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Dapol 4F-036-028

Bulk Grain Hopper GWR 42335 Weathered

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

Prototype Era
Era 3 (1923 to 1947) The Big Four (LNER, LMS, GWR and SR)

Manufacturer description

Up to the 1920s most British grain was transported in sacks and it was not until Britain started to import grain that the requirement for bulk grain movements was realised. The early bulk grain wagons were made of wood and were of an open design, with provision for a tarpaulin cover. Design improvements were soon made and at nationalisation BR had inherited a range of hoppers including some closed steel of an LMS design.

As demand for bulk grain movements increased, BR standardised its fleet based on this LMS steel hopper. The design was not without critics, who maintained the design caused undue condensation and spoilage caused by the cold steel. This style of hopper continued into service into the 1970s as, for a short time, Britain became a grain exporter. However, soon after bulk grain exports diminished and road overtook rail as the preferred mode of transport. Currently, very little grain is now bulk transported and we have now reverted to the pre-1920s way, i.e. by sack.

MODEL

These model bulk grain hoppers are highly detailed and will be a great addition to your rolling stock.

FEATURES

• Profiled wheels
• Superbly printed livery and details
• NEM pockets with self-centring couplings
• Highly detailed body and chassis moulding

MEASUREMENTS

• LENGTH OVER BUFFER 88mm
• WIDTH 33mm
• HEIGHT 48mm

Catalogue listing

Model details

Dapol Bulk Grain Hopper GWR 42335 Weathered is a OO gauge model representing a British bulk grain wagon from the era of the Big Four railway companies (LNER, LMS, GWR and SR).

The model is supplied in a weathered finish and measures 88 mm in length over buffers, 33 mm in width and 48 mm in height. It carries the manufacturer part number 4F‑036‑028.

The prototype wagon originated in the early 20th century when Britain began importing grain in bulk. Initial wooden, open‑top wagons were later superseded by closed steel hoppers of LMS design, which were standardised by British Rail. The design remained in use until the 1970s, after which bulk grain transport by rail declined.

Key features of the model include profiled wheels, a highly detailed printed livery, NEM pocket sockets with self‑centring couplings, and finely moulded body and chassis components. The model is intended as a detailed addition to a railway enthusiast’s rolling stock.