This may be a false alarm, but for several days Bus 700 has been parked on eastern edge of Tuggy bricks (facing north), the usual location where prospective retirees spend their last days @ Tugg Depot.
It has not been in service since 29 June 12.
From a quick inspection, none of the obvious 'hot' items had been removed as at 1800 today. Repeat: This may be a false alarm.
False alarm. I rode on 700 today.
That's good to hear, as Bus 701 was sitting next to Bus 700 on the weekend.
Quote from: Buzz Killington on July 10, 2012, 06:06:23 PM
False alarm. I rode on 700 today.
On Monday, I noticed the reason why 700 had been grounded for so long - the concertina had been damaged, pulled away from the frame it fits in.
Another false alarm? 726 is parked at the back of B depot workshops - ticket equipment removed, but Motorola still installed.
Quote from: ACTbusspotter on July 11, 2012, 10:08:59 PM
Another false alarm? 726 is parked at the back of B depot workshops - ticket equipment removed, but Motorola still installed.
Let's hope it is a temporary grounding as 726 is 'a good one'.
Quote from: ACTbusspotter on July 11, 2012, 10:08:59 PM
Another false alarm? 726 is parked at the back of B depot workshops - ticket equipment removed, but Motorola still installed.
726 was back at Tuggy today; apparently Belco Workshop fitted a new diff to it, and it should be back in service tomorrow.
Until driver training with bus 506 is complete i would be extremely surprised if any artics are withdrawn. Even after the new artics enter service, i'm sure there will be a period where we have additional artics in the fleet than present to ensure availability during the teething period for the new Scanias. If the 14.5s are anything to go by, the teething period could be quite prolonged and deal with some major design flaws.
Less likely to be a false alarm this time: a Mk1 artic is parked at Woden Depot (as mentioned on twitter by @actbus). No details yet as to which one.
720?
It didn't appear to have the no smoking stickers which rules out 700 and 704.
ACTbusspotter says either 708 or 720. With 506 in service, it could be either. 720 could have been taken out on mechanical grounds and 708 sent to T to replace it. Or 720 is at B for repairs and 708 has been withdrawn.
Bus 400 has confirmed its 720 at Woden.
708 not at Belconnen and may have been sent to Tuggeranong to replace 720, as 506 is now in service.
987 at Belconnen for repairs
708 transfer not confirmed yet. It wasn't evident at Belconnen, but it could have been in the workshops. The other possible candidate for transfer is 985. (I assumed it was there, but maybe what I saw was 987.)
UPDATE: 708 & 985 still at B depot. No transfers have occurred yet.
720 is at Woden in SNT shed. Still has My Way equip though.
Training for workshops staff on the new Scania artics was scheduled for this week; being conducted by the Scania organisation.
724 despatched from Tuggy Depot under tow at around 1030am today, apparently headed for Belco Depot. This bus has some issues.
Meanwhile @ Woden Depot, 720 was stripped of ACTION logos, bus numbers etc towards the end of last week.
Quote from: smitho on September 25, 2012, 12:18:50 PM
724 despatched from Tuggy Depot under tow at around 1030am today, apparently headed for Belco Depot. This bus has some issues.
Meanwhile @ Woden Depot, 720 was stripped of ACTION logos, bus numbers etc towards the end of last week.
Bus 724 was on the 788 this mornin'. Yes, it does have issues considering it has some stitch-up work a few years back...
There was a bus breakdown on the Monaro this morning. Perhaps that was 724?
710 was sounding a bit rough when I caught it last week.
Presumably the artics are all marked for sale rather than scrap.
Not sure where 724 came to grief.
As I understand it, the artics will be sold through a tender process rather than outright sale.
Can't say I've driven 710 for a while, but overall, the Tuggy Mark 1 artics seem to be in pretty good mechanical condition, (certainly compared with several years ago) and they're generally a pleasure to drive.
In fact one of the oldest (702) is one of my favourites at present.
710 sounded relatively normal this morning when I had it.
But I hope they don't withdraw 725 or 719. they're are both really good in my opinion.
Yes, 724 was doing a 788 when it broke down. Was at Belconnen Depot last night - ticket equipment had been removed, so it might be the next candidate for withdrawal/scrapping.
Quote from: King of Buses on September 26, 2012, 01:40:41 PM
But I hope they don't withdraw 725 or 719. they're are both really good in my opinion.
They will ALL be withdrawn in the next 12 months or sooner anyway.
Quote from: ACTbusspotter on September 26, 2012, 01:55:37 PM
Yes, 724 was doing a 788 when it broke down. Was at Belconnen Depot last night - ticket equipment had been removed, so it might be the next candidate for withdrawal/scrapping.
They will ALL be withdrawn in the next 12 months or sooner anyway.
even the mk2's?
They've ordered the replacements for the Mk2's - we're just waiting on a delivery schedule for them
Quote from: Buzz Killington on September 26, 2012, 09:54:53 PM
They've ordered the replacements for the Mk2's - we're just waiting on a delivery schedule for them
I don't think that it should be assumed that the Mark 2's would all necessarily be retired AFTER the Mark 1's.
The artics are like the proverbial axe....I understand that bits of them have been replaced/upgraded so often over so many years - including very recently - that the nominal age of each of them is not necessarily a very good guide as to their individual future longevity with ACTION.
Suspect that we might see some Renault artics around for a bit longer than the 12 month replacement program could imply.
On the other hand, if ACTION's patronage levels implode in the event of Federal Government staff cutbacks (as occurred in the mid 70s and late 1980s), then things could look very different.
Safe to say that 724 won't be re-entering service. In which case it will most likely be stripped for parts. So far it hasn't moved from where it was towed to last week.
Quote from: ACTbusspotter on October 03, 2012, 10:17:18 PM
Safe to say that 724 won't be re-entering service. In which case it will most likely be stripped for parts. So far it hasn't moved from where it was towed to last week.
Any word on what the issue is with 724?
Quote from: smitho on September 27, 2012, 12:55:04 AM
On the other hand, if ACTION's patronage levels implode in the event of Federal Government staff cutbacks (as occurred in the mid 70s and late 1980s), then things could look very different.
Meant to say 'mid 1970s and late 1990s' as a result of significant Razor Gang cuts to Australian Public Service staffing levels by the Fraser and Howard governments respectively.
An option floated is for 724 and another Renault artic to be combined to make a single workable unit.
Well I have seen the fleet numbers are missing from the trailer of 724 (& have been informed the numbers are missing from everywhere). Now I hope the trailer is used, then the trailer would of been on 3 buses.
Would there be any point?
