View source for British Rail Class 73

{{Short description|British bi-mode locomotive}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2020}}
{{Use British English|date=February 2015}}
{{Infobox locomotive
| name = British Rail Class 73
| powertype = Bi-mode (electro-diesel)
| image = Highlander sleeper diverted to Oban - February 2016 (5) (geograph 4833956).jpg
| caption = A [[GB Railfreight]] Class 73/9 at {{stnlnk|Connel Ferry}} in 2016
| builder = ''73/0:'' [[British Rail]]ways at [[Eastleigh Works]]<br />''73/1:'' [[English Electric]] at [[Vulcan Foundry]]
| serialnumber = 
| builddate = ''73/0:'' 1962<br />''73/1:'' 1965–1967
| totalproduction = 49
| gauge = {{RailGauge|ussg|allk=on}}
| primemover = [[English Electric diesel engines|English Electric 4SRKT Mk II]]<br /> 2 × [[Cummins UK|Cummins]] QSK19 (73951-2)<br />[[MTU Friedrichshafen|MTU]] 8V 4000 R43L (73961-971)
| generator = 
| tractionmotors = ''73/0:'' EE 542A<br />''73/1:'' EE 546/1B
| Britishclass = [[Bo-Bo]]
| aarwheels = [[AAR wheel arrangement|B-B]]
| uicclass = Bo'Bo'
| wheeldiameter = {{convert|3|ft|4|in|mm|0|abbr=on}}
| trainbrakes = [[Vacuum brake|Vacuum]], [[Railway air brake|Air]] and [[Electro-pneumatic brake system on British railway trains|Electropneumatic]]
| locobrakeforce = 
| length = {{convert|16.36|m|ftin||abbr=on}}
| width = 
| height = 
| locoweight = ''73/0:'' {{convert|76.3|LT|t ST|lk=on}}<br />''73/1:'' {{convert|76.8|LT|t ST|lk=on}}
| electricsystem = 660–750 [[Volt|V]] [[Direct current|DC]] [[Third rail]]
| collectionmethod = [[Contact shoe]]
| maxspeed = ''73/0:'' {{convert|80|mph|km/h|0|abbr=on}}<br />''73/1:'' {{convert|90|mph|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
| poweroutput = ''Electric (continuous):'' {{convert|1420|hp|0|abbr=on|lk=on}}<br />''Electric (one-hour):'' {{convert|1600|hp|0|abbr=on}}<br />''Engine:'' {{convert|600|hp|0|abbr=on}}<br />''73/9:'' {{convert|1600|hp|0|abbr=on}}
| tractiveeffort = ''73/0 (electric)'': {{convert|42000|lbf|kN|1|abbr=on|lk=on}}<br />''73/0 (diesel):'' {{convert|34100|lbf|kN|1|abbr=on}}<br />''73/1 (electric):'' {{convert|40000|lbf|kN|1|abbr=on}}<br />''73/1 (diesel):'' {{convert|36000|lbf|kN|1|abbr=on}}
| fuelcap = 
| trainheating = [[Electric Train Heating]]
| multipleworking = ''73/9:'' AAR system<br />([[British Rail Class 59|59]], [[British Rail Class 66|66]], [[British Rail Class 67|67]], [[British Rail Class 68|68]] 008-015, [[British Rail Class 69|69]], [[British Rail Class 70|70]], and 73/9)
| axleloadclass = [[Route availability]] 6
| operator = {{ubl|[[British Rail]]|[[GB Railfreight]]|[[Network Rail]]|[[Southern (Govia Thameslink Railway)|Southern]]|[[South Western Railway (train operating company)|South Western Railway]]}}
| fleetnumbers = E6001–E6049<br />later 73001–73006, 73101–73142
| deliverydate = 
| firstrundate = 
| lastrundate = 
| withdrawndate = 1972 (1), 1982 (1), 1991–present
| preservedunits = 
| restoredate = 
| scrapdate = 
| currentowner = 
| disposition = 6 preserved, 27 still in service<br />6 stored, 10 scrapped
}}

The '''British Rail Class 73''' is a British [[electro-diesel locomotive]]. This type is unusual in that it can operate on the Southern Region's 650 / 750&nbsp;V DC [[third rail]] power supply, or an onboard diesel engine to allow it to be used on non-electrified routes. This makes it very versatile, although the diesel engine produces less power than is available from the third-rail power supply, so the locomotives are rarely used outside of the former [[Southern Region of British Railways|Southern Region]] of [[British Rail]]. It is one of the first bi-mode locomotives ever built. Following the withdrawal and scrapping of the more powerful [[British Rail Class 74|Class 74]] bi-mode locomotives in 1977, the Class 73 was unique on the British railway network until the introduction of the [[British Rail Class 88|Class 88]] bi-mode locomotives in 2017. Ten locomotives have been scrapped.

== History ==
{{More citations needed section|date=September 2020}}
[[File:73101 John Griffiths.jpg|thumb|right|Class 73/1 73101 in BR blue livery]]
The [[Southern Railway (UK)|Southern Railway]]'s expanding third rail electric passenger network (which had begun as far back as 1915) was until 1941 a purely passenger [[electric multiple unit]] (EMU) system. This was because it was necessary to have gaps in the third rail for level crossings, etc., which effectively prevented the use of electric locomotives on either passenger or freight. The problem was solved when [[Oliver Bulleid]] became Chief Mechanical Engineer in 1937 and began work with Chief Electrical Engineer Alfred Raworth. To overcome the problem of gaps in the third rail three experimental locomotives were built (which later became the [[British Rail Class 70 (electric)|British Rail Class 70]]) which were fitted with large [[flywheel]]s that maintained momentum long enough to avoid stalling in gaps. The second problem for freight train operation by electric locomotives was the serious hazard that would result if the 750 V DC third rail was laid in [[goods yard]]s, as this would be a danger to personnel on the ground and also present some complex issues loading and unloading many types of freight wagons. The initial solution was to install simple tramway-type overhead wires to carry the 750 V supply in certain yards and add a pantograph on the locomotive roofs.

As a continuation of the Southern Railway's policy of electrification, British Railways then began electrifying the main lines to the [[Kent Coast line|Kent Coast]] as part of the [[1955 Modernisation Plan]]. In addition to the few hundred new EMUs required, a small fleet of 25 [[Bo-Bo]] electric locomotives of {{convert|2552|hp|kW|abbr=on}} classed type "HA" (later [[British Rail Class 71|Class 71]]) were built to deal with freight, parcels, and the few remaining locomotive-hauled passenger trains in Kent, such as the "[[Night Ferry]]" and "[[Golden Arrow (train)|Golden Arrow]]" services. These locomotives also had a flywheel and pantograph, and were able to work in the more important freight yards across Kent that were fitted with the simple 750 V overhead wire system. This system was brought into use across Kent between 1959 and 1961.

Although successful this system did require considerable extra cost, and maintenance, and still limited freight operations with the new locomotives to those goods yards fitted with the catenary. Something more versatile was needed. Development and advances in both electric locomotive and diesel engine design in the early 1960s resulted in the Southern Region engineers beginning to consider the possibility of a [[electro-diesel locomotive|combined electric and diesel locomotive]]. The requirement was for an electric locomotive with a similar power when using the electrified third rail to the already successful Type 3 Birmingham Railway Carriage and Wagon (BRCW) built diesel locomotives (later [[British Rail Class 33|Class 33]]) then entering service on the Southern. This would be supported by adding a small diesel engine powerful enough to move reasonable freight loads at slow speed within goods yards. The new locomotive design would also need retractable third rail [[contact shoe|pick up shoes]]. This was for two reasons: the first was safety in connection with track relaying jobs, avoiding the problem of bridging a gap and energising a dead section of third rail, and electrocuting track workers who might be in contact with the dead third rail section. The second was to allow locomotives under diesel power to move off and back onto third rail areas without risk of damaging "fixed" third rail pick up shoes.

