One point which has not been covered is the P616's propensity for self-immolation
Of the 19 PH37ACmi delivered to Freightliner UK (the 20th was dropped during unloading), at least four have now suffered engine fires (70007, 70008, 70014, and 70018). The balance of 10 units from the original order for 30 is now on hold pending a fix (bit like the 20 Chinaman that Kiwirail has on hold)
70007
http://www.flickr.com/photos/welsheyrai ... otostream/
70008 Caught fire at Southampton April 2012 (multiple reports)
70014
http://www.flickr.com/photos/21095258@N ... 74548@N22/
70018
http://www.flickr.com/photos/60580721@N ... 74548@N22/
From this photo, the rebuilds look to be fairly extensive
http://www.railwaystoday.com/2012/06/21 ... -class-70/
Some reports on UK groups that 70017 also suffered an engine fire, but cannot locate photo to verify
It is a bit ironic that GE Transportation warranty work in the UK, is sub-contracted to Brush Traction, a subsidiary of Wabtec
This was the availability in May 2012 from
http://www.wnxx.com/
WNXX
As at yesterday evening FL Heavy Haul had eight of 11 is use but FL Intermodal were still deploying one of eight. 70009 has been joined at Eastleigh by 70001 and 70008 for repairs.
DFGH Freightliner Heavy Haul PM 06/05/12
Available 70002 70003 70004 70005 70006 70011 70013 70014
Non Available 70010 70015 70016
DFGI Freightliner Intermodal PM 06/05/12
Available 70020
Non Available 70001 70007 70008 70009 70017 70018 70019
Which would indicate that the failure rate in higher speed intermodal service is greater. It would seem that all of the engine fires were in intermodal locomotives, where higher speeds probably induce greater vibration. Overall the failure rate of the PowerHaul is appalling.