Correction

I originally wrote about this car indicating that it was a M14(T)Z24 ( 2foot model) model type based on its original promotional picture and caption I had stating it to be an MT14 model, limited research data available to me at the time and the 'what is believed' trap.

As I undertook indepth research on the car and actually physically examined the cars ID plates (see pic below ©) when it came into my posession I realised I had reported in error about its model type as other commentators still do at time of writing this.

I can now put the record straight once and for all about this car with the evidence submitted on this page...Mark Feb 5th 2004.

Overview

Research to date indicates that this was the only 2 foot gauge Fairmont model M19Z24 assembled in Australia and was based on a standard Fairmont design.

The M19Z42 spent its working life on a 2 foot sugar tramway in Quensland Australia with some of its history covered later in the page. As with sugar cane tramways tradition in Australia most powered plant was named and this was the case for this unique M19Z24. The name 'Bumble Bee' was chosen and an explanation as to why is described later on. If you look just under the windscreens you can make out some of the name. 'Bumble' on the left side facing and 'Bee' on the right.

Manufacturing History

The Birth Paper for the RO-C engine ( M19 configuration) fitted and manufacturing blue prints in my possesion indicate this car was on Pacific Constructions Fairmont designer, Chris Manchip's, drawing board in August/September 1975 and assembled under licence from Fairmont MN in Australia during early 1976. Interestingly the car also carries a Fairmont MN factory serial number as well as the local Pacific serial number. The Fairmont MN serial number was allocated as part of the licencing agreement for the introduction of this particular model to Australia.

Some clarification about this cars identification and model type must be mentioned here to explain why this car was initially assumed to be an M14 narrow gauge model type and why it is actually an M19 model.

Upon initial examination of pictures of this car it appears to be an M14Z24 narrow gauge belt driven model with some M19 suspension components utilised to cater for the narrow gauge. Physical examination reveals quite a different story. When you examine the Fairmont ID plate attached it indicates it is an M19Z24 model. It also carries a Pacific ID plate with serial No 1046 which belongs to the Pacific range of M19 model cars. An examination of the Pacific manufacturing blueprints refers to it as an M19Z24 model. No mention of it being an M14 type anywhere!

Fairmont MN designated it as an M19Z24 as did Pacific Construction here in Australia..they both couldn't be wrong. I also noted a couple of distinctive M19 features that are part of the car, the early M19 crank handle support. M19 engine sills, idler pulley, bearing housings, springs and M19 sheeted timber decking.

As per factory allocation and without a doubt now this car is an M19Z24 model with a Fairmont standard narrow gauge 'Z24' body design which places the deck above the wheel height and places the lift handles at the side. The M19 mudguards, if fitted, would foul the engine bay side panels and so the reason for the altered body design. It is almost identical in appearance to the M14 narrow gauge body design and this is where the confusion has come from. This similarity also confused the Pacific Advertising department back in 1976 it would seem and has perpetrated until now. They used its picture to advertise the MT14 models which were being massed produced at the time and so most assumed it was a M14 with a rear axle transmission (T) which never was!!

It has the word 'Australia' painted on both sides of the engine bay by its past owner and the reason for this is unknown at present. The car has had a repaint since it left the factory as the id plates also on the engine bay are painted over. It is my opnion that the car has been used for some promotional work for the Sugar Industry as it was painted well after it left the factory.

I believe this to be the most unique post WW2 Fairmont Motor Car ever seen in Australia and one of the most unique M19's in the world.

History

The M19 Z24 was purchased from the Pacific Construction Equipment Company by the Farleigh Sugar Mill, just north of Mackay, in Northern Queensland in 1976 for use as a line car on its 110 kilometre 2ft gauge tramway system. According to John Browning from the LRRSA it appears to have been under utilized spending most of its first 13 years in a shed and never seen operating. This is evident by the minimal wear on the original wheels still fitted and lack of engine bore wear in the original engine. The rest of its time it was stored outside in sub tropical weather as evident of its now poor condition.

John tells me it was nicknamed the 'Bumble Bee' in later years and with a bit of imagination you can see why when looking at its picture above. Stripes as found on a Bumble Bee's body and the windscreens the Bees eyes.

John has found some other "news items" about Bumble Bee which he has kindly let me post:-

"1989 The unique Pacific petrol line car (1046 of 1976) which has not been used for some years has found a new use - being towed behind the weedkiller train (by a rope!) to accommodate the operator. "

"1991 At Farleigh Mill, some of the items of navy equipment appear to have been overhauled. Pacific 2-2wPMR 1046 of 1976 has been repainted, and named Bumble Bee."

It was sold at Auction in November 2003 passing into private ownership.

At time of writing (Feb 2004) it needs extensive restoration, including replacement of some rusted out frame members and some engine work . Bumble Bee is to be restored and operated on a private 2 foot railway. I will post some pictures when restoration commences.

Inspection of the car or records pertaining, which include manufacturing blue prints of axle design, are available on request...contact me for further details..Mark 0427363260