The Coal Sector MEA Wagon 391020 model depicts a 4-axle open mineral wagon in TLF Coal Sector Grey and Yellow. 

The MEA was a conversion of the HEA hopper wagon, by removing the hopper bodyshell and replacing it with an open box design with a flat base. Just like the HEA, the MEA was used to convey coal to domestic sites, as well as other bulk material like scrap or ballast.

This new wagon model is based on extensive research and underwent a painstaking design process, culminating in a product that is highly accurate, features numerous separately fitted parts including brake details, and includes a die-cast weight for smooth running. 

Often seen running in long block rakes or mixed into ‘Speedlink’ railfreight services, the MEA is perfect for late sectorisation and post-privatisation era layouts, running behind classic locos like the 37 and 66.

Model Specification:

• Extensively researched model of MEA open wagon
• Highly detailed
• Separate parts including brake equipment, underframe equipment, and buffers
• Die-cast weight
• Kinematic NEM coupling
• Minimum second radius.

Livery:

• TLF Coal Sector
• 1990s style red OHLE stickers
• Authentic colours and fonts
• Semi-gloss finish
• Era 8 and 9.

History:

A total of 641 all-steel 45-ton open box wagons were converted from redundant ‘HEA’ wagons between 1989 and 1998, although before that number was completed, 135 were cut-down for use as ‘MFA’ infrastructure wagons. This example is one many used in BR’s coal sector, first used between South Wales collieries and Newport Docks.