4D (train)
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The 4D (standing for Double Deck Development and Demonstration) was a prototype double deck electric train built for the Public Transport Corporation of Melbourne, Australia. Built by Goninan in 1991, the train ran as a 4-car set, in a T-M-M-T combination. Work was carried out on the Belgrave, Lilydale, and some other lines to accommodate the height of the 4D. It was expected that the PTC would order 19 more units from Goninan, however, this was never carried through. One of the problems with the 4D was that it was unable to run on the Epping/Hurstbridge lines, as its height prevented it from going through the Jolimont rail tunnel.
The 4D is based on the design of the Tangara train used in Sydney, but was modified to run on Melbourne's broad-gauge track (Sydney's track is standard-gauge), and to be able to be coupled with Melbourne's Comeng trains. It is the only double deck train ever used in Melbourne.
The 4D was first introduced into active service in March 1992, after testing and a subsequent media launch. It was initially run coupled to a 3-car Comeng, until 1996, when it began to be run as an individual train. It was coupled many times again though, for towing after frequent breakdowns. It was allocated to Hillside Trains when Melbourne's rail network was privatised in 1999. Hillside Trains later became Connex networks (the current operator of the entire Melbourne suburban rail network).
After spending long periods out of use, it was introduced into service again in February 2002, lasting only three days before failing again. The 4D was then transferred to the DoI (Department of Infrastructure) and was then bought by RailCorp in 2006 (RailCorp is the New South Wales Government Rail Department who own CityRail), who run the sister train 'Tangara'. They planned to convert the train for use in N.S.W, removing the one-off 4D components and adding on Tangara components at Goninan's Newcastle factory. This did not eventuate and it was stored in the Newport rail workshops.
As of 30th March 2006, the 4D has been officially scrapped at Sims Metal, in Brooklyn, Melbourne. Doors, seats, poles, and cab fittings are missing, and may have gone to RailCorp N.S.W for use on Tangara Trains. Lights, windows and destination equipment (and even old The Met stickers and maps) seem to have remained in place. [1]
[edit] External links
- ^ Railpage Australia: 4D Still at Newport... intact?. Railpage Australia (18 Mar 2006). Retrieved on 2006-03-23.
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