They were the first diesel-electric locomotives built in Australia and the first to be operated by the South Australian Railways.

Railway historical group SteamRanger bought 350 and still owns the locomotive, operating it as a depot shunter; its very low continuous tractive effort necessitates a 150-tonne load limit when it pulls a train on the Victor Harbor–Strathalbyn section of the railway.

[1] A preservation group at Moonta bought 351 for a proposed heritage railway venture that did not come to fruition.

After mechanical problems occurred it was placed on permanent loan to the National Railway Museum at Port Adelaide, where it remained for 25 years.

Following cosmetic restoration it is now a key element of the museum's outdoor static displays, especially since the installation of a locally developed driving simulator in the cab, which can be operated by visitors.