The Southern Region engineers, having done all the initial design work, set about building a prototype batch of six new "electro-diesel" locomotives at [[Eastleigh Works|Eastleigh Carriage and Wagon Works]] during 1961–1962. The new locomotives had a respectable {{cvt|1,600|hp|kW}} on electric power, and an English Electric {{cvt|600|hp|kW}} diesel engine similar to those used in the Southern Region's diesel electric multiple Unit (DEMU) fleet. To improve versatility yet further, the locomotives were designed so that they could work in multiple with most of the Southern's electric and diesel multiple unit fleets as well as normal carriages and wagons. This meant the locomotives had to also be fitted with drop buckeye couplings and therefore the Pullman rubbing bar, and retractable buffers. The success of these prototype locomotives resulted in British Railways ordering a production batch of a further 43 locomotives from English Electric at the [[Vulcan Foundry]] in [[Newton-le-Willows]]. However minor technical differences prevented the prototypes (classified type "JA") working in multiple with the production examples (classified type "JB"). In all other respects, the new "[[electro-diesel locomotive|electro-diesels]]" proved extremely versatile, to the point where many are still in service after a life of over {{age|1962|01|01}} years.

== Accidents and incidents ==
* On 26 April 1968, locomotive E6023 was derailed at {{rws|Earley}}, [[Berkshire]] when a set of points were moved by mistake.{{sfn|Marsden|1980|loc=Plates 91 and 92}}
* On 8 January 1972, locomotive E6027 collided with [[British Rail Class 411|4-BEP]] no 7004 at [[Horsham railway station|Horsham]], injuring 15.<ref>{{cite report |url=http://www.railwaysarchive.co.uk/documents/MoT_Horsham1972.pdf |title=Report on the Collision that occurred on 8th January 1972 at Horsham Station |publisher=Railway Inspectorate |date=27 December 1973}}</ref>
* On 12 October 1972, locomotive E6001 was hauling a freight train that ran into the rear of a passenger train at {{rws|Wimbledon}}, London due to inattentiveness on the part of the driver. Twelve people were injured.{{sfn|Glover|2001|p=138}}{{sfn|Marsden|1980|loc=Plates 89 and 90}}
* On 16 January 1982, 73&nbsp;115 was hauling a departmental train which [[signal passed at danger|overran signals]] and ran into the rear of a parcels train at {{rws|East Croydon}}.<ref name=EC>{{cite report |url= http://www.railwaysarchive.co.uk/documents/DoT_EastCroydon1982.pdf |title= Report on the Collision that occurred on 16th January 1982 in East Croydon Station in the Southern Region of British Railways |author= Department of Transport |publisher= Her Majesty's Stationery Office |date=17 January 1985 |access-date= 16 May 2017}}</ref> The severely damaged locomotive was withdrawn and subsequently scrapped.<ref name="n73115">{{cite web |url= http://www.railuk.info/diesel/getloco.php?item=%2073115 |title= Class 73/1 Number 73115 |publisher= Railuk |access-date= 16 May 2017 |archive-date= 24 July 2018 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20180724002322/http://www.railuk.info/diesel/getloco.php?item=%2073115 |url-status= dead }}</ref> Locomotive 73&nbsp;006 was hauling the parcels train that was run into.<ref name=EC />

== Description ==
[[File:E6013 at Rowsley South.jpg|thumb|right|Class 73 no. E6013 (73107) at Rowsley South, on the [[Peak Rail]]way on 17 April 2003. This locomotive was on loan from [[Fragonset Railways]] and has since returned to main-line service.]]
This class of 49 locomotives were built in two batches using [[English Electric]] components. The first six locomotives were built by BR at Eastleigh Carriage and Wagon Works and introduced to service during 1962; they were built to the Hastings Line gauge, numbered E6001-E6006 and classified as type '''JA'''.<ref name="kent">{{cite web | url=http://www.kentrail.org.uk/Class%2073.htm | title=Class 73 | work=Kent Rail | access-date=13 February 2014 | last=Glasspool | first=David}}</ref> With the introduction of [[TOPS]] in 1968 they were to have been classified as '''Class 72''', to differentiate from the later built units. However, instead they became '''Class 73/0'''. In the early 1970s the locomotives were renumbered 73001-73006.

Following successful trials of the initial locomotives, a production run of 43 locomotives were ordered as part of the Bournemouth Electrification and built by English Electric at their [[Vulcan Foundry]] between 1965 and 1967. They were initially classified as '''Class JB''' and numbered E6007-E6049.<ref name="kent" /> They differed slightly from the six earlier machines, most notably having an increased tractive effort as well as a higher maximum speed (90&nbsp;mph as opposed to 80). Following the introduction of TOPS, they became '''Class 73/1''' and were renumbered 73101-73142. One locomotive, E6027, had already been withdrawn following accident damage and so was not renumbered. Further changes were the use of large round Oleo buffers with a pneumatic withdrawal mechanism rather than the traditional coach style (oval) saddle buffer which relied on a pin and spring mechanism. As the JA examples came in for overhaul over the years, the saddle buffers were also replaced making visual identification of the differing machines almost impossible from a distance.

From new, all members of the class were fitted with the Pullman style rubbing plate between the buffers allowing them to close couple with Southern Region electro-pneumatically controlled [[electric multiple unit]]s and [[diesel electric multiple unit]]s for [[push-pull train]] operation – the reason for retractable buffers.

Being built to the Hastings Line gauge, the locomotives were able to be used on all routes of BR's Southern Region network.

== Technical details ==
{{Unreferenced section|date=May 2023}}<!--This applies to this section even if one line in one subsection below does have one citation-->
The design parameter of the Class 73 was to provide a secondary main line electric locomotive to the then Southern Region’s "mixed traffic" requirements, with the added ability to deliver, shunt and collect freight to and from yards adjoining the electrified network under diesel power. The shunting requirement meant these locomotives had dual controls on both sides of the cab.

The limitations of a 1,600&nbsp;hp electric locomotive meant that it was only capable of hauling maximum ten-coach trains to the proposed post-steam era Southern Region express timings, as were the similarly powered Type 3 BRCW Class 33 diesel locos with 1,550&nbsp;hp. Southern express electric multiple units had, by comparison, at least 1,000&nbsp;hp per four-car unit. To assume that the Class 73 was suitable to haul passenger or freight trains away from the electrified network with just a 600&nbsp;hp diesel engine would be unrealistic. In fact the use of the slightly more powerful Class 74 electro-diesels, with 650&nbsp;hp on diesel, to haul parcels trains up Poole Bank and work freight trains around the West London Line to Acton, Brent and Willesden, resulted in repeated failures; this was, therefore, a major contributory factor to that class's early demise.

There were eight third rail collector shoes on the Class 73 – four per bogie with two each side. These shoes were of the retractable type – a necessity for both safety and operational reasons, as described above. They could cope with all the then (1965) voltages of 660V and 750V as well as the 800V of the Bournemouth electrification beyond Pirbright Junction south of Woking (from autumn 1966). 660V was phased out in line with pre-BR type electric multiple unit (EMU) withdrawals, the last EMUs incapable of working in passenger service on anything greater than 660V being the [[4SUB]] Bulleid design. Thus all BR post-1951 EMU designs could cope with 750V or 800V.

Gaps in the third rail at complex pointwork or level crossings mean that a short electric locomotive such as Class 73 is liable to momentarily lose power when passing over. This results in noticeable arcing if the driver does not shut off power. However, this rarely affects the locomotives, except to burn out the carbon brush pick-up shoes more quickly. The issue of arcing only became a problem when some of these locomotives were altered to work "Gatwick Express" services using modified Mark 2 coaching stock and 500&nbsp;hp Gatwick Luggage Vans (GLVs), as 750V power jumpers between locos or units were banned on BR designs (the last EMUs to have such jumpers were the Bulleid designed 4SUBs). The Class 73s therefore could not benefit from the pick-up shoes at the opposite end of the train on the GLV. As a result of removing the last bank of resistance on the Class 73 locos to make these trains accelerate more quickly, arcing increased. Therefore, to reduce damage to other electrical equipment from the increased arcing, these particular locomotives had "flash guards" fitted on their bogies around the shoes. Stories of Class 73s catching fire were greatly exaggerated.

The Class 73 locomotives were very versatile, with dual cab controls; three brake systems (vacuum, air and EPB) as detailed below; a well-designed cab with good sighting that aided shunting; the ability to work fitted freight (fully braked) and unfitted freight (no train brakes) as well as locomotive-hauled coaching stock; the ability to work in multiple with blue star coded diesel locomotives; and the ability to operate in multiple with the Southern's diesel electric multiple unit fleet (Class 73/0) or its electric multiple unit fleet (Class 73/1). 

