15th September - from AD

Well - some confirmed, some heard of today, but unconfirmed... First, confirmed... 1449 failed at Bombel this morning on a Poceirão-Evora training run. Was dragged back to Poceirão by CP's 1428 and thence onto Barreiro for repairs. 1445 is at Barreiro too, apparently for minor repairs and then is booked a series of Barreiro-Pinhal Novo and Evora training trips next week.Fots here! Along with several others of today's eventful trip.http://158722.fotopic.net/p53505824.htmlhttp://158722.fotopic.net/p53506307.html The 1344 Evora-LOR IC failed to start before departure, nice shiny overhauled 1946 was guilty, so service was replaced by a bus. 1945 worked the 1410 from Oriente and dragged its mate and 5 coaches back on the 1844 ex-Evora in a bizarre formation. 1945 arrived at Evora, ran round its own stock, then backed on to the front of 1946 and its stock resulting in the formation being 1945, 2 Budds, 1946 and 3 Budds...! Arrival was 35min late because of Convel problems.http://158722.fotopic.net/p53505819.htmlhttp://158722.fotopic.net/p53505825.html Comsa's 335001 is at Poceirão, due to be dragged to Casa Branca at 0845 on Monday and will do a series of tests on the Evora branch on Monday and Tuesday before returning to Spain on wednesday.http://158722.fotopic.net/p53505822.html The Evora and Estremoz trip from Poceirão has changed, now departing at 1130 on sunday and wednesday, returning the same day. 1912 appears to be under overhaul at Barreiro for Carga, being replaced as the Campolide Thunderbird by 1904. The latter also appeared, last monday, at Oeiras (yes....Oeiras!) dragging a 3151/3251 unit after repairs at Campolide, a task previously performed by top and tail Sentinels to Cais de Sodre, but now prohibited. 1464, now a Somafel loco in their livery, is at Entron, but as far is is known (and here we move into the unconfirmed section...) the loco is not fitted with Convel or radio-solo, so should be restricted to working within possesions and will not be allowed out on the mainline. Note implication of this new rule...! It is not known what the intended use for 1464 is and whether it will be fitted with the neccessary bits to let it out on the mainline as per Takarga's 1445/49. Now the bad news, if true... CP have instructed EMEF to stop work on the 3 1400s currently under repair (possibly just intermediate overhauls) at Barreiro, namely 1404, 1416 and 1434, with no more overhauls on the class to be undertaken. The overhauls currently underway on Bombardiers 1971 (accident damage repairs as well) and 1973, will be the last with CP investing in the 1901s and 1931s instead, with the possibility of new engines being fitted to the class (maybe GMs). An odd decision, given the Almost's rather dubious reliability (see above...!) and seemingly higher maintenance costs compared with the rather simpler and rugged 1961s. Saying that, Bombardier reliability has not been wonderful of late, with 3 at Barreiro (the above plus 1963) and 3 others OOU at Contumil. The MLWs also do not seem to have a rosy future with only sufficient bits to keep 18 locos in traffic at any one time and again, future overhauls now in doubt.

Oh, and 1805 now at EMEF Entron for painting in blue and white... Cue paint frothing...

Interpreted from article in newspaper here.

A deal to sell more stock and locos to Argentina is to be signed before the end of the year with stock to be delivered between March and September 2009. From the stock noted as being included, this is simply the approval of the original plan of 2006, the balance of which was never exported - supposedly due to lack of payments. This batch should in theory be;
1211, 1214, 1216, 1426, 1432, 1436, 1438 and 1941
2004, 2008, 2018, 2053, 2058, 2074, 2086 and for parts only, 2055, 2068, 2084.
8 Budd Sorefame coaches.

A further deal is on the table involving another batch of 50 or 100 coaches, which would imply the grand majority of the remaining non-air con Budd stock being exported. No mention of any further loco sales, i.e. 1800s.
 

24th April from Steve Widdowson

18th March

The first Siemens 4700 loco has been delivered to CP.

A photo CP4701 at Entroncamento taken today (18/3/08) is available at the following link:

http://www.railpictures.net/viewphoto.php?id=227915&nseq=7

5th March from AD

A trip over to Praias de Sado and Poceirão yesterday, with Messrs Garnell and Morais found the following;

Praias de Sado; 1428, 1903, 1905, 5613 and 1569 arriving on containers

Pocerião; 1165 (fresh off overhaul, no rods, in transit), 1411, 1456, 1566, 1908, 2505, 2514
5613, 5618 and 5620 all went north of freights
1559 arrived with trip from Setubal
1566 left with 1908 and 1411 in tow to P Sado
ex-Renfe 308 and an Alco in the Ferrovias yard, no sign of Takarga 1400s
1454 stored alongside the station

This, along with other notes from B exam, would suggest a 1400 swap around;
Poceirão; 1411, 1428, 1456
Lisboa SA IC sector; 1427, 1442, 1457
Entron Carga; 1415, 1429
Contumil; 1412 (back from overhaul), 1416, 1465 and possibly 1466 (after overhaul)

We are fairly sure that it was 2505 parked up at Poceirão depot - it had been in store at Entroncamento.

Also:

More 1400 reallocations could be on the cards while browsing the Paraferroviario & Coimboios.org Forums.

1424 is at Barreiro (arrived Sat 9th March) for a R2 overhaul and quotes on the forums state when released it should be replacing 1413 in the CP-LCR pool at Contumil.

The Takarga locos are also located at Barreiro being overhauled with 1464 possibly moved from Figueira da Foz for Takarga?

Various photos of both 1462 & 1465 working off Pampilhosa have appeared on the Paraferroviario Forum. So has 1462 moved north to Contumil, or is there diagram now taking Entron locos to Pampilhosa?

11th March - from Mark Widdison

Just Returned from a weekend in Portugal covering the Lusitania diversion: gen as follows:

Saturday 8/3/08:

2604 worked the Lusi forward from Vilar Formoso to Entroncamento where 1940 was added as pilot with the 26 dead in tow!
1415 (Contumil??) was pilot at Santa Apolonia Docks, where as 1429 had been earlier in the week according to Andrew Donnelly.
5611 has moved from the freight sector to the passenger sector. It worked IC523 0930 Lisboa Santa Apolonia-Porto Campanha on Saturday 8/3/08. (Reported out during the previous few days). Photos soon to be available at markwiddison372.fotopic.net

5609 may have moved over to the passenger sector as well, A almost entirely covered in grafitti 5600 was on IC528 1652 Porto Campanha-Lisboa Santa Apolonia on Saturday 8/3/08. Numbers obscured by the grafitti! Entroncamento allocated 1416 & 1465 were both stabled on Pampilhosa with 1408 & 1444 on Sunday 9/3/08.
1422 on the Almond Special on the Saturday for a change!

24th January - from Mario

Since January 1, a 'new' rule is in effect. Now all trains being shunted are required to have the brake pipes connected between loco and consist. This has led to CP sidelining of their typical Sentinel Shunters. So if one goes to Santa Apolonia - Lisbon's central 'Halt' - the shunters on duty will be Mooses 1427, 1442 or 1457. The 'rule' in this new procedure is based on Security rule book 3, and its some 20 years old.

15th January

Apparently 1805 started first time! and no faults were found. Looks like the loco will now take part in the opening of the new National Railway Museum at Entroncamento in March. Possibly on a special train! More news as we have it...

14th January 2008

BIG NEWS : Locomotive 1805 has entered Barreiro works today. It is to receive a minor service and be started up and a report on its condition to be made to CP Board. We are trying to find out more !

Also it appears that between 4 and 6 of the other 1800 series locomotives are to be overhauled and sold to Argentina. Most likely ones are 1802/07/10 plus possible 1803/08 very unlikely are 1801/04/06.

19th November from AD

Status of ex-CP 1400s in Argentina.

TBA
1409 out of traffic Liniers works, under repair with crankshaft damage
1467 out of traffic Liniers works, appears not to be being worked on and some parts removed
1205 prepared for traffic, not seen in use. Stopped at Liniers.
1217 in traffic, usually Merlo-Lobos. Engine compartment bonnet blew off (strong wind!) on 7th Nov, replaced along with damaged side doors taken off 1223.
1212 not seen
1218 in traffic, Retiro Mitre pilot
1221 in traffic, usually Merlo-Lobos
1223 out of traffic, not prepared, some parts missing, including engine room doors as noted above!

LSM
1417 in traffic
1418 in traffic
1440 in traffic

The use of these locos appears to be a little bit sporadic with the first diagram (1550 ex Retiro) more often than not being caped, seen only twice in last 3 weeks. the second working of the diagram works more often, starting with the 1734 departure. The second turn (1616 ex Retiro) is more regular but twice last week it produced an Alco RSD16 vice the 1400! B823 and B826 each with load 4 was lively...! Stock used is exclusively Argentinian, the CP Budd stock is not used with several stopped at Retiro and several moved to TBA for Merlo-Lobos. 1417 especially, clags like I've never seen a 1400 do in Portugal, black smoke a plenty!

