date	1972
Total produced	2
Configuration	Bo-Bo
UIC classification	B'B'
Gauge	4 ft 8 1⁄2 in (1,435 mm) Standard gauge
Wheel diameter	3 ft 4 in (1.016 m)
Wheelbase	42 ft 4 in (12.90 m)
Length	56 ft 4 in (17.17 m)
Width	8 ft 11 in (2.72 m)
Height	12 ft 10 in (3.91 m)
Locomotive weight	68.5 tonnes (67.4 long tons; 75.5 short tons)
Prime mover	Paxman Valenta 12RP200L
Traction motors	Brush TMH68-46, frame mounted
Multiple working	Within class only
Top speed	125 mph (201 km/h)
Power output	Engine: 2,500 bhp (1,864 kW)
Tractive effort	17,980 lbf (80.0 kN)
Train heating	Electric Train Heat
Train brakes	Air
Career	British Rail
Number	41001–41002; later ADB975812–813
Axle load class	Route availability 6
Disposition	to Research Centre Derby, November 1976, withdrawn January 1982

41001 front view

41001 rear/side view

The British Rail Class 41 was the original classification for the power cars of the prototype High Speed Train. However, the train was later re-classified as a diesel-electric multiple unit, and the whole set became Class 252. They were of Bo-Bo wheel arrangement.

Two power cars were built, 41001 and 41002. After the Class 252 re-classification these were renumbered into the carriage numbering range as 43000 and 43001.

Today, 41001 is preserved in the National Railway Museum in York, while 41002 was scrapped at CF Booth, Rotherham, in December 1990. Both were allocated to Headquarters (HQ).

Plans were announced in May 2011 to return 41001 to service by the 125 group, who will be taking the power car on long term loan to complete the work required.

External links

• Class 41 information
• Testing the prototype HST