=== Power supply ===
{{Expand section|date=April 2011}}
Unlike the previous Southern Region [[British Rail Class 70 (electric)|Class 70]] and [[British Rail Class 71|Class 71]] electric locomotives, these did not have a [[booster (electric power)|booster]] to maintain traction power over gaps in the conductor rail. However, they could move forward onto an electrified section under diesel power.
<!--
 This comment includes the relevant bits from the talk-page discussion for this section:

:#no booster was necessary because of the Diesel engine – the boosters fitted to class 71 were mainly to keep the locos going if gapped, and if a class 73 became gapped they'd start the engine, move the train forward onto the live rail and stop the engine.
 -->

=== Diesel engine and generator ===
{{Expand section|date=April 2011}}
[[File:Clapham Junction - geograph.org.uk - 581730.jpg|thumb|A British Rail Class 73 with a parcels van and carriages under [[British Rail]] carrying the mail in 1986 through [[Clapham Junction railway station|Clapham Junction]].]]

The {{convert|600|hp|0}} [[English Electric diesel engines|English Electric 4SRKT Mk II]] diesel engine was less powerful, but more reliable than the {{convert|650|hp|0}} [[Paxman (engines)|Paxman]] 6YJXL fitted to the later
[[British Rail Class 74|Class 74]] electro-diesel locomotives.

=== Traction control ===
{{Expand section|material similar to that in the [[British Rail Class 74]] section on [[British Rail Class 74#Electronic traction control|Electronic traction control]]|date=April 2011}}
The Class 73 was fitted with two separate power controllers on the driver's desk (and replicated on the secondman's side); one for electric or auxiliary power (under diesel power) and the other only for diesel power. The auxiliary power arrangement was to accommodate diesel operation when being driven from mainline EMU stock.

=== Multiple working ===
[[Multiple working]] is when two or more locomotives are coupled together and controlled by a driver in the leading driving position. This was achieved with the aid of the standard SR 27-wire jumper connection system, a design that ensured excellent compatibility. They could work with other [[British Rail Class 33|33/1]], [[British Rail Class 71|71]], [[British Rail Class 74|74]], locomotives (in fact any type 2,3 or 4 blue-star coded mainline locomotive) and EP multiple unit stock.

In order for the Class 73s to achieve their maximum versatility, the locomotives also had to have multiple brake systems. When built in the 1960s, this required vacuum brakes for use with freight, most locomotive-hauled carriages, and many other locomotives, including steam; also air brakes for use with the newest BR-designed wagons, and newer types of passenger carriages and locomotives; and, for use with the Southern's electric and diesel multiple unit fleets, the Electro Pneumatic Brake (EPB).

Class 73/9 variants have been fitted with the AAR system,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.railmagazine.com/trains/current-trains/built-in-the-1960s-rebuilt-for-the-21st-century |title=Built in the 1960s… rebuilt for the 21st century |access-date=20 January 2020 |author=Rail Magazine}}</ref> allowing for multiple working with Classes [[British Rail Class 59|59]], [[British Rail Class 66|66]] & [[British Rail Class 67|67]].

=== Couplings ===
[[File:GNER-91116-coupling-01.jpg|thumb|British-style [[Dual coupling|dual]] [[Buffers and chain coupler|buffer-and-chain]]/automatic coupler with [[Janney coupler|knuckle]] swung out of the way (drop head)]]
The Class 73s also have [[Dual coupling|two couplings]]; a rigid semi-automatic type known as the "[[Buckeye coupler|buckeye]]", needed for coupling to most types of coaching stock, and the then-BR(SR) types of Multiple unit. The knuckle of this coupling could be lowered on a hinge (by removing a locating pin in its shank) to reveal the classic British hook. Over the hook could be coupled a [[Buffers and chain coupler#Three-link couplings|"3 Link" chain coupling]], or an "[[Instanter]]" chain type, or a "[[Screwlink]]" chain type. However, the rigid "Buckeye" type coupling,  because it maintains a fixed distance between vehicles, presents a dangerous problem when buffers are present. The standard British buffer is needed to cope with the variable distance of chain-type couplings, to reduce buffeting and snatching behaviour. But with the shorter rigid Buckeye in use, the buffers cannot compact enough in curves and would derail one or both vehicles. So, buffers on Buckeye fitted vehicles have to be of the "Retractable" type. They are extended when chain type coupling is in use, but retracted out of the way so they cannot touch when the Buckeye is in use. This then presents another problem: how will buffing and snatching be dealt with when the Buckeye is in use? The solution is to move the buffing control to the centre of the vehicle, where the change in angles between vehicle corners is greatly reduced in curves; hence the "Pullman Rubbing Bar" seen between the buffers on Class 73 locos, and Class 33/1 diesels. This flat-looking plate is mounted on two hydraulic rams to act like a buffer. Its shape is actually the floor section of a Pullman Gangway connection as seen on Buckeye fitted coaches (such as Mk1 types) or Multiple units. The Pullman gangway connection, being itself semi-rigid, has a similar two hydraulic rams hidden behind its floor section to do the job of buffing, so it happily matches the Pullman Rubbing Plate in size and shape on the Class 73.

The Class 73/1s were noted being delivered from English Electric's plant at Newton-le-Willows working in Multiple with new Class 20 1,000&nbsp;hp diesels as these were being built at the same plant concurrently, so only one driver was needed to move both locos under (diesel) power. In normal use the Class 73/1s were often seen working with Bournemouth line electric TC (non-powered) sets, which allowed such trains to be driven in Push-Pull mode.
Although technically possible, the Class 73/1s were not allowed to work in multiple or tandem with the Bournemouth line 4REP EMUs as this would exceed the "Current Limit Index" (CLI). The CLI is a rating system for all electrically powered stock, and to exceed the maximum permitted can result in sub stations and other electrical equipment being damaged.

== Operations ==
{{More citations needed|section|date=December 2022}}

=== British Rail ===
[[File:73 on Gatwick Express.jpg|thumb|Class 73 on Gatwick Express]]
<!--
 This comment includes the relevant bits from the talk-page discussion for this section:
{{Expand section|how did they perform in service|date=April 2011}}
- Were they used on the Boat Trains or with the [[British Rail Class 432|4-REP EMUs]] and /or [[British Rail Class 438|4-TC trailer units]], or mostly for freight?
:#Boat trains yes; freight yes; 4-TC yes; 4-REP rarely. Although the control system was compatible, the current drawn by a 4-REP effectively prevented them from working in multiple with anything else which was also running off the juice. A class 73 running on Diesel could work with a 4-REP OK.
 -->

During 1984, a small subfleet of Class 73s were dedicated to work the upgraded Gatwick Express service, which would feature a Class 73 at the southern end, a rake of air-conditioned Mk2f coaches which had been modified to carry Southern Region multiple unit control jumpers, and a [[British Rail Class 489|Class 489 "GLV"]] (themselves converted from former [[British Rail Class 414|Class 414]] driving Motor coaches) at the north end.  Both the Class 73 and the GLV provided power, and the trains ran non-stop between [[London Victoria station|London Victoria]] and [[Gatwick Airport railway station|Gatwick Airport.]]

=== Post-privatisation operations ===
Since privatisation, the Class 73 fleet has been reduced in size following the large-scale withdrawals of the [[DB Cargo UK|EWS]] and [[Gatwick Express]] fleets. However, many smaller operators have acquired locomotives, so their continued use is assured for the foreseeable future.

==== Eurostar ====
[[File:73130 eurostar 73 on railtour 28956614145.jpg|thumb|Eurostar Class 73 73130 at Finmere in preservation hauling 4CIG 1753 on an open day at this former Great Central station site in 2016.]]
[[Eurostar]] owned and formerly operated two Class 73 locomotives, which were specially modified to enable them to haul a [[British Rail Class 373|Eurostar unit]]. The two locomotives; 73118 and 73130, have additional coupling equipment fitted and were primarily used to rescue failed Eurostar sets, or to haul them over non-electrified routes. They were rarely used away from [[North Pole depot]]. When Eurostar moved its operations to the new [[Temple Mills TMD|Temple Mills]] depot and onto the overhead wiring of [[High Speed 1]] in 2007, the Class 73 locomotives became redundant and were loaned to educational initiatives: 73130 went to [[RailSchool]] in East London and 73118 went to [[Barry Tourist Railway|Barry Rail Centre]] in South Wales. Subsequently, when RailSchool failed, 73130 was loaned to the [[Bluebell Railway]] but is stored away from the railway. As of 5 November 2022 73130 is now in the hands of the 73130 Ltd based at the [[Llanelli and Mynydd Mawr Railway]] in Carmarthenshire.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=llanellirailway |date=2022-11-05 |title=From Portsmouth to Llanelli via the North Pole |url=https://www.llanellirailway.co.uk/single-post/from-portsmouth-to-llanelli-via-the-north-pole |access-date=2022-11-05 |website=llanellirailway |language=en}}</ref>

==== FM Rail ====
[[FM Rail]] (previously Fragonset Railways) bought several redundant locomotives from EWS. Most of these were initially stored at various locations around the country, including preservation sites, such as the [[Watercress Line|Mid-Hants Railway]], the [[Peak Rail]]way and the [[Dartmoor Railway]]. Some of these locomotives were repaired for use on these [[heritage railway]]s, such as number 73134 on the Dartmoor Railway.