FerroCentral
1410 in traffic
1423 arrived Cordoba mid-October, prepared for traffic and repaint into FerroCentral livery complete by end of month. Stabled Cordoba station 2/3 Nov, not seen in use, still immaculate condition.
1448 out of traffic, some parts removed (coupling hook, horns amongst other bits) but staff quoted as saying will be repaired as nothing major wrong.

None of the Nohabs were seen, but one was in Cordoba being used to promote the reintroduction of pasenger services.

On the boat...

1201, 1207, 1224
1405, 1421, 1425
1931, 1934, both overhauled, 1933, 1936, which have not been overhauled.
0101, 0105, 0106
2057, 2064, 2072, 2082 (and possibly 2018)
and 7 Sorefame coaches

7th November from AD

Most of the next batch of exports for Argentina are being/have been loaded
at Setubal.

Included are 1201, 1207, 1224 plus maybe another 2 unknowns, 1421 and two others, presumably 1405 and 1425, 3 more Nohabs and at least 2 more EMUs.

http://picasaweb.google.com/zeencarnacao/EMBARQUERUMOARGENTINA/photo#s5129553167350461650

As for here, 1417 and 1440 on the Hurlinghams!

3rd November

1410 worked a PTG special from Cordoba to Villa Maria in Argentina. This British built loco has now worked PTG specials in THREE different countries! (Portugal, Spain and Argentina).

16th October

Pics from recent PTG trip can be seen here

http://jandjcottrell.fotopic.net/c1389858.html

12th October

Thanks to Mark Widdison for clarify the sightings at Entroncamento:

11th October

10 years late, the extension of the Metro from Baixa Chiado to Terreiro de Paço and Santa Apalonia is due to open on December 22nd (2007, just in case of any doubts...) Announcement this week from the Minister responsible. Also, a date for the re-opening of Rossio is expected soon - expected to be in early 2008.

8th October

During the PTG tour we had visits to both Entroncamento and Barreiro works. Class by class news follows but the biggest news is that CP have again started to overhaul 1400 locomotives; for their own use. Other big news is that all work on locos for export to Argentina is suspended (waiting payment!). All diesel locations are Barreiro except where stated. All electric locos at Entroncamento.

1151 series
1152 stripped ready for overhaul. Works shunter 1170. Stored 1161. Stipped for parts 1155, 1174
Stored at Entroncamento: 1151/53/58/79
On overhaul at Entroncamento: 1154

1201 series
Overhauled and ready for shipping to Argentina: 1201/07/24
Overhauled started but suspended for Argentina: 1211/14/16
Stripped shells: 1203/13
Stored: 1225
On maintenance (private owner): 1204 (being re-gauged for use in UK!)

1401 series
On overhaul for CP Carga: 1412, 1466
Overhauled and ready for shipping to Argentina:1405/21/25
Stored for future Argentina shipment: 1426/36
Crash damaged: 1458
Stripped shells: 1459/60
Active (traction motor swap): 1456

This obviously means that 1466 has not been repainted grey and sold to a private company. That loco is now believed to be 1449 with 1445 to follow.

1501 series
Stored for national museum collect: 1501
Stripped: 1505/24
On maintenance (private owner): 1512

1551 series
On full overhaul for CP Carga: 1553
Intermediate overhaul for CP Carga: 1555
Maintenance: 1562

1801 series
Covered storage for CP Musuem: 1805

1901 series
On full overhaul for CP Carga: 1901, 1909
Intermediate overhaul for CP Carga: 1905
Dumped out of use: 1906, 1910
Maintenance: 1907, 1911

Can see why CP Carga have a loco shortage with 7 of the 13 locos out of use!

1931 series
Overhauled and ready for shipping to Argentina:1931/34
Stored for future Argentina shipment: 1933/36/41
Stored for CP: 1937, 1938 (fire damage), 1939
Stored at Entroncamento: 1946

1961 series
On full overhaul for CP Carga: 1964
Collision repairs: 1971

2501 series
Intermediate overhaul: 2506/11
Other works: 2501
Stored: 2506 (shell), 2504/05/08/13/15

2551 series
Collision damage (to be repaired): 2551/58/67
Withdrawn: 2559/69

2601/21 Series
Overhaul for CP Carga: 2626
Other: 2606

5601 series
Overhaul for CP: 5617, 5630

8th October

Another successful PTG "Enthusiast Event" with all locos and lines producing:

5th October
1962  Oriente - Setil - Coruche - Ermidas-Sado - Tunes - Faro  (389.5 km, 242 miles)
1962  Faro - Tunes - Funcheira - Setubal - Oriente (321.3 km, 199.7 miles)

6th October
2568/60  Oriente - Entroncamento (99.8 km, 62 miles)
1558  Entroncamento - Marvao-Beira (132.6 km, 82.4 miles)
1558  Marvao-Beira - Entroncamento (132.6 km, 82.4 miles)
2560/68  Entroncamento - Oriente (99.8 km, 62 miles)

7th October
1908  Oriente - Entroncamento (99.8 km, 62 miles)
1411  Entroncamento - Pego (50.6 km, 31.5 miles)
1567  Pego - Mouriscas-A (6.7 km, 4.2 miles)
1411  Mouriscas-A  - Rodao Paper Mill Branch (51.2 km, 31.8 miles)
1567  Rodao Paper Mill Branch - Entroncamento (95.2 km, 59.1 miles)
1908  Entroncamento - Oriente (99.8 km, 62 miles)

7th October

Douro valley workings today

1422 0848 Regua-Campanha, 1715 Campanha-Pocinho
1455 0915 S.Bento-Pocinho, 1531 Pocinho-S.Bento
 

1st October

The printed tour guide for this week's "Annual Enthusiast Events" is available as a PDF Click Here

29th September

Timings for next week's "Annual Enthusiast Events" are:

Friday 5th October (1961)

Lisboa Oriente		09.24
Coruche	10.22	10.32
Alcacer do Sal	12.21	12.31
Funcheira	13.30	13.40
Messines Alta	14.51	15.01
Faro	16.08
		17.37
Tunes	18.08	18.23
Setubal	21.21	21.31
Lisboa Oriente	22.23

Saturday 6th October (2551, 1551, 2551)

Lisboa Oriente		09.07
Entroncamento	10.20	11.05
Torre das Vargens	12.15	12.25
Vale do Peso	12.47	12.57
Marvao-Beira	13.29
		16.28
Castelo de Vide	16.43	16.53
Entroncamento	18.40	19.09
Lisboa Oriente	20.15

Sunday 7th October (1901, 1401+1551, 1901)

Lisboa Oriente		09.00
Entroncamento	10.09	10.44
Mouriscas A (Pego)	11.30	12.52
Belver	13.06	13.16
Rodao	13.48
		18.00
Entroncamento	19.32	20.02
Lisboa Oriente	21.19

18th September - from AD

5601 to 5610 except 5609 are Passenger locos. 5609 has been very badly grafittied for several months, completely 'done' over one entire side. Increasing problem here.

5600s have 8 turns for 9 locos covering all Porto and Faro turns. Was expecting up to 5614 to go to passenger, presumably will happen when/if Beira Alta turns get accelerated to 190kmh, requiring another 2 probably 3 5600s. They will be a bit wasted on the Beira Alta but would make sense to have a common pool of 14 5600s to cover all IC hauled turns, inc Sud and Lucy.

Not sure if mentioned this before, but the order for 15 class 4700s has been extended to 25, so all the 2500s and 2551s should be withdrawn 2008/09. Interesting where this leaves the 2600s.

17th September

Sadly no loco hauled service trains on the Douro last weekend. However a very-rare 1400 on the boat special! Workings were:

14/09/2007   9004 Regua-Vila Real, Vila Real - Regua on a PTG special
15/09/2007   1444 on 18.08 Pinhao to Porto SB on a private charter for DouroAzul and BarcaDouro
17/09/2007   1455 & 1413 on 17.48 Pinhao to Porto SB on another private boat charter

7th September - report from Martin Summerscales

In Porto Friday to Thursday last and managed some time on the trains. Saturday 01/09 Red Bull Air Race along the river through the city. All suburban trains 2 units all crammed to capacity most of the morning, trains arriving at Sao Bento 09.30 took 5 mins to clear platform, later at Campanha platform 2 (Sao Bento bound) was permanantly wedged all trains arriving and leaving with only one or two getting on. Made the London Underground rush hour trains look empty. People only getting away on reversing Aveiro line trains which had emptied at General Torres. The 10.39 arrival from Lisbon was in 2 portions each with 8 coaches 5606 and 5607 hauling. Total visitors estimated at 750.000.

