British Rail Class 43 facts for kids
There have been two types of British Rail locomotive that have been given the name Class 43. These were two very different kinds of trains, but both played an important role in British railway history.
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What is a Class 43 Train?
The name "Class 43" refers to two distinct types of locomotives used by British Rail. Locomotives are the powerful engines that pull trains. In the UK, trains are often given "class" numbers to help identify them. The two Class 43s are:
The NBL 'Warship Class' Locomotives
The first trains to be called Class 43 were a type of diesel locomotive known as the 'Warship Class'. These trains were built by the North British Locomotive Company (NBL) in the late 1950s. They were quite special because they used a different kind of engine system.
What Made Them Special?
Most diesel trains in Britain use a system called diesel-electric, where a diesel engine powers a generator, which then creates electricity for motors that turn the wheels. However, the NBL 'Warship Class' trains used a diesel-hydraulic system. This means the diesel engine powered a hydraulic transmission, similar to how some cars work, to drive the wheels directly.
Why Were They Called 'Warships'?
These locomotives got their nickname because they were named after ships in the Royal Navy. For example, some were called HMS Valiant or HMS Victorious. This gave them a very grand and powerful image.
Where Did They Run?
The NBL 'Warship Class' locomotives mainly ran on lines in the west of England, especially in the West Country. They were designed to be powerful and fast for their time.
When Were They Used?
They entered service in 1958 and were used for about 15 years. By the early 1970s, British Rail decided to focus on diesel-electric locomotives, and the 'Warship Class' trains were retired. Sadly, none of the NBL 'Warship Class' locomotives were saved for museums.
The High Speed Train (HST) Power Cars
The second, and much more famous, type of train to be called Class 43 is the power car of the InterCity 125 High Speed Train (HST). These trains completely changed rail travel in Britain and are still in use today!
What is an HST Power Car?
An HST is made up of a set of passenger carriages with a powerful engine, or "power car," at each end. These power cars are the ones officially known as Class 43. They don't carry passengers themselves but provide all the power to push or pull the train.
How Fast Are They?
When they were introduced in 1976, the InterCity 125s were the fastest diesel trains in the world, capable of speeds up to 125 miles per hour (201 km/h). This is why they were called "InterCity 125"! Their speed made train journeys much quicker and more popular.
Where Did They Run?
HSTs became a common sight on main railway lines across Britain, connecting major cities like London, Bristol, Cardiff, Leeds, Edinburgh, and Glasgow. They were known for their distinctive wedge-shaped nose and bright yellow front.
Why Are They So Important?
The InterCity 125 trains were a huge success. They offered a comfortable and fast way to travel long distances, helping to modernize British railways. They proved that trains could compete with cars and even short-haul flights for speed and convenience.
Are They Still Used Today?
Yes! Many Class 43 HST power cars are still running on various railway lines in the UK, even though they are over 40 years old. They have been updated and refurbished over the years to keep them going. However, newer, more modern trains are gradually replacing them on some routes.
