New Graham Farish N Tank Wagons break cover

The new models depict both the Class A and Class B wagons, with options to include the bottom outlet pipe and associated handwheel mounted on top of the tank, with or without the steam heating inlet valve, and with a straight or cranked air vent. The top catwalks and filler can be depicted in their central position or offset, while these wagons can also be modelled with or without the ladders giving access to the catwalks – where fitted these are constructed from fine metal etches. 

As standard, each model features separately fitted brake gear and brake levers, along with the filler cap, which includes the distinctive securing clamps. On the prototype, the underframe was constructed from metal section, and this is replicated on the model affording an unobstructed view through the frames when observed from above. 

Standard N scale couplings are fitted via NEM pockets and, as with all Graham Farish models, metal wheelsets – with either spoked or 3-hole disc wheels – complete the model.

About the prototype

Anchor-Mounted Tank Wagons were conceived in the mid-1940s, the design being agreed between the private operators, the Petroleum Board and the railway companies. Rather than the timber saddle, cradle and wire hawsers employed on earlier wagons, the new design used a central anchor mechanism to secure the tank to its chassis. With many older wagons becoming available as surplus following World War Two, the Anchor-Mounted Tanks were not built in great numbers until the early 1950s when large orders were completed for Shell Mex & BP. Smaller orders were built for operators such as Esso, Fina, Mobil and Regent. With the introduction of larger, vacuum-braked tank wagons during the late-1950s, the Anchor- Mount design became obsolete, and the final wagons of this type were built in 1963.

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