Hornby R377

British Rail Class 110 DMCL E51846 British Rail White

Contents

Tooling

Hornby first released its OO gauge tooling for the British Rail Class 110 "Calder Valley" DMU in 1982. Based on Birmingham Railway Carriage & Wagon Company prototypes from the 1960s, this tooling brought to life the distinctive three-car sets known for their performance on steep routes between Leeds and Manchester. Released amid Hornby's expansion of multiple-unit offerings, the 110 tooling remained a core part of their catalogue throughout the 1980s and beyond.

Enthusiasts generally regard the original Hornby Class 110 tooling as a nostalgic and dependable model for its era. Reviewers on platforms such as YouTube have praised its value and authentic appearance, noting that the three-car formation captures the character of the prototype well. However, feedback often highlights limitations in the mechanical design, particularly the basic three-pole Ringfield motor, which can struggle with smooth slow-speed running. Hobbyists frequently share tips for improving performance, such as cleaning the motor, replacing traction tyres, and upgrading couplings to modern magnetic types. Despite these shortcomings, the model remains popular among collectors and layout builders who appreciate its classic charm.

Model railway forums and social media discussions consistently describe the Class 110 tooling as a "venerable" Hornby product, reflecting its long-standing presence in the hobby. While its detailing and mechanical specification are considered modest by modern standards, many enthusiasts value it for its historical significance and ease of maintenance. Articles from specialist media, including Key Model World, have noted that the tooling continued in use for decades, later appearing in Hornby's RailRoad range as an affordable option for beginners. Online conversations often focus on restoration projects and upgrades, demonstrating the enduring appeal of this classic DMU among OO gauge modellers.

This classic 1982 tooling remains well-regarded among OO gauge enthusiasts. It offers a solid balance of detailing, reliable mechanicals, and pleasant running on Radius 2 track, making it ideal for both nostalgic collectors and layout beginners. While lacking factory-fitted lights and DCC readiness, aftermarket upgrades are well-documented—ensuring the Class 110 continues running on layouts to this day.

Detailing: OO gauge (1:76), injection-moulded plastic bodyshells with separate factory-fitted details such as door handles, exhausts, vents, gangway connections, bufferbeams, and coach-end railings. Interiors include painted cab floors, basic seating, footplate detailing, glazing, and underframe elements like battery boxes and air tanks.

Class & Prototype

  • Running Number: E51846

The British Rail Class 110 represented BRCW's most powerful first-generation DMU, purpose-built for demanding Trans-Pennine routes. Thirty three-car sets (90 vehicles) constructed 1961-1963 featured four Rolls-Royce C6NFLH engines delivering 720 bhp—the highest output of any first-generation unit. Designed specifically to conquer the Calder Valley line's punishing 1 in 45 gradients, Class 110s transformed Leeds-Manchester connectivity from January 1962 through nearly three decades of intensive Trans-Pennine service. The unique inward-facing engine configuration required specialized maintenance facilities, concentrating operations at Bradford Hammerton Street (1961-1984) and Leeds Neville Hill (1984-1991). Following 1983 centre trailer withdrawals, two-car formations achieved 11.2 hp/ton power-to-weight—the highest of any first-generation DMU. Class 150 Sprinter introduction triggered 1987-1991 withdrawals. Five vehicles survive in preservation at East Lancashire Railway (complete three-car set including sole TSL survivor) and Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway (two-car formation). Hornby maintains exclusive worldwide production in OO gauge only.

Operator & Livery

  • Operator: British Rail
  • Livery: White
  • Era: 6 - British Rail Blue Pre-TOPS

British Rail (1965-1997) transformed Britain's railways through revolutionary modernisation, introducing the iconic double arrow logo, Rail Blue livery, and business sectorisation. BR pioneered high-speed rail with the InterCity 125 and Advanced Passenger Train, electrified major routes, and created profitable divisions like InterCity and Network SouthEast. From steam succession through diesel and electric development to privatisation preparation, British Rail's diverse locomotive fleet, multiple livery schemes, and operational scenarios provide unparalleled variety for railway modellers across all scales and periods.