The B class was VR's First Main line Diesels.They were the start of dieselisation in Victoria and displaced many Steam locomotives in top of the line passenger service. During the mid 1980's a project was launched to rebuild all 26 B's in A class locomotives. This project was stopped after only 11 rebuilds and having already had the parts for the remaining rebuilds ordered the parts were used to build the last 15 or the second series N class. In mid 2012 B61 will celebrate 60 years in service and be one of the oldest locomotives in Australia to still be running in comercial Service.
Drive Type: Diesel Electric - DC
Engine: EMD 16-567BC
Generator: EMD D12
Traction Motors: EMD D27
Horse Power: 1610hp
Weight: 114t
Max rated speed: 133km/h
Builders Model: ML2