Q18.12 – Class 08s Fitted to be used as Generators

Query Corner – top page

Q18.12. Class 08 0-6-0DEs as Static Generators.
During the Cold War era it is believed that a number of Class 08s had an electrical switch holding box affixed high up to the outside of the cab wall, something like 24 inches square by maybe 8 inches thick. The idea was that if the national grid failed, a modest supply for a very limited area, say a hospital and environs could be provided, by a nearby parked 08. The box was to be point of attachment of cabling provided by the power receiver. The fixing holes for the boxes could be seen years later. Any information, especially details of locomotives known to have been involved, when and where this work was carried out and whether any were used for static generation would be welcomed. (Peter Hall: 13999)