Eryri was built in the seventies for the Jarocin Railway in Poland. This railway runs from the town Witaszyce, which lies some 40-45 miles south-east of Poznan, to Zagorow, some 22 miles further to the north east.
The last trains ran in December 1990.
Eryri, numbered 60, was one of five LYd2 locomotives operating on the Jarocin Railway; Nos. 58 and 69 (still unnamed) have also been brought to the Welsh Highland Railway.
Manufactured in Romania, these locomotives are essentially of German design and were constructed under licence. The Maybach designed engine can thus be said to enjoy an excellent pedigree.
The hydraulic transmission with jackshaft drive to the coupled wheels gives these locomotives a more reassuringly traditional look than that of many other Diesels.
Besides their enviable power, a major feature of these locomotives is their high tractive effort: they are excellently suited to the steep gradients of the Welsh Highland Railway.
No.60 is in running order. Nos. 69 and 58 are currently awaiting further repairs.
