Italian locos - but not entirely off topic

[james_shugg@my-deja.com]

Had my summer holiday in Italy.

Was surprised to see so many Bo-Bo-Bo electric locos (ie like the Qld
3100-3900 classes).  What was especially interesting what that the
locos were also articulated, with the front and rear sections pivoting
on the centre bogie.  They must be able to take tight curves.  Didn't
see any Co-Co locos (but that doesn't mean they aren't any), but there
were quite a few Bo-Bo examples.

What was also interesting was that there were still plenty of small 4-
and 6-wheel diesl shunters in active use at regional and major railway
stations, shunting passenger and freight stock.  Many of these were
built in the 80s, so clearly the rationalisation that has made
Australian shunters largely obsolete since the 80s hasn't occurred in
Italy to the same extent.  Does any Australian rail system still
maintain purpose built shunting locos in regular use, or do the
mainliners do all that work now?

Cheers

James





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