Bachmann 32-900C

British Rail Class 108 DMBS M50946 British Railways Green with Late Crest

Contents

Tooling

First released in 2006, Bachmann Branchline introduced a brand-new OO-scale mould for the British Rail Class 108 DMU, capturing its late-1950s design while leveraging modern detailing standards. This tooling marked Bachmann's entry into authentically representing Derby-built DMUs from the intimate, rural-era of British Rail and replaced earlier repurposed tooling from Mainline and Replica Railways.

The Bachmann Class 108 has consistently earned praise from model railway reviewers and enthusiasts alike. Its smooth, slow-speed running and crisp detailing are frequently highlighted as standout features, while the factory-fitted lighting adds a layer of realism that appeals to collectors and operators. Some early releases have been noted for ageing LEDs, which modellers often replace for improved brightness. Publications and online reviewers commend the model's ease of DCC conversion, with Train-O-Matic and similar 8-pin decoders being popular choices. Community feedback also points to its reliable performance on layouts, though its body length can challenge tighter track plans. Overall, the model is regarded as a benchmark for quality in DMU representations.

The Class 108 tooling enjoys strong visibility across social media and video platforms. Numerous unboxing and review videos on YouTube showcase its detailing and operational capabilities, with later blue/grey liveries proving particularly popular among collectors. DCC sound installation tutorials from specialists such as Wickness Models and Howes have further boosted its appeal, demonstrating the model's adaptability for sound enthusiasts. Forum discussions and blog posts frequently celebrate its nostalgic charm and suitability for preserved railway layouts, reinforcing its status as a favourite among OO gauge modellers. This sustained engagement underscores the tooling's enduring relevance and versatility within the hobby.

Bachmann's Class 108 Branchline tooling represents a meticulous, modern interpretation of Britain's mid-century DMU fleets. With authentic detailing, advanced lighting, DCC readiness, and robust mechanical engineering, it remains a favourite among OO enthusiasts. The tooling supports a broad range of liveries and community-driven DCC/sound modifications, making it a versatile and long-lasting member of Bachmann's Branchline catalogue.

Modellers frequently install LokSound or Zimo decoders via the 8-pin socket and add a small speaker beneath the motor vehicle—often in the toilet compartment. Decoder installs yield great exhaust effects, proportional driving sounds, and proper directional/interior lighting control. Some users adjust CVs to fine-tune LED brightness to suit layout lighting conditions.

Detailing: Mixed plastic and metal chassis; detailed bodyshell with separately injected parts (coach-end railings, lamp irons, exhausts, vestibules) and realistic glazing, interior seats, footplate, wipers, and painted window surrounds. Accurately modelled air tanks, battery boxes, engine pipework, fuel tanks, and footsteps. Cosmetic hook included in detailing pack; sprung buffers fitted.

Class & Prototype

  • Running Number: M50946

The British Rail Class 108 was Derby Works' most successful first-generation DMU design, with 333 aluminium-bodied vehicles built between 1958-1961. Powered by twin Leyland 680 engines producing 600bhp in power-twin formations, these versatile units operated across all four BR regions from North Eastern coastal services to the Cumbrian Coast Line, wearing liveries from BR green through corporate blue to Network SouthEast. The class served 35 years until October 1993, with 48 vehicles surviving in preservation—more than any other first-generation DMU type. Bachmann produces comprehensive OO gauge models (13+ variants, £209-£260) whilst Graham Farish offers extensive N gauge coverage including unique factory sound-fitted options.

Operator & Livery

  • Operator: British Railways
  • Livery: Green with Late Crest
  • Era: 5 - British Railways Late Crest

British Railways transformed Britain's fragmented rail network into a unified national system following nationalisation on 1st January 1948. Created from the "Big Four" companies under the Transport Act 1947, BR operated most of Great Britain's railways until rebranding as British Rail in 1965, managing over 20,000 route miles and inheriting nearly 20,000 locomotives of diverse designs.

The organisation pioneered standardisation through its revolutionary BR Standard locomotive programme (1951-1960), producing 999 advanced steam engines under Robert Riddles' direction. These included the versatile Britannia Pacifics, mighty 9F freight engines, and mixed-traffic classes that incorporated the best features from all predecessor companies. The 1955 Modernisation Plan accelerated diesel and electric traction development, creating fascinating mixed-traction operations.

Notable achievements included establishing unified locomotive classification systems, introducing distinctive corporate liveries, and managing the complex transition from steam to modern traction. BR's six regional structure preserved operational diversity whilst enabling standardisation of practices, signalling, and rolling stock that had eluded private enterprise for over a century.

The BR era represents steam traction's final flowering alongside emerging diesel technology, creating unparalleled locomotive variety. Today, this heritage remains highly popular with railway enthusiasts through extensive preserved fleets, heritage railway operations, and comprehensive model ranges from manufacturers like Hornby, Bachmann, and Dapol, making BR subjects essential for authentic post-war British railway modelling across all scales.