British Rail Class 26

class of 47 Bo′Bo′ 1160hp diesel-electric locomotives

The British Rail Class 26 diesel locomotives, originally known as BRCW Type 2, were built by the Birmingham Railway Carriage and Wagon Company (BRCW) at Smethwick in 1958-59. Forty seven examples were built, and the last were withdrawn from service in 1993.

BRCW Type 2
British Rail Class 26
26007
Type and origin
Power typeDiesel-elctric
BuilderBirmingham Railway Carriage and Wagon Company
Serial numberDEL45–DEL91
Build date1958–1959
Total produced47
Specifications
Configuration:
 • WhyteBo-Bo
 • UICBo'Bo'
Gauge4 ft 8 12 in (1,435 mm) standard gauge
Wheel diameter3 ft 7 in (1.092 m)
Minimum curve5 chains (100 m)
Wheelbase39 ft 0 in (11.89 m)
Length50 ft 9 in (15.47 m)
Width8 ft 10 in (2.69 m)
Height12 ft 8 in (3.86 m)
Loco weightD5300–D5319: 77.5 long tons (78.7 t)
D5320–D5346: 74 long tons (75.2 t)
Fuel capacity600 imp gal (2,700 L; 720 US gal)
Prime moverSulzer 6LDA-28
TransmissionDC generator, DC traction motors
MU working Blue Star
Train heatingSteam generator
Train brakesVacuum
Performance figures
Top speed80 mph (130 km/h)
Power outputEngine: 1,160 hp (865 kW)
At rail: 900 hp (671 kW)
Tractive effortMaximum: 42,000 lbf (187 kN)
Continuous: 30,000 lbf (133 kN)
Brakeforce34 long tons-force (340 kN)
Career
Railroad(s)British Railways
NumberD5300–D5346; later 26001–26046
Axle load classD5300–D5319: Route availability 6
D5320–D5346: Route availability 5