Axle covers at the locos
 
As all the world knows, there were 2 types of cover (or none) overhead the axles of the locos.
 
The 1st version - until 1966 - was inserted into the frame (to be seen in the middle of the picture) and kept in position by means of 4 small fish plates - left side of the picture. 2nd version was simply placed on top of the frame underneath the hood. The reason why new covers had to be used was the new silver Bühler engine, which had a littler larger diameter than the old brass engine. There are some transitional versions - new silver motor with old frame and old axle cover (1966 until latest 1969)
both axle covers in place both frames - with and without angled section
 
Therefore 2 angled sections had to be made (right side of the picture) at the front section of the frame - the old covers couldn't be fixed anymore at this part of the frame.
 
The non-visible inner side of the covers are known to show various colors and lithos - initially blank or red. After the production of the 1500E, 1013 E and the corresponding tenders had ceased (1962), left-over tin plates were used to produce these covers - showing various colors. So these lithographed covers indicate the year of production between 1962 and 1966 (possibly 1969).
The later version is known to show Yellow, Red, dark Green or Black on the non visible side. The visible side was mainly red - for locos with black frame / engine the visible cover side could be black as well. Subsequently all locos with the flat switch must have the inserted tin cover - all locos with the cog-wheeled switch must have the longer later version.
axle covers

As of 1973 Biller even left out the covers for the axles and motors (in the cabin)
generated: FEB-12-2006

last update: Christmas 2007