071 fleet overhaul updates.

[Noel]

52 minutes ago, Railer said:

Basically, yes all the block 1 201s are being used for parts. 

Thanks for info.  Does that suggest the 071 class service lifespan could be longer than envisaged a decade ago?  It's so impressive to see how these locos are overhauled like almost like new. Was there any substance to the rumour some of the older 201s were at one stage in the past considered for replacement power units, more suitable for lower freight track speeds?

[Railer]

A decade ago it was decided to store and mothball 6 071s in the worst condition to keep a fleet of 12 going. At that time 077, 078 and 087 were withdrawn from service for many years, these would were 3 of the 6 to be withdrawn which thankfully never fully happened.. 087 was basically stripped to a shell. 

In 2012 the plan was changed, that all 18 would be kept in service and received this major overhaul that is ongoing.

230 will supposedly (And maybe 225) be used as a test bed for a new power unit for the 201 class. 225 was to be used as parts too but plans changed few years ago and the rebuilding/repair work and body overhaul and painting is now complete on it. It's waiting parts and mods for return to service next year.

[Railer]

074 back in traffic after major overhaul. Don't know when exactly it was released from the core. The taras are now being outshopped in a deeper red lately than the usual oxide brown.

 

 

 

Edited December 5, 2018 by Railer

[Railer]

Don't know if it's the camera settings but in both pictures the leading end of 074 looks warped at the bogie arch. Body overhaul gone wrong or a bent frame?

[Noel]

10 minutes ago, Railer said:

Don't know if it's the camera settings but in both pictures the leading end of 074 looks warped at the bogie arch. Body overhaul gone wrong or a bent frame?

It might have been dropped or accidentally man handled a bit when the Kadee coupling was fitted to the other cab end, or when the buffer detailing was added. Its a very nice model and the little defect adds authenticity. 

PS: Interesting train formation. The resin Tara wagon at the end doesn't look half as impressive as IRM's new ones.

Edited December 5, 2018 by Noel