New locomotives are born

Chris Janisch · Post by **Chris Janisch** » 30 Jul 2009, 21:14

The Pyramid Photter recently snuck into the local Koedoespoort works to check on the progress being made on the 50 "as-new" Class 39-200s.
"As-new" meaning that the traction motors are second-hand reconditioned units. The hi-tech components are all manufactured by EMD Canada and shipped out, while frames, cabs, wheelsets etc are manufactured locally.
The high voltage boards which fit behind the cab can be made here, and some were, but politics dictated that this entrepeneurial action be halted and the imported version used. In fact, there are many disputed grey areas in this package, as local cheaper parts may not be used due to the contract stipulating use of expensive imported parts from EMD.
It is all rather confusing, and to top it all there are about 50 Canadian workers assisting with the building. Perhaps their jobs in Canada have dried up.
In this bumper package, scenes of the construction process and parts are portrayed, along with the finished product.
Yes, they may be diesels, but it was something special to have witnessed the birth of new locomotives, under a massive workshop roof in Pretoria.

Derek Walker · Post by **Derek Walker** » 30 Jul 2009, 21:32

Great pics! it is nice to see new loco's being born, even under somewhat of a cloud. Out of curiosity, What do they keep under that small bonnet in front of the cab?