History
The first batch of six were delivered in 1966 with the same mechanicals as the S class but with a hood type of body. A second order of eight locomotives was delivered in 1970 fitted with a more powerful engine. A third batch entered service in 1975/76 and differed by having an angled no.1 end and different cab. Although mainly used on the broad gauge most at some stage operated on the standard gauge line to Albury. They hauled passenger and freight services throughout Victoria.
In the early 1980s they began working interstate to Adelaide and Sydney. All were included in the sale of V/Line Freight to Freight Australia in May 1999.
Between 2001 and 2005 Freight Australia rebuilt six locomotives, fitting them with refurbished engines from G class locomotives, enlarged radiators, and modified cabs. These locomotives have subsequently been renumbered as the XR class. All but two passed to Pacific National with the business in August 2004, these going to CRT Group and in June 2005 to QR National.
In January 2010 X31 was transferred to the Seymour Railway Heritage Centre. It has been returned to service and been hired to El Zorro. The class are now employed hauling freight services in New South Wales and Victoria.
Read more about this topic: Victorian Railways X Class (diesel)
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