One locomotive, number 73107 [[Supermarine Spitfire|"Spitfire"]] returned to mainline traffic in 2004 following overhaul. It was repainted in Fragonset's black freight livery, and was expected to be used on empty coaching stock moves associated with charter trains. It was regularly hired to [[GB Railfreight|First GBRf]] from late 2004 as cover for their fleet and was based at [[c2c (1996–2025)|c2c]]'s [[East Ham Depot]] along with the Blue [[Pullman train (UK)|Pullman Rake.]] In 2007 it was acquired by [[RT Rail]] and has been overhauled and repainted in a GBRf-esque livery at [[St Leonards TMD|St. Leonards Depot.]]

==== Gatwick Express / Southern ====
[[File:Gatex 73211 at Horley on 07.04.2001 5214845573.jpg|thumb|73211 with a Gatwick Express train at Horley in April 2001.]]
Until mid-2005, [[Gatwick Express]] operated several Class 73s with [[British Rail Class 488|Class 488]] coaching stock and [[British Rail Class 489|Class 489]] GLVs. These have now been withdrawn and replaced by EMUs. However, 73202 was retained as a "Thunderbird" engine to rescue failed EMUs.  Along with the rest of the Gatwick Express franchise, it later passed to [[Southern (train operating company)|Southern]]. The locomotive, formerly "Dave Berry", was renamed "Graham Stenning" after the company's Apprentice Manager, at [[Brighton Lovers Walk Traction and Rolling Stock Maintenance Depot|Brighton Lovers Walk Depot]] on 11 December 2015.

==== GB Railfreight ====
[[File:Long Rock 2019 - GBRf 73107, 50049 and 50007 (aka 50014).JPG|thumb|73107 is on display at Long Rock Depot open day, along with freshly painted 50049 and 50007.]]
[[File:73966, Class 73 Electro-diesel in Caledonian Sleeper livery at Fort William Station.JPG|thumb|73966 in Caledonian Sleeper livery at Fort William Station.]]
[[GB Railfreight]] is the newest operator of Class 73 locomotives, having bought six redundant Gatwick Express locomotives, numbers 73203-207 and 73209. Four of these (73204-206 and 209) have now been returned to traffic after overhaul by [[Fragonset Railways|Fragonset]] at [[Derby]]. They have been repainted in the company's blue and orange livery and named after female employees. The locomotives are primarily used on engineering trains originating from [[Eastleigh]] and [[Tonbridge]]. The former company First GBRf purchased 73208 and repainted it into [[BR Blue]]. In early 2009 73207 was repainted in Large Logo Blue and used for shunting duties in Whitemoor Yard. First GBRf also acquired 73141, 73212 and 73213, with all three painted in the new First Group livery; however, 73212 lacks the [[FirstGroup]] logo. 73141 was named 'Charlotte' in July 2009, which was known for being named twice in February 2009.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.southernelectric.org.uk/news/network-rail/gbrfedls02.html |title=Electro-Diesel 73141 Named Twice |publisher=Southern Electric Group|author=<!-- Staff writer(s); no by-line. -->|access-date=5 April 2012}}</ref> Now operated by the [[Eurotunnel Group]], the trains are now being de-branded from the First Group branding. 73119 was purchased from Knights Rail Services in September 2011 and returned to service in June 2012. In 2013, Class 73s 73109 and 73136 were brought by GB Railfreight. They have since been repainted along with First GBRf liveried 73141, 212 and 73213 at St. Leonards Depot into GB Railfreight livery.

Commencing in 2013, five GB Railfreight Class 73s were re-engined as Class 73/9 by [[Brush Traction]] Wabtec at their factory in [[Loughborough]]. The first three converted locomotives, renumbered 73961-3 from 73209, 73204 and 73206 respectively, were fitted with [[MTU Friedrichshafen|MTU]] 1,600&nbsp;hp V8 engines.<ref>"GBRF's New Class 73s close to completion", ''Modern Railways'', February 2014, p.87.</ref> All existing mechanical and electrical components were removed prior to the re-fit, and the frontal appearance of the locomotives has been altered by the provision of light clusters and the installation of a more central location for the [[jumper cables]]. The dual driving positions have been retained although with a new design for the driver's controls. The refurbished locomotives will be capable of working with existing Class 73/1 and 73/2 units in either diesel or electric mode.<ref>"GBRF, s first class 73/9 is close to completion", ''Railways Illustrated'', March 2014, p.8-9.</ref> The first completed locomotive, 73962 (ex-73204), was unveiled on 3 August 2014 at Brush Traction Loughborough.

GB Railfreight use re-engined Class 73/9 locomotives to haul the [[Caledonian Sleeper]]. They are used for the non-electrified sections of the route, running from [[Edinburgh]] to [[Aberdeen]], [[Inverness]] and [[Fort William, Highland|Fort William]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.railway-technology.com/news/newsuks-gbrf-to-provide-train-drivers-and-traction-for-caledonian-sleeper-franchise-4515921|title=UK's GBRf to provide train drivers and traction for Caledonian Sleeper franchise|publisher=railway-technology.com|date=19 February 2015|access-date=30 October 2015|archive-date=8 December 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208080519/http://www.railway-technology.com/news/newsuks-gbrf-to-provide-train-drivers-and-traction-for-caledonian-sleeper-franchise-4515921|url-status=dead}}</ref>

==== Merseyrail Electrics ====
[[Arriva Trains Merseyside|Merseyrail Electrics]] had a fleet of four '''Class 73/0''' locomotives (numbers 73001/2/5/6), based at [[Birkenhead North TMD]], for use on shunting and other departmental duties. Two, numbers 73001 and 73006, were repainted into Merseyrail's yellow livery; they were later fitted with [[sandite]] discharging equipment and reclassified as '''Class 73/9'''.<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Elusive 'JA' back in use on Merseyside|page=53|issue=299|date=26 February – 11 March 1997|magazine=[[Rail (magazine)|Rail]]|publisher=EMAP Apex Publications|issn=0953-4563|oclc=49953699}}</ref> All four locomotives were withdrawn from traffic by 2002, and all were later sold for preservation.

73004 was also owned by Merseyrail during this period. It was used as a source of spare parts and was the first to be cut up.
==== Network Rail ====
[[File:73951 at Eastleigh Works.jpg|thumb|right|No. 73951 (previously 73104 and E6010) at Eastleigh works on 31 October 2015 following conversion to Ultra73 specification.]]
[[Network Rail]] inherited two redundant Gatwick Express locomotives, numbers 73212 and 73213, from its predecessor [[Railtrack]]. These were overhauled and painted in Railtrack's company's blue and green livery. They were used on engineering trains associated with an upgrade of electrical supply systems on the former Southern Region.

A third locomotive, number 73141, was originally bought for spare parts, but was returned to traffic in case of failure of one of the other two locomotives. The locomotives were later repainted into Network Rail all-over-yellow with red [[buffer beam]]s.

In 2009, 73141 was acquired by [[GB Railfreight|First GBRf]], with 73212 and 73213 following shortly afterward.

