Dapol 2D-026-002

British Rail Class 86 86259 / E Les Ross / Peter Pan British Rail Electric Blue

Contents

Tooling

Dapol’s 2019 retooling of the British Rail Class 86 in N gauge marked a significant upgrade over earlier versions. The Class 86, introduced in the mid-1960s, was a cornerstone of British Rail’s AC electric fleet on the West Coast Main Line. Dapol’s tooling aimed to capture the locomotive’s distinctive features while meeting modern expectations for detail, performance, and digital capability.

Retailer showcases and enthusiast reviews praised the model’s fine detailing, smooth running, and improved digital features. The poseable pantograph and accessory packs were highlighted as strong points. Some feedback noted delicate pantographs and occasional lighting quirks, but overall reception was positive. Forum discussions welcomed the upgrade to NEXT18 sockets and improved lighting control.

Video reviews from Hattons and independent channels demonstrated excellent slow-speed performance and crisp decoration. Community forums (RMweb, N Gauge Forum) discussed reliability and decoder compatibility, with most users reporting good running qualities when properly maintained.

Detailing: Factory-fitted separate details including door handles, handrails, jumper cables, etched nameplates (user-fit), roof electrical gear, bufferbeam detail packs, and fully painted cab interiors with glazing and seating. Accessory pack includes magnetic couplings and cosmetic screw-link options.

The tooling covers multiple subclasses: 86/2 (passenger), 86/4 (push-pull capable), and 86/6 (freight).

Class & Prototype

  • Running Number: 86259 / E
  • Name: Les Ross / Peter Pan

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: British Rail
  • Livery: Electric Blue
  • Era: 11 - Present Day

British Rail (1965-1997) transformed Britain's railways through revolutionary modernisation, introducing the iconic double arrow logo, Rail Blue livery, and business sectorisation. BR pioneered high-speed rail with the InterCity 125 and Advanced Passenger Train, electrified major routes, and created profitable divisions like InterCity and Network SouthEast. From steam succession through diesel and electric development to privatisation preparation, British Rail's diverse locomotive fleet, multiple livery schemes, and operational scenarios provide unparalleled variety for railway modellers across all scales and periods.