Class 185 reliability

[ffcphone]

Eco-Mode also seems to be invoked between Salford Crescent and Bolton and Bolton to Chorley depending on the stopping pattern.

All the official Siemens/fTPE detail on Eco-Mode always mentions that maximum power is used to get the train to cruising speed in the first place before software shuts down engines at the request of the driver. However, I've frequently been on 185s between Bolton and Preston which undertake the whole journey on only 2 engines even from rest at a station/signal stop.

If this is more widespread, presumably fTPE are confident timetables can be kept to operating at 66% power within these geographical regions which then begs the question could the journeys not be undertaken a few minutes quicker (to the benefit of passengers) if 100% power was used?

Like others, I seriously question the continued shut-down/start-up policy Eco-Mode requires and the damage this must be doing internally to the QSK19s. One can only assume the fewer operating engine hours when shut down outweights the disadvantages of shut down/start up cycles. Thinking aloud, I presume the on board software will rotate the engines shut down so it's not always the same engine starting up.

F

 

[ffcphone]

It would need someone in the know to answer this categorically but from my own observations I think I've spotted another absurdity of Eco Mode.

I notice when 185s are coupled together in multiple, one engine seems to be shut down on completion of coupling on the unit added on. Moments later when ready for departure the engine restarts having barely come to rest.

Could this be Eco Mode determining the coupled train has reached it's destination and shutting down one engine as required on arrival at terminus as indicated in articles above only for onboard systems then to realise the train is now part of a longer unit with a destination still to be reached? I can think of no other reason why an engine should be shut down immediately post coupling only to be restarted moments later.

F

 

[TrainBrain185]

It would need someone in the know to answer this categorically but from my own observations I think I've spotted another absurdity of Eco Mode.

I notice when 185s are coupled together in multiple, one engine seems to be shut down on completion of coupling on the unit added on. Moments later when ready for departure the engine restarts having barely come to rest.

Could this be Eco Mode determining the coupled train has reached it's destination and shutting down one engine as required on arrival at terminus as indicated in articles above only for onboard systems then to realise the train is now part of a longer unit with a destination still to be reached? I can think of no other reason why an engine should be shut down immediately post coupling only to be restarted moments later.

F

Hi, the numerous occasions I have seen couple/uncouple procedures on 185's, it does not happen all of the time.
I was in discussion with a high up guy from Cummins and he stated that the Eco Mode idea must be in complience with Cummins Warranty otherwise if not, Cummins would not agree to provide their Warranty cover for a premature failure.
The QSK19-R engine uses the MCRS for precise control of fuel injection and timing. Electronically wise, the engine has a CM850 Electronic Control Module System which is programmable for various operating conditions and provides in built diagnostic and prognosis which assists maintenance procedures.
The understandable reason where Eco Mode is highly practicable is that Cummins operate their engine life cycles not in hours of use, or mileage based, but are based on fuel use. The QSK19-R with MCRS has a projected life to overhaul of up to 300,000 Gallons (1,135,624 litres) of fuel burned with no mid life overhaul required. Therefore, despite my reservations of start up/shut down issues, over a typical financial year of operation with Eco Mode in full use on the entire fleet, a very significant cost saving is made both with fuel savings and engine overhaul cycles. Quite a saving..........

 

[Crossover]

Slightly off the thread but I feel still on topic to the title.

I saw 185126 sat at Ardwick TMD in one of the sidings yesterday, but missing its coach A (driving cab with first class) - anyone got any idea what happened to it?

I managed to get a pic of it from a moving train, unfortunately it is only the covered open end of coach B.

 

[poshbakerloo]

I've never noticed the engines being turned off...
Next time I go Sheffield I'll check it out!
I've never really been a fan of the 185s mainly due to the layout of the carriages (having doors that open in the middle of where your sat in a long distance journey and soft bouncy suspension)

 

[ffcphone]

I've never noticed the engines being turned off...
Next time I go Sheffield I'll check it out!
I've never really been a fan of the 185s mainly due to the layout of the carriages (having doors that open in the middle of where your sat in a long distance journey and soft bouncy suspension)

You must remember fTPE operate the 185s both as a long distance and a local commuter unit and thus presumably prompt (dis)embarkation is essential to keep to scheduled timings. Having wide access doors at 1/3 and 2/3 down each carriage helps facilitate that compared with single doors at each end.