On the Douro the 09.29 boat train had 1422 in charge but the 09.15 was an 0600 unit. the 11.20 ex Campanha also a unit. Sunday 02/09 A bit dire, the 09.15 ex Sao Bento being 2x 0600 with the Douro Azul people on board, no special. The 06.52 Pocinho-Porto was hauled, unidentified, (so must have gone up Saturday evening). Nothing else was hauled until the 17.15 Campanha-Pocinho behind 1455. The 14.52 Regua-Porto being 2 car unit 0451! Monday 03/09 The 09.15 PSB-POC was a unit again this taken to Paredes for 1455 on the morning POC-PC this promptly ran round at Campanha and shunted across to the bays for the 11.20 to Regua. The 10.39 arrival from Lisbon arriving behind 2629. Tuesday 04/09 The 09.15 ex Sao Bento was hauled today the stock arriving behind 5610 ! Today the 06.52 POC-PC arrived behind 14.22 but ran round and went up to Contumil, the 11.20 from Campanha being an 0600 unit, this taken to Regua for the 14.52 return working of the 09.15, the loco being 1455. The evening 17.15 ex Campanha being 1422 again. On the electrics the 10.39 arrival ex Lisbon was 5607 and the 18.39 arrival 5608. (5609 seen at Ermesinde on sand hoppers, 5612 and 5615 also seen on freights).

Wednesday 05/09

Having decided to go to Viana today the 09.15 ex Porto Sao Bento was hauled yet again this time 1413 with six coaches. Returning from Viana at 16.40 there was no sign of a loco and stock at Contumil for the 17.15 to Pocinho (it was programmed for the bay platforms so probably a unit). 1413 had not returned on the 14.52 from Regua, an 0600 unit was just heading down the underpass for Contumil. Its getting difficult to predict the loco hauled trains on the Douro and seems to be just luck whether its hauled or a unit. May be more to do with requirements for the Douro Azul cruise passengers. Hot and sunny all week 33 deg every afternoon. Cheers. Martin

24th August

Thanks to Sergio Costa for this tip off and a few belated notes from last weekend on the Douro, where both 1450 & 1455 were out! 1450 on the 0915 turn, 1455 on the 0725. 1413 at Regua for the Historico (although 0186 now back from repairs at Contumil). 1411 was down at Entron as noted by me.

The other big news is the sale of 3 1400s to new freight operator Takargo, part of the huge Mota Engil engineering group. This clears up the mystery grey moose at Poceirão - its 1466, from the Lisboa Carga pool. Text from newspaper article is below for anyone who cares to try and translate, but summary is a bit like this (usually disclaimer!)

Takargo has ordered 14 Vossloh 4000 diesel locos, with GM 4200hp power units, being built at Valençia, Spain. The first is due to be delivered before October 2008. In the meantime they have acquired 3 1400s and are training 15 drivers at Entroncamento. The initial services are to be Bobadela-Setubal as well as Pampilhosa and Lisbon to Elvas, which will be worked by the 1400s. From October 2008, these will be expanded to Leixões-Lisboa twice daily each way, daily Lisboa-Madrid, 3 times a week Lisboa-Barcelona/Irun, daily Guarda and Valença to Vila Real SA (for forwarding into Spain). It is stated that the containerised traffic is new to rail and they are trying to compete or take traffic from CP or RENFE. The logic seems to be to create a land bridge from the Portguese ports into Spain and France cutting overall transit times. 250 wagons are to be acquired and the locos/stock will be fitted to work trains throughout in Spain and Portugal.

12th August

It appears there were no 1400 hauled service trains on the Douro last weekend (5/6 August). Hopefully this was just a "blip". Any further sightings would be appreciated...

26th July

It is confirmed that 1422 will replace 1411 on Douro passenger services from 13th August. Not sure whether 1411 will be stored or moved to Carga sector.

22nd July - from AD

Douro this weekend:

Sat
1411 0725 PC-Poc, 1114 return
1413 Regua thunderbird
1455 0930 PSB-Regua boat charter, ECS to Pinhão, 1730 Pinhão-PSB charter

Sun
1411 0915 PSB-Poc, 1516 return with 1455 piloting from Regua
1413 at Regua, assumed ECS to Pinhão thence 1730 return charter
1455 0930 PSB-Regua boat charter then pilot 1411 on 1516 ex-Poc

All other services were single 0600s.

1424 & 1435 1700ish Gaia-Regua cement on friday evening, 1424 returned 2200ish, 1435 stabled all weekend at Godim - where the usual Sentinel (1156) was missing.

21st July - from Mark Widdison

1422 is mentioned by A.D as a CP Carga loco, it was not seen on any freights in early June. It worked 1247 Regua-Porto Campanha in Multi with 1455 on Saturday 9th June. Also out were 1413+1455 0725 Porto Campanha-Pocinho as far as Regua. 1413 & 1455 taking it in turns on the Douro between Saturday 9th June & Tuesday 12th June.

1932/35/43-45 viewed on Beja/Evora turns.

1435 at Lisboa Oriente on weedkiller train on Thursday 7th June. It was back at Porto by the 11th.

Only 2609 seen on Passenger, all other electric hauled trains in hands of 5600s.

1428 on Estremoz freight trip on Thursday 7th June.

19th July - from AD

Whilst thrashing past Poceirão this afternoon on 1944 to and from Evora, passed a mystery all over white/pale grey 1400 in the process of being painted at Poceirão - the contractors yard, southside of the line, west of the station. No idea of what loco it is, the glass nose end number panel had been removed. Being distracted by this, I didn't notice how many 1400s were in the usual line by the station - at least 2, although 1442, 54, 57 were there a few weeks ago. 1936 had gone however - presumably to Barreiro for overhaul. 1422 went a while ago and is now CP Carga at Contumil.

Anyone know about the 1400? Stored, intact, non-Argentina locos are 1414, 1419, 1441, 1442, 1445, 1449, 1451, 1453, 1454, 1457, 1464. plus damaged/stripped 1402/06/52/58/59/60.

Other bits noted were 1428 on the Estramoz trip (normally a 1551?) and 2570 & a 2551 at Pegoes having derailed one of their large bogie timber chip carrying carrying wagons. 1456(?) was in attendance by early evening with the ex-Barreiro breakdown train.Yesterday, 1455 did the 0644 ex-Pocinho - only 1400 noted working.

17th July

Our contacts at CP have confirmed that the knackered ex-CP 1800 (English Electric) locomotives, last used in 2001, have been sold to Argentina! It is not clear yet how many are going to be restored to use. Seems crazy to me considering the condition they are in and the fact that large numbers of serviceable 1400s are available! A huge sum of money will be need to restore each one.

It is presumed that 1805 is NOT included in the deal !!!! And that 1801 and 1806 are beyond repair???

Apparently the deal is due to be signed in August.

Note: The Portuguese Traction Group have therefore abandoned their scheme to purchase and preserve locomotive 1802 and will be writing to all share holders this week.

24th May

Some superb photos of our recent "Great Spanish Track Bash" (by Janet Cottrell) can be found at:

The majority of the tour is at   http://jandjcottrell.fotopic.net/c1284725.html

FEVE pictures   http://jandjcottrell.fotopic.net/c1284787.html

Azpeitia Museum   http://jandjcottrell.fotopic.net/c1284803.html

26th April from Andrew Donnelly

Timetable swap doesn't seem to have affected use of 1931s on the Lusitania... Thursdays and Sundays seem to to be the regular diesel departures from LSA as witnessed by large amount of noise just gone north past Expo...

Apparently there is a driver's strike from midnight, which has seen bookings for tomorrow morning's ICs blocked. It's allegedly a wildcat strike and could be over-ruled at short notice. Interesting as wanted the 0810 Oriente-Evora tomorrow...

1461 back in traffic after its slight accident with a truck last week.

15th April

After a few trials, former CP NoHAB railcar 0113 entered public service yesterday. Metropolitano uses it to do the bi-weekly train to General Alvear, replacing a 2-car loco-hauled rake. Train runs Fridays and Sundays to Gral. Alvear, returns Saturdays and Mondays. Except for Sunday evening run, it's an all night trip.

6th April

2602 & 2605 have been working trial freight services off Pampilhosa; in multiple.

Photo is here (thanks to Sergio Costa)

Full switch over of 2600s to freight and 5600s to passenger is scheduled for sometime in June.

30th March

11.26 Porto - Regua, 15.16 return was today worked by Carga loco 1446 ! Can't get much rarer than that, and on a weekday!

23rd March

Due to a problem with 0450 units it appears that most days there are two 1400 hauled diagrams on the Douro with 07.26, 11.26 and 17.26 from Porto Campanha hauled on most days. Not sure how long it will last though..

If there is anyone with a Norbrass Engish Electric Class 1800 model (in orange) to sell, please contact Peter Malone.

11th March

7th March

1455 worked 17.26 Porto - Pocinho tonight.

