Takachiho TR-400 series

Takachiho TR-400 series
The set in April 2005
Technical specifications
Manufacturer(s)	Niigata Transys
Type of locomotive	Diesel multiple unit
Constructed	2003
Number built	2 cars (1 set)
Dimensions	18,500 mm × 2,828 mm × 3,980 mm
Gauge	3 ft 6 in (1,067 mm)
Prime mover	DMF13HZ prime mover
Service information
In service	21 March 2003 – 6 September 2005
Branding	Torokko Kagura
Formation	2 cars per set
Number in service	2 cars (1 set)
Fleet numbers	TR-401 – TR-402
Preservation information
Preserved	N/A
Number scrapped	N/A

The Takachiho TR-400 series, branded Torokko Kagura, is a charter-only diesel multiple unit operated by the Takachiho Railway from March 2003 to September 2005.

History

Starting 1996, the Takachiho Railway conducted a study on the introduction of truck-type trains, with the TR-400 series being designed for this purpose. Niigata Transys produced two cars, introduced on the railroad in March 2003 and entering service on 21 March that year. The sole two-car set replaced the TR-300 series train used for the same purpose. The two cars were named Ame-no-Uzume and Tadjikarao respectively, but collectively the train was named the Torokko Kagura.

The train was mainly used for sightseeing services on the line until the line was struck by Typhoon Nabi in September 2005, at which point operation was suspended on the line; the train was berthed at Takachiho Station at this time. Operation did not resume by the closure of the Takachiho Railway in December 2008. The train was then sold to the Kyushu Railway Company in 2008, where it was rebuilt at Kokura Works; the train then re-entered service in October 2009 as the Umisachi Yamasachi after extensive refurbishment works.

Design

The TR-400 series feature a retro-inspired design with a single top-mounted headlight. This is similar to the design of the Matsuura Railway MR-500 series and Minamiaso Railway MT-3010 series cars. The two cars feature brightly colored paintschemes, with one car being yellow and the other dark green. The cars feature detrainment doors with mask ornaments, open windows, tables and no toilets. The trains also feature an air-conditioning system.

Specifications

Construction is of steel. The trains use DMF13HZ prime movers producing 330 PS (326 hp).