Heljan's Class 117 will be available between Q2 and Q3 2021. Pre-order now!
Heljan O Gauge Class 117 DMU - Project Updates
Thursday, May 21 2020
by Jack Morgan
Heljan O Gauge Class 117 DMU

Class 117 DMU at Winchombe in July 2015. © Rob Hodgkins
Heljan are producing a range of both 2 and 3-car Class 117 diesel multiple units in O gauge. A total of seven models are currently planned, covering a range of liveries including BR blue, blue & grey, BR green and Network SouthEast. We are expecting to receive these into stock between Q2 and Q3 2021. The models promise a high specification, as is to be expected from Heljan and will include:
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Highly detailed body and underframe
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Detailed cab interior with lighting
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5-pole motor
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Screw-link coupling
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Digital and sound capability
Working Prototype Shown

Heljan recently displayed a working sample of their forthcoming Class 117.
This sample displays some of the lighting functions that will be present on the final model. Please note this is still an early sample and isn’t fully representative of the final model.
Engineering Prototype Showcased


Forthcoming Models
1173 - 2-car DMU in BR blue and grey - £551.65
1174 - 2-car DMU in Network SouthEast livery - £551.65
1175 - 3-car DMU in BR green with speed whiskers - £806.65
1176 - 3-car DMU in BR green with small yellow warning panels - £806.65
1177 - 3-car DMU in BR blue - £806.65
1178 - 3-car DMU in BR blue and grey - £806.65
1179 - 3-car DMU in Network SouthEast livery - £806.65
Prototype Information

Class 117 DMU L421 at Didcot in May 1989. © Murgatroyd49
(Information provided by Wikipedia)
The Class 117 DMUs were produced by Pressed Steel in the late 1950s/ early 60s and were based on the similar Class 121 "Bubble Car". They were originally intended for use on suburban services out of London Paddington where they spent several decades. During the 1980s, some moved to Birmingham and Scotland prior to the introduction of newer rolling stock. Like other first generation multiple units, the Class 117s had a long lifespan, with the final units bowing out in 2000. Due to their longevity, many can still be seen at heritage lines across the UK.
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Type of Unit
|
2 or 3 car Diesel Multiple Unit |
Builder
|
Pressed Steel Company |
Build Date
|
1959 - 1961 |
Total Built
|
123 Cars |
Top Speed
|
70mph |
Power Output
|
600 hp (per 3-car set) |
Operated By
|
British Railways & Silverlink |
Main Duties
|
Suburban Passenger Services |
In Service Until
|
2000 |
Surviving Units
|
35 Cars |
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