6th March

1413 worked 11.26 Porto - Regua, 17.16 Regua - Porto.

17th February

Loco 1947 is back in passenger service and should be on the Castelo Branco - Covilha turns for the coming week.

15th February

CP are again running their special "Almond" trains on Saturdays in March. These trains are usually hauled by a 1400 locomotive. Departure is from Porto Sao Bento at 07.45. On arrival in Pocinho there is a long tour round this fascinating area with lunch. The special train returns from Pocinho at 18.05. Tickets can be pre-booked at either Porto station for 33 euros.

It also appears that one of the "class 50" 1801 series locomotives may have a future, but sadly not operational. As the council at Loule on the Algarve have asked CP for one of the locos to be plinthed in the town! No idea which one will be chosen but 1801 would be the obvious choice.

7th February - from Martin Summerscales

1st February

Sérgio Costa's on-line magazine celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the 1400 locos can be found here:

www.decomboio.no.sapo.pt

From John Wilson

Around the PTG tour I spent a few days on the Evora/Beja circuit with 1930s.
I believe the diagrams are as follows:

Day 1:
07.51 Oriente - Evora
13.50 Evora - Oriente
17.51 Oriente - Evora

Day 2:
06.50 Evora - Oriente
09.21 Oriente - Beja
19.26 Beja - Oriente

Day 3:
Spare Lisboa SA (opportunity to swap a loco)
18.51 Oriente - Beja

Day 4:
08.26 Beja - Oriente
13.51 Oriente - Evora
18.48 Evora - Oriente works day 1.

On Monday evening 1940 worked the Lusitania out of Lisboa SA. The loco was smoking out of the side and roof grills, although the driver wasn't bothered by this.
Locos seen on these turns were 1932/38/40/42/44 although 1938 failed on the Friday as already reported.

31st January

From Hugo

1938 caught fire on Friday when heading the 596/7. Fire services attended to it in Campolide. I don't know in what condition it remained.

From Andrew Donnelly

And a bit late, but still of note, 1458 seems to have had an altercation with 1909 in December and is now in Barreiro for stripping of parts. No idea if 1422/42/57 from store at Poceirão have been reactivated as cover.

For the second day running, the 1716 Regua-Porto SB has been hauled, 1411 yesterday and 1413 today. 1413 being shunt released by 1411 just a little while ago, with the pair topping n tailing the stock up to Contumil.

Not clear as to what the diagram for this is, as the 1716 is usually formed of a unit ex-Caide. Would speculate that works the 0915 ex-PSB to Pocinho then back to Regua, where turn swaps for a unit with the 1400 dropping back a turn, or the 1115 ex-PSB to Regua, again with a unit stepping up a turn to cover the 1516 ex-Regua.

Info from Alex Morais on the way home.

30th January

Work has commenced on a new 3.8 km branch line from Coina to Siderurgia Nacional. The line is due to open in April 2008 and already PTG plan to visit the line as part of the Annual Enthusiast Events in October next year.

The funicular at Viana do Castelo, which has been closed for about 5 years for refurbishment, was reopened for testing today and is due to reopen to the public in about one months time.

28th January

PTG's "English Electric 40th" tour was operated as follows:

1411 & 1408   Porto - Valenca - Porto
2568   Porto - Pampilhosa
1431   Pampilhosa - Vilar Formoso - Pampilhosa
2568   Pampilhosa - Porto

19th January - from AD

Confirmed that 1941 will replace 1932 on the boat to Argentina, eventually.

1941 was the last Alsthom to get an overhaul for some considerable time in 2004, but then burst its camshaft within a few months and has been dumped at Entron for over 2 years. 1947 is back at Entron after overhaul, prior to re-enterting CP service.

Fleet status;
CP IC; 1932, 35, 38, 40, 42, 43, 44, 45, 47
Barreiro; Overhaul for Argentina 1931. Pending 1933. CP Overhaul 1939.
Stored; 1934,41,46 Ent, 1936 Poc, 1937 Bar

1938 & 1945 are due overhaul this year, lets see if it happens...

14th January - update from Mark Minnett

14th January

After disappointment of no locos out on the Douro yesterday (Sat). "Rare" 1413 has worked the 09.15 turn today. Only "rare" because the train is almost always 1411 or 1455. 1411 is at Braga with an exhibition train.

The following stock is now on its way to Argentina from Setubal docks:

EMU's 2054, 60, 63, 69, 70, 71, 85, 87, 88, 89, (damaged 2090 will presumably remain behind)
Carel et Fouché 88-40 011 and 012
"Furgões" 92-69 005 and 016
NoHAB's 0110, 0113 and 0114
English Electric 1423
Brissoneau et Lotz 1205, 1212, 1217, 1218, 1221 and 1223

Thanks to Carlos Perez Darnaud for this list.

12th January - from AD

One of the driving cars from a 2051/2081 EMU was dropped from 8 metres when being loaded at Setubal docks... . It is allegedly to be repaired.

11th January

Not confirmed...but it seems that loco 1932 will now remain with CP and loco 1947 exported to Argentina in its place.

30th December

All three locos out on Douro passenger trains today:

1411    06.44 Pocinho - Porto
1455    09.15 Porto - Pocinho and return
1413    18.50 Porto - Regua

29th December - from AD

For the 'eleventeenth' time, CP Longo Curso are to try and implement a new and much improved Alfa/IC timetable, principally based around the Lisboa-Porto mainline. This has been proposed and dropped several times since 2005 as a result of on-going works on the mainline. In theory, March 10th 2007 is the date for the change now. Lets hope so! It can be assumed that the exchange of class 2601s/21s and 14x 5600s between Carga and IC Longo Curso will happen at this time. Some 2601s are expected to stay with IC apparently, not sure how many.

Proposed are;

17/18 Lisboa-Porto Alfas and ICs (the later timed at 190kmh) with 5 LSA-PCA Alfas (timed at 2h30 from Oriente) 4 LSA-Braga Alfas (in 3h10) 7 LSA-Porto ICs (in 3h00) with 1 extended to Guimarães (omitting stops at Pampilhosa, Alfarelos, Caxarias & Fatima) 2 Porto-Faro Alfas (in 5h40) 3 LSA-Guarda ICs (gaining 10mins on current times as call at stops omitted from Porto ICs) 3 LSA-Covilhã ICs (new mid-day departures, times reduced by 15m) 3 LOR-Faro ICs

No longer running are the Comboio Azul & LOR-Faro Alfa. Evora/Beja remain the same.

One would assume that a recast of the connecting Regional timetables would also occur, but as we know, joined up thinking is not the best at present...

13th December

   

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13th December - from AD

Some bits of loco news.

The ex-works Alsthom I noted last week on the Evora IC was not 1947 - same loco, same train on monday - and its 'Argentinian' 1932! Short term cover whilst 1947 is overhauled, apparently. 1939 is also at/on way to Barreiro for overhaul and will be followed by 1945 next year. 1938 also coming up to km limit.

2601 & 2602 are the next 26s being fitted with MW equipment whilst 2628 is in Entron for overhaul, presumably to emerge as a Carga loco. Not all the 26s are due to go to Carga, certainly not yet, given lack of timetable change on the Linha do Norte. 5612 has been overhauled, replaced by 5618, leaving just 5615-17 and 5630 requiring overhaul. 5602 is back in traffic whilst 2501/02/07/14 are active, with 2504 being repaired. There are no plans for further 2501 or 2551 overhauls.

12th December

A draft copy of the new PTG Tours 2007 brochure is now available (3mb pdf) to download. Click here or on the image in the left hand border.

10th December

Please note that the PTG Tours "English Electric 40th" tour IS running next month but with the following changes:

1) Trip on Vouga lines will now be on service train DMUs rather than a chartered DMU. We will still have a coach visit to the museum at Macinhata.

2) Trip to Valenca will still feature 2 x 1400 locomotive from the Carga sector although CP can not guarantee that these will be 1404 & 1408.

3) Trip to Vilar Formosa will be as follows:

    Porto - Pampilhosa - Porto : 1 x 2501 or 2551 loco

    Pampilhosa - Vilar Formoso - Pampilhosa : 1 x 1400 loco from Carga sector

These changes have been bought about by the fact that we only have 35 people booked on the trip.

28th November

27th November

Allan 0304 has moved from store at Figueira da Foz to Guifões for restoration to original condition and return to service - presumably as part of museum fleet. Info from Transportes XXI.

26th November

From Owen Brison via David Clough

Portugal has seen further heavy rain recently (possibly helping Mr Donnelly's aquifers!)

According to the Público, the lines are, or have been, cut in the following places today:

Linha da Beira Baixa cut between Vila Velha de Rodão and Castelo Branco. Also a freight derailment near Tancos - no injuries. I saw on TV a 56 (leading a 1550) in the ballast somewhere, so maybe that was it.

