Arriving from UK in 1939, two B-3 lounge cars were numbered 695 and 696. They were steel bodied, fully air conditioned and luxuriously appointed.
695 was taken of Blue train service for use on the 1947 Royal Tour train, and was extensively rebuilt for that purpose. When converted back to Blue Train standard after the tour, one of the toilets added was retained, and 696 was modified to follow suit.
In 1963 they were replaced in Blue Train service by newer lounge cars and placed in pool service, although they did serve again on the Blue Train for the 30th anniversary trip in 1969. They continued in service with the Drakensberg Express from 1972 until that service was discontinued in 1985.
There are three versions of this model which can be roughly broken down as follows:
- Early - As built
- Mid - Post 1947, one of the toilets added to 695 was retained, and 696 was given a toilet
- Late - Drakensberg service, inter carriage coms equipment and backlit number boards deleted, Day bogies replaced by Commonwealth 2286 bogies. Concertina vestibule connectors replaced with Gummiwurst
Flush glazing and interior seating is supplied. The model also features the unique SARMODEL sprung vestibule walkways
Supplied unpainted, but with a detailed interior with separately applied seats. Bogies, wheels, couplers and screws are included. The model also features accurate underframe equipment and accurate roof vent spacing and arrangement.
