Rocky Trains

[MrX]

Wasn't the Cork-Dublin line only recently completed removing sections of jointed track. I certainly remember there being sections of track that caused that clunk-clunk sound associated with 1950s movies and steam trains, and that's not very long ago eg early 00s

if they were replacing track that recently, why did they use substandard specifications or materials?!

Is it not just a gross waste of public funds to lay something that is of low quality and will need replacement?!

[Mark Gleeson]

Bulk of Dublin Cork was relayed in the 1976-1995 bracket

Yes it was done in a hurry. The 201 class locomotives are also outside spec on track forces which isn't helping

There are 3 or 4 renewed sections in place and they are very very smooth

[MrX]

Originally Posted by Mark Gleeson

Bulk of Dublin Cork was relayed in the 1976-1995 bracket

Yes it was done in a hurry. The 201 class locomotives are also outside spec on track forces which isn't helping

There are 3 or 4 renewed sections in place and they are very very smooth

Hmm, sounds like specifications aren't one of Irish Rail's strong points. I'm begining to wonder what their strong points actually are?!

I suppose, it's not surprising given the fact that in lots of places the trains are the wrong height for the platforms and you'd nearly need to be a poll vaulter to get into the train at Cork's Kent Station the gap's so big... and an endless list of specification and project management related errors that are visible throughout the 'system'.

[seamus kilcock]

Ah now Mr X - the Cork Station was built 150 years ago.
The carriage specs then were very different compared to now.

[Mark Gleeson]

201 is outside spec on track forces
The track laid was designed for 90mph with a 99 ton locomotive not a 100 mph 118 ton one
The new Mk4 coaches are each 5 tons heavier than the Mk3
The Mk4 should have higher track forces than the Mk3
The service frequency on the Cork line has effectively tripled in 10 years
More trains run making fewer stops, more track wear

It all adds up to serious track problems. Even the trusty Mk3 can have problems. The Mk4 suspension could be better but its unlikely to significantly change matters unless track is also fixed.

[Mark Gleeson]

I've just been informed by Irish Rail that they have cancelled the tender for ride modifications

Just to add to the mix

Originally Posted by Peter Smyth, Technical Manager, Chief Mechanical Engineers Dept, Iarnrod Éireann

Jokes aside, the vehicle ride is unacceptable and has never achieved the standard required.

Not quite the media line is it

[Mark Gleeson]

Appears the same notice has been reissued

http://www.etenders.gov.ie/search/sh...x?ID=JUL159757

http://www.independent.ie/national-n...t-2259152.html