British Rail Class 103 facts for kids
Quick facts for kids British Rail Class 103 |
|
|---|---|
| In service | 1957–1983 |
| Manufacturer | Park Royal Vehicles |
| Constructed | 1957–1958 |
| Number built | 20 sets |
| Formation | 2 car sets: DMBS-DTCL |
| Capacity | DMBS: 52S; DTCL 16F 48S |
| Operator(s) | British Rail |
| Specifications | |
| Car length | 57 ft 6 in (17.53 m) |
| Width | 9 ft 3 in (2.82 m) |
| Maximum speed | 70 mph (113 km/h) |
| Weight | DMBS: 33.40 long tons (33.9 t) DTCL: 26.35 long tons (26.8 t) |
| Prime mover(s) | Two BUT (AEC) 6-cylinder diesels of 150 brake horsepower (112 kW) each |
| Transmission | Mechanical: 4 speed epicyclic gearbox |
| Braking system(s) | Vacuum |
| Track gauge | 4 ft 8 1⁄2 in (1,435 mm) |
The British Rail Class 103 was a special type of train. It was a diesel multiple unit, often called a DMU. This means it was a train that could run on its own, using diesel engines, without needing a separate engine car.
These trains were built to carry passengers across different parts of Britain. They were a common sight on many railway lines for several years.
Contents
What is the British Rail Class 103?
The British Rail Class 103 was a type of train built in the 1950s. It was designed to be a self-powered passenger train. This made it very useful for many routes.
These trains were known for their simple, yet effective, design. They helped carry people around the country.
How Were They Built?
The Class 103 trains were made by a company called Park Royal Vehicles. They built these trains between 1957 and 1958. The work took place at the Crossley Motors factory in Stockport.
Only 20 of these train sets were ever made. Each set had two main parts. One part was a power car, which held the engines. The other part was a driving trailer, which also carried passengers.
What Made Them Special?
The Class 103 trains used special engines. These engines were made by a company called British United Traction, or BUT. Each train set had two of these powerful diesel engines.
The design of these trains was quite light. A full two-car set weighed less than 60 long tons. This light weight helped them move efficiently.
Power and Speed
Each Class 103 train set had two diesel engines. Each engine could produce 150 horsepower. This gave the train enough power to reach a top speed of 70 miles per hour (113 km/h).
They used a mechanical system to change gears. This was similar to how some cars work.
Inside the Train
Each two-car set could carry many passengers. There were seats for 16 people in first class. First class usually offered more space and comfort.
There were also seats for 100 people in second class. This made a total of 116 seats per train set.
Where Did They Run?
The Class 103 trains were operated by British Rail. This was the main railway company in Britain at the time. They were used on various local and regional lines.
These trains helped connect towns and cities. They were a key part of daily travel for many people.
When Did They Stop Running?
The British Rail Class 103 trains served the public for many years. They started running in 1957. They continued to be used until 1983.
After 1983, newer types of trains replaced them. This is common as technology improves over time.