Two locomotives, numbers 73211 and 73104, were completely rebuilt by Rail Vehicle Engineering Limited ([[RVEL]])<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.rvel.co.uk/ |title=RVEL |publisher=RVEL |access-date=5 April 2012 |archive-date=11 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200811131944/https://rvel.co.uk/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> of [[Derby]]. The 600&nbsp;hp diesel engine was removed and replaced by a pair of [[Cummins UK|Cummins]] QSK19 750&nbsp;hp diesel engines, increasing the total diesel horsepower to 1,500.<ref>[http://www.railwaygazette.com/news/business/single-view/view/repowered-class-73-to-roll-out-next-year.html Repowered Class 73 to roll out next year] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190801142143/http://www.railwaygazette.com/news/business/single-view/view/repowered-class-73-to-roll-out-next-year.html |date=1 August 2019 }} – Railway Gazette. Retrieved 14 August 2014.</ref> The locomotives are used by Network Rail and are classified 73/9.<ref>Railways Illustrated, May 2012, pp 30–31, ISSN 1479-2230</ref> The Cummins QSK19 is the same engine used in the [[British Rail Class 220|Class 220]] and [[British Rail Class 221|Class 221]] [[diesel multiple unit]]s. 73101 has been sold from preservation and will be added to the overhaul program. The first prototype of Network Rail's new 'Ultra73' locomotives was unveiled on Friday 13 June 2014 at RVEL in Derby.<ref>[http://www.rvel.co.uk/2014/06/first-view-of-ultra73-locomotive/ First view of ‘Ultra73′ locomotive] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140814105423/http://www.rvel.co.uk/2014/06/first-view-of-ultra73-locomotive/# |date=14 August 2014 }} – RVEL. Retrieved 14 August 2014.</ref>

Both of Network Rail's Class 73/9s were put up for sale in August 2023 as surplus to requirements.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-08-23 |title=Network Rail puts three Class 73 locomotives up for sale |url=https://www.railadvent.co.uk/2023/08/network-rail-puts-three-class-73-locomotives-up-for-sale.html |access-date=2023-12-30 |website=RailAdvent |language=en-GB}}</ref>

==== RT Rail ====
[[RT Rail]] acquired loco number 73107 from [[FM Rail]] in 2007, and had it overhauled and repainted at St. Leonards Depot.

==== South Western Railway ====
[[South West Trains]] inherited one locomotive, number 73109, which is used as a "Thunderbird" rescue locomotive. It was named in 1990 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the [[Battle of Britain]]. It is affectionately known as "BoB" by [[railfan|rail enthusiasts]].

South West Trains later expanded its fleet, by leasing two more locomotives from [[Porterbrook]], numbers. 73201 and 73235. Both are former Gatwick Express locomotives. The first of these, number 73235, was overhauled in early 2005 and repainted in the new [[British Rail Class 450|Desiro]] blue livery. It was joined by number 73201 later in the same year. Around the same time, number 73109 was also repainted into the new blue livery. 73109 was acquired by Transmart Trains in 2009.

73235 is being used for shunting at [[Bournemouth Traction and Rolling Stock Maintenance Depot|Bournemouth Depot]] since the transition to the new franchise holder [[South Western Railway (train operating company)|South Western Railway]].

==== Transmart Trains (formerly The Class 73 Locomotive Preservation Company) ====
The Class 73 Locomotive Preservation Company (C73LPC) formed in 2004 to manage locomotive 73136 at [[Stewarts Lane]] Depot, London.
73136, the last 73 operated by EWS was renamed "Perseverance", is now fully fitted with [[Train Protection & Warning System|TPWS]] and [[Train event recorder|OTMR]] equipment following the implementation of OTMR during the summer of 2006. The locomotive is registered for use on the national rail network and is available for either short term 'spot' hire or medium-term contracts. The locomotive was hired to the [[Bluebell Railway]] during 2009 to assist with its Northern Extension to [[East Grinstead]]. In August 2006, the company was contracted by GBRf to repaint GBRf's 73208 into BR Blue for future use on charter work with 73136. The company has also restored 73210 at Stewarts Lane Depot, this locomotive is privately owned. The locomotive moved to its new home on the [[Mid Norfolk Railway]] in September 2008.

The Class 73 Locomotive Preservation Company changed ownership in 2009 and was renamed Transmart Trains in 2010. Following the takeover, the company expanded its operations and managed five Class 73 locomotives. These were 73109, 73118, 73133, 73136 and 73211. Number 73211 had been stripped for spares and is unlikely to return to service in its original form. 73133 has since been sold to a partner group of Transmart, and left Selhurst by road for a new life at Barry Island. Subsequently, the locomotive was transited by rail to South West Trains [[Bournemouth Train & Rolling Stock Maintenance Depot|Bournemouth Depot]] on long term hire.

In 2013, Class 73s 73109 and 73136 were sold on for further use with [[GB Railfreight]]. They have since been repainted along with [[GB Railfreight|First GBRf]] liveried 73141, 73212 and 73213 at St. Leonards Depot into GB Railfreight livery.

== Preservation ==
[[File:E6006 Bridgnorth.jpg|thumb|right|No.E6006 in preservation at [[Bridgnorth railway station|Bridgnorth]] on the [[Severn Valley Railway]]]]
[[File:Class 73s at Dereham in 2008.jpg|thumb|right|73210 and 73136 at [[Dereham railway station|Dereham]] on the [[Mid-Norfolk Railway]]]]
Several locomotives have been preserved on [[heritage railway]]s, where perforce they run on their diesel engines: no preserved line has third rail electrification.

== Fleet ==

=== Summary ===
{| class="wikitable"
|-
!Class
!No. built<br />(Converted*)
!No. range
!align=left|Operators
!align=left|Loco nos.
!No. in traffic
!Withdrawn
!No. preserved
|-
|align=center|'''Class 73/0'''
|align=center|6
|align=center|73001-73006
|align=center|-
|align=center|-
|align=center|'''-'''
|align=center|1998–2002
| style="text-align:center;"|3
|-
| rowspan="4" style="text-align:center;"|'''Class 73/1'''
| rowspan="4" style="text-align:center;"|43
| rowspan="4" style="text-align:center;"|73101-73142
|align=left|[[Eurostar]]
|align=left|73118, 73130
|align=center|'''2'''
|align=center|2007<ref>{{cite press release |url=http://www.eurostar.com/UK/uk/leisure/about_eurostar/press_release/press_archive_2007/Eurostar_loans_a_class_73_locomotive.jsp |date=20 June 2007 |title=Eurostar loans a class 73 locomotive for South Wales regeneration initiative |publisher=Eurostar |access-date=<!---21 August 2007---> |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090529053908/http://www.eurostar.com/UK/uk/leisure/about_eurostar/press_release/press_archive_2007/Eurostar_loans_a_class_73_locomotive.jsp |archive-date=29 May 2009 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite press release |url=http://www.eurostar.com/UK/uk/leisure/about_eurostar/press_release/press_archive_2007/2007_06_26_railschool.jsp |date=26 June 2007 |title=Eurostar teams up with Railschool in East London to create training opportunities for young people |publisher=Eurostar |access-date=<!---21 August 2007---> |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090529060334/http://www.eurostar.com/UK/uk/leisure/about_eurostar/press_release/press_archive_2007/2007_06_26_railschool.jsp |archive-date=29 May 2009 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
|rowspan=4 style="text-align:center;"|8
|-
|align=left|[[Nemesis Rail]]
|align=left|73114
|align=center|'''1'''
|align=center|-
|-
|align=left|[[GB Railfreight]]
|align=left|73107, 73109, 73119, 73128, 73136, 73141
|align=center|'''6'''
|align=center|-
|-
|align=left|[[Network Rail]]
|align=left|73138
|align=center|'''1'''
|align=center|-
|-
| rowspan="2" style="text-align:center;"|'''Class 73/2'''
| rowspan="2" style="text-align:center;"|14*
| rowspan="2" style="text-align:center;"|73201-73213, 73235
| align="left" |[[GB Railfreight]]
| align="left" |73201, 73202,<ref name="auto">{{Cite news |last= |title=Sevington Shoeboxes to run from Tonbridge to Nottingham on 11 June |url=https://www.railadvent.co.uk/2023/05/sevington-shoeboxes-to-run-from-tonbridge-to-nottingham-on-11-june.html |access-date=2023-05-24 |work=RailAdvent |date=14 May 2023}}</ref> 73212, 73213
| align="center" |'''4'''
| align="center" | -
| rowspan="2" style="text-align:center;"|1
|-
|align=left|[[South Western Railway (train operating company)|South Western Railway]]
|align=left|73235
|align=center|'''1'''
|align=center|-
|-
|rowspan="2" style="text-align:center;"|'''Class 73/9'''
|rowspan="2" style="text-align:center;"|13*
|align=left style="text-align:center;"|73951-73952
|align=left|[[Network Rail]]
|align=left|73951-73952
|align=center|'''2'''
|align=center|-
|rowspan=2 style="text-align:center;"|0
|-
|align=left style="text-align:center;"|73961-73971
|align=left|[[GB Railfreight]]
|align=left|73961-73971
|align=center|'''11'''
|align=center|-
|}

