BHP obtained two G8B units (similar to the VR first series T Class) for use on their iron ore haulage operation based at Whyalla. Delivered with narrow gauge bogies, the units have also seen service on the standard gauge railway on the Eyre Peninsula (at which point they were also fitted with dynamic brakes).

In addition, BHP obtained seven G12 model locomotives (similar to the Queensland Railways 1230 Class) over 1956-7 for similar duties. Similar to their predecessors, the new locomotives were Bo-Bo to ensure maximum tractive effort.

DE1, as well as DE3-9 would be rebuilt by Morrison Knudsen Australia to greatly increase their pulling power. When the steelworks at BHP Whyalla became part of the Onesteel business, the rail operations would pass to Australian Southern Railroad, with the class renumbered in the 1300 series. DE2 would be condemned and stripped for parts. The shell would eventually be rebuilt for SCT Logistics as T414.