Swindon Works BR 52

Built by Swindon Works, Crewe Works

Top speed

140 km/h

87 mph

Power output

1,491 kW

1,999 hp

Weight

110 t

242,508 lb

Length

20.73 m

68 ft 0 in

Track gauge

1,435 mm

Standard gauge

Years built

1961–1964

74 units

Overview of the Swindon Works BR 52

Discover the powerful BR 52 diesel locomotive, a significant piece of British railway history.

Built between 1961 and 1964, these robust engines were a common sight across the United Kingdom, serving with both British Railways Board and later GB Railfreight.

With a formidable power output of 1491 kW and a top speed of 140 km/h, the BR 52 was designed for demanding work on the rail network.

Its impressive tractive effort of 297 kN allowed it to haul heavy loads efficiently.

This locomotive, with its C'C' UIC axle configuration and substantial weight of 110 tonnes, represents a classic era of diesel traction.

Explore the impressive dimensions and capabilities of the BR 52.

Swindon Works BR 52 technical specifications

	Value	Imperial / US
Built by	Swindon Works, Crewe Works · 1961–196474 units
Top speed	140 km/h87 mph	87 mph
Power output	1,491 kW1,999 hp	1,999 hp
Tractive effort	297 kN66,768 lbf	66,768 lbf
Track gauge	1,435 mmStandard gauge4 ft 8½ in	4 ft 8½ in
UIC axle arrangement	C'C'
Length	20.73 m68 ft 0 in	68 ft 0 in
Width	2.64 m8 ft 8 in	8 ft 8 in
Height	3.96 m13 ft 0 in	13 ft 0 in
Weight	110 t242,508 lb	242,508 lb