WAGR K class (diesel)

The WAGR K class was a class of diesel locomotives operated by the Western Australian Government Railways (WAGR). Introduced in the mid-1960s, they were primarily built for branch line duties and shunting operations. They were a relatively small class of locomotives, characterized by their low horsepower and general-purpose design.

The K class locomotives were designed and built to replace aging steam locomotives on lighter lines. Their specifications included a specific engine type and a particular wheel arrangement appropriate for navigating tighter curves and lower axle load limits often found on branch lines.

Over their service life, the K class locomotives performed various duties, including hauling grain, livestock, and general freight. They were also utilized in shunting yards across Western Australia. As larger and more powerful locomotives were introduced and branch lines closed, the K class locomotives gradually became surplus to requirements.

Withdrawal of the K class from WAGR service occurred throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s. Some examples were sold to private operators or preserved by railway heritage groups, while others were scrapped.

Key characteristics of the WAGR K class included their reliability for their intended purpose and their relatively low operating costs compared to steam traction. While not a high-speed or heavy-haul locomotive, they filled a vital role in the railway network of Western Australia for several decades. Further details regarding the engine specifications, wheel arrangement, and specific operational history are available in railway publications and historical archives.