The Class 4F was the last 0-6-0 goods locomotive that the LMS purchased. It was designed by Henry Fowler and was largely similar to the Midland Railway's Class 3835, which he had also developed. The biggest difference was that the new 4F had the driver's position on the left. With a wheel diameter of 63 inches or 1,600 mm, they were fast enough to be used for commuter trains. They also often suffered from overheated axle bearings, which was probably due to the LMS using cheaper lubricants and not due to the design itself.

Between 1923 and 1928, 530 locomotives were built by both the LMS workshops and commercial manufacturers. Between 1937 and 1941, 45 more followed at Stanier's behest. They all went to of British Railways in 1948 and were withdrawn between 1959 and 1966. Three locomotives were preserved, all of which are currently undergoing overhaul or restoration.