History

The concept of the Mechanical Horse and easily detached articulated trailer was first introduced in the early 1930’s and for the next 30 years it proved to be highly successful and irreplaceable. However, by the late 1960’s British Railways, the principal users of the vehicles, were changing the way they handled their goods traffic and because of the heavier weights involved greater use was made of trailers fitted with the fifth wheel coupling. Some four wheel tractor units fitted with the Scammell automatic coupling continued to be used for a further ten years but new regulations relating to braking requirements meant it was the end of the road for the three wheeled Mechanical Horse. Some were retained as yard shunters but the vast majority had a one-way ticket to the breakers yard.

The history of these vehicles can be accessed from the menus above or the links below;