Exploring the startrain cc 65500 locomotive range
The Startrain CC 65500 locomotive models represent a fascinating chapter in French railway history that's now available to British model railway enthusiasts. These detailed replicas capture the essence of the powerful diesel workhorses that once dominated the Grande Ceinture line encircling Paris. For modellers looking to add something distinctive to their layouts, these locomotives offer both visual appeal and historical significance.
Design specifications and scale accuracy
Startrain has gone to considerable lengths to ensure their CC 65500 models faithfully reproduce the distinctive profile of these impressive locomotives. The scale models perfectly capture the 64-foot length, 9-foot 1-inch width, and nearly 14-foot height of the originals. Every detail from the original Sulzer 12LDA28 engine compartment to the characteristic body side filters has been meticulously recreated. The models even reflect the external changes these locomotives underwent during their service lives, including the removal of upper marker lights and the addition of air horns that became standard as the fleet matured.
Available liveries and variants
Collectors will appreciate the range of livery options offered in the Startrain range. The classic olive green scheme with red bufferbeams and yellow stripes represents these locomotives in their prime SNCF service days. For those interested in the later period, variants depicting the locomotives after they were sold to private companies in the 1980s showcase completely different colour schemes. The attention to detail extends to the correct numbering systems, reflecting the various renumbering exercises these locomotives underwent – from their initial 060DA-1 to 060DA-35 designation, through the CC-64001 to CC-64035 period, and finally to their best-known identities as CC-65501 to CC-65535.
The history behind the french cc 65500 diesel locomotives
The story of these impressive machines begins in post-war France. The SNCF 65500 Class locomotives emerged during a critical period of reconstruction and modernisation on French railways following World War Two. Built specifically to serve the Grande Ceinture line around Paris, these locomotives represented a significant step in the transition from steam to diesel power on French rails.
Service History on the SNCF Network
Between 1955 and 1959, 35 of these robust locomotives rolled out from the Compagnie des Ateliers et Forges de la Loire workshops at Saint-Chamond. La Plaine depot near Paris became closely associated with these locomotives, becoming fully dieselised by 1961 largely thanks to the CC 65500 fleet. What's remarkable about these engines is their longevity – some remained in service until around 2001, outlasting many of their contemporaries including British Rail Class 44, 45 and 47 locomotives. During their decades of service, these workhorses accumulated impressive mileage records, with some logging between 1,682,056km and 2,046,101km. In their later years, several were assigned to Avignon for work associated with the LGV Mediterranean high-speed line construction.
Technical innovations and performance
Weighing in at a substantial 120 tonnes, these weren't lightweight machines. Their Sulzer 12LDA28 engines initially provided 1,900 bhp, later upgraded to 2,000 bhp, giving them the muscle needed for heavy freight duties. Despite their weight, they could reach a respectable top speed of 46mph (75kph), making them versatile performers. Their 1,000-gallon fuel capacity ensured they could handle extended duties without frequent refuelling stops. The technical sophistication of these locomotives for their era helped establish diesel traction as a reliable alternative to steam on the French network, particularly for freight operations where their tremendous pulling power could be fully utilised.
Integrating french prototypes into british model railway layouts
While these locomotives may not be the most obvious choice for British model railway enthusiasts, they offer exciting possibilities for those looking to create something different. The Startrain models provide an opportunity to explore cross-channel operations or simply add an exotic continental flavour to conventional layouts.
Track compatibility and running characteristics
The good news for British modellers is that these Startrain CC 65500 models are designed to work perfectly with standard British OO gauge track systems. Their running characteristics have been fine-tuned to ensure smooth operation across points and curves typically found on British layouts. The weight of the models has been carefully calculated to provide sufficient traction without causing undue wear on motors or gears. For those concerned about power systems, the models come ready for DCC fitting, allowing easy integration into digitally controlled layouts while remaining compatible with traditional analogue control systems.
