The locomotives, built in 1971 and 1972, operated on all main lines in South Australia and interstate to Broken Hill and Melbourne.

The three standard-gauge locomotives were soon repainted in the South Australian Railways' "mustard pot" colour scheme (orange with brown lining and silver bogies).

704 was transferred to broad gauge to replace it, running until 2014, when it was stored after the Penrice stone train service ceased.

They were also used as banker locomotives to assist trains up the steep grades of the Adelaide to Tailem Bend railway line.

[6] Locomotive 704 was donated to SteamRanger Heritage Railway by One Rail Australia and delivered to Mount Barker in August 2022 for eventual revenue service.

[7] Locomotive 703, also donated by One Rail Australia, was delivered to the National Railway Museum, Port Adelaide, in January 2023 as a significant display item and for shunt duties.