Can you guys please keep us updated with the arctic withdrawals as the company I work for is looking to source some....ADAMS in WA, we already have a sizeable fleet of ex Action Reno rigids which are all impressive units far superior than ex Transperth stuff.
These days they wouldn't do something like that just because they can - they would do it if it was necessary. With the new artics ready to roll, there probably is not a need to spend time and money stitching up two of the old artics when they are withdrawing them when a new one enters service.
But when it comes to selling them to someone like Adams. You would get more bang for your buck by making a 1 good bus out of 2 bad buses. Rather then just scrapping 2 buses.
Quote from: perthbus on October 07, 2012, 07:02:39 PM
Can you guys please keep us updated with the arctic withdrawals as the company I work for is looking to source some....ADAMS in WA, we already have a sizeable fleet of ex Action Reno rigids which are all impressive units far superior than ex Transperth stuff.
ACTION have stated (on thier website) that they expect to offer buses for sale by tender towards the end of this year. But I would suggest that the first buses to be withdrawn from service are the ones best avoided. If you can wait until mid 2013, you might get the better buses.
Keep a watch on this topic - quite sure that all artic withdrawals will be documented here.
An artic has been transferred to Woden Depot. Going by no fleet numbers on the trailer, it is Bus 724.
Quote from: Bus 400 on October 08, 2012, 12:27:25 PM
But when it comes to selling them to someone like Adams. You would get more bang for your buck by making a 1 good bus out of 2 bad buses. Rather then just scrapping 2 buses.
If ACTION want 'bang for bucks' they will tear them down for parts. They are worth a lot more in pieces than they are as a whole bus. Until the entire fleet is replaced it wouldn't make a lot of sense to sell decent buses as they are the best candidate for parts.
Quote from: Bus 400 on October 07, 2012, 09:30:38 PM
Because they can.
It would also be a good learning experience for apprentices.
There are now two withdrawn artics parked behind Belconnen workshops: 704 & 705.
Bus 704 was transferred to Woden Depot this week.
Bus 705 had been transferred to Woden. Buses 704 & 705 are now de-ACTIONised & unregistered.
Bus 706 has been transferred to Woden.
Think you'll find these 2 mentioned (704 and 705) suffered major component failure.
That would explain 705's nice sizeable leak from near the middle at Woden Depot.
Quote from: perthbus on November 11, 2012, 07:40:20 PM
Think you'll find these 2 mentioned (704 and 705) suffered major component failure.
Not sure what your source is: I can believe it for 720 & 724 (the first two withdrawals), but not 704 & 705.
I'd agree with that. 704/705 withdrawn as the oldest units in Belconnen Depot. 720/724 far from the oldest at Tuggeranong and 724 had a breakdown and never went back into service.
Ex-Belco 988 was receiving heaps of tender loving care from detailers at Tuggy Depot today - a major job to get it up to an acceptable standard apparently.
Quote from: smitho on November 28, 2012, 10:18:55 PM
Ex-Belco 988 was receiving heaps of tender loving care from detailers at Tuggy Depot today - a major job to get it up to an acceptable standard apparently.
Thats nice, 988 is a good bus. Probably the best MKII in my opinion.
Quote from: smitho on November 28, 2012, 10:18:55 PM
Ex-Belco 988 was receiving heaps of tender loving care from detailers at Tuggy Depot today - a major job to get it up to an acceptable standard apparently.
Still needs more work I think. The trailer in particular was looking a bit ratty when I caught it during the week. Was really struggling with the heat too. Very slow off the mark.
708 to Tuggies, 713 withdrawn
So who is going to fight for a drive of the last MkI PR180.2 at Belconnen?
Quote from: Buzz Killington on December 01, 2012, 11:47:36 AM
Still needs more work I think. The trailer in particular was looking a bit ratty when I caught it during the week. Was really struggling with the heat too. Very slow off the mark.
Yes, I was warned by another driver not to take out 988. He said it was a real slug and had earlier got him into trouble because of its very slow acceleration.
Quote from: Bus 400 on December 01, 2012, 09:44:29 PM
So who is going to fight for a drive of the last MkI PR180.2 at Belconnen?
Too late now!
I drove 709 on the last day of the last school holidays (the last shift i was going to be able to get an artic on). It is a very good example of the type, however with a gearbox reprogram it would be excellent.
Could someone get some photos of the withdrawn artics at woden? Probably the last chance to get photos of them before they get scrapped/sold!
Some photos of the artics at Woden Depot are in the ACT Bus Gallery. That's only for the buses not blocked in.
Quote from: Bus 400 on December 10, 2012, 01:55:27 PM
Some photos of the artics at Woden Depot are in the ACT Bus Gallery. That's only for the buses not blocked in.
With the other issue being that all the artics have had the fleet numbers removed.
There was another one parked against the rear fence next to 713 today.
As opposed to getting photos of them in Woden, everyone should really just aim to get plenty of photos of them in service
Quote from: The Love Guru on December 01, 2012, 09:15:57 PM
708 to Tuggies, 713 withdrawn
Glad 708 made the move. Runs very well. It's no 725, but it's a very nice bus.
Drove 'bandaged' 723 on my last school run yesterday....not running quite as smoothly as it used to.
(700 and 702 are my usual choices....both going pretty well).
I can confirm some of these are heading to WA, not sure of the fleet numbers we're getting yet.
I hope any Tuggeranong drivers out there can keep an eye on it. But from a drive by on Saturday, Bus 711 was parked separately on the Tuggeranong bricks & looks like the next withdrawal.
Tuggeranong is still sending artics out in service during th holidays - I saw 723 and 987 this arvo
Quote from: Buzz Killington on January 07, 2013, 06:37:47 PM
Tuggeranong is still sending artics out in service during th holidays - I saw 723 and 987 this arvo
Yes, I had 700 out yesterday afternoon due to PR2 shortage and no green buses being available.
As per Murphy's Law, the air cond in 700 wasn't operating....phew!!!!
Not supposed to take them out with the drivers air-con US Smitho!
Quote from: smitho on January 08, 2013, 03:17:12 PM
Yes, I had 700 out yesterday afternoon due to PR2 shortage and no green buses being available.
As per Murphy's Law, the air cond in 700 wasn't operating....phew!!!!
I always chuckle when a shortage of standard buses is mentioned, given they have a bunch sitting at Woden Depot unused
Quote from: The Love Guru on January 08, 2013, 05:01:20 PM
Not supposed to take them out with the drivers air-con US Smitho!
Yeah; only noticed it was defective when time was against me doing a swap. Bit of a pain.
700 appears to be in the 'sin bin' at present; now parked alongside the PR 2 trainer bus with its back to the workshop. Two way and Wayfarer gear still in place.
