Replacement
The class 127 units operated one of the most intensive passenger services worked by diesel multiple units and, by the late 1970s, it was clear they needed replacing. It was therefore decided to electrify the Bedford line and replace the Class 127 units with new Class 317 electrical multiple units. The class 127 units should have been withdrawn by 1982, however, problems with the new trains meant they had to struggle on in service until early July 1983. From early 1983, they had commenced operations on the Barking to Gospel Oak line at first running in three-car then finally two-car formations from November 1983 with just the two power cars. The units lasted in service on this line until eventually being withdrawn in March 1984. The units were then stored at Carlisle depot pending reuse, preservation or scrapping. Subsequently, many trailer vehicles saw further use in combination with Class 116 units, based at Tyseley depot in Birmingham. These lasted until October 1993.
Read more about this topic: British Rail Class 127
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