Dapol 4F-011-009 Ventilated Van GWR 538827

Dapol 4F-011-009 Ventilated Van LMS 538827.

Ventilated vans were the primary way of transporting perishable goods quickly and efficiently and yet maintaining their contents in peak condition. All four of the pre-nationalised rail companies had their own particular designs, but each shared the same basic principles of having a wooden body with ventilators, which allowed a constant flow of circulating fresh air around their cargo.

Ventilated vans from all four companies survived into nationalisation until BR eventually standardised its own version and these were in use until the 1960s at which time longer vans with wider door ways to allow pallet access were introduced. Many ventilated vans from all companies survive into preservation.

These models are modelled on the GWR and LMS ventilated vans. The LMS version had a steel corrugated end, whilst the GWR was traditionally planked. They feature profiled wheels, accurately applied livery and highly detailed body moulding. They measure 82mm (length including buffers) by 33mm (width) by 48mm (height).