Does not seem to have seen any service since I parked it on the bricks after doing 787 Xpresso last Monday afternoon (7 Jan).
Which suggests that all withdrawals will be done numerically from here on, apart from any future mechanical failures.
Well 700 was out of the 'sin bin' this evening, but whether it was back with its sisters at 'Pine Island' (southern most part of Tuggy garage) or has been despatched to Woden Depot, who knows.
One of senior drivers observed today that 700 has a near new engine.,
700 appeared to be parked facing out onto Athllon Dr at Woden Depot today. Fleet numbers gone but the front desto had '700' on it.
A new artic has appeared at Woden, I presume it is 701.
Quote from: smitho on January 23, 2013, 10:04:48 PM.
708 has been parked out the front of the T Workshop for several days....
Bus 708's BDC (Bus Driver Console) has been removed, so it's safe to say it has been decommissioned. Bus 710 is also sitting around with Bus 708, with Buses 519 & 521. So that would be the next withdrawal, it also should be noted that Bus 702 is with also decommissioned.
Shame they're going numerically and not just ditching the duds.
Bus 711 is sitting at the back of Tuggeranong Workshop, with the MyWay BDC removed.
The ACTION website has been updated to state that the next round of bus disposals will be in May 2013.
712 has been withdrawn
714 laid over at Belconnen Depot yesterday (FridaY) after completing charter from St Francis Xavier from Big Splash @ Macquarie (goes very well).
It was out on Brumbies Charter last night too, along with 721 and 988
Good to hear...I'd take 714 any day in preference to any of the Mark 2 Renault artics.
712 was back in use today...one of a large number of Renault and Scania artics used on shuttle services today conveying MacKillop College students from start of school year Mass at Tuggeranong Stadium to Isabella and Waniassa campuses.
Worked 712 on Canberra Show runs today (Sunday 24 Feb).
Presumably the BDC was reinstalled?
Yes, all the usual kit was there.
Any news on 712? Has it been withdrawn again?
Has 714 been withdrawn (now that 520 is in service)?
Haven't seen either of these buses for the last week or so.
712 was in the shed and available for use earlier in the week; will keep an eye out for it and 714 ....
Can confirm that both 712 and 714 were garaged with the rest of the Renault fleet this evening and available for revenue service.
BUS-712 was still in service on Wednesday although did look rather poorly on Sunday when at the Bricks.
Bus400 has reported that 701 has moved to Tuggeranong Depot - most likely to be stripped for parts.
With Bus 986 sitting at Tuggeranong Workshop with spilt bendy bit.
Presumably that's 701 parked parallel to Reed St?
986's bellows looked a bit stuffed. Wonder if they'll replace them with 701's..
Quote from: Buzz Killington on April 28, 2013, 06:54:45 PM
Presumably that's 701 parked parallel to Reed St?
That is correct, you can see the faint 701 among other things.
712 still in service today
701 was running at workshop yesterday am; mid-afternoon, I saw an un-numbered Renault artic heading south to Tugg Workshop, driven by an orange-top...presumably this was 701....returning to service perhaps?
712 did Brumbies on Saturday night plus 15 other Tuggy artics and 1 steer tag. Belco had 5 or 6 artics present as well.
702 and 710 were on Tuggy bricks today but no sign of 701 in that vicinity.
I wonder if they've sold?
Quote from: Bus 400 on May 02, 2013, 12:23:53 PM
I wonder if they've sold?
Yes, 701, 702 and 710 have been sold and were due to depart Tuggeranong Depot today for Tasmania.
I wonder who bought them & how many more they bought.
Courtesy 'wisbydriverB40' on Bus Australia:
Quote
All three are heading to Wisby's school bus service in Hobart. After they arrive they are going to be repainted white (possibly with an orange and yellow stripe).
I think 2 are going in service with one as a spare or for parts.. Unsure at this stage till they get back here. Will post pics when they are resprayed.
Should look pretty nice in white with the orange/yellow stripes.
A photo of one of their artics that was taken by a forum member (I forget his name, but was from Finland) can be found at http://busglobe.com/picture/6133
712 was being worked on in Tuggy Workshop today.
Quote from: Bus 400 on May 02, 2013, 08:37:19 PM
A photo of one of their artics that was taken by a forum member (I forget his name, but was from Finland) can be found at http://busglobe.com/picture/6133
You can see my name on the photo.. And I am from Denmark. ;)
Sorry about that, I had a brain fail.
701, 702 and 710 have arrived in Tasmania - some pics have been posted at Bus Australia: http://busaustralia.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=47&t=73227
712 is now back in Tuggy sheds and available for revenue traffic.
While Bus 986 is still spilt on the bricks.
712 worked Marist school run 888 yesterday pm, then Weston Ck Express 729, then relief 749 Xpresso, Woden-Belconnen.
Stabled in Belconnen Depot garage for driver's break.
Goes very well now after stint in Tuggy bus hospital and respite care......
Do we know when the next lot of artic's will be sold by ACTION?
Better question would be "who wants to buy 25 year old artics?" I'm sure that if someone made ACTION an offer, they would sell them.
712 was in the shed and available for service today.
I spotted her on a school run this morning.
Oldest fleet veteran, Renault artic 712, worked S/R 888 and Xpresso 729 southbound on Friday 7 June.
723 was at the back of Woden Sheds yesterday :(
Saw an unidentified Mk I artic being towed into Belco depot today. Fleet numbers had been removed and "PARTS ONLY" was painted down the side.
^^ That would be either 724 or 720 - one of the early withdrawals from T depot.
717 is now parked at rear of B workshops, stripped of radio, security cameras, ticket equipment.
The selling has begun, Bus 719 is up for Auction at Pickles Auctions, http://www.pickles.com.au/trucks/item/-/details/CP-07-88--Renault--Bus/1402125870. Looks like a bus auction coming up as some Rosa & Hinos are also listed for the auction.
Quote from: King of Buses on June 12, 2013, 04:33:04 PM
723 was at the back of Woden Sheds yesterday :(
723 was on a 687 on Friday arvo. Don't know why it was at Woden Depot the other week though.
723 worked S/R 888 and 729 this Monday pm.
712 again mooted for imminent withdrawal....
Passed 721 heading north on Tuggeranong Parkway to meet its fate...and being driven by a Workshop staffer.
No sign of 712 around T Depot this afternoon (Thurs).
Quote from: smitho on June 28, 2013, 12:24:31 AM
No sign of 712 around T Depot this afternoon (Thurs).
