It struck me when looking at the stats, the once near 200-strong fleet of O405N is down to below 80.
I know the type isn't universally liked on here, but - introduced when it was - and representing as it did a single-decker push by TWM to eliminate Fleetlines, it is the last remaining tangible link to that late nineties era.
I thought I'd start this thread in honour of the rapidly dwindling fleet of Mercs. Along with the Presidents, when these are gone from the streets of the West Midlands and Warwickshire, my interest will be pretty much done and dusted. The modern stuff is pretty, and dare I say the Omni-Deckers are quirky, but modern buses are quieter and somehow less charismatic.
Definitively saw my last one on Thursday (WN1661, thanks Tony), and when I get chance in future I'll be Black Country-bound to see what odd workings I can rake-in.
While I'm on the subject, the B10L is an equally endangered species, with its own dedicated following. Given that the two types have this friendly rivalry, devotees might want to post stuff on here that is relevant to these particular buses, but doesn't necessarily belong in other threads and topics.
I think the last of the Fleetlines were gone well before the first Merc entered service
I totally agree, any bus that stands the test of time like the Mercs is worthy of respect. Had a great day out on Saturday with the newest bus being 1707!
It went - 1707, 1662, 662, 1431, 4010, 4001, 632, 600, 1671, 1681, 1670, 1642, 1657, 1707!!
How long before we can't write such a list?
Get them while you still can.....
Quote from: Bob on September 22, 2014, 01:49:03 PM
I think the last of the Fleetlines were gone well before the first Merc entered service
Ok, a couple of months before. November 1997 vs January 1998.
I should probably have said 'replace' rather than eliminate. The fleet had been contracting for some time, and saloons rather than deckers were the norm for new vehicles.
Apologies.
Quote from: 1707 on September 22, 2014, 02:01:25 PM
I totally agree, any bus that stands the test of time like the Mercs is worthy of respect. Had a great day out on Saturday with the newest bus being 1707!
It went - 1707, 1662, 662, 1431, 4010, 4001, 632, 600, 1671, 1681, 1670, 1642, 1657, 1707!!
How long before we can't write such a list?
Get them while you still can.....
That is very rateable action indeed.
Will they have a farewell merc /B10L day
Quote from: Solo1 on September 22, 2014, 02:20:40 PM
Will they have a farewell merc /B10L day
Hopefully they won't have one for the Mercs, wouldn't mind a B6/B10 one though!
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on September 22, 2014, 03:56:12 PM
Quote from: Solo1 on September 22, 2014, 02:20:40 PM
Will they have a farewell merc /B10L day
Hopefully they won't have one for the Mercs, wouldn't mind a B6/B10 one though!
I had heard the Merc farewell day was scheduled to be held on 5th November & they'd be going out in a blaze of glory...... :D
Joking aside to be fair, I used to rate the Mercs up until more recently, they had proved very reliable workhorses. However, they have gone down rather rapidly with the various fires, major corrosion issues and the styling now looks very dated.
My favourite 1st generation low floor bus still has to be the B10L/Wright Liberators, they still look modern when freshly repainted and are still putting in sterling service at WA on the 34/38 & 39 despite being worked hard for the past 18 years. I will be more sorry to see those finally retired....... :'(
Quote from: Winston on September 22, 2014, 04:06:44 PM
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on September 22, 2014, 03:56:12 PM
Quote from: Solo1 on September 22, 2014, 02:20:40 PM
Will they have a farewell merc /B10L day
Hopefully they won't have one for the Mercs, wouldn't mind a B6/B10 one though!
I had heard the Merc farewell day was scheduled to be held on 5th November & they'd be going out in a blaze of glory...... :D
Joking aside to be fair, I used to rate the Mercs up until more recently, they had proved very reliable workhorses. However, they have gone down rather rapidly with the various fires, major corrosion issues and the styling now looks very dated.
My favourite 1st generation low floor bus still has to be the B10L/Wright Liberators, they still look modern when freshly repainted and are still putting in sterling service at WA on the 34/38 & 39 despite being worked hard for the past 18 years. I will be more sorry to see those finally retired....... :'(
Considering what workhorses the B6s used to be at PE, would hope that before the end one ot two could come back for, say a last bash on the 222!
Quote from: Winston on September 22, 2014, 04:06:44 PM
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on September 22, 2014, 03:56:12 PM
Quote from: Solo1 on September 22, 2014, 02:20:40 PM
Will they have a farewell merc /B10L day
Hopefully they won't have one for the Mercs, wouldn't mind a B6/B10 one though!
I had heard the Merc farewell day was scheduled to be held on 5th November & they'd be going out in a blaze of glory...... :D
Joking aside to be fair, I used to rate the Mercs up until more recently, they had proved very reliable workhorses. However, they have gone down rather rapidly with the various fires, major corrosion issues and the styling now looks very dated.
My favourite 1st generation low floor bus still has to be the B10L/Wright Liberators, they still look modern when freshly repainted and are still putting in sterling service at WA on the 34/38 & 39 despite being worked hard for the past 18 years. I will be more sorry to see those finally retired....... :'(
will the farewell day be at a NXWM depot?
Not unless they want a depot reduced to ashes...... it was a joke. There is no farewell day planned that I know of......Winston
Quote from: Solo1 on September 22, 2014, 02:20:40 PM
Will they have a farewell merc /B10L day
That will involve two separate garages. Presumably the last few B10Ls at WA will drop substantially ahead of the Benz...?
What about the B6Ls as well? (Confession - I forgot about those).
Quote from: Winston on September 22, 2014, 04:06:44 PM
Joking aside to be fair, I used to rate the Mercs up until more recently, they had proved very reliable workhorses. However, they have gone down rather rapidly with the various fires, major corrosion issues and the styling now looks very dated.
It's the dated (LEGO anyone?) styling and general encroaching shabbiness that contributes to their allure, from a personal perspective.
It's almost like they are sticking two fingers up at the modern fleet.
Mercs are nice but the B10s are far superior imo, as has been stated they have stood the test of time and still look relatively modern. Even from a passengers perspective they have better legroom than the modern alternatives and probably rattle less! I really hope there is a final farewell for these beasts but I did email in and ask in around 2012 and I know back then the concern was that there wouldn't be as much of a demand as there was for the metrobus and it probably wouldn't draw in that much of a crowd. Going by various posts on here I'd like to think that that is no longer the case and the company would consider doing it now but only time will tell. *crosses fingers and toes*
B10Ls definitely have good legroom especially compared to Omnilinks!
Quote from: The Real 4778 on September 22, 2014, 05:01:21 PM
Quote from: Winston on September 22, 2014, 04:06:44 PM
Joking aside to be fair, I used to rate the Mercs up until more recently, they had proved very reliable workhorses. However, they have gone down rather rapidly with the various fires, major corrosion issues and the styling now looks very dated.
It's the dated (LEGO anyone?) styling and general encroaching shabbiness that contributes to their allure, from a personal perspective.
It's almost like they are sticking two fingers up at the modern fleet.
The refurb'd Mercs don't look bad, it's just the squareness of the body design & lack of curves, particularly the rear end.
I would say the Mercs styling-wise actually look older than the B10L's, the body design of the B10L has aged very well, as it was clearly very well built.
Quote from: Winston on September 22, 2014, 05:38:12 PM
The refurb'd Mercs don't look bad, it's just the squareness of the body design & lack of curves, particularly the rear end.
I would say the Mercs styling-wise actually look older than the B10L's, the body design of the B10L has aged very well, as it was clearly very well built.
That strikes a chord here. The Mercs have an obvious family likeness to their new sisters working for Arriva out to Tamworth and Kingsbury on occasion, which I do find particularly lovely. However, there are none of these with WM.
The B10Ls' design retains a family resemblance in certain details and curves to the Wrights stuff currently on WM stock, and I think this helps it have a more contemporary feel and look. Same is also true of the B6.
And the B10L was always uncommon - there were never very many outside the Nat Ex fleets and now they're positively rare. The 0405N was more or less unique to Nat Ex and the 196 plus artics that TWM bought might be more than the total of all B10Ls delivered in the UK. I went on 1685 on TWM livery on the WN 82 today - not bad but a bit clonky and rather faded. At least TWM livery doesn't show the rust!
If I'm honest I wouldn't miss the B10L's that much, uncomfy, sweaty, dirty, dull engine note.
Mercs, fires aside are far better, unique bodywork, much more comfort, much more fun
B6LE's, everyone has a memory, majority of people hate them, like the Mercs, not perfect, but both still a thousand times better than any Enviro, any OmniStink , any tree hugger machines etc etc
Neither is as good as the Lynx. That survived up to 2008/9 and being non low floor think did better to survive the 19+years than these 2 types especially when you think that some of the Mercs actually replaced some of the Lynxs in the late 90s.
Always thought whoever designed that Merc body must have like the Metrobus design as it had a rather inefficient square profile roof as well.
Quote from: Ashley on September 22, 2014, 05:49:06 PM
If I'm honest I wouldn't miss the B10L's that much, uncomfy, sweaty, dirty, dull engine note.
Mercs, fires aside are far better, unique bodywork, much more comfort, much more fun
B6LE's, everyone has a memory, majority of people hate them, like the Mercs, not perfect, but both still a thousand times better than any Enviro, any OmniStink , any tree hugger machines etc etc
I'm very much in the B10L camp on this one, still smart and modern looking today, and I see no issues with comfort, engine note (or dirt or sweat for that matter!?). Quite why TWM didn't go on to buy B10BLEs, which continue to give good service at other operators elsewhere in the country, is puzzling.
The Mercs have been reasonable vehicles in many respects, although they are deteriorating at quite a rate now. But I can't get past the look. Hideous. If they were ladies they might be described as having a "nice personality".
Quote from: Mike K on September 22, 2014, 08:42:35 PM
Quote from: Ashley on September 22, 2014, 05:49:06 PM
If I'm honest I wouldn't miss the B10L's that much, uncomfy, sweaty, dirty, dull engine note.
Mercs, fires aside are far better, unique bodywork, much more comfort, much more fun
B6LE's, everyone has a memory, majority of people hate them, like the Mercs, not perfect, but both still a thousand times better than any Enviro, any OmniStink , any tree hugger machines etc etc
I'm very much in the B10L camp on this one, still smart and modern looking today, and I see no issues with comfort, engine note (or dirt or sweat for that matter!?). Quite why TWM didn't go on to buy B10BLEs, which continue to give good service at other operators elsewhere in the country, is puzzling.
They did, but they were all allocated to Dundee garage
The B10Ls have done excellently - having had the pleasure of having them on my local routes up until 2010, I can say they performed extremely well. They rarely broke down, and the suspension and comfort relatively good. The engines and gearbox still function very well today.
When refurbished (like 1415 http://wmbusphotos.com/NXWM/1317-1514/1415.html ) the Liberators look fantastic. Certainly the TWM examples.
They are just a bit too warm on hot days, but nearly all NX buses are! Plus they can get very rattly - I rode 1408 a few days ago and certainly rattled like mad, but it adds character! Scanias and Eclipses will remain the modern favs - I think both types are very good in regards to comfort and certainly not worse than the Mercs or Liberators. The Mercs have been very good - they have started to become troublesome but for their age that is expected, and the styling is not as elegant as the Wrights either. But I remember one trip in 2011 on a Mercs on the 246 which was fantastic - really fast and smooth riding.
Scanias, Wrights and Mercs, whatever the age, are all certainly better than the Optare Solos and Versas I currently have to suffer daily - break down way too often, shoddy suspension.
Quote from: Tony on September 22, 2014, 08:55:45 PM
Quote from: Mike K on September 22, 2014, 08:42:35 PM
Quote from: Ashley on September 22, 2014, 05:49:06 PM
If I'm honest I wouldn't miss the B10L's that much, uncomfy, sweaty, dirty, dull engine note.
Mercs, fires aside are far better, unique bodywork, much more comfort, much more fun
B6LE's, everyone has a memory, majority of people hate them, like the Mercs, not perfect, but both still a thousand times better than any Enviro, any OmniStink , any tree hugger machines etc etc
I'm very much in the B10L camp on this one, still smart and modern looking today, and I see no issues with comfort, engine note (or dirt or sweat for that matter!?). Quite why TWM didn't go on to buy B10BLEs, which continue to give good service at other operators elsewhere in the country, is puzzling.
