Simplex

Motor Rail Ltd, based in Bedford, UK, manufactured the "Simplex" range of locomotives. They were a very common sight on British industrial railways and saw significant use in Queensland.

History

Motor Rail supplied simple, robust 4-wheel locomotives. Like Malcolm Moore, many reached Queensland mills as war surplus or as economical shunters for lighter track. They were characterized by their transversely mounted engines and simple gearboxes.

Models

• 4wDM: 4-wheel Diesel Mechanical.
• 20hp / 32hp / 42hp: Classified by nominal horsepower.
• Series: often identified by the "Simplex" trade name.

Known Locomotives

• Thunderbolt: 4wDM (1964). Victoria Mill (Stored at Macknade).
• (Blank): Several units at Mourilyan, Plane Creek, and Racecourse (Out of service).
• 1: 4wDM (1951). Pleystowe Mill (Out of service).
• 2: 4wDM (1953). Pleystowe Mill (Out of service).
• 3: 4wDM (1956). Pleystowe Mill (Out of service).
• 4: 20hp & 32/42hp units. Victoria/Macknade (Out of service).
• S1, S2, S3: 4wDM units. Victoria Mill (Out of service).