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Bachmann 38-172

BR 12T Ventilated Van Plywood Sides BR Bauxite (TOPS)

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

Prototype Era
Era 7 (1972 to 1982) British Rail Blue (TOPS)

Manufacturer description

British Railways (BR) inherited a wide range of rolling stock upon Nationalisation in 1948, much of which was aging or in need of modern replacement and so a programme to build new vehicles soon commenced. These new vehicles were built to a variety of standardised designs and the 12 Ton Ventilated Van, which was used to transport general merchandise, was one of the most numerous types of freight vehicle built by BR. Employing a metal chassis, the van was constructed from corrugated metal ends with a ventilator in each, with a metal body frame which was panelled with wooden planks or plywood sheets.

The Bachmann Branchline model is a faithful replica of the humble 12T Van, using a precision moulded body that accurately captures the corrugated ends and smooth plywood sides, along with finer details like the body framing, door hinges and locking mechanisms. The roof includes the characteristic rain strips above each set of double doors and the rivets securing the roof are neatly moulded at either end. The chassis is similarly detailed, being fitted with separate brake gear, brake handles and vacuum cylinders, complete with the linkage between the two ‘V’ hangers. Metal wheels and axles are employed, along with turned metal buffers; meanwhile the couplings are fitted via NEM coupling pockets allowing full interchangeability for those wishing to use an alternative coupling system.

 

MODEL FEATURES:

• Bachmann Branchline OO Scale
• Era 7
• Pristine BR Bauxite (TOPS) livery
• Running No. B769573
• TOPS Code VVV
• NEM Coupling Pockets
• Length 88mm (over couplings)

Catalogue listing

Model details

Prototype information

Bachmann Branchline OO‑scale model of the British Rail 12‑ton ventilated van, catalogue number 38‑172. The replica represents a vehicle from the British Rail Blue (TOPS) period and is presented in the authentic BR Bauxite (TOPS) livery.

The model reproduces the original design with a metal chassis, corrugated metal end panels, ventilators, and plywood side sheets. Details include the body framing, door hinges, locking mechanisms, roof rain strips, rivets, separate brake gear, brake handles, vacuum cylinders and the linkage between the V‑shaped hangers. Metal wheels, axles and turned buffers are fitted, and the couplings are housed in NEM coupling pockets for interchangeable use.

Key specifications: OO scale, era 7, running number B769573, TOPS code VVV, length 88 mm over couplings, and NEM coupling pockets. The model is supplied in pristine condition and is intended for collectors and railway model enthusiasts.