Ruston Hornsby 0-6-0DH No.429

• Pre TOPS number: 429 ‘River Annan’/’Salty’
• Construction year: 1961
• Builder/Number: Ruston Hornsby (466618)
• In Service

Built in 1961, MOD No. 429 “River Annan” is a Ruston Hornsby LSSH 0-6-0DH (diesel hydraulic) shunting engine. It is currently on loan to Elsecar Heritage Railway.

On the face of it, it looks very similar to the BR Class 07 – and there’s a reason for that! The Class 07 was based on the Ruston Hornsby LSSE – the diesel electric version of the same locomotive, albeit with a few modifications and extras.

Powered by a 275 hp Paxman 6RPHL 29-litre V6 engine, Twin Disc torque convertor and two-speed final drive, the LSSH is a capable short wheel base shunter, capable of handling heavy trains over short distances and tight curves.

Nowadays, No. 429 is generally confined to Bitton Station but has been a regular performer at Bitton in the past, capable of handling 4 or 5 coach trains and keeping to the timetable! This flexiblility means it’s often rostered as a standby or “thunderbird” locomotive at special events.

The livery isn’t original and is a key to its past life acting as “Salty” during Day Out With Thomas events.