No sign in the depot because it was out in service. I passed it twice last night. Makes me wonder how they decide which bus to withdraw: maybe whichever bus is available.
No sign of it (712) around the Depot during the off peak today.
It may have been out doing charters, although as far as possible, drivers are expected to use Scania artics for charter work.
Bus 712 is currently sitting around the back of Tuggeranong workshops. The BDC is still installed & is still registered.
Quote from: Bus 400 on June 29, 2013, 03:09:46 PM
Bus 712 is currently sitting around the back of Tuggeranong workshops. The BDC is still installed & is still registered.
Ah, that's interesting. It deserves a reprieve for a while. It goes pretty well at present compared with say, 723, which I had yesterday.
Recent withdrawals have been: 711 715 717 719 721. (Can you see a pattern?)
723 could be next to go. Hard to know for sure: 712 could just as easily be getting its equipment removed on Sunday.
Of the Mk1's, I saw 712, 718 and 723 in service today, although Smitho posted this in the Rigid withdrawals thread:
Quote from: smitho on July 01, 2013, 02:27:54 PM
712 was in revenue service again this am..... but was scheduled to be driven off from Tuggy Depot 'to meet its fate' later today...
Yes, I can confirm that 712 was in service today, apparently "on concession"....
Quote from: Bus 400 on June 22, 2013, 10:32:02 PM
The selling has begun, Bus 719 is up for Auction at Pickles Auctions, http://www.pickles.com.au/trucks/item/-/details/CP-07-88--Renault--Bus/1402125870. Looks like a bus auction coming up as some Rosa & Hinos are also listed for the auction.
Auction was yesterday. Bus is no longer listed on the website, but that doesn't mean it has been sold.
Quote from: smitho
712 was in revenue service again this am..... but was scheduled to be driven off from Tuggy Depot 'to meet its fate' later today...".
I haven't seen 712 @ Depot or on road since Monday 1st July, so assume its retirement from the ACTION fleet proceeded as planned after its final revenue runs on Monday.
Buses 718 & 723 have been transferred to Woden Depot. There could be more, but that's all I could see from the road.
If the original allocation of articulated bus replacement has arrived & in service, I suppose all MkI Renault Pr 180.2's could be withdrawn these holidays.
Only spotted two Mk1's in service tonight - 714 and 726.
Quote from: Buzz Killington on July 09, 2013, 07:40:34 PM
Only spotted two Mk1's in service tonight - 714 and 726.
Some artic runs are being done with standard and steer tag buses during schoool hols....
True. With the different shifts I suppose artic shifts can go standard.. (or the reverse), or no change.
ARTICS SPOT SURVEY
Mark 1s 'on shed' at T Depot, late morning, on 10 July 2013:-
714, 716, 722, 725, 726
Mark 1 Renault artics on shed at Woden Depot as at 9 July 2013:-
700, 704, 705, 706, 707, 708,709
711, 712, 713, 715, 717, 718
720, 721, 723, 724
TOTAL = 17
I'm coming down to Canberra this Thursday & Friday 18th & 19th. I'm really hoping to get one last ride on a Renault artic, are any still "on the road"? Where, when, and what routes would be my best chances of getting one?
Thanks. Daniel.
While i don't get to see many artics during the week, but i have seen one Renault artic on the 16:47 318 ex-Lanyon MP. It's a pity you weren't down on Saturday or Sunday in particular with the Raiders playing in the NRL (Saturday) or the Brumbies playing in the Super 14 finals series when the Renaults have a higher chance of being out.
Quote from: Bus 400 on July 17, 2013, 07:40:02 PM
While i don't get to see many artics during the week, but i have seen one Renault artic on the 16:47 318 ex-Lanyon MP. It's a pity you weren't down on Saturday or Sunday in particular with the Raiders playing in the NRL (Saturday) or the Brumbies playing in the Super 14 finals series when the Renaults have a higher chance of being out.
Great! I'll head down to Tuggeranong tomorrow arvo and try my luck. Thanks.
The Mark 2 Renault artics have been given a full detailing in preparation for resumption of school services next week, while Mark 1s have received a less thorough going over, in anticipation of their likely withdrawal in near future.
What looks like Bus 718 is up for auction at Pickles (http://www.pickles.com.au/trucks/item/-/details/CP-05-88--Renault--Bus/1402127900). There's also a couple of Hino's (Buses 004 & 008) available at the same auction.
Any photos of the remaining Mk1's in service (particularly 725!) would be appreciated so we can get lots of photos into the Gallery.
Bus 717 may have been sold recently. It is does not appear to be garaged to Woden Depot any longer but is not listed at Pickles.
Only two Mk1s remain in service: 714 & 722.
I used 716 on Thursday 1st August on Career Expo charters and then my usual afternoon runs...received a call from workshops during those runs advising me that it should've been left with the workshops staff that morning....suspected then that this fine bus may have been on its final ACTION day in service.
Hope I'm wrong about that ...may be it is tucked away in the Tuggy workshops somewhere.
Understand 716 is now @ Belco and unlikely to return to Tuggeranong.
BUS.725 Withdrawn?
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :'(
Quote from: King of Buses on August 06, 2013, 04:27:05 PM
BUS.725 Withdrawn?
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :'(
Unfortunately, yes. :(
Buses 717 (http://www.pickles.com.au/trucks/item/-/details/CP-06-88--Renault--Bus/1402128121)& 718 (relisted) (http://www.pickles.com.au/trucks/item/-/details/CP-05-88--Renault--Bus/1402127900)have been put up for auction at Pickles for 5th September.
Earlier this evening I spotted a Mk I artic travelling not in service south on the Federal Hwy at Stirling Ave, Watson. Didn't catch the fleet number unfortunately, could have chased it but Neighbours was beckoning :P
As of 23:59:59 Saturday 30th August, Buses 714 & 722 will be withdrawn. Belconnen Depot will have the last remaining MkI Renault artic.
Quote from: Bus 400 on August 30, 2013, 05:25:54 PM
As of 23:59:59 Saturday 30th August, Buses 714 & 722 will be withdrawn. Belconnen Depot will have the last remaining MkI Renault artic.
Have you been taking your medication?
The little Scania mould at the compound pharmacy was a millimetre too small so I refuse to take the medication.
Only joking.
Better you stick with the cigars!!
This will leave just one roller blind bus @ Tuggy....trainer bus 860.
714 was doing a school bus wash tour earlier in the week but I haven't seen it (or 722) doing much revenue service for a while now. The Renault Mark 2 artics are still popular though with some drivers.
But even those artic drivers with a soft spot for the Renault artics realise that they can do better times with the Scania artics.
532 was on the Tuggy bricks over last few days.
