Hornby Accessories - DRS CL.66 No.66432 - Era 9

Unleash the power of the Hornby Accessories DRS Class 66 No.66432, a stunning Era 9 model meticulously designed for serious collectors and railway enthusiasts. Representing the iconic Direct Rail Services livery, this model locomotive not only embodies modern freight operations but also stands as a testament to the rich heritage of UK rail transport. The Class 66, known for its Co-Co wheel configuration and advanced self-steering bogies, ensures optimal performance and reliability, making it a definitive choice for your model railway setup. Featuring detailed craftsmanship that captures its authentic details, this locomotive is poised to elevate your miniature railway landscape. It's not just a model; it's a piece of history that played a significant role in notable railtours, including the famous 'Cumbrian Crusader II'. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a budding enthusiast, adding the Hornby DRS Class 66 No.66432 to your collection promises unparalleled authenticity and excitement. Transform your railway display with this essential piece of Era 9 engineering and storytelling. Order now from Smartfox NZ to secure your own piece of railway innovation!
Discover the powerful Hornby Accessories DRS Class 66 No. 66432, an iconic Era 9 model perfect for collectors and railway enthusiasts alike. Designed for optimal performance, the Class 66 locomotives are renowned for their reliability and efficiency, making them a staple in the UK rail transport landscape. This meticulously detailed model features the authentic livery of Direct Rail Services and reflects the contemporary charm of modern freight operations. With its Co-Co configuration and self-steering bogies, the DRS Class 66 No. 66432 not only showcases the latest engineering advancements but also enhances your miniature railway setup. Its rich heritage includes notable railtours, like the famous 'Cumbrian Crusader II', adding a storytelling element to your display. Elevate your collection with this essential piece, a true representation of the UK's modern railways, ready to take center stage on your layout. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a newcomer, this Era 9 masterpiece brings authenticity and excitement to your model railway experience. Order now to add the Hornby DRS Class 66 No. 66432 to your collection and enjoy the perfect blend of history and modern railway innovation!

HOR R30223 Hornby DRS, Class 66, Co-Co, 66432 - Era 11
After reviewing the existing privately commissioned Class 59, which was more powerful, highly reliable and with lower operating costs, EWS approached its builder Electro-Motive Diesel (EMD), then a division of General Motors. EMD offered their JT42CWR model, which had the same loading gauge-passing bodyshell as the Class 59. The engine and traction motors were different models to enable higher speeds, and the Class 66s incorporated General Motors' version of a "self-steering bogie" ("radial truck", in American usage), designed to reduce track wear and increase adhesion on curves.
The initial classification was as Class 61, then they were subsequently given the Class 66 designation in the British classification system (TOPS). In 1998 Freightliner placed an order for locomotives. They were followed by GB Railfreight, and then Direct Rail Services. The last of more than 500 built over an 18-year period was No 66779, 'Evening Star', delivered to GB Railfreight in spring 2016.
Although sometimes unpopular with many rail enthusiasts, due to their ubiquity and having caused the displacement of several older types of (mostly) British built locomotives, their high reliability has helped rail freight to remain competitive. Rail enthusiasts labelled the type "The Red Death" as they displaced many older types of locomotive while also acquiring the nicknames of "Sheds" for the EWS (now DBS) locomotives (due to their upturned roof looking like a shed roof) with the Freightliner locomotives being called "Freds" as a portmanteau of 'Freightliner and Shed'.
66432 has prominent history with its railtours, particularly the 'Cumbrian Crusader II' and 'The Cat & Dock', double heading each journey with 66843 and 68026 respectively.