mel@cowoh.org on sar-L :
“The 33 locos imported can be basically divided into two groups, junk and goers. The 20 junkers, (14 CL18C, three GL26C and three B-B-B electrics) can only be viewed as rebuild core. All came out of dead line storage, in the case of some of the GL18C, several years storage, hence the decrepid appearance. These locos will all require varying degrees of rebuild or refurbishment.
“It would appear that these 20 are headed for RRL-Grindrod and AR&TS in Pretoria. Both of these organisations have rebuild facilities with experienced staff. What is not known is if RRL/AR&TS have purchased these units themselves, or are contract rebuilding for QRN or a third party.
“It has been assumed in Australia that the confidentiality agreements and secrecy concern the 13 U22C/C22-MMi. These units were either in use at the beginning of 2012, or had been mothballed, with the exception of a couple that were sidelined requiring repair. All can be considered goers. When rebuilt in 2000/2002 they were fitted with GE BrightStar electronics. In retrospect this conversion may not be considered overly successful. The class has experienced ongoing electrical and electronic problems, and was not particularly liked by staff.”
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