Is 716 still in service at Belconnen?
716 was parked in A shed today, so it is still in service.
Quote from: The Love Guru on August 30, 2013, 10:06:03 PM
Have you been taking your medication?
I'm pretty sure 716 is at Belco.
I'll take a guess that 716 will probably remain at B until the NXTBUS fitout is done as B depot can't afford to be an artic short whilst they are fitting them out.
716 was out on concession today - MyWay troubles.
spotted one of the ex ACTION artics parked up on the Barton Highway today in the parking bay on the border surrounded by red cones pickles lot 54 sticker on the front of it and the rear bumper trim under the front step and a lot of oil under the engine bay, It appears that it has had a conniption and refused to leave the ACT and died :(
Apparently there are two ex-ACTION artics on the Barton Highway. One on the side of the road, presumably the Hall bus. Another one is on a property along there.
A third artic is apparently also out at Googong area.
i've been informed the broken one at Hall has been there over a week.
Was curious to see 716 operating on Athllon Drive, Greenway this morning, just outside the Tuggeranong Depot.
Loaded with a group of young school children on what may have been a bus wash tour - well away from its new home.
Looks like one was missed: 987 is being decommissioned at B depot. It appears to have been out of service since September, but must have been hiding somewhere since its withdrawal was not noticed.
That leaves 3 in service at Tuggeranong: 983 986 & 988 and 716 at Belconnen.
Quote from: ACTbusspotter on November 28, 2013, 01:17:13 PM
Looks like one was missed: 987 is being decommissioned at B depot. It appears to have been out of service since September, but must have been hiding somewhere since its withdrawal was not noticed.
That leaves 3 in service at Tuggeranong: 983 986 & 988 and 716 at Belconnen.
Yes, one of the Mark 2s was sitting on the bricks @ Tuggeranong for quite a while....I guess that was 987.
One of the practical reasons for retaining Renault artics in the fleet is that a proportion of artic drivers have yet to be trained on the Scania artics (especially among the more recent recruits and floaters).
There were at least two Renault artics in service for the recent "Voices in the Forest" charters.
Another two artic Mark 2s have been sitting in the 'despatch' area outside Tuggy workshops today, apparently en route to Woden Depot or beyond.
The artic which was had its numbers and rego plates removed is 987 and was still parked outside of the workshop yesterday, while the other artic has gone.
983 & 988 have arrived at Woden Depot recently. Which leaves 986 at T depot and 716 at B (subject to confirmation).
987 remains parked outside the Tuggeranong Workshop (northern side) awaiting collection by its new Tasmanian owners, the same school bus operator which acquired three Tuggy based Renault artics early on this year.
Saw un-numbered 984 being driven south along Athllon Drive this afternoon; has joined 987 outside northern side of Tuggeranong Workshop.
Any reason why, if all 33 of the new artics are in service two Renaults are still out? Though reckon the way 716 was being driven yesterday morning, turning off Gininderra Drive onto Tilyard Drive) the driver was doing his best to ensure a car drove into the side of the bus, thus seeing to it's withdrawal. The driver just pulled out despite having a row of cars coming at him at 80km/h, all of whom, including myself as 2nd car had to slow to about 40km/h to avoid hitting the trailer. Quite common on this intersection. It really needs lights.
Quote from: ajw373 on December 11, 2013, 08:51:31 PM
Any reason why, if all 33 of the new artics are in service two Renaults are still out? quote
Because not all artic drivers have been trained on the new artics....
I've seen 716 a couple times over the last few days. It hasn't been driving well....
It was going fine when I caught it this week.
I'd be interested if any regular Scania artic riders have so far detected much in the way of individual riding or performance characteristics of specific Scania artics.
As I driver, I've found they vary quite a bit (more so than the MAN diesels, for example) in riding characteristics and to some extent, performance.
520 for example, has quite a hard suspension, at least where the driver sits.
Quote from: smitho on December 12, 2013, 10:00:34 PM
I'd be interested if any regular Scania artic riders have so far detected much in the way of individual riding or performance characteristics of specific Scania artics.
As I driver, I've found they vary quite a bit (more so than the MAN diesels, for example) in riding characteristics and to some extent, performance.
520 for example, has quite a hard suspension, at least where the driver sits.
528 seems to have a rather annoying buzzing sort of noise when it reaches 3rd gear and above. Always annoying.
530 also seems to be very sluggish most of the time and 513 is very loud (but good all the same).
Other than that and the fact that the first 20 Scania's sound a bit different to the other 13, not much individualises each artic in terms of on board performance and other stuff.
Does anyone know if there is a certain route/service that has a higher chance of 716 turning up than a Scania artic from Belconnen or is is just pot luck whether I get a Scania or Renault? I know the 703 from Barton at 4.40 usually is run by an artic from Belco (was last time I checked). Thanks.
No pattern. Sometimes 716 may go out on a non-artic shift. Will depend on the driver and the supervisor allocating buses.
I've had 716 on a non artic shift before. I've seen it a few times on both the morning and afternoon 703s that get an artic (during the school term). I guess in terms of those shifts you could look at it as being a 1 in 11 chance of being 716.
Had assumed that Tuggy had retired all of its Renault artics at the end of the 2013 school year, but today Bus 986 made a reappearance in the shed line-up.
(During latter part of 2013, there was/were one or more artic shift drivers who were designated to drive Renault artics).
They will be retired one the artic fitout of NXTBUS occurs and 517 makes its return
Quote from: ACTbusspotter on January 07, 2014, 11:41:35 AM
No pattern. Sometimes 716 may go out on a non-artic shift. Will depend on the driver and the supervisor allocating buses.
Thanks. unfortunately I wound up with 506 rather than 716 (which I was aiming for yesterday).
Bus 986 has being sitting on the front row in front of a couple of PR100.2's for a while. Yesterday arvo all Tuggers artic except 986 were out of the shed. Some were in the workshops though.
I just saw a Mark 1 PR180.2 heading north on Northbourne at Dickson. I was standing all the way down at Antill & Cowper so while I assume it was 716 I've no way of actually knowing...perhaps on the slightest chance, it was privately owned!
716 is still in service. I spotted it on a 44 on Belconnen Way just before 6pm on Monday, and around the same time on a southbound Route 2 in City Interchange on Tuesday
Renault artic 986 was out on Manuka-Woden loop charter work on Tuesday night in connection with the Prime Minister's XI cricket match at Manuka Oval.
On Wednesday afternoon, 986 worked the 17h 16 Xpresso departure ex-City West on route 787 to Lanyon; departure from Civic delayed due to bus overheating concerns in the extremely hot weather.
