Class 86/5 (86501)
built : 1965-1966 / weight : 84t / max speed : 75mph / air only / TDM multiple working
History
The original series 86/5 locomotives were Class 86/2 ETH fitted locomotives dedicated to freight work and were renumbered to reflect this.
Following the creation of the freight-dedicated Class 86/6 subclass with no ETH fitted, the 86/5s were reclassified as 86/2 and returned to their passenger duties. In 2001 Freightliner, in connection with Bralesford Engineering, reactivated the 86/5 subclass for a trial locomotive testing out the re-gearing of a Class 86/6 locomotive so that it was possible for a single locomotive to work a fully laden container train. 86501 was unveiled at the Crewe Works Open Day in the same year.
Current Duties
The regearing trial was not as successful as first hoped and no more locomotives are to be modified, although 86501 will remain in its current state. The loco is permitted to work 'liner trains alone and is used in a common user pool with the Class 86/6 fleet.