ZZA beilhack snowplough Profile and Models

ADB965580 at Hindlow in March 2018 © Jim Scott

In 1984 BR identified the need for more snowploughs to be produced to augment the current ZZA independent snowploughs in use across the network. The solution was found in using redundant Class 40 and 45 bogies and mounting a new plough blade made by Beilhack to the ‘inner’ end of the bogie. Toolboxes were fitted above the axles, the pony wheels were removed and the ploughs were ready for use. Since then they have seen regular use when snow clearing is needed and also on test runs around the network during more settled weather to keep them in good condition. The tooling accommodates the changes in the wagons such as the solar panels fitted by Railtrack and removed by Network Rail.
Type of Vehicle	6-Wheel Snowplough
Builder	Beilhack, Germany
Build Dates	1984 to 1989
Total Built	10
Wheel Configuration	6-Wheel (1 x Class 40 or 45 Bogie)
Operated By	British Rail Railtrack Network Rail
Main Duties	Snow Clearance
In Service Until	Present
Surviving Examples	8