In 1982, 103-1500 series are electric multiple unit (EMU) trains type developed by Japanese National Railways (JNR) for the start of rural services of the newly electrified Chikuhi line between Meihama and Nishi-Karatsu. These trains also inter-run to/from Kuko line operated by the Fukuoka City Transportation Bureau. Nine 6-car sets were built.
Although JNR built 203 series EMU trains, which feature regenerative braking system by adopting the armature chopper traction system, for Tokyo Metro Chiyoda lines of those days, JNR introduced low-cost 103-1500 series EMU to Chikuhi line because of low possibility of regeneration.
103-1500 series differ from the 103-0 series EMU in having the body closely base on 201 series EMU, discontinuing the windows located at door cases. The cab end profile is based on 105 series EMU, having an emergency door in font of the end. They were initially painted in light blue with a white stripe. Air conditioners are fitted for the first time among JNR trains used on the underground services.
4 out of 6 cars are powered with DC traction motors, MT33, rated at 110kW. Traction system is rheostatic control classified into CS20D which is the standard traction system of conventional 103 series. Resistor unit features natural cooling in order to reduce the noise in the underground tunnel. Moha103 is equipped with a current collector, PS21, such as 201 series.
Passenger accommodation consists of longitudinal bench seating throughout.
The ceiling of the passenger room seems neat because the duct for the air
conditioner is located over the ceiling, and the outlets of cool air are
slit shape. Partitions are located at the both ends of seats, so the accommodation
looks nice.
JR Kyushu repainted into a grey and red livery from 1995. Four sets were
reformed as eight 3-car sets by rebuilding intermediate motored cars into
to end cars as Kumoha103 and Kumoha102 cars respectively. Toilets were
added to Karatsu side end cars.
Although 103-1500 series were used on the ordinary services of Chikuhi line and Kuko line operated by the Fukuoka City Transportation Bureau, they are now used on the rural services of the Chikuhi line between Chikuzen-Maebaru and Nishi-Karatsu after introducing 305 series EMU. |
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