THE MUNRO DOCTRINE
It’s been a while since I last wrote an article for Omnibus, so I’ll try to remember where I left off last time!
JKW290W – Leyland Atlantean – South Yorkshire PTE 1790
1790 was submitted for a Class V Test in August 2001, following a number of jobs being carried out. These included the replacement of a main air tank and the repair of an air tank strap, while four tyres were sourced and fitted. A nearside rear brake reline was also required before a steam clean and silver spray.
Furthermore, a number of jobs have been carried out this year including a full engine service and replacement of the fuel pump. 1790 attended the Doncaster Transport Centenary in May 2002, the furthest the bus has travelled in our ownership. A number of jobs including replacement of the inlet/exhaust gaskets have taken place since. Little work is expected before the next Test in August 2002.
SDA757S – Leyland Fleetline – West Midlands PTE 6757
Well it’s always going to happen! When 6757 came onto the sales market it was only a matter of time and money! Ray Ward and I first inspected the vehicle at Northampton in January 2001 where she hadn’t been moved or started for over twelve months. A suitable price could not be agreed and we left empty handed.
However, by July 2001, talk was more positive and we arranged to visit the vehicle again and a price was agreed. SOLD! Following a discussion with the Museum Trustees, 6757 came to replace 1790, which had long since moved to undercover accommodation. The next task was to get 6757 back from Northampton to Wythall. The following week 6757 made the journey and performed very well.
By September 2001 the front nearside wheelarch panel had been removed exposing a heavy amount of corrosion. A small section of stress panel was replaced and all the pillars on the nearside and offside have been changed below the windows. Work around the nearside wheelarch has been carried out with the replacement of the inner arch panels. A new exhaust has been sourced and fitted. Work is now concentrated around the front platform area where a new floor is required amongst other things. New window rubber has been sourced, thanks to Phil Ireland for his assistance with that. The upper deck glazing rubbers have all been replaced and the lower deck has been started on.
KON311P – Leyland Fleetline – West Midlands PTE 6311
Following a discussion with the Trustees I have started to prepare this vehicle for its next Test, and only a small amount of work is expected. The body on this vehicle is in a remarkable condition; the Museum was lucky with the examples it displays, such as 4613 and 6311, which had mid-life overhauls shortly before they were withdrawn.
The first job undertaken was to repair a stress panel behind the nearside wheelarch. Also, the bonnet safety switch has been replaced. Attention to some oil leaks is now required before a steam clean and silver spray.
BOK1V – MCW Metrobus MkI – West Midlands PTE 2001
Although visibly this vehicle hasn’t changed, the engineering staff has undertaken a number of jobs. The engine stop has been made operational and a corroded air bag pedestal has been changed. A replacement air bag is the next job, which should allow the vehicle to stand up straight!
A number of original seats have been donated by Travel West Midlands for this vehicle, giving us a full complement and original moquette, although some seat bases are still required.
NEA101F – Daimler Fleetline – West Bromwich 101
The starter motor has now been overhauled, allowing this vehicle to be moved. Work on the throttle master cylinder is next on the list.
James Munro
Chapel Lane, Wythall, Worcs B47 6JX
Tel : 01564 826471 e-mail us
A registered educational charity no 507191