They did, but they were all allocated to Dundee garage
A valid point, I forget that Dundee is part of the same group.
Quote from: j789 on September 22, 2014, 08:03:19 PM
Neither is as good as the Lynx. That survived up to 2008/9 and being non low floor think did better to survive the 19+years than these 2 types especially when you think that some of the Mercs actually replaced some of the Lynxs in the late 90s.
Always thought whoever designed that Merc body must have like the Metrobus design as it had a rather inefficient square profile roof as well.
The Lynx were good for acceleration & performance & had quite unique styling. Their suspension didn't absorb the bumps very well & they were more like boneshakers over rough road services with all the rattles, doors jumping out the tracks etc. A large chunk of the Lynx fleet went quite early on to Highland Country & Ireland for school buses, there were only a handful of the 250 that survived in to 2008/9.
The B10L's are far more refined and still are.
I recall having 2453 one morning in early 2007 shortly before its withdrawal, and then a Lynx on a Moseley route back into city.
I was aware of 2453's significance, as last Mk1, and thought I'd never have another Lynx either. But when the last quintet suddenly appeared at Walsall, I had quite a few trips on them. Even abandoning one errand in the car to do an out and back on the 377 from the Beggar's Bush. That extended outing generated a few negative comments from the wife!
Like I said earlier, I love the LEGO-brick approach that the O405N's stylist adopted.
Wow I thought all the mk1s went by about 2003/4
Quote from: Bob on September 23, 2014, 12:38:36 PM
Wow I thought all the mk1s went by about 2003/4
You're probably right. 2453 is a very early MkII. The highest numbered MkI was 2435 which has contributed to my confusion.
By 2007, 2453 was the only survivor in the 24xx-25xx range if I recall correctly.
That's better.
Meh. I still can't believe people can drive or travel on these 'new' buses and think they're good. I certainly don't. And I'm not being bitter or negative, I'm saying my truth, and that is, when the Fleetlines were new, they were smooth and nice, as was themeMetrobuses, the lynxs were rough but the speed made up for it. I fail to recall the Nationals for an opinion. Even up to recently, the B10's new were smooth and nice, and the Tridents / B7's were impressive to go into after a metro. However, we're being force fed this shit from the EU to accept lower cylinders, lower power output for fuel saving, a harsher ride no doubt to save money from somewhere, and in all honesty, in all damn industries nowadays, its all machined computerized un-personal crap.
I'm with 4778, once the -1999 buses are gone, which leaves us nothing to link with the 'most modern olden days' then alot of enthusiasts will come away from this scene.
Heck, anyone still remember the beastiality of the N113's? Gah, what a bus. You would not be running late with one of them. You wouldn't be stopping at bus stops on target either but thats besides the point.
The N113s were so immense and with us for such a short period, I sometimes think I imagined them. I had left school by the time the H-LOMs arrived, and apart from one gig somewhere down the 50 route (I remember the band I saw but not the bus in question), I have very little recollection of travelling on them.
The Nationals were great fun. The early ones sounded like sewing machines though. The T and V-reg came with proper seat upholstery - but even the elephantide (vinyl) earlier ones had so much character. Sutton had several - starting with ex-Midland Red examples, although I don't remember them specifically. They would show up on weird routes that have long since mutated. I think the old 166 might have been booked for one. I would sometimes flag an Ailsa on the 42/ 107/ 113 to rake one in.
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5524/11784716714_3961141f40.jpg
All the T reg ones had red vynide seats the same as the R and S ones the M and N reg had a slightly different but still red vynide and silver grab rails whereas later ones had a slightly different interior. Black grabrails I think and the glass screen between the stepped rear seating area had gone too. Always wondered what those were for maybe to stop as much smoke travelling down the bus? If you were allowed to smoke at the back that is. Only the mk2 examples had the metrobus moquette. The R & S reg DP examples had possibly the most comfortable seating ive ever been on! Awesome. ..walsall had a couple in the late 80s I think
The last Mk I Metro was 2400 which was withdrawn in January 2003 from PB
I stand to be corrected with more current info but I believe a couple of the H-LOM's are still knocking around in Gloucester. 2453 I believe still lingers on in Leicestershire
2400 was also the only MK1 Metrobus repainted into the 'newest' red stripe livery (blue, white, red with the red stripe around the top deck windows). Maybe this was an error of painting though as seemed strange to repaint just the one.
This bus is still going too. My favourite late MK1 Metro was 2039 which was the oldest 'Bok' Metro at PB and seemed to last in service a long time. I haven't seen many photos of 2039 recently so maybe it was a bit elusive!
Quote from: j789 on September 23, 2014, 07:39:45 PM
2400 was also the only MK1 Metrobus repainted into the 'newest' red stripe livery (blue, white, red with the red stripe around the top deck windows). Maybe this was an error of painting though as seemed strange to repaint just the one.
This bus is still going too. My favourite late MK1 Metro was 2039 which was the oldest 'Bok' Metro at PB and seemed to last in service a long time. I haven't seen many photos of 2039 recently so maybe it was a bit elusive!
Didn't 2335 receive the same livery? They both attended a rally and looked identical in the picture I saw
Was 2335 one that went to Decourcey? Maybe it got repainted late in life at WM.
I also remember 2107 being memorable perhaps for a livery, or did it have a 'Marshalled' rear window? Definitely something about that bus.
2105 was 'marshalled' at the rear end. I'm pretty sure 2107 was normal in all aspects.
I remember seeing the Marshalled one outside the virgin megastore in corporation st late 90s and having to do a double take lol! Was that the only one ever done? Did the rolls royce Gog-W examples keep their engines to the end or get converted to Gardner? I never went on one and always wondered if they sounded much different
Quote from: j789 on September 23, 2014, 10:00:22 PM
Was 2335 one that went to Decourcey? Maybe it got repainted late in life at WM.
I also remember 2107 being memorable perhaps for a livery, or did it have a 'Marshalled' rear window? Definitely something about that bus.
Ronnie didn't have a photo of 2335 in that livery. There are two in his collection, one freshly painted in the silver livery and another with 590 route branding added
I remember the 590 ones they use to go from opposite the 951 stop in dale end
Quote from: Bob on September 23, 2014, 10:15:38 PM
I remember seeing the Marshalled one outside the virgin megastore in corporation st late 90s and having to do a double take lol! Was that the only one ever done? Did the rolls royce Gog-W examples keep their engines to the end or get converted to Gardner? I never went on one and always wondered if they sounded much different
The Rolls Royce engined ones certainly sounded different, but not significantly so - they still had the characteristic high pitched Metrobus 'whine'. I used them regularly on the 11 to and from school. I don't recall if they were re-engined though - sure someone can enlighten us on that.
Quote from: Mike K on September 23, 2014, 10:27:36 PM
Quote from: Bob on September 23, 2014, 10:15:38 PM
I remember seeing the Marshalled one outside the virgin megastore in corporation st late 90s and having to do a double take lol! Was that the only one ever done? Did the rolls royce Gog-W examples keep their engines to the end or get converted to Gardner? I never went on one and always wondered if they sounded much different
The Rolls Royce engined ones certainly sounded different, but not significantly so - they still had the characteristic high pitched Metrobus 'whine'. I used them regularly on the 11 to and from school. I don't recall if they were re-engined though - sure someone can enlighten us on that.
For those that have never come across it, here is a video I filmed from the cab of one of the Rolls Royce ones going over Camp Hill flyover https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Yu11fA3FcU
Quote from: Bob on September 23, 2014, 10:15:38 PM
Did the rolls royce Gog-W examples keep their engines to the end or get converted to Gardner? I never went on one and always wondered if they sounded much different
I have a feeling one may have been converted to Gardner, but otherwise they kept Rolls Royce engines throughout their lives. They did sound quite different except for the Voith gearbox whine - and they were much livelier than the Gardners.
Quote from: Liverpool Street on September 23, 2014, 02:17:32 PM
Meh. I still can't believe people can drive or travel on these 'new' buses and think they're good. I certainly don't. And I'm not being bitter or negative, I'm saying my truth, and that is, when the Fleetlines were new, they were smooth and nice, as was themeMetrobuses, the lynxs were rough but the speed made up for it. I fail to recall the Nationals for an opinion.
I can remember Nationals in Midland Red Wests fleet and I have to say the modern one that I think comes close is a Volvo B7LRE. But I proffered the Lynxs over the Nationals (at the time I was 3-8 years old (I'm now 24)). I never liked the Lances at all even whan it was just Lynx and Lance when I started High School at the age of 13 the Lynxs where and are alot better than anything else in my opinion. I can't comment on TWM as I only saw Lynxs come into town on the 17x's.
On the subject of Marshalled-refurbished WM Mk1 Metrobuses, I have the following list of sixty vehicles as having been treated:
2006, 2039, 2041, 2053, 2057, 2076, 2081, 2083, 2087, 2097, 2099, 2105,
2106, 2107, 2112, 2114, 2118, 2119, 2123, 2127, 2129, 2136, 2142, 2172,
2176, 2205, 2208, 2212, 2216, 2222, 2229, 2232, 2243, 2248, 2251, 2252,
2253, 2278, 2285, 2292, 2308, 2312, 2316, 2328, 2334, 2335, 2336, 2347,
2350, 2354, 2357, 2361, 2369, 2373, 2374, 2376, 2386, 2389, 2400, 2403
No idea if this is actually correct.
While talking of the rebuilds, did one of the metrobuses get a titan styled back window, I remember at an early age passing behind what looked like a Leyland in strips livery, but when I did my research years after they had all gone years before I was even conceived.
Quote from: danny on September 24, 2014, 12:04:46 AM
While talking of the rebuilds, did one of the metrobuses get a titan styled back window, I remember at an early age passing behind what looked like a Leyland in strips livery, but when I did my research years after they had all gone years before I was even conceived.
IIRC I think it was 2824
Wow they certainly did sound different. You cant really hear the voith as much, well not on the video anyway. I always preferred mk1s to mk2. Hated it when walsalls disappeared virtually overnight! At the time with loads of b6s etc and b10s at the time I thought those and just mk2s made for a right boring set up. I loved fleetlines as well. Always thought the park royal ones despite being better looking at the rear didnt seem as well built as the mcw bodies and seemed to rattle a lot more
Quote from: Winston on September 24, 2014, 12:27:03 AM
Quote from: danny on September 24, 2014, 12:04:46 AM
While talking of the rebuilds, did one of the metrobuses get a titan styled back window, I remember at an early age passing behind what looked like a Leyland in strips livery, but when I did my research years after they had all gone years before I was even conceived.
IIRC I think it was 2824
Remind me... What was the Metroboxx with a panelled over rear window, and a WMBuses logo in place?
Quote from: Liverpool Street on September 24, 2014, 01:52:27 AM
Quote from: Winston on September 24, 2014, 12:27:03 AM
Quote from: danny on September 24, 2014, 12:04:46 AM
While talking of the rebuilds, did one of the metrobuses get a titan styled back window, I remember at an early age passing behind what looked like a Leyland in strips livery, but when I did my research years after they had all gone years before I was even conceived.
IIRC I think it was 2824
Remind me... What was the Metroboxx with a panelled over rear window, and a WMBuses logo in place?
A 250x one I think, possibly 2502 or 2503?
And the there was 2534 which had a Mk1 lower rear window.
Cheers Winston, and LS that sounds different, never seen it, were they both experimental or the result of something else??
Quote from: Mike K on September 24, 2014, 06:44:03 AM
Quote from: Liverpool Street on September 24, 2014, 01:52:27 AM
Quote from: Winston on September 24, 2014, 12:27:03 AM
Quote from: danny on September 24, 2014, 12:04:46 AM
While talking of the rebuilds, did one of the metrobuses get a titan styled back window, I remember at an early age passing behind what looked like a Leyland in strips livery, but when I did my research years after they had all gone years before I was even conceived.
IIRC I think it was 2824
Remind me... What was the Metroboxx with a panelled over rear window, and a WMBuses logo in place?
A 250x one I think, possibly 2502 or 2503?
And the there was 2534 which had a Mk1 lower rear window.
