Building The Club Model DXR Locomotive

Page created on 7th August 2001

The DXR locomotive is one of the Largest and most powerful CoCo diesel locos of the Tranz Rail fleet. The 7.25" gauge loco will end up 3metres long.

The bogies are powered by two 24v 40a EMD motors which drive the centre axle via a worm drive reduction. One of the motors is clearly seen in this picture.

All wheels on the loco will be braked. These are operated by Vacuum.
The vacuum cylinder is clearly seen on the left.

The main platform is taking shape, the bull bars have been fitted and the well where the fuel tank has been made to accomodate batteries.

The cab is taking shape. It is to the new universal cab design being adopted by Tranz Rail as they replace the cabs on their locos. Notice the detailing along the sides of the bogies. The 300mm ruler gives some idea of the size. Just behind the cab is the vacuum pump. The vacuum storage cylinder is under the short bonnet.

At the other end of the loco the control panel is taking shape. It incorporates ammeters, volt meter, vacuum gauges, switches, speedo and socket for remote control. The top has yet to be shaped to fit under the long bonnet.

The electronic controllers are situated behind the control panel. Isolating switches are provided for the batteries and both motors.

Side extensions were added to the fuel tank well to detail according to the new DXR universal fuel tank.

Following added on 11th August 2001

The roof panels for the long hood are now fitted. It gives a good idea of the full size of the loco.

Another view with the roof panels.

The centre panel of the roof opens up for access to the batteries.

The side panel opening doors on the long bonnet are now being fitted. This gives a better idea of the pysical size.

30 Sept 2001.
The painting is almost complete. The colours are the present Tranz Rail livery.

Loco now back on bogies and ready for the final wiring and testing.

October 3rd 2001

On October 3rd 2001 the DRX made it's first test run on the track followed by hauling passengers for the following 5 hours.

The 5" DH Shunter looks rather small beside the DXR.

On 9th December a matching straddle ride car was added. Fully steel construction and matching the DXR colours. A further 3 of these are planned. During trials of the new ride car we coupled 8 ride cars with 21 adult passengers behind the DXR as a test load. While it pulled the loaded train fully around our track we will probably set a limit of 4 ride cars with 16 adults or 30 children.

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