NODDING ALONG THE ‘PACER’ STORY - PART 1
‘PACERS’ – arguably one of the most unpopular and derided, yet economically important, items of rolling stock to grace the national network.
For more than 30 years bad press over their ride quality has hovered around them like wasps around an empty pint glass, leading some to nickname them ‘Nodding Donkeys’, and others to use less flattering terms that cannot be printed here in the name of decency.
Over the years, ‘Pacers’ have often been compared to Marmite - you either love ’em or hate ’em. Alas, the comparison is somewhat unfair as a large proportion of the population actually likes Marmite; something which cannot be said of the poor old ‘Pacer’.
Such is the low opinion of them one wonders how they will be viewed in years to come when their presence on Network Rail lines will be just a memory. For example, preserved first-generation DMUs are popular on many heritage lines, with some railways even hosting special DMU galas or events geared around them. On other lines they have become ‘Heritage Diesel Observation Trains’ no less, turning them into an attraction in their own right.
Among the most desired forms of conveyance are the early four-wheeled railbuses from the likes of AC Cars, Wickham and Park Royal, with their central access and commanding views of the track ahead. Their family lineage to the ‘Pacers’ is inescapable, but one cannot help doubting whether incessant flange squeal, a lack of passenger comfort and a ride quality that can bring on travel sickness will ever result in a similar level of affection being bestowed upon
