There were indeed examples, like Dundalk Barrack St, almost to the end of their operation, but exceptionally rare and over short stretches only. And yes, the noise out of a heavily-laden pair was something to be remembered! Mind you, so was the sound of a pair of "jeeps" on a spoil train!
Personally I would love to see one of the two survivors in steam as it were. Like RedRich, cab jaunts stick in my memory; I had a lovely trip one summer evening from Sligo to Dromod in the 135 which was leading either 131 or 133, on the up evening passenger / mail..... Trailing us was a motley selection of laminates and Park Royals, with several bogie mail vans.