Class 37 builders plate?

[NightStar]

Hi all, I have question that very well maybe bonkers? I am a US railfan who is interested in British traction which is centered around the various Class 37 locomotives and the class 20 locomotives. My bonkers question is this? For Christmas I am interested in obtaining the builders plate from any of the 37s being scrapped at present? What do these plates go for $$$ if I wanted to obtain one from a unit being broken up? And who would I need to contact regarding obtaining such a plate? I understand some of the members of this site work for the various companies that scrap units and could possibily obtain one of the EE plates? So I am looking for any advice on this? The unit number is not important. If successful this would be the first builders plate in my small collection.

Robert

 

[Silver King]

Hi Robert, it's not a bonkers question and I will try to point you in the right direction. All the English Electric builders plates were removed from the locos in the late 70's and throughout the 80's so they are nearly all in the hands of collectors and enthusiasts. The price for a 37 ranges between roughly £350 - £650 pounds sterling depending on three main factors: Condition, with ex loco (unrestored) being more desirable. The style of plate, there were four styles over the locomotive build period with the Robert Stephenson being the most desirable because these were carried by the least number of locos, and finally which particular loco the plate is off.
I have some 37 builders plates myself but none are for sale. A good place to buy one is at a railwayana auction and one is coming up for sale in the next Derby auction before Christmas at http://www.sheffieldrailwayana.co.uk/sale146/lot310.html
This is the last railwayana auction before Christmas but there are plenty more in the new year.
Just a side note, class 20's are the same style plate and tend to be a little bit cheaper.

Hope this helps, Paul.

 

[NightStar]

Hi Paul, Thank you for the response. I did not know the plates were removed from the locos at some point in their lifetime. I will check out the up coming auction and see for how much the plate goes for? I am a little surprised the diesel plates go for almost as much as a steam locomotive plate. Ofcourse I have never given much thought to owning one in the past either so I have never researched the matter indepth.

Robert