Sydney D-Class Tram

The D-class trams were a class of single bogie Californian Combination type trams operated on the Sydney tram network with open cross benches at the ends and a saloon in the centre.[1]

D-class
D117 at The Spit
ManufacturerClyde Engineering
Ritchie Brothers
Constructed1896-99
Number built25
Fleet numbers93-121, 123
Capacity32-34 (Seated)
Specifications
Train length9.40 metres
Width2.22 metres
Height3.70 metres
Maximum speed60 km/h
Weight9.66 t
Power output4 x 36 hp (later 60)
Electric system(s)600 V DC catenary
Current collection methodTrolley pole
Track gauge1,435 mm (4 ft 8 1⁄2 in)

History

In 1896, Clyde Engineering delivered car 123 with an elliptical roof. The 24 others numbered 93-121 had a clerestory roof and were built by Clyde Engineering and Ritchie Brothers in 1899.[2]

The composite design and terminology was adapted from a popular style of car tram operating in California. They were introduced to give more room for smokers who were previously confined to car entrances. They were four wheel cars, seating capacity being originally 32, later being increased to 34. The last was withdrawn in 1925. Some were converted to track scrubbers with one sold to Brisbane.[2]

Preservation

Two have been preserved:

  • 102 at the Sydney Tramway Museum, converted to track scrubber in 1930 and renumbered 134s, operational, was used as a track scrubber on the Wentworth Park light rail line in 1997[3]
  • 117 at the Sydney Tramway Museum, converted to breakdown car 112s in 1913 and is currently halfway through being returned to passenger configuration.[3]

References
  1. McCarth & Chinn (1974). New South Wales Tramcar Handbook 1861-1961. SPER.
  2. MacCowan, Ian (1990). The Tramways of New South Wales. Oakleigh: Ian MacCowan. p. 116. ISBN 0 949600 25 3.
  3. "The Trams of the Sydney Tramway Museum". Sydney Tramway Museum.

Further reading
  • Chinn, N (1975). New South Wales Tramcar Handbook 1861-1961. Vol. 1. South Pacific Electric Railway Cooperative Society. ISBN 9780959865967.
  • McCarthy, Ken (1976). New South Wales Tramcar Handbook 1861-1961. Vol. 2. South Pacific Electric Railway Cooperative Society. ISBN 9780959865974.

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