British Rail Class 83

British Railways AL3
British Rail Class 83
Class 83, no. E3035, on display at Doncaster Works open day on 27th July 2003. This locomotive is preserved by the AC Locomotive Group at Barrow Hill Engine Shed.
Type and origin
Power typeElectric
BuilderEnglish Electric at Vulcan Foundry
Build date1960–1962
Total produced15
Specifications
Configuration:
​
 • WhyteBo-Bo
 • UICBo'Bo'
Gauge4 ft 8 1⁄2 in (1,435 mm) standard gauge
Wheel diameter4 ft 0 in (1.219 m)
Length52 ft 6 in (16.00 m)
Adhesive weight19 long tons (19 t)
Loco weight76.40 long tons (77.63 t)
Electric system/s25 kV AC
Current pickup(s)Pantograph
Traction motors740 hp (550 kW) English Electric 532A, 4 off
Train heatingElectric Train Heating
Train brakesVacuum, Dual from 1972–1973
Performance figures
Top speed100 mph (160 km/h)
Power output2,950 hp (2,200 kW) 2200 kW (continuous)
Tractive effort38,000 lbf (169 kN) 169 kN (max)
Career
Railroad(s)British Rail
ClassAL3; later 83
NumberE3034–E3035, E3097, E3098, E3100; later 83001–83015
Axle load classRoute availability 6
Retired1975 (1), 1978 (1), 1983 (10), 1989 (3)
DispositionOne preserved, remainder scrapped


The British Rail Class 83 were electric locomotives built by English Electric at Vulcan Foundry, Newton-le-Willows as part of the West Coast Main Line electrification.