Future Plans for SAR 311 & 402
SAR Redhens 311 and 402, once back home in South Australia, both will undergo engine and transmission maintenance. As the Redhens 311 and 402 engines are GM Detroit Diesel 6/71's, I have managed to download after a long search the full servicing and operation manuals,
same as the Transmission Twin Disc SM-121 Service Manual.
Our mission is to return two operating 1955 South Australian–built Redhen railcars 311 and 402 from Victoria to South Australia. These railcars are a cherished part of our state’s railway history and an enduring SA icon.
To help reach this goal, SAR Redhen Promotions is partnering with venues running weekly or fortnightly raffles featuring prizes such as meat vouchers, seafood vouchers, and in‑house meal vouchers. We’re expanding the prize pool to showcase local Barossa Valley wineries and other local businesses.
Our request
- We’re seeking raffle prizes in the form of Venue bottles of wine and printed wine glasses.
- A special supporter price would be greatly appreciated so the raffle can cover item costs while still raising funds.
- We can supply a counter flyer, display card, and handle pickup/delivery arrangements.
Your impact Your participation will directly support Stage 1: returning SAR Redhen railcar 311 to South Australia, with Redhen 402 planned for Stage 2. We aim to raise $12,000 by 31 December 2026 for stage 1 with stage 2 planned for early 2027, and every contribution brings us closer to bringing these railcars home.
Recognition
- We will acknowledge Venue support on our website, highlighting your commitment to preserving South Australian railway heritage.
- We’ll also recognise your venue/winery in our community updates across South Australia.
Thank you for considering this partnership with SAR Redhen Promotions to help return a piece of SA railway history. I’d be glad to discuss prize options, supporter pricing, logistics, and promotional materials at your convenience.
Engines: The engines will be serviced as required and specified with the Detroit Diesel 6/71 serving manual.
Transmissions: The transmission will be serviced as required and specified with the Twin Disc SM-121 service manual. With special attention to 311s B end transmission, as there is a major leaking issue due to a seal/friction plate, so I have been told.
Electrical: All electrical wiring will be inspected for damage and also plans for a total rewiring of the inside of the railcars, this would be for the current lighting as the wiring could be the original from manufacturing in 1955.
Inner Interior: During the engines and transmissions work there will be inspections of what is in between the interior and exterior of the railcars, this will also be done within the roof space, to inspect whats is within the roof cavity. This will include appropriate action taken to remove 1955 installations and other/s. The plan is to have new insulation within the roof space as well as the interior and exterior of the railcars. The interior is also planned to have a restroom, and other modem futures, but still keeping the original Redhen classic look.
Outer: During the engines and transmissions work there will be out side cosmetic work done, this will entail the removal and cutting out of surface and deep rust from the out side of the railcars. With a repaint from top to bottom and front to back, of hopefully the same Redhen Red.
As the SAR Redhens will be an operating railcars, once all the restoration is completed the appropriate documents will be submitted to have both 311 and 402 accredited and certified to operate. What is so pleasing and appreciated is the over welling amount of volunteers coming forward to help with the restoration, all in the name of Preservation of South Australian Railway History. As well as having part of South Australia Railway History return back to South Australia.
Future plans are coming soon, the details will be tourism driven as well as possible networking with the Kingsford Homestead the Home of The Drovers Run - McLeads Daughters and The Gungellan Hotel.