Spot on Mike, 2503 it was
https://www.flickr.com/photos/discogareth/8134905915/
2502 also had an in house rear end rebuild. However it had a Marshall size rear window, but kept it's reg plate in the original position and the corner panels were kept as original too.
I notice from the fleet changes that another cluster have gone, mainly at Wolves. The fleet is looking decidedly sickly and thin nowadays. It was great to see 1515 yesterday at Dudley, and a few around West Brom, including my last one putting in a reappearance - 1661 in Bilston.
In fact I saw that from a decidedly filthy 4011 on the 79E whence I went forward on 1436 which can only be described as third-world in its comfort. What a shed.
As a driver at BC when the Mercs and Volvo B10s were brand new I preffered the Mercs by far.
The cab layout, speed, comfort was much better than the Volvos. The heaters were better, the Volvos seemed to go cooler when the bus was ticking over at the terminus.
Quote from: The Real 4778 on October 04, 2014, 01:51:23 PM
I notice from the fleet changes that another cluster have gone, mainly at Wolves. The fleet is looking decidedly sickly and thin nowadays. It was great to see 1515 yesterday at Dudley, and a few around West Brom, including my last one putting in a reappearance - 1661 in Bilston.
In fact I saw that from a decidedly filthy 4011 on the 79E whence I went forward on 1436 which can only be described as third-world in its comfort. What a shed.
I make the active Merc fleet now standing at 68.
And the active B6 fleet a pocket-sized round twenty?
I'm still making the active Benz fleet around 68, so I must be missing something: is the type extinct at Wolverhampton?
Quote from: The Real 4778 on October 13, 2014, 05:06:32 PM
I'm still making the active Benz fleet around 68, so I must be missing something: is the type extinct at Wolverhampton?
1677 was on a 59 peak board this morning.
Quote from: NXWM Spectra on October 13, 2014, 05:34:36 PM
Quote from: The Real 4778 on October 13, 2014, 05:06:32 PM
I'm still making the active Benz fleet around 68, so I must be missing something: is the type extinct at Wolverhampton?
1677 was on a 59 peak board this morning.
59/12 to be precise. Appeared to come off the 11 this afternoon and go back to garage.
I think its just 1670/77 left now at WN
Quote from: Nathan on October 13, 2014, 06:59:23 PM
Quote from: NXWM Spectra on October 13, 2014, 05:34:36 PM
Quote from: The Real 4778 on October 13, 2014, 05:06:32 PM
I'm still making the active Benz fleet around 68, so I must be missing something: is the type extinct at Wolverhampton?
1677 was on a 59 peak board this morning.
59/12 to be precise. Appeared to come off the 11 this afternoon and go back to garage.
I think its just 1670/77 left now at WN
and 1671
Quote from: Tony on October 13, 2014, 07:21:21 PM
Quote from: Nathan on October 13, 2014, 06:59:23 PM
Quote from: NXWM Spectra on October 13, 2014, 05:34:36 PM
Quote from: The Real 4778 on October 13, 2014, 05:06:32 PM
I'm still making the active Benz fleet around 68, so I must be missing something: is the type extinct at Wolverhampton?
1677 was on a 59 peak board this morning.
59/12 to be precise. Appeared to come off the 11 this afternoon and go back to garage.
I think its just 1670/77 left now at WN
and 1671
I didn't know if it was still in service. Cheers for that Tony :)
1661 still in service, saw it on 81 just.
WB 1582 put in a rare appearance on the 451 through Boldmere last evening circa 6.30.
1608 has bitten the dust over in Coventry.
Definitely an endangered species the Benz.
The last CV Merc in old livery (1548) put in an appearence on the 21 today, rare to see a Merc on that route. Probably the last time i'll see a Merc in old Coventry livery
1681 seen heading up cannock rd driven by engineer on tradeplates, with transit behind. wonder if this will be its last journey under its own power
I've never seen an engineer on trade plates!!!
What PN mercs are still in service?
Quote from: NXDom on November 01, 2014, 02:31:24 PM
What PN mercs are still in service?
Have a look at the fleetlist on the main site
To many
1450 is now in the Service Support (refurb) bays at Walsall looking like it is being converted into a training vehicle
im suprised that out of all the withdrawn b10ls both with wrights and the ex gas alexander ones, nxwm didnt standardise the training fleet with them.
Or even more mercs as training buses
I doubt the Mercs would - aren't some of them rusting rather badly now?
Quote from: karl724223 on November 12, 2014, 06:45:42 PM
Or even more mercs as training buses
Personally, I think we'll be seeing b10l's around as trainers a fair bit after all the mercs are on the scrapheap...
Some mercs in really good condition
Quote from: karl724223 on November 12, 2014, 06:45:42 PM
Or even more mercs as training buses
The Mercs would be better for training 'West Midlands Fire Service' than any drivers..... :P
1432 looks to be converted to driver trainer
Quote from: lynx1103 on December 02, 2014, 12:47:54 PM
1432 looks to be converted to driver trainer
Yes 1432 & 1450.
1433 has also died
Quote from: Tony on December 02, 2014, 02:14:00 PM
Quote from: lynx1103 on December 02, 2014, 12:47:54 PM
1432 looks to be converted to driver trainer
Yes 1432 & 1450.
1433 has also died
I had a gut feeling that 1433 has been withdrawn because I haven't seen 1433 since Saturday 4th October (my last sighting).
Tony, when will the November fleet changes be posted?
Quote from: Wolves256 on December 02, 2014, 04:08:30 PM
Tony, when will the November fleet changes be posted?
When I have them off the company and confirmed them. I always post them as soon as I can, which varies each month. Some of the vehicles parked up dead may not be officially withdrawn yet.
According to my records, there are now 14 of each of the B6LE and B10L remaining in service - 56 Mercs. I think there must still be a few Mercs to withdraw (it's suggested there are a few Coventry Artics in maintenance and one of their E400s in PB being repaired - presumable when these are all back in service they could lose more Mercs??).
Anyone else got a view of this - or know of any other Mercs off the road but not listed as withdrawn? If no more are withdrawn between now and next year's vehicle deliveries then 171 vehicles will not replace all of the B10l, B6LE, Mercs, Spectras and Presidents in NXWM......
Would have imagined the Spectra's will go before presidents
Quote from: mranon on December 09, 2014, 06:48:10 AM
Would have imagined the Spectra's will go before presidents
I haven't seen 4002 or 4018 in service for a while. Any idea if they have been withdrawn yet?
Quote from: mranon on December 09, 2014, 06:48:10 AM
Would have imagined the Spectra's will go before presidents
Sorry - I'd intended to include them - Freudian slip!! Now corrected.
Now I'm working down here in London again I'm not seeing any of our fine Mercs, although the local MEC class are very pretty indeed!
How many are still roaring round the Black Country, I made it about 58 - certainly less than sixty - a week or so ago. I can't believe the ferocity of the recent cull.
Quote from: The Real 4778 on January 14, 2015, 06:37:33 PM
Now I'm working down here in London again I'm not seeing any of our fine Mercs, although the local MEC class are very pretty indeed!
How many are still roaring round the Black Country, I made it about 58 - certainly less than sixty - a week or so ago. I can't believe the ferocity of the recent cull.
I make it 53 Mercs in service
Quote from: Winston on January 14, 2015, 06:43:11 PM
Quote from: The Real 4778 on January 14, 2015, 06:37:33 PM
Now I'm working down here in London again I'm not seeing any of our fine Mercs, although the local MEC class are very pretty indeed!
How many are still roaring round the Black Country, I made it about 58 - certainly less than sixty - a week or so ago. I can't believe the ferocity of the recent cull.
I make it 53 Mercs in service
Down to the Ailsa fleet size!
Quote from: Winston on January 14, 2015, 06:43:11 PM
Quote from: The Real 4778 on January 14, 2015, 06:37:33 PM
Now I'm working down here in London again I'm not seeing any of our fine Mercs, although the local MEC class are very pretty indeed!
How many are still roaring round the Black Country, I made it about 58 - certainly less than sixty - a week or so ago. I can't believe the ferocity of the recent cull.
I make it 53 Mercs in service
I'm down to 52 in-service examples [excluding 1687] unless I have counted wrong or missed one that is still in service. I have 123 remaining in ownership.
Coventry:
1568/70-72/79/91/94/1610/34-35/56/59/78/1703 [14]
Pensnett:
1515/18/20-21/46/73/93/1620/27/29-31/37/40-43/47/57/65/77/1704/6-7/43 [25]
West Bromwich:
1560/82/85/89/1607/13/18/53/67/71/95/98-99 [13]
Others:
1687 (Health Bus at Coventry)
1689 (Trainer)
[x69 other Mercedes O405N stored]
Quote from: Winston on January 14, 2015, 06:43:11 PM
Quote from: The Real 4778 on January 14, 2015, 06:37:33 PM
Now I'm working down here in London again I'm not seeing any of our fine Mercs, although the local MEC class are very pretty indeed!
How many are still roaring round the Black Country, I made it about 58 - certainly less than sixty - a week or so ago. I can't believe the ferocity of the recent cull.
I make it 53 Mercs in service
How many do you make now ? And is the any plan of any getting withdrawn Soon?
Quote from: Rhys S on March 09, 2015, 08:09:40 PM
Quote from: Winston on January 14, 2015, 06:43:11 PM
Quote from: The Real 4778 on January 14, 2015, 06:37:33 PM
Now I'm working down here in London again I'm not seeing any of our fine Mercs, although the local MEC class are very pretty indeed!
How many are still roaring round the Black Country, I made it about 58 - certainly less than sixty - a week or so ago. I can't believe the ferocity of the recent cull.
I make it 53 Mercs in service
How many do you make now ? And is the any plan of any getting withdrawn Soon?
No doubt a few of the older ones will be withdrawn when the e200s arrive for the 243/4. Personally thinki they should get rid of the PE ones ASAP, with all of the new livery MMCs there now, the tatty Mercs look out of place.
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on March 09, 2015, 08:16:31 PM
Quote from: Rhys S on March 09, 2015, 08:09:40 PM
Quote from: Winston on January 14, 2015, 06:43:11 PM
Quote from: The Real 4778 on January 14, 2015, 06:37:33 PM
Now I'm working down here in London again I'm not seeing any of our fine Mercs, although the local MEC class are very pretty indeed!
How many are still roaring round the Black Country, I made it about 58 - certainly less than sixty - a week or so ago. I can't believe the ferocity of the recent cull.
I make it 53 Mercs in service
How many do you make now ? And is the any plan of any getting withdrawn Soon?
No doubt a few of the older ones will be withdrawn when the e200s arrive for the 243/4. Personally thinki they should get rid of the PE ones ASAP, with all of the new livery MMCs there now, the tatty Mercs look out of place.
I hope 1705 doesn't it's quite special to me
I guess the NX is still planning for the Merc day? Are they also considering to plan a B6 or B10L day as well?
Quote from: P419 EJW on March 18, 2015, 06:59:31 PM
I guess the NX is still planning for the Merc day? Are they also considering to plan a B6 or B10L day as well?
When is that planned for, November 5th? :) :) :)
Quote from: P419 EJW on March 18, 2015, 06:59:31 PM
I guess the NX is still planning for the Merc day? Are they also considering to plan a B6 or B10L day as well?
Hopefully it's not on a school day.
Quote from: ronnoc1k8 on March 18, 2015, 07:25:14 PM
Quote from: P419 EJW on March 18, 2015, 06:59:31 PM
I guess the NX is still planning for the Merc day? Are they also considering to plan a B6 or B10L day as well?
Hopefully it's not on a school day.
Probably be a Saturday or Sunday, gives the maximum number of people chance to go and have a last ride.
I wonder if 1515 will enter preservation?
How many of the doomed B6s are left now? I noticed that 508 and 6ZZ have bitten the dust. Is it safe to visit Wolverhampton yet?
@The Real 4778 I make it 12 B6's remaining (244, 582, 586, 598, 601, 620, 632, 633, 634, 640, 662, 669, 677)
Quote from: The Real 4778 on March 26, 2015, 05:38:45 PM
How many of the doomed B6s are left now? I noticed that 508 and 6ZZ have bitten the dust. Is it safe to visit Wolverhampton yet?
