SWR Class 455/456 12 car testing?

[spark001uk]

Just seen a 12 car do a couple of test runs tonight between Wimbledon Pk and Staines, didn't get nos but it's formed of 2x455 and 2x456. I didn't think they could operate as a 12. Anyone know what they're up to?

 

[Peter Mugridge]

455s have moved as 12 cars on ecs movements a number of times over the years, so they can do it. I don't think it's ever been done in passenger service, though. At least not yet...

 

[bb21]

They can run as 12s, but not in passenger service.

 

[spark001uk]

Yes sorry I meant not done in passenger service. This seemed a bit odd for a stock move that's all, as it just went wim pk to staines and then straight back again. (5Z50/51)

 

[TEW]

455s have run as 12-cars in exceptional circumstances in the past in passenger service. 455s are not permitted to run as 12-cars since the new traction equipment was installed though, I guess that's why 455+455+456+456 was being tested.

 

[Aictos]

455s have run as 12-cars in exceptional circumstances in the past in passenger service. 455s are not permitted to run as 12-cars since the new traction equipment was installed though, I guess that's why 455+455+456+456 was being tested.

Why not since the new traction was installed? What's changed apart from going from DC motors to AC motors?

 

[RichJF]

455s have also run in 12 car on ecs on Southern. Saw one a few years ago when I used to commute to London.

 

[bb21]

Yes sorry I meant not done in passenger service. This seemed a bit odd for a stock move that's all, as it just went wim pk to staines and then straight back again. (5Z50/51)

A 4-456 was used to rescue the failed 8-455 at Staines sidings.

 

[TEW]

Why not since the new traction was installed? What's changed apart from going from DC motors to AC motors?

Higher demand on the power system potentially I guess.