Number Series: 08001-08954
Former Numbers: D3000-D4192
Builder: British Railways Crewe, Derby, Darlington, Doncaster, Horwich
Introduced: From 1953
Type: 0-6-0
Weight: 49.78tonne/49ton(in running order)
Tractive Effort: 15890kg/35000lb
Wheelbase: 3.5m/11ft 6in
Wheel Diameter: 1.37m/54in
Height: 3.88m/12ft 8 5/8in
Length: 8.92m/29ft 3in
Width: 2.69m/8ft 10in
Minimum Curve Negotiable: 70.4m/3.5 chains
Maximum Speed: 15/20mph
Fuel Tank Capacity: 3036litres/668gal
Cooling Water Capacity: 636litres/140gal
Lub Oil Capacity: 205litres/45gal
Brake Type: Air/Vacuum
Sanding Equipment: Pneumatic
Engine: EE6K
Horsepower: 350
Cylinders: 25.4cm bore x 30.48cm stroke (10in x 12in)
Gear Ratio: 23.9:1
Brake Force: 19.3tonne/19ton
Route Availability: 5
These were without doubt the most successful shunters ever to run on BR metals, and probably the most successful locomotive of any kind. Built in the 1950's by BR these 0-6-0 shunters, with a top speed of just under 20mph, soon became a familiar site all over the country, with just about every depot in the country having an 08 on its books. There has never really been a replacement for this class, indeed there has never been a need for one, and it looks like the remaining members will continue in service for some time, with refurbishment being the preferred option to replacement.
995 of these shunters were built, of which 288 are still in service. Because they have been so widely used Class 08 shunters have been painted in a wide variety of liveries, many of which are still extant.
Number 08912 at Carlisle, looking a bit dilapidated. It is currently allocated to Allerton TMD in Liverpool.