716 was out doing peak period Intertown work this morning then a local (No. 17?) ex-Kippax Centre.
Quote from: smitho on December 11, 2013, 12:00:30 AM
Saw un-numbered 984 being driven south along Athllon Drive this afternoon; has joined 987 outside northern side of Tuggeranong Workshop.
So, does this mean 984 & 987 went to Tasmania? Might need to check what's still at Woden to be sure.
Bus 986 was spotted heading towards Belconnen with a mechanic behind the wheel this afternoon.
But for all we know it could of just been a swap over.
yes, I saw a mechanic driving it around Tuggeranong a few times this morning....
716 still in service this week - I saw it on a 703 Tuesday morning, a 4 or 5 on Tuesday arvo, and a 10 this afternoon.
716 was in A Shed this morning along with most of Belco's artics (508 appeared to be missing its list of 100 things at the front and I'm not sure about the rest of the AOA and whether its still there or not).
986 was not at Tuggers Depot yesterday afternoon or this morning though. Couldn't see it at Belconnen (might be in the workshops).
375 and 379 were parked next to Belconnens darts for some reason too.
986 now back @ Tuggy Depot.
Unsubstantiated rumour is that 986 will be retained, but possibly only as an addition to the Heritage Fleet.
716 was back at Tuggy this morning, probably due to a wayward Belco driver visiting in search of Tugg Depot's top grade coffee....
Quote from: smitho on January 31, 2014, 03:25:38 PM
716 was back at Tuggy this morning, probably due to a wayward Belco driver visiting in search of Tugg Depot's top grade coffee....
716 and 986 next to each other in the Tuggy Depot shed this arvo. Said 704 when it arrived there yesterday. But the driver probably volunteered to take it down to Tuggy just for the coffee.
Quote from: King of Buses on February 01, 2014, 05:16:37 PM
716 and 986 next to each other in the Tuggy Depot shed this arvo. Said 704 when it arrived there yesterday. But the driver probably volunteered to take it down to Tuggy just for the coffee.
I spotted it heading back to Belconnen on Thursday or Friday morning after completing its 704. Perhaps its final run?
Does appear as though 716 has left Belconnen Depot. This confirms it. Possibly on loan until 517 is repaired, and then that might be the end.
A MkI Renault Artic going along Isabella Dr on Tuesday. I presume it was 716. About 0850
716 was laying over in Woden after morning peak. Had 2 on the desto.
Spotted 986 on a northbound 315 this morning. It has also operated a northbound 200 each day this week (passes through the city at around 1740)
Artics on shed at Woden Transport Depot as at 20 Feb 14:-
700, 704 (maked 'parts only'), 705, 706, 709
711, 712, 713, 714, 715
720, 723, 724, 726.
Thanks for the update Smitho.
Did some more sell or go to Pickles?
Quote from: Buzz Killington on February 23, 2014, 12:08:21 AM
Thanks for the update Smitho.
Did some more sell or go to Pickles?
Don't know of any disposals, BK.
Sorry, that was more of a general question rather than directed to you, Smitho. My post was badly worded:
We do know that no artics were sent for scrap, and a number went to Pickles. I might have to do a quick "stocktake" later on.
Not aware of any more being put through Pickles.
Reports / rumours / sightings say that some have gone to Sid Fogg's, and that others may be destined for all points of the compass: Queensland, Perth and Adelaide. 2 more Mk2s are confirmed to have gone to Wisby's in Hobart during December (984 & 987).
Quote from: smitho on February 20, 2014, 11:09:11 PM
Artics on shed at Woden Transport Depot as at 20 Feb 14:-
700, 704 (maked 'parts only'), 705, 706, 709
711, 712, 713, 714, 715
720, 723, 724, 726.
Where is 725??? :o
716 and 986 were both released from Tuggy bricks this morning for routine service runs 'on concesssion'; returned to the bricks after the morning peak.
716 was out again this afternoon for scheduled runs 'on concession' and returned to the bricks this evening.
I saw 986 operating a 225 or 226 this afternoon. Didn't see 716 today.
The 200 that usually has one or the other of an afternoon (Around 1730 through the City) has had Scania artics this week.
I know last week (what I assume to be) Bus 716 (being a big long orange bus with roller desto) was spotted turning from Sulwood Drive onto Drakeford Drive around 17:50ish with 225 on the front.
But in a tweet I sent ACTION a few weeks back, it was mentioned that no more are going to scrap & will be kept for spare parts (until usable spare parts run out I presume).
Quote from: Buzz Killington on February 25, 2014, 08:58:54 PM
I saw 986 operating a 225 or 226 this afternoon. Didn't see 716 today.
The 200 that usually has one or the other of an afternoon (Around 1730 through the City) has had Scania artics this week.
I think the preference at Tuggy is for the Renault artics to be used on shift blocks containing a well patronised school run, provided there are no students requiring an easy access bus.
Sometimes they are set aside for artic drivers who have not done their Scania artic training, as may be the case with some casual employee drivers.
986 was on a 606 School Run on Monday, whilst 716 was on the 526, 500 or 888 this afternoon. 526 is more likely in terms of the time.
888 has not had a Renault artic for many months; from memory 534 covered it yesterday.
I think it was the 526. It did it again yesterday. 986 did a 651 in the morning too.
Can someone tell me where 725 has gone. I think it is one of the ones on eBay (has the bit of paint missing on the front and the s in the windscreen as well as the fact that the glass behind the drivers cabin doesn't have one of those sign holders in it) as well as 704 (that's the one in the first few pictures anyway). I would like to know... :'(
^^ You may well be right about 725 (and 704). However, ACTION will not disclose to whom they have sold buses. Best option would be to contact the seller on eBay and ask for the VINs.
Also, 726 has left Woden Depot recently.
I understand that the Tasmanian operator who bought the first batch of artics (for school runs) has since purchased a second batch in recent months.
984 and 987
707, 708, 721, 983 and 988 have shown up at Sid Foggs. A report indicates that there are two others.
Here's 988
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/t1.0-9/1907953_10153962442005150_1399055040_n.jpg)
I might also add a list to the first post of this thread to summarise where the units are at.
looks very smart in its new livery.
Quote from: ACTbusspotter on February 01, 2014, 09:18:13 PM
.. 716 has left Belconnen Depot. Possibly on loan until 517 is repaired, and then that might be the end.
517 repairs complete. Should re enter service soon. So as speculated, 716 has been withdrawn.
