Tri-ang (Triang) Railways TT Directory
 

Brief History

The following briefly outlines the history of Tri-ang TT from it's launch in 1957 to it's eventual withdrawal in 1968.

TT was launched in 1953 at a spring Toy Fair with two sets TA and TB. As well as the suburban coaches, 4 types of tank wagons were also available. All these items were copies of OO examples.

As 1957 progressed, more track was added, including points, small radius curves and half straights and curves. There were also additions such as engine shed and stations.

For Christmas, the TC set was released which contained Windsor Castle and the main line coaches.

1958 saw the addition of 9 new coaches and wagons, level crossing and footbridge.

With 1959 came 3 new locomotives, Merchant Navy, A1A, and the diesel shunter. As with many items released by Triang, these locos were made available in TT gauge before OO gauge. The mainline coaches were also made available in green and chocolate and cream. Also released were sets T1, T2, T3 and T4. This year also saw the released of the B type black track which was far more realistic. The accessories were also expanded with additional items including Water Tower, Girder Bridge and high level items.

 1960 saw the introduction of the Britannia loco and utility van. Interiors to the coaches were also released. Some additional wagons were also released along with the diesel shed and re-fueling unit.

The Prairie tank was added in 1961 along with the maroon sleeping car.

1962 - 63 saw the introduction of the French range. Triang opened a factory in Calais. Chassis for the French range were manufactured in the UK and shipped to France for assembly. A Smoke unit was also released. Additional wagons included the bogie tank wagons and track cleaning car. The cattle dock, goods depot. and signal gantry were also added to the accessories range. The Castle and Britannia were also renamed. The DMU and DMU set, T7 finally saw their debut in 63.

By 1964 sales has dropped significantly since 1960 and new releases started to dwindle. Models which nearly made it to production in 1967 include a GWR Siphon and 2-6-0 mogul locomotive. 1967 also saw the release of small quantities of BR Blue / Grey coaches and a blue A1A.

By 1968 production of TT had ceased and the remaining stock was disposed of by the Lines Bros. spin off company G Wrenn.

Wrenn were the company who went on to market the old Hornby doublo locomotives.