Intact

The complete and intact cab of a class 628 DMU, many of which are currently stored in Hamm after being retired. They are of the subtype 628.2, with 628.0 being the prototypes (12 built), 628.1 being what one could call pre-series models (3 built) and finally 628.2, the first serial production models, which were made in the late 1980s (150 built).

There was a pullover draped over the backrest, as if the driver had just walked out. o.o

You can see the two most important controls, one being the power controller sticking out of the dash, the other being the brake valve to our right. Everything is intact and undamaged, the only thing missing being the direction selector lever, which would go just left of the power controller. The driver always removes that when he leaves the cab, so it's a bit like an ignition key of sorts, the train not moving off without it. On the left, you can also see the train radio and the large flatscreen of the EBuLa computer, which is used to display the timetable. All the other stuff is pretty much self explanatory, such as the clock, the speedo and the brake line/reservoir tank air pressure gauge.

Just left of the brake valve, we can also see the door control switch, allowing the driver to select on which side the doors will open. Looking down at the floor, you can see the small pedal that operates the horn, as well as the dead man's switch in the shape of a large pedal that you have to keep depressed while driving. When the white SiFa indicator light goes on, visible below and right of the clock, you have to lift your foot off for a moment and then depress it again. If you fail to do so, a horn will sound a few seconds after the light comes on. And if you still don't react, a valve pops open and drops your brake line pressure to zero, fully applying the brakes, as well as disconnecting the transmission and sending the prime mover to idle. The driver can also initiate a rapid emergency braking by turning the brake valve past its fully applied position. In addition to cutting traction power and fully applying the brakes, this also deploys the magnetic rail brakes for maximum stopping power.

More pics of class 628s, so you know what they look like from outside:





Personally, I never really liked these. I didn't hate them, but they were just really boring trains. Technically, they are very robust and reliable, economical to run, with very few technical problems being known, though they're also a bit underpowered. Self-leveling air suspension makes for a smooth ride, the interior is quite pleasant, especially on modernized ones, the seats are comfortable, with only the area directly above the prime mover being a bit noisy. Other than that, they do exactly what they were made for, though they do lack modern day features such as air conditioning or low floor entrances for wheelchairs.