the Western Australian X's

the XA variant (B Carlisle)

This series of 48 diesel-electrics was effectively the first acquired by the Western Australian Government Railways for its 3'6" gauge lines.   Like NZ officialdom, the WAGR authorities had blind faith in British engineering, which proved unfounded: the locos were quite problematic in their early years and it is reported that over 600 design faults, mainly in the Crossley engine, had to be overcome.  However, following this they are reported to have had smooth operations.

Three versions appeared:  X, XA and XB: the second were 16 locomotives fitted with multiple unit controls, numbered sequentially from 1401-1416, and included egress doors in the front of the locomotive cab. The WAGR Midland Workshops later adapted an additional 10 units for multiple unit working, becoming the XB Class, they were  identical in appearance to the X Class.

Builder: Beyer, Peacock and Company/Metropolitan-Vickers/Crossley Brothers
Build dates: 1952-1954
Configuration: 2-Do-2
Length: 14.63 metres (48 ft)
Locomotive weight: 80 tonnes (79 long tons; 88 short tons)
Prime mover:  Crossley HST-Vee8 Pulse-charged Two Stroke
Power output: 779 kw (1,045 bhp)
Generator: MetroVick TG4203
Traction motors: 4 x MV136
Maximum speed: 89 km/h (55 mph)
First run: March 1954
Final withdrawal: March 1988