Linha de Vendas Novas cut near Lavre. Linha do Douro cut between Pinhão and Régua.

Linha do Oeste: Bombarral station with water aboveplatform level (and shown on TV).

Linha do Norte. Cut again where it was a few weeks ago,between Fátima and Caixarias, though the latest there is that it has re-opened for single line working. Also cut between Santana and Cartaxo and between Ovar and Estarreja.

Linha do Minho cut between Tamel and Barcelos.

13th November

Loco 1971 has been badly damaged after hitting a rock fall near Vesuvio (between Pocinho and Tua). The loco was working the daily cement train on 9th November.

6th November - from AD

Judging by amount of rain currently being deposited on Lisbon, we can expect more problems tonight and tomorrow...

Forgot to post this before, but 1455 worked the 1126 PC-Regua and 1716 return today... No idea why, lack of 0600s perhaps. Info from Alex Morais.

From Hugo:

Santa Clara - Saboia south points had their balast swept away by the water... Setubal CTC was quite frantic today...

5th November - from AD

First day of Evora ICs today, with 1935 working the inaugural departure at 0650 and 1944 the first arrival with the 0751 from Oriente. 1935 seemed to work down yesterday in the path of the 1751 departure from Oriente to get loco and stock in position. Seen rumbling over the bridge at 18h00.

Major floods yesterday with the Linha de Norte cut north of Fatima station. Line closed until tomorrow at least, with single line working expected for at least a week. As result, its buses Entron to Pombal, adding about 90mins to journey time, based on at least one experience today. Also, 5603 was taken off the Sud at Entron with 1558 working forwards via the Beira Baixa, 30' odd late away.

Also, 1411 is still Lisboa SA pilot - 1427 seems finally have moved...!

26th October - from Darren Walker

Proposed new Alentejo IC service from 5th November:

                  IC690 IC592 IC694 IC696 IC594

Lisboa Oriente    07:51 09:21 13:51 17:51 18:51
Pinhal Novo       08:39 10:09 14:39 18:39 19:39
Vendas Novas      09:04 10:34 15:07 19:04 20:06
Casa Branca       09:30 10:57 15:30 19:30 20:32
Evora             09:50       15:50 19:50
Vila Nova da B          11:13             20:48
Cuba                    11:26             21:01
Beja                    11:37             21:12

                  IC598 IC590 IC692 IC698 IC596

Beja                    08:26             19:26
Cuba                    08:37             19:37
Vila Nova da B          08:50             19:50
Evora             06:50       13:50 18:48
Casa Branca       07:08 09:06 14:08 19:06 20:06
Vendas Novas      07:32 09:32 14:32 19:32 20:32
Pinhal Novo       07:58 09:58 14:58 20:01 21:01
Lisboa Oriente    08:45 10:45 15:45 20:45 21:45

Should all be 1931 hauled using 4/5 locos.

22nd October - from Paul and Lisa Spracklen

Paul and Lisa are pleased to announce the arrival today (9.36 pm) of their son, Benjamin weighing in a 7 lbs, 6 oz.

Many thanks to everyone for their good wishes. Mother and baby are both doing well.

21st October - from AD

2623 now multi working fitted, having had a full overhaul and upgrade as per the 2601s with new cab desk, air con, etc. 2611 expected out of Entron works with multi working fitted and expected to start tests with 2623 this week. They are having their gearing reduced to 100kmh, which the monomotor bogies allow, being locked into the low ratio postion to increase tractive effort. All of the 2601s and 2621s to transfer to Carga in exchange for 5606-09/11-14 (5610 already gone over) - presumably with a repaint or de-graffitti...

This certainly puts in doubt the future of the 2500s and maybe even some 2551s, which will go when the new 4700s arrive in 2008 for sure.

Pure speculation, but this would make some sense I guess as a fleet of 14 x 5600s for ULCI should be able to cover 11 IC diagrams covering Porto (4), B Alta (2), B Baixa (2) and Algarve (3).

1938 still busy with IC services, was on the 0921 LOR-Beja yesterday morning. Had thought loco had gone over to Carga, appears not.

17th October - from AD

New Alentejo timetable from 5th November will include the following Daily return trips:

3 IC Oriente-Evora
2 IC Oriente-Beja
4 R Evora-Beja
2 R Beja-Funcheira
1 R Barreiro-Beja

No exact timings yet, but above would suggest 3 or more likely 4 1931 turns and 2 or 3 Allans will be needed.

15th October

A superb report, with photos, of the PTG "Enthusiast Events" trip is available at http://decomboio2.no.sapo.pt/2006-10.pdf

Full details (PDF) of two of PTG Tours future enthusiast trips are now on-line at:

    January - English Electric 40th

    April/May - The Great Spanish Track Bash

9th October

Evora line has reopened today for crew training with Allan railcars. Journey time should be halved.

Latest rumour is that IC service to Evora will start on 22nd, however, due to protests from Beja residents, Beja will still retain at least one IC train with possibly three a day to Evora. Best road journey at present from Lisbon to Evora is 1 hour 45 minutes and CP think they may be able to better that at 1 hour 40 minutes. Evora station not being that central could however be a disadvantage.

Report on PTG's "Enthusiast Events" over last weekend:

Friday 6 October

1935    Coimbra - Porto - Pocinho (train 13844/13845 292.25km)
1935    Pocinho - Porto - Coimbra (train 13818/13819 292.25km)

Saturday 7 October

1963    Coimbra - Serpins (train 13841 31.83km)
1461    Serpins - Coimbra - Pampilhosa - Cantenhede - Figueira da Foz (train 13846/13847 101.35km)
1461    Figueira da Foz - Caldas de Rainha - Lisboa Oriente (train 13849/13848 221.03km)

Sunday 8 October

2556    Lisboa Oriente - Setil (train 13843 49.9km)
1564    Setil - Ermidas Sado - Neves Corvo (train 13842 254.9km)
1564    Neves Corvo - Beja - Poceirao (train 13876 204.8km)
1905    Poceirao - Ponte 25 Abril - Lisboa Oriente (train 13877 62.59km)

Monday 9 October - Barreiro Works and depot visit

In Works
1421    Full overhaul for export to Argentina. Nearly complete
1425    Full overhaul for export to Argentina. Underway
1405    Full overhaul for export to Argentina. Just started
1557    Overhaul or repair for CP
1568    Overhaul for CP
1903    Overhaul or repair for CP
1968    Overhaul or repair for CP
1931    Full overhaul for export to Argentina
1932    Full overhaul for export to Argentina
1947    Overhaul for CP (not now for Argentina)

Withdrawn Locos
1906
1910
1524
1937
1225

Nohabs: 0108/0109/0112/0115

Dismantling Shed
1155
1174
1203
1213
1459    Heavily stripped
1460    No bogies
1501    Secure storage for national collection

1055    Works shunter (serviceable)

Maintenance Shed
1912
1224    Waiting overhaul for Argentina
1201    Waiting overhaul for Argentina
1065
1161
1805    Secure storage for national collection

Nohabs: 0101/0105/0106/0107

Depot Roundhouse
1217    Overhauled and ready for export to Argentina
1218    Overhauled and ready for export to Argentina
1223    Overhauled and ready for export to Argentina
1212    Overhauled and ready for export to Argentina
1205    Overhauled and ready for export to Argentina
1221    Overhauled and ready for export to Argentina
1423    Overhauled and ready for export to Argentina
1565    Being load banked for CP

Nohabs:     0110/0113/0114    Overhauled and ready for export to Argentina

Depot

1436    Awaiting overhaul for export to Argentina
1426    Awaiting overhaul for export to Argentina
1933    Awaiting overhaul for export to Argentina
1505    Withdrawn
1510    Withdrawn
1908  
1170    Withdrawn
1111    Withdrawn

Barreiro A Yard - Withdrawn locos

1432

1803    Radiators wrecked
1402    Collision damage
1804    Radiators wrecked
1806    Collision damage. Radiators wrecked
1802    Intact
1801    Radiators wrecked
1810    Some damage to one radiator
1807    Intact
1808    Intact

3rd October

Timings and locos finally confirmed for this weekend's "Enthusiast Events". Click here for timing sheet. Updated printed tour guide is available here.

1st October

A draft of the printed Tour Guide for next week's PTG Tours "Annual Enthusiast Events" is available here. If anyone sees any errors then please e-mail us and let us know before 5pm on Monday 2nd.

Timetable changes today have really only affected the Linha do Oeste. As from today there are again direct trains between Lisboa (Orient/Entrecampos) and the Linha do Oeste: four IRs per day each way between Oriente and Caldas da Rainha. Also two IRs each way per day between Caldas and Coimbra. and routed south to east at Veride, which lost its passenger service about five years ago. Click here for a PDF of the new timeable.

