Recognition and Equipment information
CLASS 82




Under the original ac orders a fleet of 10 Type 'A' (passenger) locos was ordered from AEI/ Metropolitan-Vickers, who sub contracted mechanical construction to Beyer Peacock of Gorton, Manchester. Under the ac loco classification system this fleet became AL2 and allocated numbers in the range E3046-E3055. Under BR TOPS numbering the fleet became Class 82, numbered 82001-82008. The first loco of the build emerged in May 1960, and took up trial running on the Styal line near Manchester.
The external appearance of this fleet followed the design of the other AL1-AL5 fleets, but the construction method was significantly different, incorporating a separate underframe and body. At the design stage it was envisaged that weight might be something of a problem, and to overcome this much alloy and glass fibre was used.
The between cab layout was almost identical to the AL1, and the cab layout conformed to the BTC standard style adopted for all the ac builds of the 1960s. Two pantographs were fitted from new, as was vacuum train brake equipment. During the early 1970s, when air braking was being introduced, the entire fleet was refurbished to provide dual brake equipment, at the same time the redundant 6.25kV pantograph was removed and the space filled by the additional air braking reservoirs.
When built, one side of the loco had six grilles, while the other had two windows and two grilles. After refurbishing in the early 1970s the grille side was altered to incorporate an additional vent panel to improve internal ventilation.
After introduction the AL2 fleet was allocated to Longsight depot in Manchester, and displayed the standard electric blue livery, offset by white cab roofs and cab window surrounds. Over the years standard rail blue livery with full yellow warning ends was applied.
The AL2 fleet performed well on the West Coast Main Line and were well liked by the train crews. However, by 1982-83 the majority of the fleet was deemed as surplus and stored, eventually being withdrawn. However, Nos. 82005 and 82008 were retained until 1987 for empty stock duties in the London area, being allocated to Willesden. No. 82008 is now preserved at Barrow Hill.


With its cross-arm pantograph raised and viewed from the window (gangway) side, AL2 No. E3055 shows its as built condition. This fleet were always identifiable from other early ac electric classes by the deep centre side plate to the bogie. CJM Collection.


Between 1982-87 two members of the Class 82 fleet were retained for empty stock movements between Wembley carriage sidings and Euston, being allocated to Willesden depot. The body condition became so poor that eventually that were repainted in mainline livery. Sporting a very route routebox fill-in plate with two sealed beam marker lights, No. 82008 9s seen inside Willesden electric shed. This loco was also fitted with a radio telephone system, for which an aerial was attached to the front to the left of the drivers window. CJM.