Dapol have revealed engineering samples for their newly tooled range of Great Western Railway 517 Class 0-4-2T steam locomotives in OO Gauge!
This comprehensive new range covers Open Cab and Closed Cab variations in a suite of GWR colour schemes. The Dapol design team are currently reviewing and testing the samples whilst artworks are been finalised to allow the factory to produce decorated samples. We will share the artworks with you once they are complete. In the mean time we hope you enjoy taking a look at images of these initial engineering samples.
Six different models are available to pre-order in a selection of GWR colour schemes. All of these are available either DCC Ready, DCC Fitted or DCC Sound Fitted and we expect them to arrive in stock by the end of Q4 2025.
Pre-Order Now
Engineering Samples & Render Images
Early Open Cab Version
Early Closed Cab Version
Collett Closed Cab Version
Product Features:
Highly detailed model with many separate parts including handrails, pipework, safety valve, whistle, lamp irons and more
Digital & Sound capable - NEXT-18 decoder socket (Tool-free installation via PCB inside the smokebox on a sliding mechanism
High quality coreless motor
Firebox glow effect (synchronised with sound on factory fitted models)
NEM tension lock couplings
Numerous accurate detail variations including 3 major cab variations
Fully detailed interior with separately fitted parts
Prototype Information
The 517 Class were small 0-4-2T tank engines designed by George Armstrong for local passenger work on the Great Western Railway. 144 were built at Wolverhampton Works in 13 lots and were outshopped between 1868 and 1885. During the late 1880’s and early 1890’s most had their wheelbases lengthened to 15 foot 6 inches and from 1904 onwards several were converted to auto train working which scattered them over the system.
When Charles Collett became CME, during 1924 he widened the tanks and provided a new cab with extended bunker which became the Swindon rebuild and outwardly looked very similar to the later 48xx class he designed in 1932. The last of the class 1159 was withdrawn in August 1947 just missing out on nationalization. All members of the class were disposed of with none making it into preservation.