BR wagon markings - yellow data panel - when used?

[Alex TM]

Hi everyone,

 

From both memory and looking at a few photos I noted that some wagons had what appeared to be a small data grid applied low on the bodyside; this was on vans as well as some fitted opens.  It was yellow, with black markings, and I only saw them on the occasional wagon.  Can anyone tell me what they were, and when they were used?

 

Thanks in advance for any help.

 

Regards,

 

Alex.

[Fat Controller]

They were meant to be present on all wagons; being self-adhesive, they didn't always adhere too well if applied over rust or flaking paint.

They indicated the maximum permissible speed under Empty, Light, Medium and Heavy-loaded conditions, along with the length of the wagon in units based on the length of the standard 16t minerals (SLU).

They appeared from about 1968 or '69, but became obsolete soon after as TOPS cut in. 

[Alex TM]

Hi Brian,

 

Thanks for that.  Most of the stock I saw around in the later '70s had what could only be described as flaking paint.

 

I think you are now also on record for the fastest answer to any question I have ever asked on this forum!

 

Again, thanks.

 

Alex.