Locomotive 2052 spent almost a decade in exile before entering the LLEP.
Final cab layout.Main image courtesy Focused on Photos.
TasRail’s Locomotive Life Extension Project (LLEP) is breathing new life into essential assets, as the business drives forward with the $15 million multi-year overhaul of its legacy locomotive fleet. The project, aimed at enhancing the reliability, performance, and longevity of the critical 2050 and 2000 class locomotives, is already delivering results—both on the tracks and in the local economy.
The initiative, supported through the 2022–23 Tasmanian Budget, ensures the continued delivery of safe, efficient, and cost-effective rail freight services across the State. The refurbished locomotives are vital for powering key freight corridors, servicing major customers, and supporting essential maintenance operations statewide.
The first two locomotives to emerge from the overhaul program, in late 2024, were both from the 2050 class - 2053 and 2052 . Both locomotives are now operational and providing invaluable haulage power on a number of key routes around the State. Originally built in 1978, four 2050-class locomotives were acquired by TasRail in 2012 to support growth ahead of the TR-class fleet introduction in 2014. Meanwhile 2051 entered TasRail’s East Tamar Workshop in late 2024, with commissioning currently anticipated by mid-2025. The final 2050-class unit, 2054, is slated for upgrade late 2025.
“This project not only extends the service life of our locomotives but lays the groundwork for future low-emission fleet investments,” TasRail General Manager - Projects Josh Marshall said.
“The reliability and capability of this fleet are critical to supporting our customers and maintaining network resilience as we grow.”
The comprehensive overhauls conducted under the project include the replacement of engines, traction motors, generators, braking systems, and control wiring. Driver cabins have also undergone modernisation, with design improvements driven by direct consultation with TasRail’s operational workforce. Ergonomics, safety, and driver comfort are now embedded into each rebuild.
The project has embraced continuous feedback and innovation—ranging from redesigned control stands to improved alarm systems, noise reduction measures, and inclusive handrail and step modifications to cater for all operators. These upgrades have been well received by operational staff.
“It was greatly appreciated that we could give our opinions on what the best control scheme for locomotive cabs already existing at TasRail . The 2050s before modification were good, but the angle of the control stand, and placement of the automatic brake valve was as built,” Central Operations Branch Manager Nick Shackelton said.
.“The cab layout now is more or less as the team designed it.”
Importantly, the LLEP has become a showcase for Tasmanian industry participation. All overhaul work is being conducted at TasRail’s East Tamar Junction workshop in Launceston by a dedicated team of TasRail tradespeople and local contractors. From electricians, mechanical fitters, and painters to technical advisors and diesel specialists, the project supports local jobs and reinvigorates the state’s skilled labour base.
“It’s been decades since work of this calibre has been undertaken locally at this level,” Marshall said.
The LLEP team is at pains to say that it hasn’t always been smooth sailing.
“Locomotives like 2052 had been in storage gathering moss and rust for the best part of a decade,” Rollingstock Project Manager James Bell said.
“It was only after stripping and cleaning, the true material condition of that unit revealed itself and we realised the amount of rust repairs alone that would be needed to deliver a quality job.”
Other factors on the refurbished locos that proved challenging include issues with compressors, engine parts (roots blowers and governors), and noise levels.
“Every challenge we’ve faced, from corrosion to complex system upgrades, has brought out the best in our team,” Bell said.
“Our project team continues to work with multiple internal stakeholders to resolve concerns when they come to hand. The continuous feedback process will help us to refine the outcomes of the program.
“Every loco teaches us something new.”
