British Rail Class 47
Design and development
The Class 47 emerged from BR's 1962 search for a single "medium" mainline diesel design that could replace the multiple Pilot Scheme types. Brush Traction's design used a Sulzer 12LDA28 engine derated from 2,750 to 2,580 hp for reliability, with a Brush Co-Co electric transmission. 512 were built between 1962 and 1968 — the largest BR diesel class ever.
Service and withdrawals
The Class 47 became the standard BR Type 4 mainline diesel, working passenger and freight across the entire system from 1962 onwards. Many remain in mainline service in heritage and freight roles (West Coast Railways, Direct Rail Services, GBRf etc.) in 2026 — one of the longest-serving British diesel classes.
Identification features
Co-Co diesel-electric, 2,580 hp, Sulzer 12LDA28 engine. Distinctive Brush single-headcode body styling.
Notable locomotives
- Many preserved or still in mainline service