Virtual Railfan Tour of Switzerland - Tuesday - Switchers

Until recently there were a number of ancient switchers to be seen across the SBB system.  They hark back to steam locomotive designs with their prominent side rods. Known as class Ee 3/3 930 these were a development of the SBB Ee 3/3 of the 1930s. There were two sub classes, one built between 1932 and 1947, the second were built between 1951 and 1966.
We first came across these in St. Gallen


Jackshaft drive with side rods

A pretty compact machine with provision for crew members at both ends,

A sight no longer to be seen at Zurich Hbf

By September 2019 there were just two of these veterans still in operation. This one was at Yverdon-les-Bains where it has likely been cut up

The Ee 930s have been replaced by these Ee 922 on passenger duties. Seen here at Zurich. 

Again at Zurich. These are a straight Bo four wheeled electric.

These work on passenger yards across the system - seen here at Brig

These have platforms for the crew at both ends. Brig

The Class Ee 923 is a development of the 922 but with an added diesel engine at one end to allow operation in sidings without overhead wires. Seen here at Neuchatel.

Neuchatel - there is a platform on one end only to make room for the diesel engine. This stayed at Neuchatel during the week but went back (to Yverdon?) for the weekend.

More switchers tomorrow, including diesel and narrow gauge.

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