SAR History

Yx 141 was originally built as Y 141 by James Martin, Gawler, SA (Builder's Number 43 of 1892) to the design of the successful Beyer-Peacock "Y class" 2-6-0 locomotives, which were built in large numbers to become mainstays of the SAR narrow-gauge locomotive fleet at that time.

This locomotive was later rebuilt by the SAR to "Yx" specification, increasing the boiler pressure from 140psi to 185psi via a higher-pitch Belpaire boiler, although saturated steam was retained.

Preservation History

Following withdrawal by the SAR, Yx 141 was plinthed in a park at Port Lincoln.  Like many park engines, Yx 141 began to deteriorate but fortunately it was obtained by the Pichi Richi Railway in 1983 and transferred to Quorn, where it was placed in the long-term storage shed to protect against further corrosion.

Restoration to Operation

The Pichi Richi Railway recently began a initiative to restore Yx 141 to operation.  The locomotive has been found to be in surprisingly good condition, with the boiler and fittings only requiring cosmetic work.  Apparently many of Yx 141's fittings are common to the T class, and various parts bear stamps from other SAR engines; the running gear came from Y 87, the driving axles are from various manufacturers and years ranging from Krupps in 1888 to Vickers & Sons and Maxim in 1905. The smokebox door is from a Z class, and the regulator valve in the dome has still painted the address ex-stores in Islington with the order number.