Bachmann 32-137

Tooling

In 2003, Bachmann Branchline introduced its OO gauge model of the Great Western Railway (GWR) 4500 Class “Small Prairie” tank locomotive. This release marked a significant step forward in British outline modelling, replacing older, less detailed representations with a highly accurate and finely engineered model. The prototype, designed by Churchward, was a 2-6-2T locomotive built between 1906 and 1924 for mixed-traffic duties on branch lines.

Tooling Features

• Scale: OO (1:76)
• Construction: Die-cast chassis for weight and stability, plastic body shell with crisp moulding and rivet detail.
• Detailing: Separate handrails, accurate cab interior, fine pipework, and prototypical chimney and dome profiles.
• Couplings: Standard tension-lock couplers in NEM pockets.

Mechanical & Electrical

• Motor & Drive: Smooth-running can motor with worm drive to the centre axle.
• Weighting: Metal chassis provides good adhesion and realistic performance.
• Minimum Radius: Compatible with 1st radius curves (approx. 371 mm).
• Lighting: No factory lighting fitted.

DCC Capability

The initial 2003 tooling was DCC compatible but not ready. It featured a hard-wired motor without a factory-fitted socket. Later revisions (2012 onwards) introduced an 8-pin socket for easier digital conversion.

Liveries Produced

The first batch included GWR green, BR black, and BR lined green variants. These were followed by additional liveries and weathered versions in subsequent years.

Reviews & Commentary

Upon release, the model was praised for its accuracy, smooth running, and fine detailing, setting a new benchmark for branch line tank engines in OO scale. Model railway magazines highlighted its robust mechanism and realistic proportions. On forums and social media, enthusiasts noted the improvement over previous models, though some commented on the lack of DCC socket and lighting options in the original tooling.

Interesting Notes

• The tooling formed the basis for later variants, including the 4575 and 55xx classes.
• Its introduction coincided with Bachmann’s broader push for higher fidelity in British outline models during the early 2000s.

Class & Prototype

No prototype found.

Operator & Livery

British Railways transformed Britain's fragmented rail network into a unified national system following nationalisation on 1st January 1948. Created from the "Big Four" companies under the Transport Act 1947, BR operated most of Great Britain's railways until rebranding as British Rail in 1965, managing over 20,000 route miles and inheriting nearly 20,000 locomotives of diverse designs.

The organisation pioneered standardisation through its revolutionary BR Standard locomotive programme (1951-1960), producing 999 advanced steam engines under Robert Riddles' direction. These included the versatile Britannia Pacifics, mighty 9F freight engines, and mixed-traffic classes that incorporated the best features from all predecessor companies. The 1955 Modernisation Plan accelerated diesel and electric traction development, creating fascinating mixed-traction operations.

Notable achievements included establishing unified locomotive classification systems, introducing distinctive corporate liveries, and managing the complex transition from steam to modern traction. BR's six regional structure preserved operational diversity whilst enabling standardisation of practices, signalling, and rolling stock that had eluded private enterprise for over a century.

The BR era represents steam traction's final flowering alongside emerging diesel technology, creating unparalleled locomotive variety. Today, this heritage remains highly popular with railway enthusiasts through extensive preserved fleets, heritage railway operations, and comprehensive model ranges from manufacturers like Hornby, Bachmann, and Dapol, making BR subjects essential for authentic post-war British railway modelling across all scales.

British Railways' plain black livery was designated specifically for freight and shunting locomotives from 1948, representing the most economical and practical finish for inherently dirty industrial machines. During the early nationalisation period, many locomotives were simply patch-painted over old company markings with black paint, which quickly weathered to match the existing finish as these engines were rarely cleaned. The "Lion and Wheel" emblem (nicknamed the "Cycling Lion") was introduced from December 1948 and applied to plain black locomotives from early 1949, featuring a lion standing over a large railway wheel with "British Railways" lettering across the centre.

The emblem was produced in three sizes and always faced forward, positioned centrally on tender sides or tank sides, with regional preferences evident—the Western Region favoured larger emblems whilst other regions used smaller versions. Plain black locomotives retained red buffer beams and received white "BRITISH RAILWAYS" lettering in Gill Sans style before the emblem's introduction. Some former company locomotives, particularly ex-GWR shunting engines, retained their original lettering well into the early 1960s as they didn't require renumbering and received minimal attention. This utilitarian livery remained standard for freight operations until the mid-1950s emblem change, making it essential for authentic early BR period modelling of goods yards, collieries, and industrial operations.