30th September

Two locos out on the Douro today:

09.15 PSB-POC, 13.46 POC-PCA was 1411
11.26 PCA-REG, 17.16 REG-PSB was 1404 !!

24th September from Simon Brown

Not sure whether CP are short of Karts but on arrival at Porto SB Friday evening 1455 was at the stops. Thought it prudent to view the 9.15 Saturday morning and indeed 2607 had brought in the ecs for the 9.15 which 1455 performed, load 7,rather struggling, losing some 15 mins between Porto & Regua. Passing Contumil blue beast 1424 was at the head of a rake of stock ,not wanting to bail in case it didnt produce i carried on to Pinhao to bail for a Kart back (flight scuppering plans any further!). Being looped at Ermida ( I think it was), I was amazed to pass 1424 on the 11.26 ex Porto, again a reasonable load, 6 or 7. To top it all of a third 1400 stormed past just before we got to Ermisinde on a short rake (all Bud stock) though I couldn't even work out what service that was as nothing was due, could have been ECS. Of further note,1413 was stabled at Regua Saturday whilst a narrow gauge kettle was fired up on stock in the V.Real platforms. I gather 1437 has been out during the week, though this was viewable on Contumil Saturday, so wasn't the 3rd loco. Friday on my way north from Entron i viewed British built beastie 1404 shunting at Pampilhosa whilst 1431 was stabled there,also 1450 (pretty sure) was also stabled behind some wagons. 5610 worked the northbound Guimares IC train Friday whilst 5604 did the northbound Sud Express for the second day.

Note from PTG: We have checked with CP and they say the narrow gauge kettle was definitely not in use so I think Simon must have seen the normal broad gauge.

16th September

Very unusual working today as 1437 worked the 11.26 Porto - Regua, 17.16 Regua - Porto.

Photo at http://petesrailnonsense.fotopic.net/c1039197.html

30th August

Great news is that the new CP President is very forward thinking and has launched a new initiative to promote tourist trains in Portugal.

It looks likely that this will involve:

Steam. The continued use of 0186 and E214 and the repair of 0187. In the longer term also probability of two more steam locos to be restored. One to work from Entroncamento and one to work on the Algarve. We understand that one long withdrawn, but undisclosed, tank engine has already been examined and costed for overhaul.

The use of the following "Heritage Fleet" is also likely to finally happen:

ALCo 1501, EE 1805, Metre gauge and broad gauge NoHab railcars, Metre gauge and broad gauge Allan railcars.

You can be sure that PTG Tours will be giving this our full support and hope to make use of all of this fleet on a regular basis.

Hopefully some big news on 1805 in the near future.

30th August - from Martin in BA

TBA has put in service its second Portuguese English Electric loco, 1409. This one also has TBA colours, blue, light blue and white; also it has its vacuum brakes restored. Unit was seen working on Merlo-Lobos service, hauling Argentine Materfer coaches (which have vacuum brakes).
Also in the subject, 1440 was sent to Liniers workshops. this one needs 5' 6'' wheelsets and some adjustments. It's final destination and colours will be UGOFE LSM, local trains over former San Martín line.

Cheers,
Martin at BA

29th August

Just to confirm the minor change to the October "Enthusiast Events":

Thursday: As advertised

Friday: As advertised

28th August - from Carlos Perez

Proposed shipments of ex-CP material to Argentina

1st Shipment (any day now)

3-car EMUS: 2054, 2060, 2063, 2069, 2071, 2085, 2087, 2088, 2089 and 2090 (all with repair base, V1)
Locomotives Diesel 1200: 1205, 1212, 1217, 1218, 1221 and 1223 (all with repair base, V1)
Locomotives Diesel 1400: 1423 (subject to general repair)
NoHab diesel railcars: 0110, 0113 and 0114 (all with repair base, V1)
Cars Restaurant: 80-40 011 and 80-40 012 (subject to general repair)
Vans: 92-69 005 and 92-69 016 (subject to general repair)

2nd Shipment (Foreseen for December of 2006)

3-car EMUS: 2057, 2064, 2072 and 2082 (subject to general repair)
Locomotives Diesel 1200: 1201, 1207 and 1224 (all with repair base)
Locomotives Diesel 1400: 1405, 1421 and 1425 (subject to general repair)
Locomotives Diesel 1930: 1931, 1932, 1933, 1934 and 1936 (subject to general repair, except 1933 and 1936)
NoHab diesel railcars: 0100: 0101, 0109 and 0115 (all with repair base)
Cars of 1ra class: 10-69 505, 10-69 512 and 10-69 516 (subject to general repair)
Cars of 2da class: 22-69 031, 22-69 038, 22-69 039 and 22-69 040 (subject to general repair)

3rd Shipment (foreseen for July 2007)

3-car EMUS: 2004, 2008, 2018, 2053, 2055, 2058, 2068, 2074, 2084 and 2086 (subject to general repair, except 2055, 2068 and 2084, sold to serve as source of spares)
Locomotives Diesel 1200: 1211, 1214 and 1216 (all with repair base)
Locomotives Diesel: 1400: 1426, 1432, 1436 and 1438 (all with general repair)
Cars of 1ra class:: 10-69 501 (all with general repair)
Cars of 2da class: 22-69 001, 22-69 003, 22-69 006, 22-69 008, 22-69 014, 22-69 017 and 22-69 019 (all with general repair)

19th August

1455 worked the normal Douro passenger diagram today but unusually Carga loco 1412 worked the Port Wine Schindlers turn.

16th August - from AD

7th August - from AD

Some notes from a quick visit around the Sado area yesterday.Barreiro depot roundhouse now has 2 Nohabs (nos not known), 1205,07,12,17,18,21,23 and 1423 all inside ready for shipping to Argentina. 1426, 1436 and 1933 stabled outside presumably waiting entry into works and overhaul. However, this was the first time I was refused access and permission to take fotos or look around the depot, the private security firm on site refusing point blank without the necessary letter Refer authorising access for private photography. One can understand the security guard's view as no one wants to cause difficulties for his employment, but he was adamant in upholding this. Conversation was nothing unpleasant, indeed the guy was quite helpful and talkative, but ironic for me having advised a friend visiting lately that there were no problems with access - indeed he had no problems! The increased security is because of the overhauled locos, previous conversations with staff at the site have included comments about materials being stolen from the stored locos, including cables being cut and removed, etc. It was the same reaction at Barreiro A where the 8 stored 1800s are all located in ever deteriorating states, along with several rakes of Budd stock and a couple of 1200s, 1400s - 1209,10,14,16,22 & 1432, I think.

1442, 1457, 1454, 1422 and 1936 lined up at Poceirão station goods dock, 1422 looking as if it had received its V1 intermediate exam at Barreiro prior to being stored. Usual collection of 1551s and 1901s stabled for the weekend.

Praias Sado now has secure fencing around the complex, denying access to the offices and locos stabled in the triangle. The simple move of walking into the site along the track however, sort of defeats the purpose of the fencing.... 1564, 1566, 1428 and 1456 were stabled yesterday.

11th July

The last conventional "comboio azul" departed Faro on Friday 7th with 1944 at the head plus coaches 1069023 - 8550001 - 2140001. On Monday 10th arrived at 6:44 (4 min late) 2612 plus 5 corail coaches the new IC azul. The stock no longer lays over at Faro during the week and the 3 2 nd class coaches were convened on IC 670 one of them on passenger duty the others ecs. thank you

Hugo Rego

3rd July - from AD

From this Friday the Comboio Azul is diverted to run via the Ponto 25 de Abril and will be electrically hauled throughout with air con stock. The new timetable is available at the following link. This leaves the only diesel-hauled (indeed any!) 'fresh air' stock as the weekend only Douro turn. A sad state of affairs.

http://www.cp.pt/cp/displayPage.do?contentId=8ee9cbf48153c010VgnVCM1000007b01a8c0RCRD&vgnextoid=1c341c639f984010VgnVCM1000007b01a8c0RCRD

21st June - from Dave Craik

Just back from 10 days in Argentina.

1410 - now painted in Ferrocentral livery and parked in the yard beside Buenos Aires Retiro Mitre station. Not seen moving, just appeared in the course of the week.

1417 - painted in Linea San Martin livery and working it's booked weekday diagram out of Buenos Aires Retiro San Martin station.

1440 - still in CP orange. Viewed working an ecs formed of 3 ex-CP coaches into Buenos Aires Retiro Mitre station on 08-06-2006.

1448 - painted in Ferrocentral livery. Works Cordoba - Villa Maria trains as previously reported.

1467 - painted in TBA livery and reported to have started/ be starting on Merlo - Lobos line replacing a dmu. Two half days in the area revealed at least 2 dmu's and one TBA DL535 (659 and 662 seen on different days) still working the line but no sign of 1467. Some ex-CP stock seen inside TBA shed at Haedo.

1409/1418 not seen. Anyone else got any ideas where they might be hiding?

