Design
The Blue Pullmans had a maximum speed of 90 mph (140 km/h). The fixed couplings reduced much of the jerky movement experienced by conventionally-buffered carriages and allowed smooth acceleration and stable running. The bogies featured hydraulically-damped helical springs, and the axles were pneumatically braked in a two-stage system, allowing highly controlled stopping.
The entire train was air-conditioned with automatic humidity control. Motor cars contained a large primary diesel engine and generator for motive power. A secondary diesel engine and auxiliary generator provided electrical power for the air-conditioning, fridges and ancillary equipment. A single auxiliary was sufficient to power the train systems normally. An onboard technician monitored the supply of services.
The passenger areas had armchair-type table seating in a 2+1 formation, each with a table lamp and steward call button. The saloons were protected from track noise by extra insulation in the bodywork and double-glazed windows with Venetian blinds between the panes.
Read more about this topic: British Rail Classes 251 And 261
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