An older diesel locomotive is being given a new lease of life through an extensive refurbishment at Railcare. On behalf of the Norwegian rail operator TM Togdrift AS, locomotive TMZ 1439 is being modernised with new technology, an improved driver’s cab and upgraded safety systems. This investment gives the impression of a brand-new locomotive, at roughly half the cost of purchasing a new one.
The locomotive will mainly be used for passenger services on the Norwegian Reuma Line. As the line has no overhead lines, diesel-powered locomotives – which can also supply power and heating to passenger carriages – are a vital part of operations.
“We saw the potential in the locomotive, even though it had been out of service for several years and was in poor condition. The refurbishment essentially gives us a new locomotive, but at roughly half the cost of buying a new one. At the same time, it makes good sense from a sustainability perspective to continue using and developing existing rolling stock,” says Mads Skoland, COO of TM Togdrift AS.
From a shell to a modern locomotive
When work began, it became clear that the refurbishment would be considerably more extensive than originally planned.
“The more we took away, the more we discovered. The locomotive had extensive corrosion damage, and large sections needed to be rebuilt. We’ve basically stripped it down to a bare shell and then rebuilt it from scratch,” says Johan Dahlin, Project Manager at Railcare.
During the refurbishment, the locomotive has, amongst other things, been fitted with a refurbished diesel engine and a completely new water-based heating system. The driver’s cab has been completely rebuilt from scratch to make it more modern, quieter and more comfortable, and the locomotive has also been equipped with ATC and radio control.
“We’re achieving a significant extension to the locomotive’s service life, and a solution tailored to our needs. This gives us both greater operational reliability and the means to develop our business going forward,” says Mads.
Collaboration is the key
A key factor in the project’s success has been the close collaboration between TM Togdrift AS and Railcare.
“The collaboration has worked incredibly well. We’ve maintained an open and transparent dialogue throughout the project, with weekly conversations, and we have found solutions that have enabled the work to progress steadily,” says Mads.
For Railcare, this project clearly showcases the company’s capability to manage complex rolling stock projects, where technology, workshop expertise, project management, and tailored solutions are interconnected.
“This is one of the most extensive locomotive projects we have undertaken. Thanks to close collaboration and swift decision-making processes, we have been able to find solutions to the challenges that have arisen along the way. It has been a great pleasure to be part of this project,” says Johan Dahlin.
