Axlebox introduction dates

[The Nth Degree]

I've been trying to find out the various dates of introduction of the common axlebox types but can't seem to get any headway on the subject.

 

For example, to the best of my knowledge, this is a GWR oil axlebox (in this case to be fitted to an Iron Mink van) but when was this type introduced?

 

My aim is to have a small pre-grouping freight train but I suddenly thought that I may not be able to achieve this if the axleboxes – or any other details – are not correct for the period.

 

Is there an online resource for queries like this? I'd also like to confirm what date the DC1 brake system was introduced.

 

Thanks in advance,

Steve

[buffalo]

...For example, to the best of my knowledge, this is a GWR oil axlebox (in this case to be fitted to an Iron Mink van) but when was this type introduced?...

Yes, that's a representation of the proprietary 'OK' box that was widely adopted by the GWR around 1896. There had been earlier use of oil boxes from around 1888 on a limited range of wagons (IIRC HYDRAS were one of the first).

 

...My aim is to have a small pre-grouping freight train but I suddenly thought that I may not be able to achieve this if the axleboxes – or any other details – are not correct for the period...

Many wagons with grease axleboxes survived well beyond the grouping, but they were not used on new builds after about 1900, so only older types would have had them.

 

...Is there an online resource for queries like this?...

Yes, it's called RMWeb, but the main source of most of this information is Atkins, et al., A History of GWR Goods Wagons.

 

...I'd also like to confirm what date the DC1 brake system was introduced.

1901.

 

 

Nick

[The Nth Degree]

Yes, it's called RMWeb...

You ain't wrong!

 

Thanks Nick and Industrial. Very quick replies and reassuring that I'm on the right track.

 

Merry Christmas!