638 was withdrawn on Monday. As far as I'm aware the B6s are active: 244, 582, 586, 598, 601, 620, 632, 633, 634, 640, 662, 669 and 677.
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on March 18, 2015, 07:30:34 PM
Hopefully it's not on a school day.
Probably be a Saturday or Sunday, gives the maximum number of people chance to go and have a last ride.
I wonder if 1515 will enter preservation?
Or 4001??
Btw the Spectras will also need a last running day - they seem to be likely to bite the dust sooner rather than later.
For a anybody who wanted to know where 4002 was today it was on the 82
Quote from: Rhys S on March 26, 2015, 06:33:20 PM
For a anybody who wanted to know where 4002 was today it was on the 82
As was 4001 rode them both.
As 1438 retires into the shadows, it seems to me that the B10Ls are down to fifteen in revenue service.
Thirteen bread vans over at Wolves, and 52-ish Benz clinging to life. (EDIT: make that sub-fifty after the loss of 1515 and co)
Not checked Optare's finest, but there seems to have been some wastage there too, so maybe 15 more Spectras still moving...
So, ignoring the Presidents, the Endangered Species list numbers barely 90 specimens just now, and certainly under one hundred.
Interesting times....
1434 is likely (not definitely) to be the next retirement on Monday. It is on the 34/38 today if anyone want a last ride
Spectra's left in passenger service:
4001
4002
4004
4005
4006
4008
4009
4010
4015
4016
4017
4018
4020
So thats 14 left.
4021
I thought they'd keep the B10Ls running until they failed, based on the recent posts!
Is there a set date for them to go by?
Will they stay on the Darlaston corridor after 26 April after those changes or finish off on another route which would have the correct destinations for them to show?
(I wouldve said stick them on the Bloxwich services then if they did fail, at least they'd be closer to the depot than on the Darlo corridor to change over!)
The next B10L to die is very likely to be 1408.
Not likely to appear again after Tuesday
At Coventry 1568 did die on Thursday, If people want to go chasing death row ones, watch out for 1610; 1634 & 1635. There is actually no rush to park them up other than they are not needed, so will probably just disappear without notice
Quote from: Tony on April 04, 2015, 08:47:36 PM
The next B10L to die is very likely to be 1408.
Not likely to appear again after Tuesday
At Coventry 1568 did die on Thursday, If people want to go chasing death row ones, watch out for 1610; 1634 & 1635. There is actually no rush to park them up other than they are not needed, so will probably just disappear without notice
1408 has only just come to Walsall shame hope to go on it before it goes.
Quote from: Tony on April 04, 2015, 08:47:36 PM
The next B10L to die is very likely to be 1408.
Not likely to appear again after Tuesday
At Coventry 1568 did die on Thursday, If people want to go chasing death row ones, watch out for 1610; 1634 & 1635. There is actually no rush to park them up other than they are not needed, so will probably just disappear without notice
Oddly enough, I thought 1610 had received an internal refurbishment (1634-35 too) while no other Cov Mercedes O405N's had.
Quote from: paulb1973 on April 05, 2015, 12:04:09 AM
Oddly enough, I thought 1610 had received an internal refurbishment (1634-35 too) while no other Cov Mercedes O405N's had.
Interior and exterior views of 1610 taken in late March 2015.
http://www.ipernity.com/doc/bryan_a_smith/37506240
http://www.ipernity.com/doc/bryan_a_smith/37506246
It shouldn't be too much to ask for the seats to be changed around with worn ones on other buses before they go!
Quote from: Bryan on April 05, 2015, 07:21:02 AM
Interior and exterior views of 1610 taken in late March 2015.
http://www.ipernity.com/doc/bryan_a_smith/37506240
http://www.ipernity.com/doc/bryan_a_smith/37506246
I thought it had - looks the tidiest of the diminishing bunch from the outside too! 1594, I think it was yesterday [4/4] looking very scruffy out on the road.
Quote from: paulb1973 on April 05, 2015, 10:02:00 AM
I thought it had - looks the tidiest of the diminishing bunch from the outside too! 1594, I think it was yesterday [4/4] looking very scruffy out on the road.
I would agree paulb1973 about the state of 1594. All the lower panels between the offside wheels with paint missing, and the one behind the front wheel with terrible rust.
Caught 1594 last week there wasn't even enough power in the battery to issue the passenger in front of me with a ticket when the engine wasn't running.
Someone at Head Office is looking at organising a farewell day later in the year to the B6, B10L, Merc & Spectra, hopefully featuring two of each.
This would obviously only go ahead if NX thought there was enough interest.
Two thoughts at the moment
One is having two of each all on services serving one point (eg Bilston) with a couple of buses also on different routes, eg Spectra on the 39 etc!
This would just involve everyone wanting a ride buying a daysaver the same as the last Metrobus day at Walsall
The second is to do a 'Tour' eg Starting in Wolverhampton with a B6/Spectra take everyone to Pensnett garage including a look in the garage where everyone swaps to a pair of Mercedes for a ride to Walsall garage, Look in Walsall garage and swap to a pair of B10Ls to West Bromwich garage for a look in and swap to a different pair of Mercs back to Wolverhampton. Then do the whole thing in reverse for a different 80 people to get all the buses back home.
This would involve a special payment because of the cost of arranging it maybe as much as £10 for the full round trip.
Would people be interested in either of these and if so which one?
The 2nd option sounds the most interesting ;)
The second option sounds the best to me.
Hi Tony. Would definitely be interested in that. The second option sounds brilliant. Don't mind paying a little bit of money for a great day
Think both sound ace! Would be interested in the latter, though...
The second choice, never been to any garage before
Yes, the latter certainly sounds very interesting! That would be something of interest to me
Quote from: Chris2301 on April 21, 2015, 09:18:08 PM
The second choice, never been to any garage before
Wolverhampton Garage Open Day on Sunday 21st June maybe of interest to you then :)
Second option sounds great Tony - hopefully will be able to make it. :)
Count me in :) The Second Choice please :)
The second choice I would go for
Quote from: Nathan on April 21, 2015, 09:23:25 PM
Yes, the latter certainly sounds very interesting! That would be something of interest to me
Wolverhampton Garage Open Day on Sunday 21st June maybe of interest to you then :)
Thanks
@Nathan i will pop along for that one always get sundays off
Count me in for both
The first option appeals. As a non-clubby, non-cliquey person - and speaking for several people who aren't members here, the Daysaver ' normal ' format appeals.
Loads of us don't rate 'railtours' as they are fake.
First option, whether formally advertised or run for enthusiasts and organised by word of mouth.
I like the sound of the second option. Also hopefully on a Sunday when most people are off work or school/college/uni etc
@Tony, the second option is more interesting but I don't mind either. :) I will be more than happy to pay whatever the price is. I'm really glad someone at the Head Office has thought about this. Count me in! ;D
Quote from: The Real 4778 on April 21, 2015, 09:58:26 PM
The first option appeals. As a non-clubby, non-cliquey person - and speaking for several people who aren't members here, the Daysaver ' normal ' format appeals.
Loads of us don't rate 'railtours' as they are fake.
First option, whether formally advertised or run for enthusiasts and organised by word of mouth.
I actually prefer option 1, I organised the Walsall one and it worked really well. I have already volunteered to drive a Spectra or Merc on strange routes. It is far easier to organise as well as no special registrations are required. It is just normal services running to normal times, and the registrations allow for duplicates 'due to passenger demand' so there is no problem with a Spectra following the normal Scania down the 39 route from Wolverhampton to Walsall taking any extra passengers 'unable to get on the service bus'
I actually prefer the first option, loved the Metro's on the X51, specialist tours are something anyone can really organise with preserved buses in years to come, let's face i, but some strange workings in normal service definitely appeals.
The second option appeals to me, you would get to see a number of garages and have one last ride on all these bus types.
2nd option would be great, please.
The second option sounds appealing
Quote from: Tony on April 21, 2015, 10:04:33 PM
I actually prefer option 1, I organised the Walsall one and it worked really well. I have already volunteered to drive a Spectra or Merc on strange routes. It is far easier to organise as well as no special registrations are required. It is just normal services running to normal times, and the registrations allow for duplicates 'due to passenger demand' so there is no problem with a Spectra following the normal Scania down the 39 route from Wolverhampton to Walsall taking any extra passengers 'unable to get on the service bus'
I quite agree with that. Option one is more in my favour
Quote from: the trainbasher on April 21, 2015, 11:11:16 PM
I quite agree with that. Option one is more in my favour
Maybe the b10s could do some really rare working no 246s (they used to live on there) spectra in Coventry
First option can two B6s do the 222 one last time
Both of the options appeal to me for differing reasons. Will aim to get on either one that is chosen if there is sufficient interest.
Quote from: karl724223 on April 22, 2015, 12:39:18 AM
First option can two B6s do the 222 one last time
Oh, yes! That would be brilliant.
Can you put a b6 on 244?
I really like both options to be honest but would be more preferable to option two
74 and 87 for a b6
I find both options exciting to be honest, if pushed I would go for option 1. No problem paying whatever the agreed price is. As I will be travelling over from Dublin I will have to book time off work and sort flights and hotel etc so hope they are able to give as much notice as is reasonably possible as I don't want to miss this.
Hi tony
2nd option I agree to
Quote from: Rhys S on April 22, 2015, 08:04:47 AM
74 and 87 for a b6
I doubt they could do that with the loadings.
B10 on 9 maybe or spectras on 22/23/24
Maybe presidents on the 9 and spectras on the 50?
Quote from: The Fox 4846 on April 22, 2015, 04:05:36 PM
Maybe presidents on the 9 and spectras on the 50?
Quote from: Trident 4194 on April 22, 2015, 04:01:33 PM
I doubt they could do that with the loadings.
B10 on 9 maybe or spectras on 22/23/24
Quote from: Rhys S on April 22, 2015, 08:04:47 AM
74 and 87 for a b6
Have the three of you considered type training, as good as the suggestions may be. Tony and NXWM will decide the itinerary in due course I'm sure.
Quote from: Ashley 60171 on April 22, 2015, 04:32:29 PM
Have the three of you considered type training, as good as the suggestions may be. Tony and NXWM will decide the itinerary in due course I'm sure.
Or euro emissions
the 2nd option sound good
I would like it to happen on a Saturday please
I'd be happy with either, though the second option is a bit special. To make for a perfect day perhaps you could arrange a last ride on a T69 tram!
What figures are our endangered species down to as they enter their Summer swansong?
B6
B10
Benz
Spectra
Quote from: The Real 4778 on May 22, 2015, 12:30:04 PM
What figures are our endangered species down to as they enter their Summer swansong?
B6
B10
Benz
Spectra
B6LE:
244
586
598
601
620
632
633
634
640
662
669
Spectra:
4001
4002
4004
4006
4009
4010
4015
4016
4017
4018
4020
4021
B10's left are 1407,1421,1436,1440,1446,1447,1453 and 1475
I don't have time to go through the Mercs but Tony's fleet list will give you that info.
So 12 B6's,12 Spectra's and 9 B10L's
Within the next few weeks 586,598,632,669,4001,4004 and 4015 will be withdrawn. 4004 will be gone by next week.
@Nathan, 582 is withdrawn.
For B10Ls:
1407, 1421, 1431, 1436, 1440, 1446, 1447, 1453, 1475.
1453 may be already withdrawn but no official confirmation of that yet.
Quote from: P419 EJW on May 22, 2015, 12:48:40 PM
@Nathan, 582 is withdrawn.
For B10Ls:
1407, 1421, 1431, 1436, 1440, 1446, 1447, 1453, 1475.
1453 may be already withdrawn but no official confirmation of that yet.
Of course
@P419 EJW,! Just realised i'd listed that one when I double checked through my list. I'm already aware it was withdrawn ;)
As for 1453, its still listed as being allocated to WA so included it in my list.
Mercs left (possibly) :
CV: 1570-72/79/91/94/1635/59/78/1703 (& 1687 Health Buzz)
PE: 1518/46/73/93/1627/29-30/40-43/47/57/77/1704/6-7/43
WB: 1560/85/89/1607/13/18/53/67/71/95/98-99
Driver Trainer: 1689
Stored Mercedes O405N:
1515(PE)/1520(PE)/1521(PE?)/1523(LH)/1536(PE)/1543(PE)/1545(PE)/1548(MS)
1549(MS)/1550(PE)/1551(??)/1553(PE)/1554(PE)/1561(MS?)/1564(MS)/1565(MS?)
