Collett 6100 class

Collett’s 6100 Class is a class of 2-6-2T side tank steam locomotives. The class was introduced in 1931, and were a straightforward development of the earlier 5101 class (and for that matter the 1905 3100/5100 class). The main difference from their predecessors was an increased boiler pressure of 225 psi (1.55 MPa) with a consequent increase in tractive effort.

There were seventy in the class, built in two batches in 1931–1933 and 1935. The class was specifically built for commuter services in the London area where they replaced the ageing 2221 class on these services. They lasted to the end of steam on the Western Region of British Railways in 1965, never straying far from their home turf. Typical duties were Paddington to Aylesbury via High Wycombe, and from the same terminus to Oxford, Windsor, Reading and Basingstoke. They were mainly shedded at Old Oak Common, Southall, Slough, Reading and Aylesbury throughout their lives. In the early 1960s, the advent of the first generation diesel multiple units made them semi-redundant though generally far from worn out. Their last few years saw them on more menial duties.

Large collection of 100 photos starts here with 6100 Reading 3rd March 1953
https://railway-photography.smugmug...k-engine-designs/Collett-6100-class/i-gG4mrhG

to 6111
https://railway-photography.smugmug...k-engine-designs/Collett-6100-class/i-zVVWRPW

then through 6 pages to 6163
https://railway-photography.smugmug...k-engine-designs/Collett-6100-class/i-hWxGGGF

finishing with 6168 at Southall
https://railway-photography.smugmug...k-engine-designs/Collett-6100-class/i-kkqZFrb


Neil

 

5/100 6106 is passing the Tranship Shed at Didcot before it was removed to the Railway Centre.

Cheers, Neil