Future for SAR Redhen 311 and 402

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SAR Redhens 311 and 402, once back home in South Australia, both will undergo engine and transmission maintenance. As the Redhens 311 and 402 engines are GM Detroit Diesel 6/71's, I have managed to download after a long search the full servicing and operation manuals, same as the Transmission Twin Disc SM-121 Service Manual.

Engines: The engines will be serviced as required and specified with the Detroit Diesel 6/71 serving manual.  

Transmissions: The transmission will be serviced as required and specified with the Twin Disc SM-121 service manual. With special attention to 311s B end transmission, as there is a major leaking issue due to a seal/friction plate, so I have been told.   

Electrical: All electrical wiring will be inspected for damage and also plans for a total rewiring of the inside of the railcars, this would be for the current lighting as the wiring could be the original from manufacturing in 1955.

Inner Interior: During the engines and transmissions work there will be inspections of what is in between the interior and exterior of the railcars, this will also be done within the roof space, to inspect whats is within the roof cavity. This will include appropriate action taken to remove 1955 installations and other/s. The plan is to have new insulation within the roof space as well as the interior and exterior of the railcars. The interior is also planned to have a restroom, and other modem futures, but still keeping the original Redhen classic look.     

Outer: During the engines and transmissions work there will be out side cosmetic work done, this will entail the removal and cutting out of surface and deep rust from the out side of the railcars. With a repaint from top to bottom and front to back, of hopefully the same Redhen Red color. 

As the SAR Redhens will be an operating railcars, once all the restoration is completed the appropriate documents will be submitted to have both 311 and 402 accredited and certified to operate. What is so pleasing and appreciated is the over welling amount of volunteers coming forward to help with the restoration, all in the name of Preservation of South Australian Railway History. As well as having part of South Australia Railway History return back to South Australia.