1568(CV)/1574(MS?)/1582(WB?)/1586(PE)/1599(LH)/1602(LH)/1604(LH)/1605(PE)
1610(CV)/1612(PE)/1616(PE?)/1619(PE)/1620(PE?)/1624(LH)/1626(MS?)/1628(PE)
1631(PE)/1632(PE)/1633(PE)/1634(CV)/1636(PE)/1637(PE)/1638(MS)/1639(PE)
1646(PE)/1648(PE)/1649(PE)/1651(MS)/1656(CV)/1660(MS)/1661(WB?)/1662(MS)
1665(PE)/1666(PE)/1668(PE)/1670(PE)/1672(MS)/1683(PE)/1685(MS)/1696(PE)
1697(LH)/1700(PE)/1701(PE)/1705(PE)
I was trying to keep tabs on the location of all the withdrawn O405N's, but it is proving quite difficult. So, some of this is guesswork. I have seen very recent pics of 1669, 1681 & 1702 (on Flickr) lying in scrap yards, so assume these can be discounted.
Quote from: paulb1973 on May 22, 2015, 02:33:53 PM
Mercs left (possibly) :
CV: 1570-72/79/91/94/1635/59/78/1703 (& 1687 Health Buzz)
PE: 1518/46/73/93/1627/29-30/40-43/47/57/77/1704/6-7/43
WB: 1560/85/89/1607/13/18/53/67/71/95/98-99
Driver Trainer: 1689
That looks spot on. Next to come off should be 1706, a replacement will arrive at Pensnett next week, but as Pensnett currently have 3 vehicles at Carlyle for repairs (829, 6116(when it goes) & 2087) I suspect they will run 1706 right up to its MoT expiry
I can't be the only person who's happy these old metal boxes are going !
I suppose being a but younger, I'm more naturally affiliated towards the newer gen of buses. My memories of the Benz are primarily me hating it and I remember being on an 8C journey once and I was jumping throughout the journey as the suspension was awfully horrid. I'll take a OmniLink any day of the week. Subjectively speaking of course.
Bloody hell had no idea so many mercs in storage, Pvs most certainly will be a busy chappie in the coming months, I will miss them a good one is great bus to drive real engine ,real power house ,pull down a house no problem, brilliant when new all you ever heard posh bus , posh bus from folks.
Quote from: paulb1973 on May 22, 2015, 02:37:22 PM
Stored Mercedes O405N:
1515(PE)/1520(PE)/1521(PE?)/1523(LH)/1536(PE)/1543(PE)/1545(PE)/1548(MS)
1549(MS)/1550(PE)/1551(??)/1553(PE)/1554(PE)/1561(MS?)/1564(MS)/1565(MS?)
1568(CV)/1574(MS?)/1582(WB?)/1586(PE)/1599(LH)/1602(LH)/1604(LH)/1605(PE)
1610(CV)/1612(PE)/1616(PE?)/1619(PE)/1620(PE?)/1624(LH)/1626(MS?)/1628(PE)
1631(PE)/1632(PE)/1633(PE)/1634(CV)/1636(PE)/1637(PE)/1638(MS)/1639(PE)
1646(PE)/1648(PE)/1649(PE)/1651(MS)/1656(CV)/1660(MS)/1661(WB?)/1662(MS)
1665(PE)/1666(PE)/1668(PE)/1670(PE)/1672(MS)/1683(PE)/1685(MS)/1696(PE)
1697(LH)/1700(PE)/1701(PE)/1705(PE)
I was trying to keep tabs on the location of all the withdrawn O405N's, but it is proving quite difficult. So, some of this is guesswork. I have seen very recent pics of 1669, 1681 & 1702 (on Flickr) lying in scrap yards, so assume these can be discounted.
1515 Pensnett
1520 Pensnett
1521 Pensnett
1523 Lea Hall
1536 Pensnett
1543 Pensnett
1545 Pensnett
1548 Miller Street
1549 Pensnett
1550 Pensnett
1551 Lea Hall
1553 Pensnett
1554 Pensnett
1561 Lea Hall
1564 Coventry
1565 Lea Hall
1568 Coventry
1574 Lea Hall
1586 Pensnett
1599 Lea Hall
1602 Lea Hall
1604 Lea Hall
1605 Pensnett
1610 Coventry
1612 Pensnett
1616 Pensnett
1619 Pensnett
1620 Pensnett
1624 Lea Hall
1626 Lea Hall
1628 Pensnett
1631 West Bromwich
1632 Pensnett
1633 Pensnett
1634 Coventry
1636 Pensnett
1637 Pensnett
1638 Pensnett
1639 Pensnett
1646 ?
1648 Pensnett
1649 Pensnett
1651 Lea Hall
1656 Coventry
1660 Miller Street
1661 West Bromwich
1662 Wolverhampton
1665 Pensnett
1666 Pensnett
1668 Pensnett
1670 Pensnett
1672 Miller Street
1683 Wolverhampton
1685 Miller Street
1696 Pensnett
1697 Lea Hall
1700 Pensnett
1701 Pensnett
1705 Pensnett
Has there been any more news on the fair well day
Thanks for the update there, the only one I'm not sure about is 1582 - is that still in service at WB? (or has it gone for good). I think that's 60 Mercs in storage; and think there are almost 200 buses in storage at the current moment in time.
Sheesh! Only 40 Benz still roaring, sad times. When I first retook a serious interest in late 2009, the fleet was still pretty well intact.
Loads gone from top yard pensnett
Various vehicles in Barnsley scrapyards recently:
1406 https://www.flickr.com/photos/61188429@N06/17792289416/
1472 https://www.flickr.com/photos/61188429@N06/17923233831/
1473 https://www.flickr.com/photos/61188429@N06/17919583152/
1477 https://www.flickr.com/photos/61188429@N06/17770157588/
1479 https://www.flickr.com/photos/61188429@N06/17696451215/
Courtesy as ever by Stan-Butler on Flickr.
Hopefully in a few short years the 62 plate enviro 200s will follow, no way will these boxes do 15 year plus service. I,ll eat my hi viz if they do.
Quote from: Cheese on May 22, 2015, 08:47:23 PM
Various vehicles in Barnsley scrapyards recently:
1406 https://www.flickr.com/photos/61188429@N06/17792289416/
1472 https://www.flickr.com/photos/61188429@N06/17923233831/
1473 https://www.flickr.com/photos/61188429@N06/17919583152/
1477 https://www.flickr.com/photos/61188429@N06/17770157588/
1479 https://www.flickr.com/photos/61188429@N06/17696451215/
Courtesy as ever by Stan-Butler on Flickr.
I noticed 7086, 7115, 7126? and 7140 in that set of photos as well.
Quote from: DavieDD2 on May 23, 2015, 10:30:37 AM
I noticed 7086, 7115, 7126? and 7140 in that set of photos as well.
The first three are pictured on that Flickr stream - at Miller St. Think 7115 has gone for scrap but the other two are still in existence (as far as I can tell). On the other hand if 7086/7126 have gone, I'll update my notes!
@paulb1973 Both 7086 & 7126 were still at Miller St as of the 9th of May
Quote from: Alex on May 23, 2015, 03:19:45 PM
@paulb1973 Both 7086 & 7126 were still at Miller St as of the 9th of May
Thank you for that. Think these are the only buses left in the 7xxx number series in the NXWM fleet (Scanias 7019-33 and I believe sister Dart 7084, aside).
Another B6LE bites the dust in Barnsley, 635 https://www.flickr.com/photos/61188429@N06/17452221134/
credit to Stan-Butler on Flickr as always
635; 1406; 1472; 1473; 1477; 1479; 1536; 1545; 3606 have so far left this month
After all the Benz and B10 have left, which single decks are next (in due course) ?!
Quote from: BusFan on May 27, 2015, 08:50:00 PM
After all the Benz and B10 have left, which single decks are next (in due course) ?!
I don't think you will find that any more singles are withdrawn because the remaining singles are all quite new.
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on May 27, 2015, 08:54:29 PM
I don't think you will find that any more singles are withdrawn because the remaining singles are all quite new.
I assumed the Volvo B7RLE's @ Walsall were somewhat old although after a quick check on the main site, I'm wrong.
I'm fairly certain it's the 56 plate B7RLE's at WA that are due to be cascaded to Dundee.
Quote from: DavieDD2 on May 27, 2015, 09:39:06 PM
I'm fairly certain it's the 56 plate B7RLE's at WA that are due to be cascaded to Dundee.
Rumour has it they won't all be going to Dundee!
I think the WA B7RLES are some of the best buses in the fleet, i had hoped that they might have all gone to PN!
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on May 27, 2015, 09:42:24 PM
Rumour has it they won't all be going to Dundee!
I think the WA B7RLES are some of the best buses in the fleet, i had hoped that they might have all gone to PN!
I've never had the pleasure of enjoying a ride on them, guess thats something to add to my "Ride" list !
Quote from: BusFan on May 27, 2015, 09:48:02 PM
I've never had the pleasure of enjoying a ride on them, guess thats something to add to my "Ride" list !
311/3 finds quite a few at the moment!
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on May 27, 2015, 09:49:49 PM
311/3 finds quite a few at the moment!
My problem is that I just live fairly far from there ! The 97 is my bus, with the 11 not to far off !
Quote from: BusFan on May 27, 2015, 09:48:02 PM
I've never had the pleasure of enjoying a ride on them, guess thats something to add to my "Ride" list !
They were excellent when they were on the 37. 1769-1787 were new to AG with 1766-8 joining when WA got its Scanias.
Quote from: Cheese on May 27, 2015, 08:44:56 PM
Another B6LE bites the dust in Barnsley, 635 https://www.flickr.com/photos/61188429@N06/17452221134/
credit to Stan-Butler on Flickr as always
I had a bit of a double take and four year flash back when I read 635. From the days when B6's were plentiful and had personalities. Rust In Peace
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on May 27, 2015, 09:49:49 PM
311/3 finds quite a few at the moment!
Prefer them to the Scanias.
Shame if they go from Walsall.
Slightly off topic, but if the recent rumours are true & we get regular double deckers on the 311/313, then it will bring back memories of the old 301.
If they hadn't closed off the Bridge in Walsall, I'd only have one bus to catch to & from work now. Happy days. :)
635 another twm bus to never see a refurb seeing those transfers near the saloon doors takes me back to the 90s when they were new.
Quote from: Westy on May 27, 2015, 10:25:03 PM
Prefer them to the Scanias.
Shame if they go from Walsall.
Slightly off topic, but if the recent rumours are true & we get regular double deckers on the 311/313, then it will bring back memories of the old 301.
If they hadn't closed off the Bridge in Walsall, I'd only have one bus to catch to & from work now. Happy days. :)
I reckon there will be some move abouts when the platinums come to Walsall.
Possibly some enviros from the 934/5/6 for 311/3?
Quote from: 2900 on May 28, 2015, 04:04:50 PM
635 another twm bus to never see a refurb seeing those transfers near the saloon doors takes me back to the 90s when they were new.
A few of them got a bit tatty but I did become fond of 655. 648 retained its full origins livery, albeit well kept with an internal refurb. 682 was withdrawn with origins paintwork and faded but tidy interior if you remember anything about that one
@2900
Well down to the last half dozen B10L now.
Ten Spectras.
Nine bread vans.
And the mighty Benz culled to 41 on paper, undoubtedly lower in cold fact.
Endangered species total: <66.
EDIT: Just read on the Wolvo thread that Mother's Pride and Slimcea have gone, leaving 7 of that breed.
Quote from: The Real 4778 on June 08, 2015, 10:59:34 PM
Well down to the last half dozen B10L now.
Ten Spectras.
Nine bread vans.
And the mighty Benz culled to 41 on paper, undoubtedly lower in cold fact.
Endangered species total: <66.
Don't think it will be long now, presumably spending on them is very low, and any major failure will spell the end.
