British Rail Class 504 facts for kids

British Rail Class 504
A Class 504 train at Manchester Victoria station just weeks before closure for conversion to the Metrolink light rail system.
In service	1959-1991
Manufacturer	BR
Number built	26 sets power cars: M65436-M65461 driving trailers: M77157-M77182
Formation	power car + driving trailer
Operator(s)	British Rail
Specifications
Car length	133ft 3 1/2in
Width	9ft 3in
Height	12ft 7in
Maximum speed	70mph 112 km/h
Weight	Total - 82 tons
Power output	sources disagree - see discussion page
Electric system(s)	1,200V dc side contact third rail
Track gauge	standard gauge

A northbound Class 504 train in northern Manchester just weeks before closure for conversion to the Metrolink light rail system. The preparatory earthworks for Metrolink's overhead wire supports can be seen on both sides of the tracks.

The British Rail Class 504 was a unique type of electric multiple unit that ran on 1200 V DC third rail with side-contact current collection. The type was used only between Manchester and Bury.