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Bachmann 38-125B

BR VBA Van EWS

Manufacturer catalogue image - please note that pre-release images may be CAD renders or CGI/AI images rather than photographs

Prototype Era
Era 9 (1995 to 2004) Initial Privatisation

Manufacturer description

In the late 1960s British Railways required air braked stock to operate its new Air-Braked Network services – which would later be known as Speedlink -  and the Cov AB (Covered, Air Braked) van provided the answer, becoming BR’s first general purpose air braked van. Introduced from 1969, the Cov ABs had a modern appearance in comparison to the wooden box vans in widespread use at the time and the side of the van was constructed from a pair of doors, providing large openings for loading/unloading. When the Total Operations Processing System (TOPS) was introduced in the 1970s the vans were given the TOPS code VAB, VAA, VBA or VBB. Used to transport general merchandise, the vans were often marshalled into mixed goods trains as opposed to being operated as uniform rakes and could carry all manner of general merchandise. By the 1980s their traffic was reducing and so commenced their withdrawal although a small number remained in service towards the end of the century, coming under private ownership following Privatisation.

The Bachmann Branchline model employs a highly detailed bodyshell which boasts precision moulded panel lines, door handles and mechanisms, and fine rivet detailing. At either end a separate lamp iron is present, along with metal buffers and a cosmetic coupling hook. The solebar includes prototypical ribbing along with the door runners, whilst the wagon’s suspension and brake gear is added using separate components. The metal wheelsets are mounted on a pivoting frame, allowing this long wheelbase wagon to traverse tight curves with ease whilst NEM coupling pockets are also incorporated. Authentic colours and typefaces are employed during the livery application process, completing this high-fidelity model.

 

MODEL FEATURES:

• Bachmann Branchline OO Scale
• Era 9
• Pristine EWS livery
• Running No. 200557
• NEM Coupling Pockets
• Length 156mm (over couplings)

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Catalogue listing

Model details

Prototype information

The Bachmann Branchline BR VBA Van EWS model represents a vehicle from the Initial Privatisation period. Introduced in 1969, the Cov AB van was a general-purpose air-braked wagon used by British Rail to transport a variety of merchandise on the Air-Braked Network services.

The Cov AB vans were given TOPS codes VAB, VAA, VBA or VBB when the Total Operations Processing System was introduced in the 1970s. They were often marshalled with other wagons in mixed goods trains and carried a wide range of general merchandise.

The Bachmann model features a highly detailed bodyshell with precision moulded panel lines, door handles and mechanisms, and fine rivet detailing. It also includes separate lamp irons, metal buffers, and a cosmetic coupling hook. The solebar has prototypical ribbing and door runners, while the wagon's suspension and brake gear are represented by separate components.

The model has a pivoting frame to accommodate its long wheelbase, allowing it to navigate tight curves. It also features NEM coupling pockets and metal wheelsets. The livery application is accurate, with authentic colours and typefaces used.

This model is part of the Bachmann Branchline OO Scale range and is Era 9. It is finished in pristine EWS livery and has a running number of 200557. The model is 156mm in length, including couplings.