On Wednesday 18 December 2002 at about 2230, northbound express freight Train 220 was approaching Rukuhia when dragging brake gear on a wagon near the middle of the train hit the spreader bar of the south-end turnout. As a result of the impact, the train parted and 11 wagons derailed.
Safety issues identified included:
· the limitations of the fulcrum pin connecting the brake vertical lever to the brake beam
· the absence of a safety wire to support the push rod in the event of a failure.
As a result of the safety actions taken by Tranz Rail, no safety recommendations have been made.
