Re: V/Line "C" class

[mauried@commslab.gov.au (Maurie Daly)]

>> Might have some good news on the mighty C class!!
>> I have it on good authority that NR are having thoughts about a rebuild program
>> for at least some of the C's
>> The idea is to return them to the mainline, and this goes agaist earlier
>> postings that suggested that they might become a Super Pilot. We will know soon
>> enough as the inspections have already been done and the Accountants are doing
>> their bit now.
>> Those of us that used to marvel at their reliability, if not their comfort, can
>> only wonder if they are needed because from this observers point of reference
>> the NR's are not very [reliable?]
>> Rod

>I wonder if we could get Goninan's or NRC admit just how many NRs are out of
>traffic some days. From the grapevine I listen to quite a few.

>As I've said before - my favourite numbers are 567, 645 and latterly 710.

Dont go too hard on the NRs, after all there are a huge number of them , and 
simply from a statistical viewpoint its reasonable to expect a few failures 
which in numerical terms will have more down than other classes.
Also remember that the NRs were the first loco in Australia to fit 4000 HP 
into a 23 tonne axle load weight limitation , which is no mean feat.
Mind you , one could question whether it was a good idea to get lightweight 
4000 HP locos in the first place , although Westrail have done this also with 
their 21 tonne Q class.
It will be interesting to see if the Qs have the same teething problems as the 
NRs.
Its also interesting that AN didnt seem to have any problems with the ELs.

cheers
MD