THIS LOCOMOTIVE, A model of one of British Rail’s three Class 13 ‘master and slave’ shunters, is based on two Bachmann Class 08s. It is fitted with Ultrascale 18.83mm/’P4′ wheels, Branchlines connecting rods and a Lenz LE1025 decoder for DCC operation.

Class 13 No. 13003

The majority of the work was related to the bufferbeams, front footsteps, bodyside doors and, obviously, the ’slave’ unit cab. The ’slave’ has also had its motor removed to save on a/ the price of a decoder and b/ unsightly operation if the motors are not well matched.

Class 13 No. 13003

BR blue liveried No. 13003 is one of three pairs of Class 08s converted in the mid 1960s for the arduous task of shunting the ‘hump’ at Tinsley Yard, South Yorkshire. The final two locomotives, Nos. 13001 and 13003, were withdrawn from service in January 1985.

Class 13 No. 13003

It will shortly be joined by a sister locomotive (No. 13001) based upon the newer, and even better, Hornby Class 08.

As the issue of RAIL EXPRESS (No. 93), which featured this model is long sold out, I was thinking it might be a good idea to cover the construction of the new Class 13 here. I’m forever getting requests for that particular article and it’s disappointing to have to tell people that it is no longer available.

Watch this space.