As an aside, i remember the class 25s on British Rail, which towards the end, had virtually no money spent on them. Eventually only A exams were authorised for them and when they were due a more major exam, they were put in the yards next to the others and switched off for good. A sad end to a great class of locomotive!
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on June 08, 2015, 11:08:03 PM
Don't think it will be long now, presumably spending on them is very low, and any major failure will spell the end.
As an aside, i remember the class 25s on British Rail, which towards the end, had virtually no money spent on them. Eventually only A exams were authorised for them and when they were due a more major exam, they were put in the yards next to the others and switched off for good. A sad end to a great class of locomotive!
Spending on th Plaxtons is low, so spending on the B6/10/Merc/Spectraw must be next to nothing. 4032 has its abs light come on regularly and the "fix" is turn it off and turn it on again (it's just the abs sensor), but they're not fixing it as its only got 2-3 months service left apparently.
Had it on the 11A, took it from one end of Westley Road to the other. Radio'd in and got it replaced by 4664. Not taking the risk.
Would presume the "book value" for all these types and even some of the early Tridents is zero, so they don't owe anything to NE.
The Spectra's given the limited number ordered were always going to be a candidate for early withdrawl and i have to say i am quite surprised that they lasted for as long as they did. Obviously a lot of hard work from WN kept them going within what was probably a limited budget.
The B6s, B10L, and Mercs are different, ordered in such a large quantity and proved so useful moving people around. Sadly the Mercs have proved unreliable over the last few years and it seemed at times that PE couldn't repair them quick enough before others failed. Was sad to see the amount of effort put into 1645, including a replacement engine, only for it to be withdrawn within a few weeks, presumably because the amount of money spent on trying to get it reliable had become prohibitive.
I do hope that a farewell day can be organised so that we can say a proper farewell to these buses.
All 37 remaining Mercedes are in service today!
9 at CV
16 at PN
12 at WB
Is the farewell day still going to happen ?
Any idea which routes apart from the 45 the WB ones are on??
Thanks
Quote from: dingding on June 24, 2015, 01:08:52 PM
Any idea which routes apart from the 45 the WB ones are on??
Thanks
4 on the 49
7 on the 45
1 on the 42/43
what routes are the Pensnett Mercs on
Thanks
Quote from: Tony on June 24, 2015, 11:45:26 AM
All 37 remaining Mercedes are in service today!
9 at CV
16 at PN
12 at WB
Fantastic!
Sadly I'm in Hatton Garden looking down at NB4Ls, which are nonetheless a damn good bustitute for an O405N.
Quote from: Rhys S on June 24, 2015, 01:33:11 PM
what routes are the Pensnett Mercs on
Usual routes 289, 276 and 297 from what i seen at merry hill
There's a merc on 243/4 which did the 15:36 Halesowen to Dudley
1630 is the merc
Thanks everyone spent an hour and a bit at West Brom this afternoon and got most of the WB Mercs along with a couple of Pensnett ones on the 289. Just a shame the sun decided to go in but can't have everything!
Dave
Quote from: Chris on June 24, 2015, 03:14:29 PM
Usual routes 289, 276 and 297 from what i seen at merry hill
Think the 276 deserves much better buses than these mercs now! How many months do we think these have left?
33 still showing in the site as on fleet strength, although I guess this includes a few that are already unofficially retired - anyone got a better 'actual' for present Benz total traffic numbers?
Quote from: The Real 4778 on August 11, 2015, 04:31:35 PM
33 still showing in the site as on fleet strength, although I guess this includes a few that are already unofficially retired - anyone got a better 'actual' for present Benz total traffic numbers?
May still be 33 left:
Pensnett: 1546/73/93/1627/30/40-41/43/47/57/77/1704/7/43 [14]
Coventry: 1570-72/79/91/94/1659/78/1703 (& Health Buzz 1687) [9 in-service & 1 non-pcv]
West Bromwich: 1560/85/89/1607/13/18/53/67/95/99 [10]
Trainer: 1689 [1]
Cheers Paul. Amazed to see WB edging-out Coventry by one bus!
Would be great to enjoy 1613 on the 451, roaring across the Sandwell valley one last time. I wonder....
So I make it 17 of the 1998 batch (inc 1743) to 15 of the 1999 batch. Slightly surprising.
Quote from: Stevo on August 12, 2015, 10:30:41 AM
So I make it 17 of the 1998 batch (inc 1743) to 15 of the 1999 batch. Slightly surprising.
I confess I had expected the older 15XX to be extinct and the high 16XX-1707 to be more intact. The pace of withdrawal surprised me with its ferocity. The fleet was culled in roughly 18 months. It felt basically intact when I started taking an interest in it in 2012, with just a drip-drip of casualties.
Quote from: The Real 4778 on August 12, 2015, 01:10:23 PM
I confess I had expected the older 15XX to be extinct and the high 16XX-1707 to be more intact. The pace of withdrawal surprised me with its ferocity. The fleet was culled in roughly 18 months. It felt basically intact when I started taking an interest in it in 2012, with just a drip-drip of casualties.
I have tried to keep a log of all the Mercedes O405N withdrawals and their fate (all for scrap basically). This may not be 100% accurate but it gives a good idea of the pace of withdrawals in the last two years or so. 2012 was a trickle and 2013 not all that many fell by the wayside - but April 2014 onwards - an avalanche!
1568/1634/1635/1656 sold to PVS or T.Wigley, Barnsley for scrap 8/15
1536/1545/1633/1649/1683/1701 sold to PVS, Barnsley for scrap 6/15
1669/1681/1702 sold to PVS, Barnsley for scrap 4/15
1597/1650/1694 sold to PVS, Barnsley for scrap 3/15 (1694 collected 5/15)
1558/1625/1680 sold to PVS or T.Wigley, Barnsley for scrap 3/15
1563/1566/1569/1673/1674 sold to PVS or T.Wigley, Barnsley for scrap 2/15
1606 sold to PVS, Barnsley for scrap 2/15
1608 sold to T.Wigley, Barnsley for scrap 2/15
1679/1682/1684/1686/1691 sold to PVS, Barnsley for scrap 1/15
1525/1600/1614/1622/1652/1692 Sold to PVS, Barnsley for scrap 9/14
1547/1556/1576/1578/1590/1592/1598/1655 sold to PVS, Barnsley for scrap 8/14 [some 7/14, collected 8/14]
1658 sold to T.Wigley (or PVS tbc) Barnsley for scrap 7/14
1516/1517/1522/1526/1528/1529/1534/1537/1538/1540/1542/1552/1555/1557/1596/1601/1603
1609/1611/1621/1688(fire damage 05/14)/1690 sold to PVS, Barnsley for scrap 7/14
1541/1577/1645/1676 sold to PVS, Barnsley for scrap 6/14
1654/1675 sold to PVS, Barnsley for scrap 5/14
1581/1595/1644/1663/1664 sold to PVS, Barnsley for scrap 4/14
1533/1539/1580 sold to PVS, Barnsley for scrap 9/13
1519/1530/1562/1587/1588/1615/1617 sold to EMR, Kingsbury for scrap 7/13 (tbc)
1527 sold to PVS, Barnsley for scrap 4/13
1532 sold to EMR, Kingsbury for scrap 2/13 & 1544 sold to EMR, Darlaston for scrap 2/13
1567/1584 sold to EMR, Kingsbury for scrap 11/12
1531/1535/1559/1583 sold to EMR, Kingsbury for scrap 10/12
1524/1575 sold to PVS, Barnsley for scrap 5/12
1693 sold to PVS, Barnsley for scrap 4/12 (fire damage c.02/12)
1623 sold to PVS, Barnsley for scrap 2/02 (fire damage 03/01)
Fantastic list, Paul - although it does make grim reaping, sorry, reading!
I was right - Spring 2012 saw the first withdrawals based on life-expiry and planned fleet rundown; the only ones I never saw in service.
And another one bites the dust
Any gen on the low floor farewell day yet?
Quote from: RS on June 24, 2015, 11:48:08 AM
Is the farewell day still going to happen ?
Hopefully yes, it is still being worked on, and needs final approval from the top, but if it does happen it will be on a Saturday, probably end of September and based on Walsall.
Quote from: Tony on August 19, 2015, 12:09:51 PM
Hopefully yes, it is still being worked on, and needs final approval from the top, but if it does happen it will be on a Saturday, probably end of September and based on Walsall.
Great news
Down to
3 B6
5 B10
27 O405 (with another to go soon)
3 Spectra now
Quote from: Tony on August 25, 2015, 07:50:51 PM
Down to
3 B6
5 B10
27 O405 (with another to go soon)
3 Spectra now
Which fleet nums are surviving please tony
Quote from: RS on August 25, 2015, 07:52:51 PM
Which fleet nums are surviving please tony
B6's:
244,620,662
B10's:
1421,1436,1446,1447,1475
Spectra's:
4017,4020,4021
PN 1546; 1573; 1593; 1629; 1630; 1640; 1641; 1643; 1647; 1657; 1677
WB 1585; 1589; 1607; 1613; 1653; 1695; 1699
CV 1570; 1571; 1572; 1579; 1591; 1594; 1659; 1678; 1703
spectras 4006/4010 not been seen out for at least 1/2 weeks so thought they had gone. was suprised the remaining 3 were used on v though. wonder if wn will get anymore singles to displace b6s
Quote from: Tony on August 25, 2015, 08:34:05 PM
PN 1546; 1573; 1593; 1629; 1630; 1640; 1641; 1643; 1647; 1657; 1677
WB 1585; 1589; 1607; 1613; 1653; 1695; 1699
CV 1570; 1571; 1572; 1579; 1591; 1594; 1659; 1678; 1703
Tony, should that read 1627 (instead of 1629) at Pensnett? - although I think 1629 is at PE but withdrawn.
Quote from: paulb1973 on August 26, 2015, 02:26:52 PM
Tony, should that read 1627 (instead of 1629) at Pensnett? - although I think 1629 is at PE but withdrawn.
Yes, you're correct, 1627 is still in use, not 1629
Quote from: Tony on August 25, 2015, 08:34:05 PM
PN 1546; 1573; 1593; 1629; 1630; 1640; 1641; 1643; 1647; 1657; 1677
WB 1585; 1589; 1607; 1613; 1653; 1695; 1699
CV 1570; 1571; 1572; 1579; 1591; 1594; 1659; 1678; 1703
I do want one more ride on 1613 before it goes, that's if it hasn't already gone. It's one of the examples I remember from childhood
Quote from: Sh4318 on August 27, 2015, 06:50:59 PM
I do want one more ride on 1613 before it goes, that's if it hasn't already gone. It's one of the examples I remember from childhood
It was my last WB example - when it turned up by chance in Sutton on the 451, after the evening services had been turned over to the E200s a couple of years ago. Instead of heading home to bed from work, on a Diamond 71 (eugh), I went to West Brom and back and had to call a cab home!
I'd love another quick trip on 1613 too.
I'd also want a ride on 1613 before it goes I've heard it's one of the best Mercedes 0405ns remaining wouldn't know where to find it I know it is on route 49 sometimes as I've seen it outside bear wood bus interchange
Quote from: Mercedes1665 on August 28, 2015, 12:09:49 AM
I'd also want a ride on 1613 before it goes I've heard it's one of the best Mercedes 0405ns remaining wouldn't know where to find it I know it is on route 49 sometimes as I've seen it outside bear wood bus interchange
The 45 & 49 are your best chances of finding 1613.
Quote from: AV4248 on August 28, 2015, 07:05:49 AM
The 45 & 49 are your best chances of finding 1613.
1613 Is on the 49 today
Thanks for your help tony and AV4248
I know this thread doesn't include Spectras and B6's however I can see 4141 and 4149 have transferred to PL along with the 2 Eclipse 2's this weekend. Would it be safe to assume the Spectras and B6LE's are finished at some point this week if not tomorrow? Cheers
Quote from: Ashley 60171 on August 30, 2015, 05:48:42 PM
I know this thread doesn't include Spectras and B6's however I can see 4141 and 4149 have transferred to PL along with the 2 Eclipse 2's this weekend. Would it be safe to assume the Spectras and B6LE's are finished at some point this week if not tomorrow? Cheers
Not unless they fail. 662 will have to go in a couple of weeks, but hopefully the remaining 4 will survive to a 'goodbye running day'
Quote from: Tony on August 30, 2015, 06:14:54 PM
Not unless they fail. 662 will have to go in a couple of weeks, but hopefully the remaining 4 will survive to a 'goodbye running day'
I wouldn't have had 620 down as the final B6LE. That's not me knocking it. Just my own view is that it's never given me the fizz that the more popular ones did.
no i somehow thought 244 would be the last one standing, but then i lost on the last spectra too lol
With 1593, 1627/59/77 now retired, that leaves a puny 23 Benz in service.
