Unveiled - Our Act Of Pure Defiance
Recently we were able to show you the first decorated samples of our all new Class 50 main range of locomotives. Many of you did ask if we could reveal the Accurascale Exclusive pair of 50007 and 50149, so here is the first, 50149!
Before reading on, please note that this is a well used test sample which will have lots of corrections made on the production models that modellers will receive, including paint application, printing and general fit and finish. These include;
- That gap
- Translucent Rf General logo
- Marker lights should be opaque, tail lights should be red
- Pick ups will be chemically blackened
50149 History
The second half of the 1980s saw a potential new direction for the Class 50s as passenger work began to dry up. While 1987 brought sad news with the first three examples switched off, Plymouth’s Laira depot also outshopped the former 50049 Defiance in the stunning new Railfreight General livery with re-geared CP7 bogies and new 50149 number.
The sole member of the Class 50/1 sub class, it was primarily used in the South West on china clay and Speedlink wagonload duties before the project was cancelled. This was partially due to poor wheelslip protection and lack of sanding equipment, both ironically removed during refurbishment and considered too expensive to reinstate. It was returned to standard condition in February 1989 and repainted in the revised NSE scheme.
Anyway, onto the pics!