Hornby R2009

Tooling

Hornby introduced its British Rail Class 06 model in 1988, representing the small 0-4-0 diesel-mechanical shunters built by Andrew Barclay between 1958 and 1960 for the Scottish Region of British Railways. These locomotives were primarily used for yard shunting and short-haul duties. The Hornby tooling was aimed at providing an affordable, entry-level model for OO gauge layouts, and it remained in production for many years across various ranges, including the Railroad series.

Tooling Features

• Construction: Pre-assembled plastic bodyshell with factory-fitted details; lightweight chassis
• Detailing: Separate handrails, bufferbeam detail (detailing pack), cab glazing, basic footplate and interior detail
• Couplings: Standard Hornby tension-lock couplers, fixed mountings

Mechanical & Electrical

• Drive: 0-4-0 configuration, 2 driven axles
• Pickups: All wheels, 2-rail DC
• Weighting: Incorporated within chassis
• Lighting: None
• Performance: High top speed, limited slow-speed control

DCC Capability

DCC compatible but no factory socket; conversion requires hard-wiring. No sound provision.

Liveries Produced

BR Green (late crest), BR Blue, Departmental Grey, Civil Engineers ‘Dutch’, Virgin Trains, Private Owner schemes, and special editions such as Pullman and Robert Horne Paper Co.

Reviews & Commentary

Praised for affordability and suitability for beginners. Criticised for limited detailing, unrealistic speed, and light weight. Later Railroad versions improved slightly but remain basic compared to modern standards.

Interesting Notes

The tooling appeared in starter sets and budget ranges for decades. Popular for kitbashing. Prototype 06003 is preserved at the Museum of Science & Industry in Manchester.

Class & Prototype

No prototype found.

Operator & Livery