One of the most iconic brake vans on the UK network was the successful Shark Ballast Brake van. Over 200 were built to diagram 1/597 with wooden bodies, vacuum braking and cosy cabin interiors boasting a stove, seating and a small desk as can be seen in our model. A large number are still in preservation, with the last van being used on the main line until around 2016.
The Sharks were used extensively across the country, often accompanying ballast wagons such as Sealions and Seacows for ballast renewals and permanent way jobs. With the versatility of the vehicle, a standardised design was adopted with a 20 ton weight and ploughs to either end, with these giving the Shark its distinguishing features.
One of the most iconic brake vans on the UK network was the successful Shark Ballast Brake van. Over 200 were built to diagram 1/597 with wooden bodies, vacuum braking and cosy cabin interiors boasting a stove, seating and a small desk as can be seen in our model. A large number are still in preservation, with the last van being used on the main line until around 2016.
The Sharks were used extensively across the country, often accompanying ballast wagons such as Sealions and Seacows for ballast renewals and permanent way jobs. With the versatility of the vehicle, a standardised design was adopted with a 20 ton weight and ploughs to either end, with these giving the Shark its distinguishing features.
