Roco 62767 - Diesel Locomotive M62 Polska Rail
Model: Roco's new ST44 is a finely detailed model. Model features Digital Sound Decoder with accurate prototypical sounds, functional headlights and rear marker lights, large can motor with flywheels and NEM coupler sockets. Model also has full cab interior and extensive roof details. Prototype: There were several reasons for importing M62 locomotives to Poland and today&rsquo, s views on this decision are ambiguous. The locomotive was far stronger than even the strongest Polish steam locomotives servicing freight transport in those days, yet it could not pull passenger trains (due to lack of carriage heating devices) and caused huge damage to railway tracks. Another important weakness of the M62 locomotive was a huge fuel consumption. What makes advantage of this machine is a quite simple construction and a fairly reliable diesel-electric transmission. Intensive electrification of Polish railways caused the relatively new ST44 locomotives to be moved into reserve stock. Many machines withdrawn from PKP found their place among industrial and private railways, where they bore producer&rsquo, s M62 designation. Huge fuel and oil consumption as well as heavy wear it causes to the tracks has resulted in Polish Railways reducing the use of the class. In 2007 many still remain in service with PKP for freight use, though many are also stored. Some lines (e.g. Gdynia - Hel line) forbid access of ST44 due to the heavy track wear the class causes. The locomotives are still used in large numbers by private railroad companies, as well as on the LHS broad gauge line. Today around 50 units are present in Zamosc Engine Shed and it is decided to keep them for some more time.
In 2005 two ST44 locomotives were completely rebuilt by Bumar-Fablok S.A. and delivered to the LHS line. Changes included new Caterpillar 3516B HD engines and main alternators. Those locomotives were given numbers 3001 and 3002.