Number of Images on this Page = 16
D3 Class Ten Wheeler 4-6-0
The D3 class started out life as the DD class, 261 of which
were built from 1902 to 1921. The original saturated design was
found to have some shortcomings, so commencing in 1914, various
members of the class were converted to superheated design. In
1929, renumbering and reclassification took place, with the
saturated locos being known as the D1 class, and the superheated
locos the D2 class.
Further alterations in 1929 took place, with 94 of the D2
class being further rebuilt with larger boilers, and these became
the D3 class. They were remarkably versatile locos, being used not
only for shunting and light branch line work, but also for the
occasional rostered main duty as well. They were capable of hard
work, and speeds up to 80mph, and were quite popular with crews.
Loco DD980 was chosen to become the Commissioner's Loco, used
for inspection touring of the Victorian rail network by the
Railways Commissioner from 1916 onwards. This loco was rebuilt and
renumbered to D3-639 in 1929, and was scrapped in 1958. However,
the concept was too popular to be scrapped, and sister loco 658
was restored and renumbered as the second D3-639 in the early 60s,
and today, this loco is retained for preservation running.
D3 635
D3 639
Also known as The Commissioner's Engine.
See also
The
Bicentennial Triple Parallel Run
for more D3 Class photos.