Lab 9 Hydra 1982

Single car unit No: RDB 975385 (formerly M55997 a Cravens-built parcels car) was converted as a test bed for hydrostatic transmission in 1974 and was known as Lab 9 'Hydra'. Although it was tested at Old Dalby on a number of occasions it is pictured here at Mickleover, which was a convenient line due to its proximity to Derby

In the early 1980s, the mechanical design considerations produced an improved design of transmission for increased mechanical reliability coupled with the inclusion of a hydrostatic braking facility. These modifications were incorporated in a re-built transmission, two of which were  fitted to the test vehicle “HYDRA” to create a totally hydrostatically driven vehicle.

 

Hydra at Etwall

 This picture of Hydra was taken in August 1984 adjacent to Etwall station - the A50 road ran over the bridge in the background. It is adjacent to this spot that the new A516 Etwall by-pass road divides the remains of the track bed

Tony Woof

Hydra sits in the sidings outside the Advanced Projects Lab in the early 1980's

Author

Hydra at Mickleover

 Hydra sits on the main test line just under the overbridge adjacent to the depot at Mickleover. Note the 'wiggly wire' ATO system in the four foot

Colin Marsden

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