Three years ago, we wrote about the Vectron 383.102 locomotive reaching its first million kilometers and undergoing a complete overhaul. Since then, it has not slowed down – over the last three years, it has traveled an average of 1,000 kilometers per day and reliably pulled express trains on Slovak, Czech, and Austrian tracks.
At the end of 2024, it underwent its second major overhaul – an R2/D2 overhaul, with the bogies being overhauled for the first time directly at our RSSB service center in Bratislava.
What does the second major overhaul entail?
The second major overhaul, R2, follows on from the first overhaul, R1, and involves the replacement of several key components. The repair is carried out using a parts replacement system, which minimizes downtime and shortens the service intervention.
The most important replacements in R2:
- Fans, air panel, air conditioning, pumps – the parts replacement system ensures faster repairs.
- Collectors, system disconnect switch, main AC system switch – these devices are replaced preventively to maintain the long-term reliability of the locomotive.
Premiere in Bratislava: First bogie overhaul at RSSB
One of the novelties of this overhaul is the fact that the entire D2 process – bogie overhaul – was performed for the first time directly at our Rolling Stock Services Bratislava (RSSB) service center.
What does this mean?
- Repressing of monoblock axles – in other words, "wheel replacement".
- Complete inspection and servicing of bogies.
In the photos you can see:
- New wheels (monoblocks) ready for pressing.
- Axle with gearbox before wheel pressing.
- Chassis frame undergoing inspection.
Plans for 2025: another 18 major overhauls at RSSB
The RS Lease fleet locomotives are in constant operation, and this year another 18 locomotives will undergo a similar overhaul. Whether it's an R2/D2 or an R1/D1, our goal is to maintain the highest level of reliability and minimize locomotives out of service.
The Vectron 383.102 locomotive is proof that, with proper maintenance, a locomotive can reliably travel millions of kilometers without unexpected downtime. And at RS Lease, we make sure that each one is safe, efficient, and ready for the next challenges of rail transport.
