Class 438 4TC Profile and Models

408 neat Vauxhall, London in July 1975. ©Hugh Llewelyn

The British Rail TC (Trailer Control) multiple units were unpowered fixed formations of 3 or 4 carriages with a driving position at each end of the set, converted by BR's Holgate Road carriage works from locomotive-hauled Mark 1 carriages in 1966–1967 and 1974. The units built on experience gained from the prototype 6TC unit. In time the 3 car units (3TC, numbered in the series 3xx) were reformed into four car units (4TC numbered in the series 4xx) to match the rest of the fleet and later classified as Class 442. This was later changed to Class 491, under which they spent the majority of their working lives. Shortly before withdrawal they were reclassified Class 438 and the units were renumbered to 8001-8034. (Information provided via Wikipedia)
Type of Unit	750V DC 3rd-Rail Electric Multiple Unit
Builder	BR Holgate Road Carriage Works
Build Dates	1966 to 1967
Total Built	34 units
Coaches Per Unit	4
Power Output	1,000hp
Top Speed	90mph
Operated By	British Rail
Main Duties	Suburban Passenger
In Service Until	1989
Surviving Examples	2 sets