BR Class 81 to 86 Locomotives in the Pre Digital Age Vol BRAC-01
BR Class 81 to 86 Locomotives in the Pre-Digital Age
(1986-1999)
Volume BRAC-01
Another feature in this new series of Vintage Traction from the pre digital era, from the mid 1980's to the turn of the millenium, when the digital age started to put an end to analogue video...
This feature focuses on the 25Kv AC Overhead Powered Locomotives, Classes 81, 85 and 86, built between 1959 and 1964 at BRCW in Smethwick and BR Doncaster Works, the latter Class 86 being built at the English Electric Co, Vulcun Foundry in Newton-Le-Willows or BR Doncaster Works, between 1965 and 1966. The Class 81 and 85 were practically identical, and both had AEI 189 Traction Motors, where the Class 86's were fitted with better AEI 282/AZ or BZ Traction Motors. Seen all over the WCML as far as Coatbridge near to Mossend in Glasgow, they also worked on the East Coast Mainline to York on TPO traffic out of Wembley/King's Cross in the 1990's. Once the Anglian Route to Norwich was fully electrified they worked the London Liverpool Street to Norwich route and many varied types of trains. Ranging from Express Passenger, Commuter services, Anglo-Scottish Sleeper trains and Freightliners to the ports, up until their demise in the 2000's. Some could still be seen on freight and empty stock workings. A much loved class amongst many enthusiasts.
This feature covers the period from around 1986 to 1999 filmed in glorious antique VHS format, later Super VHS, a far cry from today's 4K and Stereo surround sound. I do hope you enjoy the feature and please comment and like, if you feel the video was of some enjoyment and nostalgia to watch.
This video explores the history of British Railways' Class 81, 85, and 86 electric locomotives during the pre-digital era from the mid-1980s to the turn of the millennium. These 25kV AC overhead-powered locomotives were built between 1959 and 1966 at various works including Doncaster and Newton-le-Willows. The footage highlights their operations across key routes such as the West Coast Main Line, East Coast Main Line, and Anglian Route, with mentions of locations like Glasgow Central, London Euston, Norwich, and Peterborough. Specific locomotives identified include 37379 (Class 37) and 86103 (Class 86).
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