2 old artics up for sale in Port Macquarie
http://www.gumtree.com.au/s-ad/port-macquarie-city/heavy-farming-agriculture-equipment/mack-renault-bendy-bus/1040863658
Quote from: Gadgets on April 12, 2014, 08:19:22 PM
2 old artics up for sale in Port Macquarie
http://www.gumtree.com.au/s-ad/port-macquarie-city/heavy-farming-agriculture-equipment/mack-renault-bendy-bus/1040863658
I believe this is 725 and 704 again (I'm not certain about 704 though, it may be another one).
Also 986 was out the back of the Bricks where the buses go to die on Wednesday. It wasn't there on Thursday however, a PR100.2 MKII was there instead.
Have just received word from ACTbusspotter that 986 is at Woden Depot.
That's all, folks.
Quote from: Gadgets on April 12, 2014, 08:19:22 PM
2 old artics up for sale in Port Macquarie
http://www.gumtree.com.au/s-ad/port-macquarie-city/heavy-farming-agriculture-equipment/mack-renault-bendy-bus/1040863658
The ad shows 2 buses, and a photo of 704. But it also states build date as 1989. Only 1 Renault PR180.2 was built in 1989: Bus 726.
The one on the right is definitely 725. The other may be 726 but it wasn't 704, its still at Woden Depot displaying 410, School Bus like shown in the picture.
986 was in the workshops at Tuggy yesterday too.
986 has been used the last couple of days ferrying Police around for the Royal visit.
I spotted it heading towards Belconnen on William Hovell yesterday arvo.
986 was at the Dawn Service yesterday. It arrived with a lot of what seemed like regular people (not police) at around 0500 and then sat on opposite side of Fairbairn Ave to the rest of the artics for until I left (I left it there, I don't know when it actually left though).
986 was believed to have been carrying the media.
It has now returned to Woden Depot.
spotted this morning Artics 709 and 724 currently awaiting their fate at a scrapmetal yard in Fyshwick :(
Not 709!!!
yep due to be ripped to shreds next week :(
unless you want to make them an offer ( Access recycling)
Shame about 709, but I wouldn't touch 724 with a ten foot barge pole..
Two more artics have left Woden. Process of elimination suggests they were 704 & 714.
705 was sighted at Access Recycling a few weeks ago. A "head count" at Woden Depot suggests one other may have been removed as well, but not certain which.
Quote from: ACTbusspotter on August 14, 2014, 11:55:00 AM
705 was sighted at Access Recycling a few weeks ago. A "head count" at Woden Depot suggests one other may have been removed as well, but not certain which.
Yes, Woden Depot is looking fairly empty now.
Latest count from Woden Depot reveals only 7 artics, believed to be -
711, 713, 720, 723, 986 and 2 unidentified (554 was blocking the view).
The missing vehicles may have been sold, since none appear to have arrived at Access Recycling.
One of the unidentified artics is 712.
And AOQ951 has reported that 723 has departed recently. Possibly headed to Sydney.
Only 3 PR180.2s (Mk1) remain at Woden Depot: 711, 712 & 713. One more (unknown) artic appears to have departed in the last week - this may have been 715 or 716, but it could not be identified from outside the fence.
986 also remains, but is believed to now be a Heritage Fleet vehicle.
In other news, the two artics originally sent to Access Recycling have either been scrapped or in the process of being scrapped.
there is an old Renault Artic being stored at the back of EPIC in the caravan storage area i couldnt see a number on it but looks like its been there a while
Quote from: Gadgets on October 15, 2014, 05:24:30 PM
there is an old Renault Artic being stored at the back of EPIC in the caravan storage area i couldnt see a number on it but looks like its been there a while
As discussed over in the General Discussion thread (important parts quoted)
Quote from: King of Buses on October 05, 2014, 09:07:31 PM
A MKI PR180.2 is out behind EPIC too...visible from Flemington near the Morisett Dr Intersection as well as when one travels down the Federal Hwy.
Quote from: Skitube on October 05, 2014, 10:16:31 PM
Correct if i'm wrong, but i believe the one at EPIC is 716
Quote from: smitho on October 06, 2014, 09:52:44 PM
One of the best Mark 1s in the artic fleet.
It was reported on Twitter, but 986 has been out in ACTION for the racecourse shuttles on Tuesday. Which is a good thing IMO. Tuggers Depot has appeared to be an artic or two short recently because twice in the past two weeks the S/R 606 has has two separate buses instead of the artc. I believe it was 359 and a dart the first time and 377 and 382 yesterday. Maybe (and this is me being very hopeful) they'll bring 986 back to support! I doubt it though cause it'll need NXTBUS (and My Way? I imagine it lost that) and that. I just hope someone managed to snap it out and about...unfortunately it had to go out while I was occupied which sort of sucks. Still unusual for a 'heritage fleet' bus to be doing such runs...
Wasn't operated out of T. Was at B for 2 days prior to being used on the shuttles. Due to lack of artics free that early in the afternoon, 986 was the last resort. Nice to see them making use of it.
There's a mk1 artic parked on the dead end of Nudurr Dr (just past Grampians St) - does anyone know the fleet number and/or story?
I wonder whether it's the former Hall / Barton Hwy vehicle - 718 from memory.
If you could see in the window, if the first forward facing seat on the door side is missing then it is 718....or you could look where the fleet numbers were...
Went past last week and I am sure you could make out the fleet number on the side. Didn't happen to take much notice of which one it was, I was looking more at the graffiti on it.
Went past there today and there was nothing there...must have moved on.
Quote from: King of Buses on November 05, 2014, 06:36:05 PM
Maybe (and this is me being very hopeful) they'll bring 986 back to support!
That would be great! Although I'd be annoyed if I saw it in service and I was on another bus.
(And as you say, they'd have to bother with NXTBUS etc, so they probably wouldn't bother.)
Quote from: volvo on January 04, 2015, 10:00:21 PMAlthough I'd be annoyed if I saw it in service and I was on another bus.
Annoyed is a bit of an understatement. .well, for me it would be anyway...thought it'd be exactly the same as when 986 and 716 were the only ones left...I'd be on a scartic and one of them would surely pass by...with nour chance for me to transfer :'(
Quote from: King of Buses on January 04, 2015, 10:03:41 PM
Annoyed is a bit of an understatement. .well, for me it would be anyway...thought it'd be exactly the same as when 986 and 716 were the only ones left...I'd be on a scartic and one of them would surely pass by...with nour chance for me to transfer :'(
Really?
They were shit heaps by the time they were withdrawn. Well past their prime with terrible slack in the drivetrain, bodies that were falling apart and generally in a state of disrepair.
If you had had the chance to ride them from brand new you'd understand where I'm coming from.
I recall riding several of the mk2s on their first day in service including 983.
The mk2s were really no better or worse than the mk1s at that stage.
