Refurbishment
In 1984, the ScotRail-sector of British Rail began a major refurbishment programme for 50 of the 25-year old units. To conform to contemporary health and safety standards the asbestos insulation was removed. Among the many improvements introduced were connecting doors between coaches and a new type of push button passenger door control, along with all-new interiors and new fluorescent lighting. Most units also received new "hopper-style" windows. The new seating was controversial - it was almost identical to that of the Class 314, albeit with a 2+2 configuration. This allowed for many more standing passengers, but with far fewer seats than previously before. The original seating was deep sprung and (arguably) far more comfortable.
The glass bulkheads behind the driving cabs were another casualty of the refurbishment - passengers could no longer see the driver's view through the front windows. Following refurbishment, units were repainted in the striking new orange and black livery introduced by the newly created Strathclyde PTE.
Read more about this topic: British Rail Class 303