British Rail Class 504 facts for kids
Quick facts for kids British Rail Class 504 |
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A Class 504 train at Manchester Victoria station just weeks before closure for conversion to the Metrolink light rail system.
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| 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 |
The British Rail Class 504 was a special type of electric multiple unit (EMU) train. These trains were unique because of how they got their power. They used a 1200 Volt DC (direct current) system with a "third rail" that touched the side of the train.
These trains were only ever used on one specific railway line. This line connected the cities of Manchester and Bury in England. The Class 504 trains served passengers on this route for many years.
Contents
Meet the Class 504 Train!
The Class 504 trains were built by British Rail (BR) in the late 1950s. They were designed to run on electric power, which made them quieter and cleaner than steam or diesel trains. Each train set had two main parts: a "power car" that carried the motors, and a "driving trailer" that had a driver's cab.
These trains were quite strong, weighing about 82 tons in total. They could reach a top speed of 70 miles per hour (112 km/h). This was a good speed for the local services they provided.
What Made Them Special?
What made the Class 504 trains truly stand out was their unique power system. Most electric trains get power from overhead wires or a third rail that's touched from above. However, the Class 504 used a special "side-contact" third rail. This meant the train collected electricity from the side of the power rail.
This system was quite unusual for British railways. It was a specific design choice for the Manchester to Bury line. This unique power setup meant the Class 504 trains could not easily run on other railway lines.
Where Did These Trains Run?
The Class 504 trains were built specifically for the railway line between Manchester Victoria station and Bury Bolton Street. This line was originally opened in 1879. It was electrified in 1916, making it one of the first electric lines in the UK.
The Class 504 trains took over from older electric trains on this route. They became a familiar sight for commuters and travelers in the Manchester area. They helped people get around quickly and efficiently for decades.
Their Time on the Tracks
The Class 504 trains began their service in 1959. For over 30 years, they reliably carried passengers on their dedicated route. They were a key part of public transport in the region.
However, by the late 1980s, plans were made to change the Manchester to Bury line. It was decided to convert it into a modern light rail system called Metrolink. This new system would use different types of trams and a different power supply.
Because of this change, the Class 504 trains were eventually retired. Their last journeys were made in 1991. After their withdrawal, the railway line was rebuilt for the Metrolink system. This marked the end of an era for these unique electric trains.
Images for kids
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A Class 504 train at Manchester Victoria in GMPTE livery just weeks before withdrawal and replacement by the Metrolink light rail system.
