Hornby R3058

British Rail Class 86 86637 Freightliner Green & Yellow

Contents

Tooling

Hornby launched a fully retooled British Rail Class 86 model in 2011, replacing the earlier 1981 and 2004 versions. This upgrade was designed to meet modern expectations for accuracy and digital compatibility, introducing a new chassis and improved body detailing. The Class 86 remained a popular subject due to its long service life on the West Coast Main Line and continued use in freight and charter operations.

Tooling Features

  • Construction: Plastic bodyshell with separate factory-fitted details, including handrails, roof insulators, and bufferbeam fittings.
  • Detailing: Accurate cab shape, flush glazing, detailed cab interiors, underframe equipment (battery boxes, compressors), and poseable Stone Faiveley AMBR pantograph (non-powered).

Mechanical & Electrical

  • Motor: Five-pole motor mounted in one bogie.
  • Drive: Power to four wheels on the motor bogie; pickups on the same bogie.
  • Weighting: Lightweight chassis with internal ballast for traction.
  • Lighting: No working lights provided.
  • Pantograph: Poseable but non-functional; no overhead power capability.

DCC Capability

The 2011 tooling was DCC Ready, featuring an 8-pin socket and provision for a 28mm round speaker for sound installation. This marked a major improvement over previous versions, making digital conversion straightforward.

Liveries Produced

Initial releases focused on contemporary freight operations, including:

  • Freightliner “Powerhaul” green and grey.

Later variations were limited compared to earlier toolings, as Hornby shifted focus to other electric classes.

Reviews & Commentary

The 2011 upgrade was praised for its improved body shape, separate detailing, and DCC readiness. However, some reviewers noted that the mechanism remained relatively basic, with single-bogie drive and limited pickup, which could affect slow-speed performance. Enthusiasts appreciated the accurate livery application and modern features, though some compared it unfavourably to Heljan’s Class 86 for ultimate fidelity.

Media & Community Feedback

Model railway forums and YouTube reviews highlight the model’s ease of DCC conversion and visual improvements. Community discussions often mention its suitability for Freightliner-themed layouts and its role as a cost-effective alternative to premium models. Videos showcase running sessions and decoder installations, reinforcing its appeal for digital modellers.

Interesting Notes

  • First Hornby Class 86 tooling to include an 8-pin DCC socket.
  • Provision for sound installation was a notable step forward for Hornby’s electric range.
  • Limited production run compared to earlier versions, making certain liveries highly collectible.

Class & Prototype

  • Running Number: 86637

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

  • Operator: Freightliner
  • Livery: Green & Yellow
  • Era: 9 - Privatisation