=== List ===
{{More citations needed|section|date=December 2022}}
{| class="wikitable"
|-
!Key:
|bgcolor=#f0f0f0|In service
|bgcolor=#fee7e6|Stored
|bgcolor=#cccccc|Scrapped
|bgcolor=#eaf3ff|Preserved
|}

{| class="wikitable"
|-
!colspan=4|Numbers
!rowspan=2|Name(s) (Date carried)
!rowspan=2|Operator
!rowspan=2|Livery
!rowspan=2|Status
!rowspan=2|Notes
|-
!<small>Pre-TOPS</small>
!colspan=3|TOPS
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#eaf3ff;"
| |E6001
| |73001
| |73901
| |
| |-
| |[[Locomotive Services Limited]]
| |BR Blue
| |Preserved
| |Withdrawn May 2000. Preserved by [[Locomotive Services Limited]].<ref name="LSL-73s">{{cite magazine |last1=Devereux |first1=Nigel |title=LOCOMOTIVE SERVICES GETS TWO CLASS 73S |url=https://www.railwaymagazine.co.uk/10654/locomotive-services-gets-two-class-73s/ |magazine=The Railway Magazine |date=2 July 2019 |access-date=9 October 2019}}</ref> Currently at [[Crewe Diesel TMD]].
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#fee7e6;"
| |E6002
| |73002
| |-
| |-
| |
| |-
| |BR Blue Large Logo
| |Stored
| |Withdrawn in November 1995 and stored at [[Kirkdale TMD]] as a source of spare parts, along with 73005 (73005 was, however, later resurrected). It was later stored for spares at [[Lydney Junction railway station|Lydney Junction]] on the [[Dean Forest Railway]] and then at its current location, [[Eastleigh Works]]. In 2019, it was acquired by [[Locomotive Services Limited]].<ref name="LSL-73s" /> Despite it being heavy stripped of parts, it retains the power unit from 73132.
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#eaf3ff;"
| |E6003
| |73003
| |-
| |-
| |[[Herbert Ashcombe Walker|''Sir Herbert Walker'']] (1993–)
| |[[Swindon & Cricklade Railway]]
| |BR Green
| |Preserved
| |Withdrawn September 1996. Preserved at [[Swindon & Cricklade Railway]].
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#cccccc;"
| |E6004
| |73004
| |-
| |-
| |[[Bluebell Railway|''The Bluebell Railway'']] (1987–1990)
| |-
| |Bluebell Blue
| |Scrapped
| |Withdrawn September 1991. Used as a source of spare parts for 73003 at [[Isfield railway station|Isfield]]. Scrapped at [[Kingsbury, Warwickshire|Kingsbury]] by [[HNRC]] in February 2004.
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"
| |E6005
| |73005
| |73966
| |-
| |-
| |[[GB Railfreight]]
| |Caledonian Blue
| |In service
| |Converted to Class 73/9 at [[Brush Traction]], [[Loughborough]] in 2015.
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"
| |E6006
| |73006
| |73906
| |73967
| |-
| |[[GB Railfreight]]
| |Caledonian Blue
| |In service
| |Converted to Class 73/9 at [[Brush Traction]], [[Loughborough]] in 2015.
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#fee7e6;"
| |E6007
| |73101
| |-
| |-
| |[[The Argus (Brighton)|''Brighton Evening Argus'']] (1980–1992)<br />[[Royal Alexandra Children's Hospital|''The Royal Alex'']] (1992–)
| |-
| |[[Pullman train (UK)|Pullman]]
| |Stored
| |Withdrawn May 2002. Stored at [[Eastleigh Works]].
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"
| |E6008
| |73102
| |73212
| |-
| |''Airtour Suisse'' (1985–1997)<br />''Fiona''
| |[[GB Railfreight]]
| |GBRf Blue
| |In service
| |
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"
| |E6009
| |73103
| |73968
| |-
| |-
| |[[GB Railfreight]]
| |Caledonian Blue
| |In service
| |Converted to Class 73/9 at [[Brush Traction]], [[Loughborough]] in 2016.
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#fee7e6;"
| |E6010
| |73104
| |73951
| |-
| |''Janis Kong''
| |[[Harry Needle Railroad Company]]
| |Network Rail Yellow
| |Stored
| |Rebuilt as 73/9 in 2014/15 for [[Network Rail]], withdrawn May 2023, sold to Harry Needle Railroad Company October 2023<ref name=RailEXpress330>{{cite magazine|title=HNRC buys rebuilt NR Class 73/9s|magazine=[[Rail Express]]|issue=330|date=November 2023|page=12}}</ref>
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"
| |E6011
| |73105
| |73969
| |-
| |[[Ordnance Survey|''Quadrant'']] (1987–1990)
| |[[GB Railfreight]]
| |Caledonian Blue
| |In service
| |Converted to Class 73/9 at [[Brush Traction]], [[Loughborough]] in 2016.
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#cccccc;"
| |E6012
| |73106
| |-
| |-
| |-
| |-
| |BR Engineers Grey
| |Scrapped
| |Withdrawn February 2000. Scrapped by [[CF Booth]], [[Rotherham]] in September 2004.
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"
| |E6013
| |73107
| |-
| |-
| |[[Redhill, Surrey|''Redhill 1844–1994'']] (1994–1999)<br />[[Supermarine Spitfire|''Spitfire'']] (2004–?)<br />''Tracy'' (?-)
| |[[GB Railfreight]]
| |GBRf blue
| |In service
| |
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#cccccc;"
| |E6014
| |73108
| |-
| |-
| |-
| |-
| |Civil Engineers
| |Scrapped
| |Withdrawn January 2002. Scrapped by [[CF Booth]], [[Rotherham]] in September 2004.
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"
| |E6015
| |73109
| |-
| |-
| |[[Battle of Britain|''Battle of Britain 50th Anniversary'']] (1990–)<br />[[Battle of Britain|''Battle of Britain 80th Anniversary'']] (2020–)
| |[[GB Railfreight]]
| |GBRf blue
| |In service
| |
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#fee7e6;"
| |E6016
| |73110
| |-
| |-
| |-
| |-
| |BR Electric Blue
| |Stored
| |Withdrawn May 2002. Stored at [[Eastleigh Works]].
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#cccccc;"
| |E6017
| |73111
| |-
| |-
| |-
| |-
| |[[InterCity (British Rail)#Executive livery|InterCity Executive]]
| |Scrapped
| |Withdrawn May 1991. Scrapped at [[Stewarts Lane]] in January 1997.
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"
| |E6018
| |73112
| |73213
| |-
| |[[University of Kent|''University of Kent at Canterbury'']] (1990–1997)
| |[[GB Railfreight]]
| |GBRf Blue
| |In service
| |In 1967, it was briefly given full yellow end livery (experimental at the time).
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#fee7e6;"
| |E6019
| |73113
| |73211
| |73952
| |[[West Sussex|''County of West Sussex'']] (1986–1991)<br />''[[Malcolm Brinded]]''
| |[[Harry Needle Railroad Company]]
| |Network Rail Yellow
| |Stored
| |Previously withdrawn at [[Stewarts Lane]] and heavily stripped of parts before being purchased by [[RVEL]]. Rebuilt to become class 73/9 prototype locomotive for [[Network Rail]] in 2014. Completed locomotive unveiled on 13 June 2014. Withdrawn May 2023, sold to Harry Needle Railroad Company October 2023<ref name=RailEXpress330/>
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#eaf3ff;"
| |E6020
| |73114
| |-
| |-
| |[[Stewarts Lane TMD|''Stewarts Lane Traction Maintenance Depot'']] (1994–1999)
| |[[Nemesis Rail]]
| |BR Large Logo
| |Preserved
| |Withdrawn January 1999. Owned by [[Nemesis Rail]].
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#cccccc;"
| |E6021
| |73115
| |-
| |-
| |
| |-
| |BR Blue
| |Scrapped
| |Withdrawn April 1982. Scrapped at [[Slade Green Depot]] in April 1982 after being involved in a [[#Accidents and incidents|serious collision]] at [[East Croydon railway station|East Croydon]] on 16 January 1982.
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#eaf3ff;"
| |E6022
| |73116
| |73210
| |-
| |''[[Selhurst]]'' (1986–1997)
| |[[Ecclesbourne Valley Railway]]
| |[[InterCity (British Rail)#Swallow livery|InterCity Swallow]]
| |Preserved
| |Withdrawn September 2002. Preserved at [[Ecclesbourne Valley Railway]].
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"
| |E6023
| |73117
| |73970
| |-
| |''[[University of Surrey]]'' (1987–1996)
| |[[GB Railfreight]]
| |Caledonian Blue
| |In service
| |Converted to Class 73/9 at [[Brush Traction]], [[Loughborough]] in 2016.
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#eaf3ff;"
| |E6024
| |73118
| |-
| |-
| |[[Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway|''The Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway'']] (1987–1996)
| |Eurostar
| |EPS Grey
| |Preserved
| |Preserved at the [[Barry Tourist Railway]]. Fitted with [[Scharfenberg coupler|Scharfenberg coupling equipment]] in order to work with [[British Rail Class 373|Class 373]] [[Eurostar]] units.
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"
| |E6025
| |73119
| |-
| |-
| |''Kentish Mercury'' (1986–1999)<br />[[Eastleigh (borough)|''Borough of Eastleigh'']] (2009–)
| |[[GB Railfreight]]
| |GBRf Blue
| |In service
| |
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"
| |E6026
| |73120
| |73209
| |73961
| |''Alison'' (2005–)
| |[[GB Railfreight]]
| |GBRf Blue
| |In service
| |Converted to Class 73/9 at [[Brush Traction]], [[Loughborough]] in 2014.
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#cccccc;"
| |E6027
| |-
| |-
| |-
| |
| |-
| |BR Blue
| |Scrapped
| |Extensively damaged in an accident at [[Horsham railway station|Horsham]] on 8 January 1972. Withdrawn July 1972. Scrapped at [[Slade Green Depot]] in February 1973.
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"
| |E6028
| |73121
| |73208
| |73965
| |[[Croydon|''Croydon 1883–1983'']] (1983–1997)<br />Kirsten (2006–2013)
| |[[GB Railfreight]]
| |GBRf Blue
| |In service
| |Renamed ''Kirsten'' on 10 August 2006 at [[London Victoria railway station|London Victoria]].
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"
| |E6029
| |73122
| |73207
| |73971
| |[[East Sussex|''County of East Sussex'']] (1985–1997)
| |[[GB Railfreight]]
| |Caledonian Blue
| |In service
