This locomotive, together with its twin brother N° 352, was built in 1951 by the Voies Ferrées d’Intérêt Local (VFIL) works at Lumbres in Pas-de-Calais. The curved appearance of their superstructure is very typical of railway construction in that period. From 1951 to 1954, they ran on the VFIL system known as “Flanders” in the Nord département (hence the presence of a “Nord” plate on the cab sides).

In April 1957, both locomotives were transferred to the SE Somme network, and more specifically to the lines serving the Baie de Somme, where they eliminated steam.

When the system closed to commercial traffic in 1972, the CFBS managed to preserve both diesel locomotives. This was the start of a new life for these engines, which never ceased to operate.

Designed for line service, N° 351 is mainly used between St Valery and Cayeux during the summer months. This engine is also in charge of extra trains during peak periods and can if required replace a broken down steam locomotive.

Some technical data:
- Empty weight: 19.5 t.
- Diameter of driving wheels: 1 m.
- Length: 8,100 m.
- Width: 2,300 m.
- Height: 3,500 m.
- Motor: 180hp Willème, straight 8
- Transmission: mechanical gearbox with De Dion central axle and coupling rods to the two end axles.