JNR 443 series

Data (as of 19 Mar 2022)

History

The 443 series was a type of two-carriage measurement train introduced by Japanese National Railways. It looked similar to limited express EMUs built in 1970s like 183 series. Each unit consisted of KuMoYa 442 (for monitoring signals) and KuMoYa 443 (overhead wires). The series was dual-voltage as it was designed to run all electrified lines across the country.

When JNR was privatised in 1987, the first unit was succeeded by JR East, which was later withdrawn in 2003. JR West refurbished the second unit with the latest computers and censors, and monitored electrified lines not only across the JR West network, but also JR Shikoku, JR Kyushu and even some other small private railways in western Japan.

Its demise had been rumoured for more than ten years, but it lasted longer than enthusiasts' estimates. It finally retired in August 2021.

Photo

Lights by the front pantograph show that the train was ready to start monitoring overhead wires.