| |Used for several months as a yard shunter at Whitemoor yard, [[March, Cambridgeshire|March]] before returning to main line service during 2009. Converted to Class 73/9 at [[Brush Traction]], [[Loughborough]] in 2017.
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"
| |E6030
| |73123
| |73206
| |73963
| |''[[Gatwick Express]]'' (1984–1998)<br />''Lisa'' (2005–2013)<br />''Janice'' (2014–)
| |[[GB Railfreight]]
| |GBRf Blue
| |In service
| |Converted to Class 73/9 at [[Brush Traction]], [[Loughborough]] in 2014.
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"
| |E6031
| |73124
| |73205
| |73964
| |''[[London Chamber of Commerce]]'' (1987–1998)<br />''Jeanette'' (2005–)
| |[[GB Railfreight]]
| |GBRf Blue
| |In service
| |Out of service for most of 2010 awaiting new wheelsets and a repaint. This work was completed during early 2011 and was enhanced by an unexpected repaint into [[InterCity (British Rail)|InterCity Executive]] livery by [[St Leonards TMD]].
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"
| |E6032
| |73125
| |73204
| |73962
| |''[[Stewarts Lane]]'' (1985–1998)<br />''Janice'' (2005–2013)<br />''Dick Mabbutt'' (2014–)
| |[[GB Railfreight]]
| |GBRf Blue
| |In service
| |First GBRf Class 73/9 locomotive to be completed. Unveiled and named ''Dick Mabbutt'' on 3 August 2014 at [[Brush Traction]], [[Loughborough]].
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#cccccc;"
| |E6033
| |73126
| |-
| |-
| |''[[Kent & East Sussex Railway]]'' (1991–1997)
| |-
| |[[Network SouthEast]]
| |Scrapped
| |Stored early/mid-1996. It became a source of spare parts for the Class 73 refurbishment programme at [[Stewarts Lane]] in July 1996 and donated a power unit to 73112 (now 73213) for reinstatement. Moved to [[Old Oak Common TMD]] in early 1998 to provide further spares before being officially withdrawn January 1999. It was then moved to the [[Fire Service College]] at [[Moreton-in-Marsh]] and used for training exercises until sold for scrap on 26 July 2009. Scrapped at [[CF Booth]], [[Rotherham]] on 6 August 2009.
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#cccccc;"
| |E6034
| |73127
| |73203
| |-
| |
| |-
| |[[Gatwick Express]]
| |Scrapped
| |Withdrawn May 2001. Stripped for spares during periods in store at [[Peterborough]], [[Tonbridge]] and [[St Leonards TMD]]. Scrapped during mid-2009.
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"
| |E6035
| |73128
| |-
| |-
| |[[Oliver Bulleid|''O.V.S. Bulleid C.B.E.'']] (1991–1997)<br />[[Oliver Bulleid|C.M.E. Southern Railway 1937–1949]] (2002–)
| |[[GB Railfreight]]
| |GBRf Blue
| |In service
| |Bought from preservation and returned to mainline operation with GBRf in 2014.
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#eaf3ff;"
| |E6036
| |73129
| |-
| |-
| |[[Winchester|''City of Winchester'']] (1982–2003)
| |[[Cambrian Heritage Railways]]
| |Electric blue
| |Preserved
| |Withdrawn 2003. Preserved at [[Gloucestershire and Warwickshire Railway]], moved to [[Cambrian Heritage Railways]] in 2021.<ref name=":0">{{Cite news |last=White |first=Cameron |date=2021-06-19 |title=Cambrian Heritage Railways welcomes the arrival of Class 73 locomotive No. 73129 |url=https://www.railadvent.co.uk/2021/06/cambrian-heritage-railways-welcomes-the-arrival-of-class-73-locomotive-no-73129.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210619083213/https://www.railadvent.co.uk/2021/06/cambrian-heritage-railways-welcomes-the-arrival-of-class-73-locomotive-no-73129.html |archive-date=19 June 2021 |access-date=2021-06-20 |publisher=RailAdvent}}</ref>
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#eaf3ff;"
| |E6037
| |73130
| |-
| |-
| |[[Portsmouth|''City of Portsmouth'']] (1988–1996){{refn|group="nb"|73130 was named ''City of Portsmouth'' in Portsmouth on 2 July 1988.<ref name="RailSept88p67">{{cite magazine|title=All change|page=62|issue=84|date=September 1988|magazine=[[Rail Magazine]]|publisher=EMAP National Publications|issn=0953-4563|oclc=49953699}}</ref>}}
| |[[Llanelli and Mynydd Mawr Railway]]
| |EPS Grey
| |Preserved
| |Currently owned by 73130 Ltd at the Llanelli and Mynwydd Mawr Railway.<ref name=":1" /> Fitted with [[Scharfenberg coupler|Scharfenberg coupling equipment]] in order to work with [[British Rail Class 373|Class 373]] [[Eurostar]] units.
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#cccccc;"
| |E6038
| |73131
| |-
| |-
| |[[Surrey|''County of Surrey'']] (1988–1993)
| |-
| |EWS Red/Gold
| |Scrapped
| |Withdrawn September 2003. Scrapped by [[CF Booth]], [[Rotherham]] in August 2004.
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#cccccc;"
| |E6039
| |73132
| |-
| |-
| |
| |-
| |[[InterCity (British Rail)#Executive livery|InterCity Executive]]
| |Scrapped
| |Withdrawn November 1998. Stripped of parts at [[Railway Technical Centre|Derby RTC]]. Scrapped by Ron Hull Jr at [[Rotherham]] in August 2006.
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#eaf3ff;"
| |E6040
| |73133
| |-
| |-
| |[[Bluebell Railway|''The Bluebell Railway'']] (1990–2004)(2023– )
| |
| |Early BR blue livery with small yellow warning panels
| |Preserved
| |Preserved on the Bluebell railway.<ref>{{cite news |title=Class 73 No. 73133 renumbered E6040 and renamed "The Bluebell Railway" |url=https://www.railadvent.co.uk/2023/04/class-73-no-73133-renumbered-e6040-and-renamed-the-bluebell-railway.html |work=RailAdvent |date=8 April 2023 |access-date=13 April 2023}}</ref>
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#cccccc;"
| |E6041
| |73134
| |-
| |-
| |[[Woking|''Woking Homes 1885–1985'']] (1985–1996)
| |-
| |[[InterCity (British Rail)#Executive livery|InterCity Executive]]
| |Scrapped
| |Withdrawn April 1999, scrapped [[CF Booth]], [[Rotherham]] September 2022<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Well travelled 73134 reaches end of the road at Rotherham|magazine=[[Railways Illustrated]]|issue=238 |date=December 2022|page=19}}</ref>
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"
| |E6042
| |73135
| |73235
| |-
| |
| |[[South Western Railway (train operating company)|South Western Railway]]
| |Blue
| |In service
| |Shunter at [[Bournemouth Traction and Rolling Stock Maintenance Depot|Bournemouth depot]].
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"
| |E6043
| |73136
| |-
| |-
| |''Kent Youth Music'' (1992–2004)<br />''Perseverance'' (2004–???)<br>''Mhairi'' (???-2025<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Butlin|first=Ashley|title=Multiple Units|department=Stock Update|magazine=[[The Railway Magazine]]|volume=171|issue=1495|date=October 2025|page=75}}</ref>)
| |[[GB Railfreight]]
| |GBRf Blue
| |In service
| |
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"
| |E6044
| |73137
| |73202
| |-
| |[[Royal Observer Corps|''Royal Obs. Corps'']] (1985–1997)<br />''Dave Berry'' (2005–2013)<br />''Graham Stenning'' (2015–)
| |[[GB Railfreight]]<ref name="auto"/>
| |[[Southern (Govia Thameslink Railway)|Southern]]/[[Gatwick Express]]
| |In service
| |Previously carried [[Gatwick Express]] livery. Repainted into [[Southern (Govia Thameslink Railway)|Southern]] livery at [[St Leonards TMD]] by 9 December 2013.<ref>{{cite web |title=73202 NOW IN SOUTHERN LIVERY |url=http://extra.southernelectric.org.uk/news/southern/2013-73202-snlivery.html |website=Southern Electric Group |access-date=10 October 2019}}</ref> Named ''Graham Stenning'' at [[Brighton Lovers Walk Traction and Rolling Stock Maintenance Depot|Lovers Walk Depot]] on 11 December 2015.
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#fee7e6;"
| |E6045
| |73138
| |-
| |-
| |
| |[[GB Railfreight]]
| |Network Rail Yellow
| |Stored
| |Withdrawn February 2017. Stored at [[Railway Technical Centre]], sold to GB Railfreight for parts October 2023<ref>{{cite magazine|title=New owners for NR Class 73s|magazine=[[Rail magazine]]|issue=995|date=1 November 2023|page=25}}</ref>
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#fee7e6;"
| |E6046
| |73139
| |-
| |-
| |
| |[[GB Railfreight]]
| |-
| |Stored
| |Withdrawn March 1999. Stored at [[Eastleigh Works]].
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#eaf3ff;"
| |E6047
| |73140
| |-
| |-
| |
| |[[Spa Valley Railway]]
| |[[Network SouthEast]]
| |Preserved
| |Withdrawn November 1998. It is preserved at the [[Spa Valley Railway]], but it is privately owned. It was the first Class 73 to enter preservation and was repainted from BR Blue to [[Network SouthEast]] livery for the [[Spa Valley Railway]] 2014 Diesel Gala.
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"
| |E6048
| |73141
| |-
| |-
| |''Ron Westwood / David Gay'' (2009)<br />''Charlotte'' (2009–2022)<br/>''[[Spa Valley Railway]] 25th Anniversary'' (2022-)<ref>{{Cite magazine|title=Spa Valley Railway celebrates its 25th anniversary|department=Heritage News|magazine=Railways Illustrated|issue=237|date=November 2022|page=29}}</ref>
| |[[GB Railfreight]]
| |GBRf Blue
| |In service
| |[[Network Rail]] named 73141 twice (one name on each side) on 20 February 2009. By July 2009, the locomotive was in service with [[First GBRf]] and had been renamed to ''Charlotte''.
|-style="vertical-align:top; text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"
| |E6049
| |73142
| |73201
| |-
| |''[[Broadlands]]'' (1980–1998, 2009–)
| |[[GB Railfreight]]
| |BR Blue
| |In service
| |Renamed ''Broadlands'' on 21 May 2009 during the centenary celebration of [[Eastleigh Works]].
|}

