6 Wheel BLOCK SETS of 1901

These sets (similar to the sets built in 1900) were conceived as 13-car sets. The probable formation was Bk Third + Third + Third + 2nd/3rd Compo + Second + First + First + First + First + Second + Third + Third + Bk Third. Fixed block couplings, with a drawbar, were used between most coaches to close couple them, but there are exceptions.

The Bogie Blocks of 1902/15 quickly displaced the six wheel block sets and it would seem that the rakes were split up and used for all sorts of miscellaneous services.
An undated photo shows a block set rake consisting of Bk Third +Third +Third +Third + First and then a 30’ PBV (arc).

In 1913 a number of services were operating with 9-car sets (there are also references to 4-car sets). The composition of the 9-car sets is not known for certain but a possible rake is Bk Third + Third + Second + 1st/2nd Compo + First + First + Second + Third + Bk Third. At least six 9-car sets were in existence at grouping plus six more formed from 5 and 4-car sets.

In 1918 8-car sets were assembled for Race Specials. A photo (again undated) shows such a Race Special formed of eight, close coupled Firsts, with a 30’Brake First (former Saloon) at each end and three arc roofed bogie carriages at the rear! These sets were taken over by the SR and were kept until around 1933.

More complete details are contained in “LSWR Carriages Volume 1” by Gordon Weddell. (p130)

[ photo to follow ]