Lima L204618

British Rail Class 73 73101 Brighton Evening Argus Southern Railway Pullman Umber & Cream

Contents

Tooling

Lima introduced its British Rail Class 73 electro-diesel locomotive in OO gauge in 1986. At the time, Lima was a major supplier of affordable ready-to-run models for UK enthusiasts, competing with Hornby and Mainline. The Class 73 was a distinctive choice, representing a Southern Region electro-diesel capable of operating on third-rail DC and diesel power, making it a versatile prototype for layouts set from the 1960s onwards.

At launch, the Lima Class 73 was praised for its accurate body shape and crisp moulding, which compared well to competitors of the era. However, the mechanism was considered basic, with limited electrical pickup and a high top speed. Enthusiasts often noted that the model benefited from running-in and regular maintenance. Modern reviews highlight its affordability and suitability for upgrading, with common improvements including rewiring for DCC, fitting better wheels, and replacing the motor for smoother performance. Detailing upgrades such as wire handrails and etched parts are popular among modellers.

The Lima Class 73 remains a frequent subject in online forums, YouTube reviews, and blogs. Videos often showcase servicing tips, repaint projects, and DCC conversions. Collectors value limited editions such as Pullman and Network SouthEast commemorative releases, while budget-conscious modellers appreciate its availability on the second-hand market.

DCC compatible but not DCC-ready. There is no factory-fitted socket; conversion requires hard-wiring a decoder. Space inside the body allows for basic installations, but no provision for speakers or lighting upgrades from the factory.

The tooling represented multiple sub-classes (73/0, 73/1, and 73/2) through variations in detail and livery. Despite its age, the model is still widely used and upgraded, reflecting Lima’s strong pattern-making and printing quality for its time.

Detailing: Factory-fitted separate details including horns, jumper cables, cab interiors, footplate detail, window wipers, and detailed glazing. Underframe features include battery boxes, fuel tanks, and third-rail pick-up shoes.

Class & Prototype

  • Running Number: 73101
  • Name: Brighton Evening Argus

The British Rail Class 73 electro-diesel represents one of Britain's most versatile and longest-serving locomotive classes, designed in the early 1960s to solve the Southern Region's third-rail gap problem in goods yards. With dual 1,600hp electric and 600hp diesel modes (1,600hp diesel in Class 73/9 rebuilds), these Bo-Bo locomotives served prestigious duties from Gatwick Express to Venice Simplon Orient Express, and now operate Caledonian Sleeper services in Scotland. Of 49 built (6 Class 73/0, 43 Class 73/1), 39 survive with approximately 22 still operational, making them among British Rail's most enduring designs spanning over 60 years of continuous service.

Operator & Livery

  • Operator: Southern Railway
  • Livery: Pullman Umber & Cream
  • Era: 3 - The big 4 – LMS, GWR, LNER & SR

The Southern Railway (SR), formed in 1923 through the amalgamation of numerous railway companies, became Britain's most passenger-focused railway company. The three principal constituents were the LSWR, LB&SCR, and SE&CR, alongside several smaller railways including the Plymouth, Devonport and South Western Junction Railway and various light railways. Operating 2,186 miles across southern England, the SR pioneered extensive third-rail electrification and developed distinctive locomotive classes under Chief Mechanical Engineers Maunsell and Bulleid. The company's malachite green and olive green liveries, Art Deco architecture, and premium passenger services like the Golden Arrow established new British railway standards. Nationalised in 1948, the SR's innovations in electric traction and passenger comfort influenced modern railway practice. Today, SR locomotives remain highly popular with railway modellers for their elegant designs, varied operational roles, and distinctive Southern Railway heritage that connected London with the Channel ports and southern resorts.