SECR 20t 6-Wheel Brake Van
931016 • by Rapido Trains UKPre-order scheme
This item is scheduled for future release with an estimated release of . Dates are liable to change depending on production schedules.
Pre-order with nothing to pay today, the balance will be charged when models are ready to ship.
First introduced in 1898, the South Eastern Railway’s 20-ton six-wheeled brake van (later Southern Railway Diagram 1558) began as a 40-strong batch with a single enclosed veranda. Following the 1899 formation of the South Eastern and Chatham Railway (SECR), the design evolved: in 1910, a further 50 vans were built with enclosed verandas at both ends, and between 1914 and 1920, earlier single-veranda examples were rebuilt to a similar dual-ended layout. Although subtle differences existed between newly built and converted vans, all were grouped under the same diagram. The fleet later passed to the Southern Railway and then British Railways, with most withdrawn between 1949 and 1960. Only one example survives today, preserved after industrial use.
Rapido Trains UK’s latest OO gauge release captures this development by offering a comprehensive selection of body variants. The range includes original single-veranda vans from 1898, purpose-built dual-veranda versions from 1910, and rebuilt dual-ended examples, allowing modellers to represent different stages of the prototype’s life. A wide variety of liveries is also provided, spanning SER, SECR, Southern Railway, British Railways, and preservation eras, alongside new additions and plain finishes for custom or “what if” applications.
The models place a strong emphasis on detail and accuracy. Each features numerous separately fitted parts, including finely moulded brake gear, running boards, handrails, lamp irons, internal bracing, and a chimney. The interior is fully represented, with a guard’s desk, chair, stove, and handbrake equipment included for added realism.
Performance and practicality are also addressed, with metal bearings and spoked wheels ensuring smooth running. Updated NEM 363 coupling sockets allow easy use of modern couplers, including knuckle types. Additional label clips are supplied for personalisation, making this a versatile and highly detailed model range.
This ready-to-run model in 00 gauge is produced by Rapido Trains UK.
Specification
- NEM coupler pockets
- Designed in the UK
- Split-spoke wheels running in metal bearings
- Highly detailed body
- Highly detailed underframe with many separately fitted parts
- Full interior detailing
- High quality livery application