It's only a matter of time

[javlinfaw7]

Diesel hydraulics inspired one of the biggest forms of mass transport  think V200 and

[Webbo]

Not knowing what a V200 is, I resorted to Google which tells me that it can be a German diesel hydraulic loco built in the 50s or a type of Chinese ute (pick-up truck). I exclude the Chinese ute even though it can be bought with a turbo diesel motor.

I don't follow the reference to the Kombi van except that the V200 locomotive shows some resemblance to it. Right?

Webbo

[daffy]

I think the reference is to this loco @Webbo

"DB Class V 200.0 (from 1968: Class 220) was the first series production diesel-hydraulic express locomotive of the German Deutsche Bundesbahn and - as Am 4/4 - of the SBB-CFF-FFS in Switzerland.  86 built, retired in 1984." Wiki.

But like you I fail to see the VW reference at all.

[javlinfaw7]

The v200 locomotive and the VW Type 2 Transporter were part of the post war German industrial resurgence . The appearance of VW was said to be based on the V200 . Some re engined V200s were operational in Italy as late as 2012 ,

[D1042 Western Princess]

OK, but (getting off topic - slightly) if we can only travel one way in time then that means we can never get back to the present - but then were I to return to c1965 - 70, the WR as it was - all worked by Hydraulics  and no steam engines  then I'm not sure I'd want to come back.

I have to admit that the fascination of some for diesel hydraulics is curious as they have been proven to be a dead end in locomotive development. Less efficient and less reliable than diesel electric. Hydraulic transmissions seem to be suitable for low horsepower applications but not for serious power. Am I waving a red flag in front of a bull?

Webbo

Your opinion - NOT a fact. The truth is simply that Diesel Hydraulics in BR use were defeated by the 'not invented here' mentality in the boardroom, not because of any fault in design or operation.
And beyond this I will keep quiet as I don't want to risk getting kicked off the Forum!

[Mito]

I read somewhere that in the beginning there were serious problems with the hydraulics especially the torque converter but at the end they were more reliable and efficient than diesel electrics. Their looks were great. The Hymeckś beauty was in its ugliness but the Western just breathed power.

[Jerry Howlett]

When I were lad..  at Swindon loco, I used to cadge the odd lift on freights and parcels trains back cab or up front if (I was lucky. The Swindon drivers LOVED the hydraulics as they always reckoned they could push them that little bit harder than their counterparts.

Jerry