The Driving Brake Second Open (DBSO) coaches are a sought-after part of the Bachmann Mk 2F collection. MIKE WILD checks out one of the latest versions which models these push-pull coaches in their final form.
THE BR Mk 2F carriages were the final production of the air-conditioned Mk 2 stock. They were introduced in 1973 with the last of the design for passenger service being completed in 1975. However, four years later there was a need for push-pull driving trailers to operate on the impending Edinburgh-Glasgow trains which would see Class 47/7s operate with Mk 3 carriages and a Driving Brake Second Open (DBSO) coach at one end.
The first ten DBSOs were converted from BR Mk 2F Brake Second Open coaches in 1979 and a further four were completed in 1985-1986. In original form they worked in Scotland with the Class 47/7s, but later found use on Great Eastern Main Line express services being pushed and pulled by Class 86s from the end of the 1990s. They were updated to work with the Time Division Multiplex system employed on the Class 86s, while the driving cab gangway was also removed when they moved south.
Above: Cab front detail is excellent, particularly once the accessory pack parts are fitted to the buffer beam.
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