The Class 489 1-GLV was a motorised luggage van used on the Gatwick Express push-pull service [1]. They were converted out of
Class 414 2-HAP motor cars. In service the Class 489 formed one end of a train the rest of which consisted of
Class 488 rolling stock and a
Class 73 as primary motive power, though the Class 489 also has traction motors on one bogie [2]. The formation served on the Gatwick Express until 2005.
 |
| 9101 now at Wirksworth as a museum |
During conversion the Class 489s were gutted internally and had rebuilt bodysides with three pairs of swing doors on either side. One end of the unit had a gangway to allow the guard full access to the train though the driving end did not.
| Information |
| Number built: |
10 (conversions) |
| Built: |
1956 (original)
1983 (conversion) |
| Builder: |
BR Eastleigh |
| Engine: |
2 EE507 traction motors (660-750v DC third rail) |
| Power: |
500 hp (370 kW) |
| Formation: |
Gatwick Luggage Van (GLV) |
Following withdrawal half the class have been preserved though none are in running order with three also serving with Network Rail as de-icing units. Two of the preserved Class 489s are on the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway at
Wirksworth where they are now a buffet and a museum!
 |
| 9107 at Wirksworth |
 |
| Corridor end of 9101 |
 |
| Size view of 9101 |
 |
| Another view of 9107 |
[1] Colin J Marsden, DMU and EMU Recognition Guide (Ian Allan, 2013) p. 372
[2] Brian Haresnape & Alec Swain, Third Rail DC Electric Multiple Units (Ian Allan, 1989) p. 89
