Behold the MÁV V43 villanymozdony a legend among locomotives. This isn’t just any train engine. This is a piece of Hungarian history.
The MÁV V43 series represents the largest number of electric locomotives ever delivered to the Hungarian State Railways. Its story began in 1960. Hungary acquired a license for a silicon rectifier locomotive. The first seven were assembled in Essen Germany. Number V43 1008 however was built in Budapest. Ganz Villamossági Művek crafted the electrical components. Ganz-MÁVAG built the mechanical parts.
Between 1963 and 1982 nearly 400 of these magnificent machines rolled off the production lines. A remarkable fact about the early models is their dual voltage capability. They could operate on both the 16 kV and the later standardized 25 kV lines. This was crucial for the Budapest-Hegyeshalom line.
The MÁV V43 wasn’t without its initial challenges. There were problems with the traction motor windings. They needed rewinding to meet power specifications. Frame cracks appeared. These issues were addressed through redesign and improved manufacturing processes. Even the ride was initially bumpy. Many drivers preferred to stand during operation. This was solved by improving the suspension system later in production runs.
Despite these early hiccups the MÁV V43 became a workhorse. Its nickname Szili comes from its silicon rectifiers. Another nickname Szellem or Ghost reflects the high pitched whine of its cooling system. Even today many are still in service.
The MÁV V43 has seen many changes over the decades. Some locomotives received upgrades to comply with EUROFIMA standards. Many also received new semi-pantograph current collectors. Different painting schemes and modernization efforts created subclasses: V43 0000 V43 1000 V43 2000 and V43 3000. These were later renumbered as 430 431 432 and 433. The V43 2000 series received a vibrant paint job earning the nickname Papagáj or Parrot. The V43 3000 series has a mottled paint scheme resulting in the name Cirmos or Tabby.
Even the GYSEV railway company operates 14 of these locomotives. They even added PZB I60R systems for Austrian operations. Unfortunately some GYSEV V43s have been involved in serious accidents. Locomotives V43 331 and V43 322 were scrapped after crashes. V43 333 was rebuilt after a collision. A different MÁV V43 provided the necessary frame.
The MÁV V43’s legacy is undeniable. It served Hungarian railways for decades. While newer locomotives are slowly replacing them the MÁV V43 remains a symbol of Hungary’s engineering prowess and enduring strength. Its unique design and long service life solidify its place in railway history.