Is it just 7 or 8 left at PE now?
Glad to see them 3 to go except 1677
Quote from: The Real 4778 on September 11, 2015, 09:02:21 AM
3? Four went.
Yeah he's saying the three other than 1677 he's glad to see gone, meaning 1677 is the fourth
Think only 2 B10Ls/left at Walsall only 1436 1447 out
Quote from: B10L1473 on September 12, 2015, 07:33:13 AM
Think only 2 B10Ls/left at Walsall only 1436 1447 out
Hopefully a B10 will be preserved like the two B6's.
This will also end the 'roller blind' era as well won't it?
Quote from: Westy on September 13, 2015, 12:14:27 AM
This will also end the 'roller blind' era as well won't it?
Unfortunately so, worst thing about it
Quote from: Dom on September 13, 2015, 07:12:18 AM
Unfortunately so, worst thing about it
Yeah trying to guess if the destination blind can show a new destination or not or seeing the attempts to cover up certain destinations not used on a route.
39 anyone, trying to cover up they were using the old 333 blind that ran via Willenhall!
Any more news on farewell day? What buses will. Be used now other than 1436 and 1447? Any advances or may it not happen?
Quote from: Westy on September 13, 2015, 09:37:20 AM
Yeah trying to guess if the destination blind can show a new destination or not or seeing the attempts to cover up certain destinations not used on a route.
39 anyone, trying to cover up they were using the old 333 blind that ran via Willenhall!
Or not having it on, 34 to Stowlawn
Any more news on the farewell day yet?
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on September 14, 2015, 02:15:15 PM
Any more news on the farewell day yet?
I'm guessing nothing more has been said and will not happen or be after end of September
Quote from: Trident 4194 on September 14, 2015, 06:56:16 PM
I'm guessing nothing more has been said and will not happen or be after end of September
Tony has mentioned it recently, it's to be centred on Walsall, but no specific details have been mentioned.
Hopefully its not Saturday 26th as i am already busy that day!
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on September 14, 2015, 07:01:06 PM
Tony has mentioned it recently, it's to be centred on Walsall, but no specific details have been mentioned.
Hopefully its not Saturday 26th as i am already busy that day!
The week that straddles the end of Sept/beginning of October Im off but I dont know if Im actually away or not!
Quote from: Westy on September 14, 2015, 07:04:49 PM
The week that straddles the end of Sept/beginning of October Im off but I dont know if Im actually away or not!
I think it'll be on a Sunday since there are less buses out meaning it's easier to source the Spectra's, B10L's etc. I also hope it's a Sunday.
Please avoid October 11 as it's a running day at Wythall.
Quote from: Stevo on September 15, 2015, 11:30:20 AM
Please avoid October 11 as it's a running day at Wythall.
If it happens, and hopefully it will, it will be Saturday 3/10/15
Quote from: Tony on September 15, 2015, 11:32:27 AM
If it happens, and hopefully it will, it will be Saturday 3/10/15
Thanks for that info, please keep us up to date with happenings, any idea what the schedule will be? Ie timings of buses?
Situation as of today
B6s (2)
620 (expected withdrawal 4/10) & 662 (expected withdrawal 26/9) still in use at WN
B10Ls (2)
1436 & 1447 (both expected withdrawal 4/10) still in use at WA
Spectras (3)
4017; 4020 & 4021 (all expected withdrawal 4/10) still in use at WN
Mercedes (21)
CV 1570; 1571; 1572; 1579; 1591; 1594; 1703 still in use, withdrawals as E400s from Walsall arrive
WB 1585; 1589; 1607; 1613; 1695; 1699 still in use, withdrawals as Scanias arrive from AG
PN 1546; 1573; 1630; 1640; 1641; 1643; 1647; 1657 still in use to be replaced by 4437/2106-11
Of these 1570; 1572; 1594; 1589; 1699; 1573 & 1647 have not been used today yet.
So its now confirmed that the farewell is going to be 3rd october so does this mean that after that date there will definately be non of those bus types ever in service again?
Quote from: WB on September 18, 2015, 10:00:41 PM
So its now confirmed that the farewell is going to be 3rd october so does this mean that after that date there will definately be non of those bus types ever in service again?
Correct
I cant believe they are all finally going to be gone! Such a shame as these new dennis buses replacing them are poor! Is there going to be any garage wide announcement/public anouncement about this like there was with the metro a few weeks back?
Quote from: WB on September 19, 2015, 12:32:55 AM
I cant believe they are all finally going to be gone! Such a shame as these new dennis buses replacing them are poor! Is there going to be any garage wide announcement/public anouncement about this like there was with the metro a few weeks back?
Metro? Midland Metro?
Quote from: The Real 4778 on September 19, 2015, 07:40:19 AM
Metro? Midland Metro?
Yes, how they announced the final day of the T69's
Saw a bl0 with blinds showing 334 bilston going down the m40 south earlier around the Warwick area earlier
Quote from: monkeyjoe on September 19, 2015, 07:56:05 PM
Saw a bl0 with blinds showing 334 bilston going down the m40 south earlier around the Warwick area earlier
Sure it wasn't a B6? 598?
To be honest dunno what it was model wise, one of those old buses lol
The West Midlands area is about to get very boring upon the demise of the Benz, Spectra, Volvo B10L and the B6LE.
I suppose being 1 of the younger members of this forum, I naturally prefer the newer vehicles. I prefer a B7RLE over a merc for instance although 1 gripe I have is an an article about Reading buses were they talk the new Enviro 400MMC, they state it returns......6.3mpg !! Thats hardly an improvement over a Plaxton ! Apologies as I dont know much about bus propulsion but am I missing something ?!
Quote from: GeminiFan1991 on September 19, 2015, 09:43:27 PM
I suppose being 1 of the younger members of this forum, I naturally prefer the newer vehicles. I prefer a B7RLE over a merc for instance although 1 gripe I have is an an article about Reading buses were they talk the new Enviro 400MMC, they state it returns......6.3mpg !! Thats hardly an improvement over a Plaxton ! Apologies as I dont know much about bus propulsion but am I missing something ?!
Your not that young! Judging by your username, your 23-24? Older than me! I'm 19.
Benz out in Coventry today
1570 - ??
1571, 1591 - 18/18A
1579 - 1
1703 - ??
The ?? means I didn't see the route number. There was an S reg on the 5 I didn't ID so could have been a full set.
Quote from: GeminiFan1991 on September 19, 2015, 09:43:27 PM
I suppose being 1 of the younger members of this forum, I naturally prefer the newer vehicles. I prefer a B7RLE over a merc for instance although 1 gripe I have is an an article about Reading buses were they talk the new Enviro 400MMC, they state it returns......6.3mpg !! Thats hardly an improvement over a Plaxton ! Apologies as I dont know much about bus propulsion but am I missing something ?!
Quote from: MW on September 19, 2015, 10:26:59 PM
Your not that young! Judging by your username, your 23-24? Older than me! I'm 19.
14, here.
Don't get me wrong, I think myself the B7RLEs are solid buses - Personal preference leads me to say that the"Mark 1" versions feels better - although, I adore the Mercs - they have a lot of character. I'm definitely going to miss these golden oldies...
@clayderman Yeah I feel the Mark 1 Eclipse Urbans are better - used to love them at AG. I'm going to miss the B10Ls and B6LEs - really full of character. However I've still got the Scanias, and feel happy with the E200MMCs. Barely ridden the Mercs - probably should get some more asap!
Quote from: GeminiFan1991 on September 19, 2015, 09:43:27 PM
I suppose being 1 of the younger members of this forum, I naturally prefer the newer vehicles. I prefer a B7RLE over a merc for instance although 1 gripe I have is an an article about Reading buses were they talk the new Enviro 400MMC, they state it returns......6.3mpg !! Thats hardly an improvement over a Plaxton ! Apologies as I dont know much about bus propulsion but am I missing something ?!
Growing up with Metroriders, Merc Varios and Metrobuses, along with brand new B6LEs, the older types like B6s and Merc Varios are more of my type as opposed to modern tat like E400MMC
Quote from: the trainbasher on September 19, 2015, 10:53:28 PM
Growing up with Metroriders, Merc Varios and Metrobuses, along with brand new B6LEs, the older types like B6s and Merc Varios are more of my type as opposed to modern tat like E400MMC
I grew up on the same 56 Excels and dozen Solo's. These I reckon shouldn't have vanished in such a low key way.
Life after the early low floors. We've got B7TL's. A Trident farewell also seems a long way off.
Did the lynx's get a send off, I must have been living in Bristol at the time. They were quite quick from memory, loads of em on the 94 when Travel West Midalnds had about 3 companies competing on the route. Every 4/6 mins with a 94 and a 94e to Arran way. (during non peak times).
Quote from: Tony on September 15, 2015, 11:32:27 AM
If it happens, and hopefully it will, it will be Saturday 3/10/15
So it will be 45 years to the day since Walsall's last trolley buses, also between Walsall and Bloxwich.
Quote from: Liberator9 on September 19, 2015, 10:51:36 PM
@clayderman
Yeah I feel the Mark 1 Eclipse Urbans are better - used to love them at AG. I'm going to miss the B10Ls and B6LEs - really full of character. However I've still got the Scanias, and feel happy with the E200MMCs. Barely ridden the Mercs - probably should get some more asap!
You really should! Mercs are fantastic buses! I won't lie, I do like newer buses - who doesn't like a "shiny new toy" every once in a while? I just prefer the older buses for their noise, and as I always say, character... All theae new buses just feels the same: quieter engines; wrap around windscreens; lower emissions. I'm not saying that those are bad traits, just that they're the same features that many manufacturers try to offer nowadays... ::)
@Liberator9
Quote from: monkeyjoe on September 20, 2015, 02:46:38 AM
Did the lynx's get a send off, I must have been living in Bristol at the time. They were quite quick from memory, loads of em on the 94 when Travel West Midalnds had about 3 companies competing on the route. Every 4/6 mins with a 94 and a 94e to Arran way. (during non peak times).
No the Lynxes didn't get a send off. I know you can't have one for absolutely everything I get that it takes alot of preparation.
Quote from: Ashley 60171 on September 20, 2015, 11:05:18 AM
No the Lynxes didn't get a send off. I know you can't have one for absolutely everything I get that it takes alot of preparation.
Wonder if any many many years time, the Enviro 400s will get a send off, doubt it!
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on September 20, 2015, 01:02:14 PM
Wonder if any many many years time, the Enviro 400s will get a send off, doubt it!
Im pretty sure the E200 and E400 will get a massive send off from drivers joy at losing the worst quality buses ever!!!
Quote from: WB on September 20, 2015, 01:32:04 PM
Im pretty sure the E200 and E400 will get a massive send off from drivers joy at losing the worst quality buses ever!!!
Imagine the send off the B7TL trio will get or even Tridents !
Quote from: GeminiFan1991 on September 20, 2015, 01:34:33 PM
Imagine the send off the B7TL trio will get or even Tridents !
They are good but not really significant other than in terms of replacing Metrobuses corridor by corridor.
Three buses top yard pensnett gone to the scrapyard pvs
Anybody 'vintage' hunting today;
1447 is on the 39,
620; 4017 & 4021 all on the 11
4020 on the 33
1585 & 1699 on the 42/43
1607 & 1613 on the 49
1641 & 1643 on the 243/244
1546 on the 289
Mercs in bottom yard pensnett
Dead box 1640 1647 1630
Facing the fence front in
1520 1620 1629 1642 1593 1627
1573 1677 1743 1704
Parked up not used for two days 1657
Which Mercs are still active at West Bromwich other than the ones in Tony's comment?
