Good Old X31

X31 sits shut down in the sidings at North Shore, Geelong Australia. Not one of my best shots but good enough to post.

X31 is the first of a class of 24 X class locomotives (X31 - X54) and is one of only 2 remaining from the first series of which conprised of 6 loco's. The first series X class is a locally built EMD G16 with a completely redesigned carbody and cab. Originally entering service in 1966, X31 is the only X class to be preserved and is seen wearing its VR Blue and Gold livery that it would have entered service in.

Interestingly when built the long hood was designated the No. 1 end and the short hood/nose the No. 2 end. In original condition when running short end first the driver would have had the speedomiter behind him. Some classmembers have been rebuilt into XR class locomotives with turbocharged engines as seen here: [link]