19th June

Reports in various papers here, a 0451 unit collided at speed with an HGV stuck on a crossing near Leiria yesterday afternoon. Amazingly, only 4 people hurt, driver managed to leave cab in time, which is just as well considering damage shown in the foto in link below.

http://jn.sapo.pt/2006/06/17/sul/colisao_linha_ferrea_quatro_feridos.html

Pendo 4009 is on display at Alcantara docks this weekend, having been dragged there by Campolide Thunderbird 1912.

17th June

1411 08.45 Porto-Regua additional (running for only second time?!), then 18.07 Pinhao charter return

1413 Regua thunderbird

1455 09.15 PSB-Poc, 13.46 Poc-PCA, 18.50 PSB-Reg! Should return on 04.58 Reg-PCA Sunday morning.

For anyone whose bothered, 1455 seems to be the 0915 loco on Saturdays, 1411 on Sundays... been that way since train went back to locos at weekends.

13th June

9th June

http://www.tbanet.com.ar/sitioasp/prensa/noticia.asp?idnoti=174

TBA announced today by its web the introduction of a loco hauled stock into Merlo Lobos service: portuguese English Electric 1467 plus 3 Sorefame 2nd class coaches. The loco is painted in current TBA livery, white, light blue and blue. Stock will run in a DMU stronghold, a pleasure for all of you coming here.

Martin at B.A.

4th June

Here are the most recent images of 1448 in full Ferrocentral livery:

http://www.treneshoy.com.ar/4images/data/media/146/03_-_06_-_2006_-_Crdoba_02.jpg

http://www.treneshoy.com.ar/4images/data/media/146/03_-_06_-_2006_-_Crdoba.jpg

http://www.treneshoy.com.ar/4images/data/media/146/P1010057.jpg

http://www.treneshoy.com.ar/4images/data/media/146/P1010001.jpg

(the setting of this last photo looks more like Alentejo than Argentina)

Best regards,

Paulo Mestre

3rd June

Douro gen today:

0845 PSB-REG    Did not run
0915 PSB-POC    1455
10.20 PCA-PIN    1411  (special)  
ECS    Contumil to Pinhao (port wine schindlers)   1412 !

2nd June (Argentina) - from Martin

Today UGOFE Línea San Martín started a fast train schedule between Retiro terminus and Hurlingham. This is run by Portuguese EE 1417 and four second class Portuguese 2nd class coaches. Timetable shows:

Weekdays

Retiro 5:09 – Hurlingham 5:44
Hurlingham 6:03 – Retiro 6:37
Retiro 6:59 – Hurlingham 7:36
Hurlingham 7:52 – Retiro 8:27

Retiro 16:26 – Hurlingham 16:59
Retiro 18:27 – Hurlingham 19:01

(not shown runs in the afternoon from Hurlingham to Retiro, those seem to be ECS runs)

Tried today to get last one, Retiro 18:27, but couldn’t (darn rush hour...). Short tip: this is the third EE in service in Argentina: first one was 1440, at TBA but with track maintenance train duties, then it was 1448, now running between Villa María and Córdoba with the local train of Ferrocentral, now we have 1417.

Another one from Argentina: ALCo RSD35 ME61 now belonging to Ferrovías is used with a test train pulling refurbished stock with automatic level doors (some stations have the platforms raised to test this stock). Timetable is not available for the moment from Ferrovías, so these are trains out of schedule.

Here are two photos of 1417 and Sorefame stock, during the presentation of the new semi-direct service between Retiro and Hurlingham:

http://www.treneshoy.com.ar/4images/data/media/136/1417_4.jpg

http://www.treneshoy.com.ar/4images/data/media/136/1417_2_2.jpg

Best regards,

Paulo Mestre

30th May (Argentina)

Here are two photos of 1417 and it's new LSM livery:

http://www.treneshoy.com.ar/4images/details.php?image_id=838

http://www.treneshoy.com.ar/4images/details.php?image_id=837

Best regards, Paulo Mestre

And a basic translation of a message from Carlos Perez Darnaud:

Already commenced to work the EE 14xx for rails of Argentina

With 1448 in process of painting with the corporate colours of Ferrocentral. 1417, in blue and celestial with the colours of the U.G.O. San Martin lines.

Those of Ferocentral will run the intercity service (IC) between Córdoba and Villa María in the county of Córdoba.

Those of the U.G.O. San Martin lines in the local area of Buenos Aires with a Differential train between Hurlingham and Retiro.

Those of TBA (Trains of Buenos Aires) at the moment they are affected to the works of renovation of roads in it is she Sarmiento it lines.

Portugal visit report from Graeme Smith:

27th May - from Norman Kemp

News reports suggest official opening of the Porto Metro extension to the airport was today.

25th May - from Ferenc

Sorry for the slightly off-topic posting but this may be of interest to some. A selection of my phots from the excellent PTG "Clear the FEVE" tour has been uploaded to:

http://mav.fotopic.net/c967666.html

A password restricted gallery contains people phots:

http://mav.fotopic.net/c968391.html

If you don't remember the name of our FEVE man (with a capital M) then this is the password.

24th May - from AD

Below is a series of links posted on LusoCarris group with some interesting photos of 1400s in Argentina

http://www.railpictures.net/viewphoto.php?id=140303

http://www.trensim.com/foro/viewtopic.php?t=12075

http://tinyurl.com/nalq6 http://www.treneshoy.com.ar/4images/search.php?search_user=gabrielc6636

http://www.treneshoy.com.ar/4images/details.php?image_id=778

http://www.treneshoy.com.ar/4images/details.php?image_id=668

http://www.treneshoy.com.ar/4images/details.php?image_id=669

As for the rest of the class, below is a copy of my listing for the current status of the class on CP: A couple of new points (thanks to Sergio Costa), in that 1414 and 1419 are stopped at Contumil, the former to have traction motor repairs, but both considered in reserve. 1450 is also stopped at Contumil having bodywork repairs and a repaint, with 1437 possibly to follow as both in a very poor state. 1422 is/was on V1 Intermediate at Barreiro, 1423 full overhaul for Argentina. Sadly, the list of active locos numbers only 26. As always, I'm sure we'd all be grateful for any updates or errors on the list.

Stat. Loco Livery Equip Sector Depot O/H

A 1404 OB dt UCAR COL 04/02
A 1408 OB at UCAR COL 07/02
A 1411 OB act ULCR COL 05/03
A 1412 OB act UCAR COL 03/02
A 1413 OB dct ULCR COL 12/03
A 1415 OB act UCAR COL 03/03
A 1416 OB act UCAR ENT 11/03
A 1424 BW dct UCAR COL 02/05
A 1427 OB act ULCI LSA 10/05
A 1428 OB act UCAR POC 05/05
A 1429 OB act UCAR POC 07/03
A 1431 OB act UCAR COL 06/05
A 1434 OB act UCAR COL 12/02
A 1435 OB act UCAR COL 11/02
A 1437 OB at UCAR COL 09/98
A 1444 OB act UCAR COL 10/01
A 1446 OB act UCAR COL 03/05
A 1447 OB act UCAR COL 07/02
A 1450 OB dc UCAR COL 12/98
A 1455 OB act ULCR COL 10/03
A 1456 OB dct UCAR POC 11/99
A 1458 OB dct UCAR POC 04/99
A 1462 OB dct UCAR ENT 12/97
A 1463 OB dct UCAR ENT 02/99
A 1465 OB dct UCAR ENT 07/97
A 1466 OB act UCAR ENT 11/96

AR 1405 OB a Sold (ARG) COL 09/00
AR 1421 OB d Sold (ARG) BAR 07/00
AR 1425 OB d Sold (ARG) BAR 10/99
AR 1426 OB d Sold (ARG) BAR 05/99
AR 1432 OB dc Sold (ARG) BAR 04/00
AR 1436 OB a Sold (ARG) BAR 03/95
AR 1438 OB a Sold (ARG) COL 06/97

O 1422 OB act UGFS BAR 08/03
OAR 1423 OB d Sold (ARG) BAR 01/00

R 1414 OB act Store (R) COL 06/03
R 1419 OB act Store (R) COL 04/04
R 1441 OB a Store (R) FIG 10/95
R 1442 OB at Store (R) POC 07/01
R 1445 OB a Store (R) COL 03/97
R 1449 OB a Store (R) COL 05/97
R 1451 OB a Store (R) FIG 11/95
R 1453 BW dc Store (R) COL 05/98
R 1454 OB a Store (R) POC 12/96
R 1457 OB act Store (R) POC 09/02
R 1460 OB dct Store (R) BAR 07/98
R 1461 OB act Store (R) ENT 03/99
R 1464 OB a Store (R) FIG 07/96

W 1402 OB d Store (W) BAR 02/00
W 1406 OB act Store (W) COL 06/01
W 1459 OB a Store (W) BAR 03/96

21st May - from AD

Full list of 1400 workings this weekend on the Douro

Saturday

1411 0845 PSB-Reg arr 1035. Additional service train, not sure of stopping pattern (if any!) as it passed the 0932 Regua-Caide unit at Mosteiro at 0958. 73 mins for the 74kms to Mosteiro is about 15mins faster than normal service trains! Load was 5 Budd but very lightly loaded, maybe 20 pax. Loco and stock then does 1530 ECS to Pinhão for 1807 return to Porto São Bento, although this is a charter which also picks up at Regua at 1829. The actual charter company seems to vary, yesterday was Douro Cima & Douro Azul. As for the possibility of joining this service, CP staff confirmed that only tickets from the charter company were vaild, but in the interests of research, three people effed it to Mosteiro (cue ballast leap whilst passing unit...) and a further 23 (tight squeeze in that toilet....!) continued to Porto without incident. Not recommended, but am fairly sure a one way pay on the day could be negotiated with the on-board tour staff.