== Model Railways ==
[[Hornby Railways|Lima]] launched its first version of the BR Class 73 in [[OO gauge]] in the early 2000s. Since 2006 Hornby have produced a representation of the prototype using the Lima tooling as part of their range in BR Green, whilst past examples have carried a variety of liveries.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hornbyguide.com/class_details.asp?classid=145|title=Hornby BR Class 73|work=Hornby Railways Collector Guide|access-date=1 February 2020}}</ref>

By 2007, [[Dapol]] had a broad range of Class 73 models for [[British N gauge]], with examples in GB Railfreight and Gatwick Express liveries added at that time.<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Limited Edition GBRf Class 73 twin-pack. Gatwick 73/2s from Dapol|magazine=Hornby Magazine|first=Mike|last=Wild|pages=86–87|issue=5|date=November 2007|location=Hersham|publisher=Ian Allan Publishing|issn=1753-2469|oclc=226087101}}</ref>

== See also ==
* [[P32AC-DM]] A United States locomotive with the same ability.

== Notes ==
{{Reflist|group="nb"}}

== References ==
{{Reflist}}

;Sources
* {{cite book |title=Southern Electric |first=John |last=Glover |publisher=Ian Allan |location=Hersham |year=2001 |isbn=0-7110-2807-9}}
* {{cite book |title=The Power of the Electro-Diesels |first=Colin |last=Marsden |publisher=Oxford Publishing Company |location=Hersham |year=1980 |isbn=0-86093-065-3}}

== Further reading ==
{{Commons category|British Rail Class 73}}
* {{cite book|title=The Electro-diesels: An Illustrated History of Classes 73 and 74|first=Colin J.|last=Marsden|publisher=OPC|year=2006|isbn=978-0-86093-601-5|oclc=71164663}}
* {{cite book |last=McManus |first=Michael |title=Ultimate Allocations, British Railways Locomotives 1948–1968 |publisher=Wirral. Michael McManus }}
* {{cite book|title=DC Electric Trains and Locomotives in the British Isles|first=R.L.|last=Vickers|publisher=David and Charles|location=Newton Abbot|year=1986|pages=80–1|isbn=0-7153-8674-3|oclc=839555538}}
*{{cite book|url=http://www.barrowmoremrg.co.uk/BRBDocuments/Locos/Book_No_110_N1_web.pdf|title=Vehicle Diagram Book No. 110 for Electric Locomotives|via=Barrowmore MRG|publisher=British Railways Board|location=Derby|date=November 1988|at=73-a, 73-1a}}
* {{cite magazine|title=It's OK – I'll ride at the front!|first=Peter|last=Kelly|magazine=[[Rail (magazine)|Rail Enthusiast]]|publisher=EMAP National Publications|date=April 1983|pages=10–13|issn=0262-561X|oclc=49957965}}
* {{cite magazine|title=What's in a Class 73|first=Basil|last=Cooper|magazine=[[Rail (magazine)|Rail Enthusiast]]|publisher=EMAP National Publications|date=May 1983|pages=11–14|issn=0262-561X|oclc=49957965}}
* {{cite magazine|title=A smart box of tricks!|first=Pip|last=Dunn|pages=22–26|issue=297|date=29 January – 11 February 1997|magazine=[[Rail (magazine)|Rail]]|publisher=EMAP National Publications|issn=0953-4563|oclc=49953699}}
* {{cite magazine|title=PDQ|first=Pip|last=Dunn|magazine=[[Rail (magazine)|Rail]]|issue=317|publisher=EMAP Apex Publications|date=5–18 November 1997|page=36|issn=0953-4563|oclc=49953699}}

{{British Rail Locomotives}}
{{Authority control}}

[[Category:Bo-Bo locomotives]]
[[Category:British Rail electric locomotives|73]]
[[Category:English Electric locomotives]]
[[Category:Vulcan Foundry locomotives]]
[[Category:750 V DC locomotives]]
[[Category:Electro-diesel locomotives of Great Britain]]
[[Category:Railway locomotives introduced in 1962]]
[[Category:Standard-gauge locomotives of Great Britain]]