Hanging out in Linz Hbf (main station) in the morning hours still is an exciting endeavor- at least for rail fans. Despite the fact that more and more commuter as well as long distance rail operation is handled by MU sets, commuter train compositions with coach cars and heavy electrics still provide their share hauling people to and from work, school and the city.

On my way to Vienna in order to attend the annual model and train show, I encountered electric switch engine 1063 008-5 picking up a set of CityShuttle cars at a platform in Linz.  The first car behind the locomotive is a cab car enabling pull-push operation. The switcher is interesting as well as it resembles a class 1063 engine which was developed out of the German Ruhrkohle class E 1200 industrial switcher. This design resembles the first asynchronous traction motor control adaption by the ÖBB beyond test applications. The AC traction concept proved to be very successful and therefore these engines are still in operation some 30 years after being put in operation.

I am always impressed by the neat appearance of the cars. Even the locomotive is pretty clean for a hard working switcher three decades of age. Also note the MU competition (ÖBB 4024 TALENT) lurking in the background as well as the appliance directly in front of the switcher which is used to preheat cars in case a road engine has not coupled to its train already. Keeping the cables above the ground helps handling- especially in winter. Last but not least I’d like to mention the slim profile catenary mast featuring both, a long and a short mounting bracket to ensure zig-zag routing of the contact wire.