GWR 4200 Coal Tank Class
Design and development
Churchward's 1910 design was a heavy mineral tank engine for the South Wales coal traffic — short-distance heavy haul work where the longer wheelbase of a 2-8-0 tender engine was awkward and a tank locomotive's reduced range was no handicap. The 4200 class had two outside cylinders, 4 ft 7½ in coupled wheels, very large side tanks, and the GWR Standard No. 4 boiler. 205 were built between 1910 and 1932 — making them the GWR's most numerous tank class.
Service and withdrawals
The 4200s worked South Wales coal traffic from 1910 until the gradual decline of South Wales coal production in the 1960s. Many were rebuilt as 7200 class 2-8-2T with extended bunkers (lengthened wheelbase) for longer-distance work. Several 4200 class engines have been preserved on heritage railways, where they remain useful for heavy passenger work.
Identification features
Outside-cylinder 2-8-0 tank with 4 ft 7½ in coupled wheels, very large side tanks, GWR No. 4 Belpaire boiler, polished brass GWR safety-valve cover.
Notable locomotives
- 4253 (K&ESR)
- 4270, 5239 "Goliath", 5224, 5552, 5572, 5619, 5775 (various heritage railways)