The design of the 1250 class was unusual being a cab unit with a cab similar to the 1200 class but with a narrow long hood.[1] They were based on a design built for use in Brazil five years prior. A derivative was also built for Rhodesia Railways in 1962.
The first five units had a 1,035 kW (1,390 hp) engine and screw couplers.
The subsequent units fitted with a 1,145 kW (1,540 hp) engine, auto couplers and were wired for multiple unit operation.
They were used on ore traffic on the Great Northern line, and on general freight on the North Coast and Southern lines.[1][2][3] A characteristic addition to the 1250 class in 1961 was a sun visor to help reduce glare.
Withdrawal & disposal
Two were withdrawn in the early 1980s, donating parts to the rebuild of the single 1225 class locomotive. The remainder were withdrawn in 1987. Two units have been preserved:[1][4]