British Rail Class 66 facts for kids

Quick facts for kids British Rail Class 66
66713 'Forest City' at Crewe Works
Power type	Diesel-electric
Builder	Electro-Motive Diesel
Model	JT42CWR or Series 66
Total production	Still in production (508+)
Configuration	Co-Co
UIC classification	Co'Co'
Gauge	4 ft 8 1⁄2 in (1,435 mm)
Length	20.1 m (65 ft 11 in)
Width	2.65 m (8 ft 8 in)
Height	3.9 m (12 ft 10 in)
Locomotive weight	129.6 tonnes (127.6 long tons; 142.9 short tons)
Fuel capacity	6,400 litres (1,400 imp gal; 1,700 US gal)
Prime mover	EMD 12N-710G3B-EC Class 66/9: EMD 12N-710G3B-T2
Multiple working	AAR system (Classes 59, 66 & 67)
Top speed	Class 66/6: 65 mph (105 km/h) Balance of fleet: 75 mph (121 km/h)
Power output	Engine: 3,000 bhp (2,200 kW)
Tractive effort	Maximum: 409 kN (91,900 lbf) at starting Continuous: 260 kN (58,500 lbf) at 15.9 mph (25.6 km/h)
Train heating	None
Train brakes	Westinghouse PBL Air
Career	EWS Direct Rail Services Freightliner FirstGBRf Fastline
Number	66001–66250, 66301–66305, 66401–66435, 66501–66599, 66601–66625, 66701–66732, 66951–66957
Nicknames	‘Shed’
Axle load class	Route availability 7

The Class 66 locomotive is a powerful type of train. It is a diesel-electric engine. This means it uses a diesel engine to make electricity. The electricity then powers the wheels. These trains are used to pull heavy freight. They carry goods across the United Kingdom and other parts of Europe. People sometimes call them 'Sheds'.

About the Class 66 Train

The Class 66 is a very common sight on railway lines. It was first built in 1998. It is still being made today. These trains are known for being strong and reliable. They are designed to pull very heavy loads.

What it Does

Class 66 locomotives are mainly used for freight. They pull long trains full of goods. These goods can be anything from cars to coal. They are essential for moving materials around the country.

How it Works

The Class 66 is a diesel-electric locomotive. It has a powerful diesel engine inside. This engine doesn't directly turn the wheels. Instead, it generates electricity. This electricity then powers electric motors. These motors are connected to the wheels. This system makes the train very efficient. It also gives it a lot of pulling power.

Where it Works

You can see Class 66 trains all over the UK. They also work in many European countries. These include France, Germany, and Poland. They are popular because they can handle different railway systems. They are a key part of modern rail transport.

Different Types of Class 66

There are a few different versions of the Class 66. Some are slightly faster. Others are built for heavier loads. For example, the Class 66/6 can go up to 65 miles per hour. Most other Class 66 trains can reach 75 miles per hour. They all look quite similar.

Who Uses Them

Many different railway companies use Class 66 trains. In the UK, companies like EWS, Direct Rail Services, and Freightliner use them. They are a favourite for freight companies. This is because they are tough and reliable.

Images for kids

• 

  66125 in EWS livery at Eastleigh

• 

  66850 at Ribblehead with KFA wagons.

• 

  Class 66 locomotive 66034 in DB livery at Didcot Parkway.

• 

  Direct Rail Services Class 66 locomotive 66412, in 'Compass' livery

• 

  Freightliner 66610 on the East Coast Main Line near York

• 

  GB Railfreight 66721 passes through Ipswich with a train of tank wagons.

• 

  66305 in Fastline livery in the snow

• 

  66 048 lies in the snow and trees following the Carrbridge derailment.