Creating authentic cross-channel scenarios
One of the most compelling reasons to add these French locomotives to a British layout is the opportunity to model cross-channel operations. With the Channel Tunnel linking Britain and France since 1994, there's historical precedent for French motive power appearing on British tracks. Modellers can create fascinating scenarios representing international freight services or special movements. For those modelling earlier eras, these locomotives can feature in dockside scenes, perhaps representing a locomotive delivery or exhibition visit. Creating authentic settings might involve adding some French rolling stock or infrastructure elements to create convincing transition zones between British and continental operations.
Collector value and hobbyist appreciation
Beyond their operational appeal, the Startrain CC 65500 models have begun to attract attention from collectors, particularly those specialising in continental European prototypes. As relatively limited production items, they represent an interesting investment opportunity within the model railway market.
Rarity and investment potential
The somewhat niche appeal of French prototype locomotives in the predominantly British-focused model railway market means that production runs of these models tend to be smaller than for British prototypes. This relative scarcity potentially enhances their long-term value, particularly for limited edition variants or special liveries. Collectors have noted that continental models often appreciate well, especially when they represent locomotives like the CC 65500 that have historical significance within their home railway system. The dieselisation of French railways represents an important transitional period, and these locomotives were at the forefront of that movement, giving them historical importance beyond their operational careers.
Display options and maintenance tips
For those acquiring these models primarily for display rather than operation, the imposing presence of the CC 65500 makes it a striking addition to any collection. The distinctive French styling with its characteristic nose profile and side grilles creates an immediate visual contrast with British diesel designs of the same era. To maintain these models in prime condition, regular light dusting with a soft brush is recommended, avoiding the temptation to use liquid cleaners on painted surfaces. For operational models, occasional light lubrication of moving parts will ensure smooth running, though care should be taken to avoid contaminating the wheel treads with oil. As with all collectable models, retaining the original packaging enhances both preservation and future value.
Operating the CC 65500 Models on Your Layout
Right then, let's have a proper look at these Startrain CC 65500 locos, shall we? These stunning scale reproductions of French diesel brutes bring a fascinating slice of Continental railway history to British layouts. Manufactured between 1955 and 1959, the real SNCF 65500 Class locomotives were workhorses of the Grande Ceinture line encircling Paris, weighing in at a hefty 120 tonnes and capable of reaching speeds up to 75kph.
Running performance and power requirements
When it comes to the running performance of these Startrain models, they're rather brilliant representatives of their full-sized counterparts. Just as the original Sulzer 12LDA28 engine delivered 1,900 bhp (later upgraded to 2,000 bhp), these models offer robust pulling power for your layout. The weight distribution mirrors the authentic 120-tonne bulk of the real thing, giving these models excellent traction. For best results on your layout, ensure your track is clean and well-maintained – particularly important when running these locos that represent machines which clocked impressive mileage records (some reaching over 2 million kilometres in their service life).
The models feature the distinctive original olive green livery with red bufferbeams and yellow stripes, though if you fancy something different, you might opt for one of the later private company schemes that emerged when some were sold off from the 1980s. Worth noting that power pickup is excellent across all wheels, much like how the real locos from La Plaine depot (which became fully dieselised in 1961) were known for their reliability.
Weathering techniques for authentic parisian patina
To truly capture the character of these workhorses of the Grande Ceinture, a spot of weathering goes a long way. These weren't pristine museum pieces – they were hard-working diesel locomotives built at the CAFL workshops at Saint-Chamond, designed for daily service around Paris. Start with a light dusting of matt black along the roof to simulate exhaust staining from the Sulzer engines. The body sides benefit from subtle streaking in browns and greys, particularly around the side filters which saw design changes during the locos' lifespans.
For locos representing the later period, perhaps those that worked from Avignon on the LGV Mediterranean line or spent time in storage at La Plaine depot during the 1980s and 1990s, more substantial weathering is appropriate. Pay attention to the underframe and bogies, where grime would accumulate most heavily. A light touch of rust around the bufferbeams completes the effect. Remember that these machines underwent several renumbering schemes (from 060DA-1 to CC-64001 and finally to CC-65501 series), so ensure your weathering approach matches the era you're modelling. These were 64-foot-long beasts that saw decades of service – and your weathering should tell that story.