British Rail Class 27

class of 69 Bo′Bo′ 1250hp diesel-electric locomotives

The British Rail Class 27 was a diesel locomotive built by the Birmingham Railway Carriage and Wagon Company (BRCW) during 1961 and 1962. They were a development of the earlier Class 26. Both were originally classified as BRCW Type 2. There were 69 locomotives in the class.

BRCW Type 2
British Rail Class 27
27001 at Bo’ness
Type and origin
Power typeDiesel-electric
BuilderBirmingham Railway Carriage and Wagon Company
Serial numberDEL190–DEL258
Build date1961–1962
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 weightOriginally: 72.50 long tons (73.7 t)
Fuel capacity685 imperial gallons (3,110 L; 823 US gal)
Prime moverSulzer 6LDA28-B
TransmissionDC generator, DC traction motors
MU working Blue Star
Train heatingAs built: Steam generator
27/2: ETH
Train brakesVacuum, some later dual Air & Vacuum
Performance figures
Top speed90 miles per hour (140 km/h)
Power outputEngine: 1,250 horsepower (930 kW)
At rail: 933 horsepower (696 kW)
Tractive effortMaximum: 42,000 pounds-force (190,000 N)
Continuous: 25,000 pounds-force (110,000 N)
Brakeforce34 long tons-force (340 kN)
Career
Railroad(s)British Railways
NumberD5347–D5415; later 27001–27066
Axle load classRoute availability 6 (RA 5 from 1969)