> The third series (C3551-80/T4217-46) are identifiable by their yellow
> interiors. These cars were also ordered and delivered with forced air
> ventilation equipment, with provision being made for later fitting of
> air-conditioning.
hese carriages were later utilised on Central Coast and
> Illawarra services, and were fitted with air-conditioning for this purpose.
I think you will find that the Sigma units used on the 3rd series are
essentally the same as the Tangara units and will not fit in the space
provided in the 2nd series build. (Different pod chassis, same unit)
If you look at the gutter line on the 2nd and 3rd series K sets you
will see that there is a difference in the roof 'pod' area. Ive not
tried to measure it, but it appears the 3rd series Ks take a bigger
pod, and are not compatable with the 2nd series at all.
A special build of AC units would be required, and given that we still
have several hundred DD cars that can never be air conditioned, I can
see why they dont bother. Another 150 AC units inventory of a new type.
Actually, if Cityrail fixed the 'passenger operated' doors on the
Tangara fleet, during summer, they could probably save enough
electricity to buy special AC units for the 2nd series Ks. The number of
times i've seen Tangara trains sitting on platforms, blasting cold air
out their open doors into 30 degree days is quite amazing. If the doors
could close on a timer and open again when the passenger pushed a
button, the energy savings over an average summer would be considerable.
-- Matthew Geier, matthew@law.usyd.edu.au Computer Systems Manager, +61 2 9351 0240 Law School, University of Sydney +61 2 9351 0200 (fax)