Build date 1977–1989 UIC class B' | Total produced 375‡ | |
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Gauge 1,435 mm (4 ft 8 ⁄2 in) standard gauge | ||
History and design
The locomotives were developed by SNCF for shunting duties. Initial construction was by Locotracteurs Gaston Moyse until that company ceased business, then by Fauvet Girel.
Y 8000 machines were used to replace older shunting engines, as well as trip work on minor lines.
The locomotives were 2 axle machines with both axles powered by a Poyaud (SSCM) diesel engine via a Voith hydraulic transmission. Locomotives were later re-engined (1997) with lower emission RVI engines; when re-engined locomotives received the green SNCF Fret livery.
The locomotives also are certified for use in Italy, limited to shunting work: Y 8120 has been operated by SNCF subsidiary CapTrain Italia.
After 1989 production shifted to a mechanically identical Y 8400 type, which incorporated a radio control system for shunting.