Quote from: Ashley 60171 on September 25, 2015, 09:58:24 PM
Which Mercs are still active at West Bromwich other than the ones in Tony's comment?
Most likely 1589 and 1695. I haven't seen these pair all week so might have been withdrawn.
Pensnett & West Bromwich have had an email saying all should be in reserve fleet by 4th October, no specific withdrawal dates for individual buses, so that is down to the Engineering Manager based on Inspection dates and faults
Quote from: Tony on September 25, 2015, 10:10:33 PM
Pensnett & West Bromwich have had an email saying all should be in reserve fleet by 4th October, no specific withdrawal dates for individual buses, so that is down to the Engineering Manager based on Inspection dates and faults
This really is it then "sad face". See what tomorrow brings.
I've no leave to take before next weekend so it looks like if I want to try for any O405N action it will have to be evenings, and after the commute that's precious little of a window. Moving house too, so if that goes awry I'll have no chance to get out on the 3rd either.
Looks like my last fling may have been WB1613 on the 451 back in May. In which case, it was a fine swansong on the route I knew them best.
Quote from: Tony on September 25, 2015, 08:41:37 AM
Anybody 'vintage' hunting today;
1447 is on the 39,
620; 4017 & 4021 all on the 11
4020 on the 33
1585 & 1699 on the 42/43
1607 & 1613 on the 49
1641 & 1643 on the 243/244
1546 on the 289
I didn't read this before setting out on Friday but purely by chance and good luck got to ride on 620 and then 4017 on the 11 in Wolverhampton, 1447 from Wolverhampton to Darlaston on the 39, and finally 1585 and 1699 on the 42/43 at West Bromwich.
A grand day out!
I'm actually off work next Saturday for a change! I'm not too fussed about the 301 running but will try and make it for the afternoon X51 Spectra journey. I still miss them on the 139, I would always wait for one in Merry Hill for the hour ride back to Brum
Quote from: Tony on September 25, 2015, 10:10:33 PM
Pensnett & West Bromwich have had an email saying all should be in reserve fleet by 4th October, no specific withdrawal dates for individual buses, so that is down to the Engineering Manager based on Inspection dates and faults
What about Coventry's Mercs ?!
All 3 Spectras and 620 out today. Unusual for a Saturday
Heard 1594 has run its last, but not confirmed.
PN 1573 is now withdrawn parked facing the rear fence
Quote from: Winston on September 30, 2015, 02:19:49 PM
PN 1573 is now withdrawn parked facing the rear fence
One of my favourite Mercs :'( :'(
Quote from: Winston on September 30, 2015, 02:19:49 PM
PN 1573 is now withdrawn parked facing the rear fence
been there ages
Quote from: karl724223 on September 25, 2015, 09:25:31 PM
Mercs in bottom yard pensnett
Dead box 1640 1647 1630
Facing the fence front in
1520 1620 1629 1642 1593 1627
1573 1677 1743 1704
Parked up not used for two days 1657
@Winston
Quote from: karl724223 on September 30, 2015, 04:53:52 PM
@Winston
@karl724223, ta for that! For some reason I haven't got 1573 updated to withdrawn, but I updated the other extra ones you'd posted :-\
1704 has been moved down to the bottom yard since
1695 now finished at west brom
So what's left:
CV: 1570/1/2/9/91/4, 1703 (7)
WB: 1585/9, 1607/13/99 (5)
PN: 1546, 1641/3/57 (4)
TOTAL: 16
Can this be right, is that all?
Only 4 seem in regular use in Coventry
1571/1572/1703 on 5 and 1591 on 18/A today
Quote from: JoNi on October 01, 2015, 08:48:44 AM
Only 4 seem in regular use in Coventry
1571/1572/1703 on 5 and 1591 on 18/A today
They out
Yep.
1703 5 1016 TC 1141 TS 1246 TC
1579 5 1046 TC 1211 TS 1316 TC
1571 5 1116 TC 1241 TS 1346 TC
1591 18 1024 18A 1134 18 1254
620
1436; 1447
4017 (back in garage having an inspection); 4020; 4021
1546; 1641
1585; 1607; 1613; 1699
1571; 1579; 1591; 1703
are in use today
1699 on 43 heading to west bromwich
Visited PE earlier and it is such a sad site with withdrawn Mercs everywhere.
Did see 1546 on the 297 :) :), but apart from that nothing else.
1657 looks withdrawn parked along the back wall with no ticket machine, but strangely parked facing the garage instead of the wall. Several Mercs in the dead box parked with red stickers and steering wheel covers, so assume they are withdrawn, along with 1643 parked side ways facing the road.
Presume tomorrow will be the last real day for these buses bar those featuring in the farewell day. Certainly an end of an era but for the passenger, it is time for them to move on really imo.
Quote from: s94 on October 01, 2015, 02:01:23 PM
Presume tomorrow will be the last real day for these buses bar those featuring in the farewell day. Certainly an end of an era but for the passenger, it is time for them to move on really imo.
Well with only 1546 and 1641 in service today, and no Mercs parked in the waiting area for there next duty, wonder if it will be these two buses that will represent PE on Saturday?
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on October 01, 2015, 02:07:19 PM
Well with only 1546 and 1641 in service today, and no Mercs parked in the waiting area for there next duty, wonder if it will be these two buses that will represent PE on Saturday?
Seems pretty much it will go that way Stu. I thought I saw 1641 break down the other day (see posts in PE thread) and thought what a bad time for that to happen but seems all was well.
Will be weird to not hear the 'roar' of the mercs go up the hill on my road from now on.
@s94 We just got to keep our fingers crossed now that there are no major failures before Saturday and that the buses pass there inspection if one is due.
Will be nice to see a blinded example used, i always thought the digital displays spoiled the Mercs.
Quote from: Tony on October 01, 2015, 12:11:29 PM
620
1436; 1447
4017 (back in garage having an inspection); 4020; 4021
1546; 1641
1585; 1607; 1613; 1699
1571; 1579; 1591; 1703
are in use today
4017 is now in wolverhampton and waiting to take up afternoon peak 59
The NX website now has details of the X51 journeys (actual departures will be slightly later than those times to make sure nobody) just misses tham and claims they went early!
The 11:00 service will be one Spectra, first come first served, The afternoon return journey may use all 3 remaining Spectras if needed. There will also be a photo oppertunity for at least three different livery Mercedes (Red/White; Training & Health Bus) in Walsall garage car park at 14:00
http://nxbus.co.uk/west-midlands/news/farewell-to-4-of-our-bus-types
I can't make it on Saturday so had a last go today. Saw 620 and 4020 in Wolverhampton then later rode on 1585 on the 48. Farewell!
Quote from: Stevo on October 01, 2015, 10:12:27 PM
I can't make it on Saturday so had a last go today. Saw 620 and 4020 in Wolverhampton then later rode on 1585 on the 48. Farewell!
On the upside you saw them working natural routes and have avoided the crowds.
How long will the mercs at walsall Car park
be there for fro photos will it be until 4pm so everyone will get a
chance to get the photos
After seeing a photo of B10BLE 7159 still going strong in Dundee, I've just had a thought. Will that be getting withdrawn on the 4th or will it continue after the 4th of October?
Quote from: Michael Bevan on October 02, 2015, 10:09:59 AM
After seeing a photo of B10BLE 7159 still going strong in Dundee, I've just had a thought. Will that be getting withdrawn on the 4th or will it continue after the 4th of October?
7147, 7160, 7166, 7167, 7169, 7170, 7173, 7174, 7176, 7179 still remaining in service at Dundee. Very unlikely they will all be gone by Sunday.
Quote from: Kiewii on October 02, 2015, 11:08:25 AM
7147, 7160, 7166, 7167, 7169, 7170, 7173, 7174, 7176, 7179 still remaining in service at Dundee. Very unlikely they will all be gone by Sunday.
Dundee still need some more vehicles transferred in to replace the last B10s
Some more of Walsall's 17xx B7RLE's would be good, I can't help but wonder what we will get to replace all the Presidents when their time comes in the next year or so, we do like our Volvo's up here so Geminis perhaps?
@Tony Any news on the buses for tomorrow yet?
Quote from: DavieDD2 on October 02, 2015, 11:28:01 AM
Some more of Walsall's 17xx B7RLE's would be good, I can't help but wonder what we will get to replace all the Presidents when their time comes in the next year or so, we do like our Volvo's up here so Geminis perhaps?
Volvo B7TL ALX400's or Gemini's will be the most likely candidiates I suspect
Well it's now after 7pm and no-one's posted about the endangered species' last day!
Did anyone turn out for the day of the doomed?
Quote from: The Real 4778 on October 03, 2015, 07:15:46 PM
Well it's now after 7pm and no-one's posted about the endangered species' last day!
Did anyone turn out for the day of the doomed?
You might want to have a look on this thread (http://wmbusphotos.com/forum/index.php?topic=4013.msg162803#msg162803).
Coming back along the A45 around Coventry at about 6 30pm I was surprised to see a Merc, 157-something, in service at Canley. Anyone know which one it was?
Quote from: Stevo on October 03, 2015, 08:14:20 PM
Coming back along the A45 around Coventry at about 6 30pm I was surprised to see a Merc, 157-something, in service at Canley. Anyone know which one it was?
1579
Quote from: P419 EJW on October 03, 2015, 07:18:58 PM
You might want to have a look on this thread (http://wmbusphotos.com/forum/index.php?topic=4013.msg162803#msg162803).
Cheers!
Well, that's presumably about it. Possibly a few Benz remaining in Coventry for a matter of days. Sounds like it's all over for the TWM fleet though.
B10L - all gone
B6 - all gone
Spectra - available this morning, but not used
Mercs - 9 still holding on in there
1546 - 276
1641 - 297
1613 - 42/43
1585/1607 - 45
1579 - 18
1571; 1591; 1703 - 5
Quote from: Tony on October 05, 2015, 08:28:23 AM
B10L - all gone
B6 - all gone
Spectra - available this morning, but not used
Mercs - 9 still holding on in there
1546 - 276
1641 - 297
1613 - 42/43
1585/1607 - 45
1579 - 18
1571; 1591; 1703 - 5
I thought the whole point of the farewell day was to end all of those buses from service on that day??
Bit of a false advertisement really considering people turned up for their last rides on the mercs and yet could still go out today and catch a few different ones
Quote from: WB on October 05, 2015, 12:56:30 PM
I thought the whole point of the farewell day was to end all of those buses from service on that day??
Bit of a false advertisement really considering people turned up for their last rides on the mercs and yet could still go out today and catch a few different ones
The advertising stated all four types were being withdrawn during October. I had done my best with the fleet moves so that they would all finish on Saturday and succeeded with 3 of the four types, but for a company to withdrawn nearly 20 buses on the same day takes some doing. Coventry have been delayed because the paintshop haven't managed to finish them all by the third.
Pensnett are still waiting for 4437 from BC who are in turn are waiting for 4871 which has been away at Cummins having engine repairs for some time and WB are just short of buses
Hope it wasnt taken the wrong way. We can all see a fantastic job was done on the day and to withdraw all those vehicle types from the garages you have is a job well done!
Shame west brom are short of buses. Guessing theres just too many with issue being repaired, repainted etc...
At least people are getting last chances to catch a ride before theyre gone :)
Quote from: Tony on October 05, 2015, 01:11:31 PM
The advertising stated all four types were being withdrawn during October. I had done my best with the fleet moves so that they would all finish on Saturday and succeeded with 3 of the four types, but for a company to withdrawn nearly 20 buses on the same day takes some doing. Coventry have been delayed because the paintshop haven't managed to finish them all by the third.
Pensnett are still waiting for 4437 from BC who are in turn are waiting for 4871 which has been away at Cummins having engine repairs for some time and WB are just short of buses
I wondered why 4871 had been sat in the same place for a week at garage! Are wa only keeping 4869/70 as spares for the 51?
@Tony They managed to repair 1613 then?
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on October 05, 2015, 05:31:59 PM
@Tony They managed to repair 1613 then?
It was OK on Saturday after bout 20 minutes, that's how I got it back to the garage, and it drove from WA to WB yesterday OK as well. It must have not liked the exertions of the X51
Benz 1607 worked 18.55 walsall - west brom 45 then went out of service, tackled beacon view road hill with ease!