The Class 143 and 144 Pacer DMUs were a series of 2 and 3-car units with Andrew Barclay bodywork on a 4-wheel diesel chassis. Despite their unpopularity with passengers, these distinctive little trains lasted in service until 2021.
The Class 143s also had the chassis built by Andrew Barclay. 25 units were built, initially working around Tyneside before moving to the South-West and Wales. With the many changes of operators since privatisation, numerous livery choices are possible.
The Class 144s featured BREL-built underframes and spent their careers based in Leeds, working local and regional services. Ten units received centre cars in 1987. Although intended for local journeys, the 144s worked as far afield as Manchester, Lancaster, Morecambe, Lincoln, Hull, Scarborough and Cleethorpes.
Eleven Class 143 and fourteen Class 144s are preserved. With several other units in non-railway use, such as school classrooms and cafes.
Model
1:148 Scale model of a Class 143 Diesel Locomotive decorated in BR livery. This model features lots of expertly applied details as based on the prototype, a high level of body detail and excellent running characteristics.