Special test with JR West 381 Series trainset?

[Sacto1985]

YouTube member nimo5 filmed this video of an unusual train consist:

 

 

A KuMoYa 145 powered inspection car is the lead in this consist with three 381 Series EMU cars in tow. Even nimo5 can't figure out what is going on, though (my wild guess!) is that they're testing some sort of modification to the 381 trainset--and the test is done by the maintenance people at the JR West Yonago maintenance yard.

[Densha]

This is indeed very strange. It sure isn't just the Kumoya hauling the 381 cars because the 381 also has the pantographs up.

 

Would be funny to reproduce this consist in model... ;)

[kvp]

It might be functionality testing after a major ovearhaul. The kumoya can to be used as a cab car if they are compatible or just pulling the set backwards after the tests. Also if the electropneumatic brakes are to be used the on the 381, then it has to be powered somehow.

[bikkuri bahn]

As per kvp's comment, It's more likely than not a movement before or after a routine maintenance, the kumoya is being used as a driving tractor.

 

Similar movement:

Edited April 8, 2014 by bikkuri bahn