British Rail Class 45 facts for kids

The British Rail Class 45 was a type of powerful diesel locomotive used in the United Kingdom. These locomotives were also known as the Sulzer Type 4 or by their nickname, the Peaks. They were built by British Railways between 1960 and 1962.

These engines were designed to be strong and reliable. They were used for both passenger and freight trains across the country. The Class 45s were a very important part of Britain's railway system for many years.

Building the 'Peaks'

The Class 45 locomotives were built by British Railways at two of their main factories. These were Derby Works and Crewe Works. A total of 127 of these powerful engines were made.

They were an improved version of an earlier design, the Class 44 locomotives. The Class 45s were designed to be even more efficient and capable. Each locomotive had a large Sulzer engine. This engine helped them pull heavy trains across long distances.

How Class 45 Locomotives Were Used

When the Class 45s first started working, they were mainly used for passenger services. They had special equipment to heat the passenger coaches. This was done using a steam heating boiler. This kept passengers warm on their journeys.

• Multiple Working: These locomotives could also work together. This meant two or more Class 45s could be linked. They could then be controlled by one driver. This was useful for pulling very long or heavy trains.

Upgrades for Passenger Trains

In the early 1970s, about 50 of the Class 45s were updated. Their old steam heating boilers were removed. Instead, they were fitted with a new system called electric train supply. This system provided electricity to the passenger coaches. It was a more modern way to power lights and heating.

These upgraded locomotives were then used on important routes. One main route was the Midland Main Line. This line ran from London St Pancras to cities like Nottingham, Derby, and Sheffield. The Class 45s helped connect these major cities.

The End of an Era

The Class 45 locomotives served British railways for many years. They were a familiar sight on main lines across the country. However, as newer, more modern trains were built, the Class 45s slowly began to be replaced.

All of the Class 45 locomotives were taken out of service by 1989. While they are no longer used for regular train services, some have been saved. These preserved locomotives can sometimes be seen at special railway events. They remind us of an important time in British railway history.

Images for kids

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  45118's nameplate

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  45147 at Patricroft after the Eccles rail crash

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  D100 Sherwood Forester at Bournemouth Open Day, 1992