4wDM Ruston 88DS shunter Profile and Models

4wDM Ruston 88DS shunter

No. 299107 at Pentregwenlais Works, Carmarthen in November 1969. ©Hugh Llewelyn

The 88DS class first emerged from the Ruston works in 1942 and proved to be a versatile design, following on from their 44/48HP 0-4-0 locomotives. Many of the features of the 44/48HP were retained for the new 80/88HP, such as the chain drive and running gear, a new type of transmission was fitted, along with Westinghouse airbrakes. Two basic weight options were offered for the 80/88HP, of 17 tons and 20 tons, the difference being achieved by attaching weights to the outside frames, as well as to the front and rear buffer beams.

(Information provided by Hornby)

Type of Locomotive

Diesel-Mechanical

Builder

Ruston & Hornsby

Build Dates

1942 to 1967

Total Built

271

Power Output

80 to 88 hp

Top Speed

15 to 20 mph

Wheel Configuration

0-4-0

Operated By

British Railways
Various Industrial Railways

Main Duties

Shunting

In Service Until

1980s/ 1990s

Surviving Examples

Several in Preservation