D5394 was purchased privately from British Rail in 1987 and taken to the Strathspey Railway between Aviemore and Boat of Garten. After 10 years of reliable service it was taken out of service for a general overhaul. This made slow progress until 2001 when it was decided to move the loco to Bo'ness for repair, with Class 20 D8020 going North on a 2 year hire.

Since arrival at Bo'ness in September 2001, the power unit has been completely dismantled. The cylinder heads have been overhauled, the liners examined and replaced as necessary, and the pistons reconditioned and fitted with new piston rings. The turbo has also been overhauled and the intercooler cleaned out. Many other smaller tasks have been done on the engine and 2 broken cylinder head studs have been drilled out and renewed. The main generator brushgear has also been removed for refurbishment and renewal of the brushes .After re-assembly of both main and auxiliary generator brush gear, the loco was started in date?.

The corrosion to the bodywork and in particular the cabs is far worse that first expected and is subsequently taking much longer to complete. No2 end cab has been stripped of all corroded metal work and the framing and plating on the driver's side replaced. It is intended to continue with this work over the winter months before repainting the loco in original green livery.