HORNBY BR, Mk3 TRUB, Era 7 Coach Packs, Blue and Grey

To enable the Mk3 coaches to run at 125 mph on Britain's Victorian-era railways, British Railways required new rolling stock. Significant advancements over the Mk2 included the addition of new secondary air suspension between the bogies and the coach body, as well as aerodynamic skirting on the underframe. Mk3 coaches, measuring 75ft (23m) in length, offer significantly greater capacity compared to older coaches. These coaches also incorporate disk brakes and wheel slip protection, enabling faster deceleration.

The first Mk3 coaches were delivered in 1972 and used as part of the HST prototype, along with the two Class 41 diesel power cars. Mk3 coaches entered service in 1975, forming the iconic InterCity 125 trainset together with the Class 43. After the introduction of the HST Mk3 coach variant, further Mk3 coaches were added to the West Coast Mainline for use as part of locomotive-hauled trains. While Mk3 stock is standard for HST units, the standard locomotive-hauled stock is Mk3a.

Mk3a stock differs from Mk3 stock due to the inclusion of buffers and a different electrical system that uses motor generator units in each coach to power air conditioning and other ancillaries. Mk3a stock was built until 1984, before 3B stock with improved seating and lighting was constructed from 1985 to 1988.

The Mk3 coach is perhaps most iconic in its original production livery of the BR Grey and Blue. It is in this livery that the coach, as well as the matching Class 43 units, would be introduced before high-speed rail services in the UK were rebranded into the Intercity Executive livery. Following the privatization of the Railway network, Mk3 coaches would find themselves in many colourful liveries, some harking back to the original blue and grey livery of times gone by.

These Mk3 coaches include the provision for lighting provided by the R7305 Maglight lighting unit, as well as fully detailed interiors and metal wheels throughout. For the first time, these coaches also include Hornby's new Buckeye-style magnetic couplings.

As the UK's leading model railway designer, Hornby has been thrilling model making enthusiasts for over 100 years. Since 1920, Hornby has been the brand leader in 00 Gauge model railway design. Whether you're a seasoned model maker or just beginning your miniatures journey, Hornby's range of unique trains, track accessories, scenery kits, and more, offers something for everyone.

Hornby is a trusted name in the model railway industry, ensuring high standards of quality and craftsmanship. Expand your model railway with Hornby's extensive collection of model wagons and wagon packs, from container and brake vans to cranes and timber wagons, there's something to suit any layout.

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