Hornby R2415

British Rail Class 86 86235 Novelty British Rail InterCity Swallow

Contents

Tooling

Hornby introduced a significant upgrade to its British Rail Class 86 model in 2004. This retooling aimed to modernize the long-standing model originally launched in 1981, improving body detailing and overall finish while retaining affordability. The Class 86 remained an iconic AC electric locomotive, and this update reflected growing demand for more accurate representations of modern traction during the early 2000s.

Tooling Features

  • Construction: Plastic bodyshell with improved moulding and finer surface detail; separate roof components and pantograph detail.
  • Detailing: Sharper cab front contours, flush glazing, printed warning panels, and improved livery application. Pantograph supplied but non-functional.
  • Couplings: Standard tension-lock couplers on fixed mounts.

Mechanical & Electrical

  • Motor: Five-pole Ringfield motor mounted in one bogie.
  • Drive: Power to four wheels on the motor bogie; pickups on both bogies for improved reliability.
  • Weighting: Internal metal weights for traction; cab interiors formed by weight blocks.
  • Lighting: No working lights provided.
  • Pantograph: Decorative only; no overhead power capability.

DCC Capability

The 2004 tooling was DCC compatible but not DCC-ready. No factory-fitted socket was included, requiring hard-wiring for digital conversion. Enthusiasts often fitted Hornby R8249 or similar decoders using custom wiring solutions.

Liveries Produced

This upgrade appeared in a wide range of liveries, including:

  • BR Electric Blue (heritage and preserved examples).
  • InterCity Executive and Swallow schemes.
  • Anglia Railways turquoise.
  • Virgin Trains West Coast red/black.
  • Network Rail yellow/grey.

Reviews & Commentary

At launch, the 2004 upgrade was welcomed for its improved body shape and finer detailing compared to the original 1981 tooling. However, reviewers noted that the chassis design and Ringfield motor were dated, lacking the smoothness and quietness of contemporary can-motor models. The absence of a DCC socket was also criticized as the hobby increasingly embraced digital control. Despite these limitations, the model was considered a solid mid-range offering and remained popular among collectors and modellers.

Media & Community Feedback

Enthusiasts on forums and social media often describe the 2004 tooling as a “bridge” between classic Hornby and modern standards. Many posts showcase upgrades such as replacement pantographs, etched nameplates, and DCC conversions. Video reviews highlight its nostalgic appeal and reasonable performance for its era.

Interesting Notes

  • The pantograph was non-functional, marking the end of Hornby’s overhead power feature for AC electrics.
  • Flush glazing and sharper cab profiles were key improvements over the 1981 tooling.
  • Remained in production until the fully retooled 2011 version introduced an 8-pin DCC socket.

Class & Prototype

  • Running Number: 86235
  • Name: Novelty

The British Rail Class 86 was English Electric's pioneering 25 kV AC electric locomotive for West Coast Main Line electrification, with 100 built 1965-1966. Originally designated AL6, these Bo-Bo locomotives delivered 3,600-4,000 hp and served 56 years hauling express passenger services and freight traffic. Revolutionary flexicoil suspension modifications from 1971 transformed the class from problematic 80 mph freight locomotives into reliable 100 mph express passenger machines. Class 86s worked for BR, InterCity, Virgin Trains, Anglia Railways, and Freightliner until February 2021, with three preserved examples still hauling charter trains. Approximately 32 locomotives were exported to Hungary and Bulgaria where many remain operational.

Operator & Livery

British Rail InterCity was the premium express passenger brand that operated from 1966 to 1997, transforming long-distance rail travel across Britain. Initially launched as a marketing brand for high-speed services, InterCity became an autonomous business sector in 1982 under the sectorisation programme, operating profitable express services from London to Scotland, Wales, the West Country, and extensive cross-country routes.

The brand pioneered revolutionary rolling stock including the iconic InterCity 125 HST (High Speed Train) from 1976, which achieved 125mph operations on existing infrastructure, and the electric InterCity 225 sets from 1989, capable of 140mph but limited to 125mph in service. InterCity also developed the ground-breaking Advanced Passenger Train (APT) with tilting technology that influenced modern high-speed trains worldwide.

Distinguished by its evolving livery schemes - from Rail Blue and Grey through the sophisticated Executive livery with dark grey upper bodies and red stripes - InterCity became synonymous with quality, speed, and reliability. All day services featured buffet cars and the majority operated at 100mph or above, making British Rail one of the world's most intensive high-speed operators.

The brand was divided among multiple operators during railway privatisation in the 1990s, but its technical innovations, operational excellence, and commercial principles continue influencing modern rail services. InterCity remains hugely popular with railway modellers, with extensive ranges of locomotives and coaching stock available in all major scales from manufacturers like Hornby, Bachmann, and Heljan.