1413 seems to have been allocated to Regua (despite the SP sticker on bufferbeam) and has been stabled there all week. It was used to shunt the Comboio Historico stock and loco into position on Saturday morning whilst Ivor was getting steam up, performing a similar shunt release in the evening before being parked up again at the gates of the secure stock compound.

1455 0915 PSB-Pocinho, 1346 Pocinho-Porto C, 1850 PSB-Reg

Note 1411 & 1455 top and tailed stock down to PSB on Saturday morning for both 0845 and 0915 departures.

Sunday

1455 0458 Reg-PCA!

Bizarre hauled working - was woken up by the thing getting away from Mosteiro at 0534! Presumably required to get stock back to Porto in time for the 0915.

1411 0915 PSB-Poc, 1547 Poc-PSB (load 6, as per Saturday, 5 SO, 1 FO)

The 0915 turn during the week was a pair of 0600s, as was the 1315 at the weekend. Remainder of trains noted were all single 0600s (though not every train viewed).

I'll try to add a few views of weekend to the PTG fotopic site later.

20th May

1411 worked SO 08.45 PSB-REG, light to Pinhao, charter Pinhao to Porto.

1455 worked 09.15 PSB-REG, 11.27 REG-POC, 13.46 POC-PCA

1413 shunting vintage train at Regua

18.50 PSB - REG was also hauled.

But 13.15 Porto-Pocinho turn was 2 x 600 units

19th May - from AD

Follow the link below for first photos of 1448 in Ferrocentral green, white and black livery! Public presentation of loco today.

http://www.latinrieles.net/newsletter/newsletter453.html

Also from Argentina (thanks to Martín González Cornejo):

UGOFE LSM has readied former Portuguese EE 1417. Some tests will be carried out with the loco and coaches from Portugal. The aim is to use them in a new special service between Retiro and Hurlingham.

Ferrocentral painted anther EE, 1448 with its colour scheme, green, dark green and white. This is supposed to do the short run between Villa María and Córdoba, along with Portuguese coaches, something that hasn't happened yet.

18th May

Just heard that there will be a DAILY 1400 hauled turn on the Douro from 20th May to 8th October. Expected to be 09.15 turn but waiting confirmation....

14th May

1411 worked 09.15 PSB-REG, 11.27 REG-POC, 15.47 POC-REG, 17.16 REG-PSB

14th May - From Janet Cottrell

10th May - from AD

Valid from May 7th, new timetable is on CP web site. Changes seem to involve the potential loco hauled turns.

Saturdays
IR863 0915 PSB-REG 1112, IR865 1127 REG-POC 1254
IR960 1346 POC-REG 1510, IR960 1516 REG-PC 1656

IR869 1315 PSB-REG 1513, IR869 1518 REG-POC 1641
IR964 1730 POC-REG 1856, IR966 1916 REG-PC 2056

Sundays
IR863 0915 PSB-REG 1112, IR865 1127 REG-POC 1254
IR20962 1547 POC-REG 1713, IR962 1716 REG-PSB 1905

IR20869 1315 PSB-REG 1513, IR20961 1541 REG-POC 1708
IR964 1730 POC-REG 1856, IR966 1916 REG-PC 2056

This would mean 1716 REG-PSB is a unit Saturdays, 1516 REG-PC unit on Sundays

Usual disclaimers apply on my interpretation/translation and yet to get formal confirmation that the above turns will indeed be hauled.

As an aside, 1416 has been Lisboa SA docks pilot this week, first time this loco been noted here! 1427 was in use as LSA station pilot today, still very clean, unsurprisingly!

7th May

PTG "Clear the FEVE" tour was a complete success visiting all of the FEVE system including the freight branches:

1514 & 1515    Leon - La Robla (branch) - Velilla (branch) - Bilbao
1515 & 1514    Bilbao - Luxana (branch) - Ariz (branch) - Santander
1666                Santander - Puert de Raos (branch) - Ribadesella Puerto (branch)
1666                Ribadesella Puerto - Oviedo - Collanzo (branch) - Oviedo
1663                Oviedo - Laviana (branch) - Sama (branch) - Puerto El Musel (branch) - Gijon - Oviedo
1602                Oviedo - El Ferrol

321.030            El Ferrol - Docks - El Ferrol - Monforte de Lemos - Leon

7th May

1411 & 1455 worked a special today from Lousa (on the Serpins line). Load 6 budd coaches.

1st May

Bank holiday today in Portugal:

1413+Sorefame stock on charter Porto-Regua-Porto
1455+Vinho do Porto stock on charter Ermesinde-Regua-Ermesinde
1411+Sorefame stock on 13.15 PortoSB-Pocinho IR and return

30th April

1455+Sorefame stock on 13.15 PortoSB-Pocinho IR and return

27th April

1556 rescued the "lucy" 10kms east of Abrantes this morning (27/4) after 1938 failed with brake problems.

25th April

Contrary to popular belief - the passenger service on the line to Marvao-Beira does still operate. Allan railcar is used.

Some 1400 action on the Douro today (bank holiday in Portugal)

1411    Worked a 08.45 special from Sao Bento to Regua; returned empty.
1455    Worked the 13.15 Porto Sao Bento to Pocinho, returned 17.30 Pocinho-Regua, 1916 Regua-Porto

Seems to be booked a loco on bank holidays and likely to be a loco at weekends from mid-May.

1413 was the pilot at Porto in the evening and 1408, 1435 & 1450 were on Contumil. 1431 on a freight at Regua.

18th April

Photo of 1440 at work in Argentina.

17th April

At last! The new Douro timetable finally ran out of 0600 units and "real" trains returned to the Douro today with loco 1455 working the IR961 15.26 Porto - Regua. No idea of the return working....

Also from Sergio:

On Sunday 16th:

IR866 13.16 Regua-Porto (hauled by 14xx)
IR868 15.16 Regua-Porto (hauled by 1411)

And on Monday 17th:

IR867 13.15 Porto São Bento-Regua (presume another loco used as pilot at PSB!)

Hauled trains were load 6 including first-class coach due to Easter rush. Other trains were pairs of 0600s.

A revised timetable started on the Douro on Saturday. This has some improvements including through running again to Pocinho. Best improvement is the 07.26 from Porto now running through to Pocinho and connecting with the boats at Pinhao! How this was left off the original is crazy. Although all trains are still booked for 0600 units the new timetable gives much better scope for trains to be replaced by locos at the weekends. Favorite turns for locos look like:

    07.26 Porto - Pocinho
    11.33 Pocinho - Regua, 13.16 Regua - Porto

    13.15 Porto - Pocinho
    17.30 Pocinho - Regua, 19.16 Regua - Porto

Co-incidentally these are almost exactly the improvements DouroAzul (the largest boat company) mentioned to me when I met them last month!

Further good news for 1400s with the first ones starting service in Argentina. Last week 1417 was accepted by LSM for services from Retiro San Martin to Buenos Aires. 1418 is expected to follow very shortly.

13th April

PTG will be using the VIP Allan Railcar on special trains as follows:

22 April    Oriente - Tomar
24 April    Tomar - Marvao Beira - Tomar
25 April    Tomar - Elvas - Tomar
26 April    Tomar - Casa Branca (via Coruche)

Full timings are HERE

10th April from Sergio and AD

Confirmed that metre-gauge steam loco E214 has been moved from Regua to Guifoes works for inspection (and hopefully repair!).

Thanks to Sergio for this photo of 1413 & 1455 on a Douro special on Saturday.

From Antonio M. Tavares. Some data from a weekend at Pampilhosa :

Friday - 7 April
1444 -> Pilot loco
1446 -> Parked
1436, 1426, 1211, 1218 -> they were already there when I arrived
(coming from Contumil ???). At about 18h00, a freight arrived from
BA with 5630 and 5612. 5630 was parked and 5612 picked up the 4
diesel locos and went south (Entroncamento ???).
1424 arrived with 2512 and a freight from BA and was parked. 1964 and 1968 working freight services. 2567 a