Clyde-GM

L-class

Specification

Factory model : GT26C.

Type : diesel-electric general purpose locomotive.

introduced : 1967.

Number in class : 26.

Manufacturer : Clyde Engineering.

Gauge : 1435 mm

Axles : Co-Co.

Length : 19.36 metres

Mass : 137 t

Engine : EMD 16-645E3

Power : 3300hp

Speed : 134/ 21 km/h

The first standard gauge locomotive in Western Australia, L-class loco was introduced as a part of National gauge standardization which spans between Sydney and Perth.

The loco was originally used to haul ore between Kolyanobing and Perth. But later, it also see other duties like goods hauling across WA's standard gauge network and (occasionally) passenger train hauling before the demise of Australia National company.

Nowaday, the loco is being phased out or sold to another company when Westrail (now Australian West railway) started to receive the brand new Q-class loco in late 1990s.