They were a massive performance improvement over the Merc 0305Gs, though they lacked the charm and character of the Mercs.
They were still better than these scartics. ...and I hope you didn't mean all ththe mk1s. .if 725 was included...that's not a good idea...cause 725 was and is awesome! I know at least one person who'd agree with me ;)
Young lad, it's a pity you were never able to enjoy the O305G's. While I can't remember if I caught a Canberra one as a baby/toddler. As an adult, I've enjoyed the ones in Perth & they were a hell of a lot better than their old Renault or new Volvo artics.
I've been on a few O305Gs that ran for STA in the past few years Through the HCVA and SBM. I found them pretty good. Though I think I only went on 2556, 2552 and 257(1?). Though I could never really compare them to the PR180.2s cause i was mostly riding K360UAs here after i went on those...cause the PR180.2s would drive past me in a scartic and I could catch up to em. The fact that ive grown up with PR180.2s is also a reason why my allegiences are more with them. ..even after those O305Gs, I still though think 725 (and some other Renault artics were better. ..shame I never got the ACTION mercs though yeah...or not even enough time to compare the sydney ones with our renaults...
In their last few years of regular running, nearly all of the Tuggy Renault Mark 1 artics were really performing very well, perhaps with the exception of No 700 and one or two other low numbered ones.
716 was certainly a stand-out performer.
Quote from: smitho on January 19, 2015, 01:26:03 PM
Saw a Mark 1 Renault artic heading slowly east along Hindmarsh Drive at around 1130 this am...couldn't spot its number.
A quick look at Woden Depot suggests both remaining Mk1 artics (711 & 713) are no longer there.
So quite possible they were both headed to Access Recycling. If so, then that's all* the Renault artics gone.
* 986 retained for Heritage / charter work.
Quote from: ACTbusspotter on January 19, 2015, 08:57:34 PM
A quick look at Woden Depot suggests both remaining Mk1 artics (711 & 713) are no longer there.
So quite possible they were both headed to Access Recycling. If so, then that's all* the Renault artics gone.
* 986 retained for Heritage / charter work.
WHAT!!!!
Where did 712 go and when???
And does anyone know when 986 may be out again?
Still can't find anymore on 725 either...does anyone know anything about her? Cause I never managed to get the details of the owner from when it was for sale but presumably not sold...
If anyone does have a chance to check out Access for a couple of artics, that'd be great.
It was mentioned on ATDB about 2 artics heading east bound on the M7 in Sydney. Or something along those lines.
Why is 986 at B depot? Is there any major events coming up necessitating an extra arctic? Other than my school run which almost had to leave people behind (more than 110 people were on 518 this arvo...Im certain!). And it was a spare driver who was shocked by the flood of people coming into the bus! So she changed it to single leaf operation while people were coming in...
There is a tweet my one of my followers about an orange bendy on a photo shoot.
A follow-up tweet reported the photo shoot was near Old Parliament House. So possibly Enlighten related.
Or maybe the photo shoot was for this:
(https://www.actbus.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ftapatalk.imageshack.com%2Fv2%2F15%2F04%2F03%2F1f5b364f423dbeb13ec42232bb22b4a4.jpg&hash=7f6c9c31ad08d7abfbc4bfc15849e129b0048dcd)
(Refer to ACT Bus or ACTION on Facebook)
Apparently the original photo was taken on Commonwealth Ave at the Northbound Albert Hall stop.
(https://scontent-nrt.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xap1/t31.0-8/s960x960/11159918_1427402244241486_2459347653414494784_o.jpg)
This was 986 yesterday at Belconnen depot. It spent some time undergoing an inspection at the fuel bay and then was parked down near the drivers car park for the rest of the day. It should still be at Belco for at least this week anyway. It also shows one of the new vans in the background too.
ACTION tweeted today that 986 'will be back on the road this weekend to assist with...ANZAC Day charter services'
Quote from: Buzz Killington on April 22, 2015, 09:19:51 PM
ACTION tweeted today that 986 'will be back on the road this weekend to assist with...ANZAC Day charter services'
According to some members, 986 was out today completing the charter services . Just wondering, which depot did it operated from?
Quote from: Bus 503 on April 25, 2015, 12:21:43 PM
According to some members, 986 was out today completing the charter services . Just wondering, which depot did it operated from?
Belconnen Depot. Did runs to/from EPIC, Gungahlin and Belconnen I believe (I did the Gunners one)
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xtf1/v/t1.0-9/11112491_1431859337129110_2369279648924798194_n.jpg?oh=adbd3dfe302146bcc001b0b570224bec&oe=559B170D&__gda__=1440652453_c3ada09b6c15de6f4c52e05597b1dad7)
This is it on Limestone Ave after the Dawn Service.
This wasn't a big enough clue:?
Quote from: King of Buses
This was 986 yesterday at Belconnen depot.
While searching google images today, I found this picture of an ex action Renault:
(https://www.actbus.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fs29.postimg.org%2Fo5ygjzd3b%2Fimage.jpg&hash=35bc6ba1d561f82b1342077e3dbae070c45982ea)
This lead me on to click the link of the photo which lead me on to this website:
http://severalsuburbs.com/2014/07/07/episode-9-paddock-bus/
From what I understand, a man purchased an mk1 artic and brought it to a paddock which is 45 mins out of canberra to do runs around his area. This show (the link) then came and asked him about the bus and learnt stuff about it. A 32 minute audio video tells you a little about the bus and the fact it is/was stuck in the mud'. The bus is ex 717. I haven't viewed the whole clip but am sure to do it soon!
According to the Bus Australia Fleet Lists, the artics sold to Wisby (D.D. & B.A.) - Margate (701, 702, 710, 984, 987) are all still in service there except 702 which is being stripped for parts...which to me is silly cause 702 was far better than 701 and all the other ones they have...except maybe 984 or 987...they weren't bad.
R.I.P. 702...
And yes, I am searching through the Bus Australia Fleet lists looking for all the ones that survive...and 725!!! ;D
Quote from: King of Buses on August 11, 2015, 05:58:07 PM
R.I.P. 702....
(https://www.actbus.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fs24.postimg.org%2Fdynq71rlx%2Fimage.jpg&hash=57be4a74394816c2753b8b430a2944381ba5947b) (http://postimage.org/)
photos upload (http://postimage.org/)
That might explain the pic above at Wisbys Hobart that I found on ATDB
Ex 722 is up for sale. (http://www.gumtree.com.au/s-ad/streaky-bay/heavy-farming-agriculture-equipment/mack-renault-58-foot-bendy-bus-number-722-/1080416669)
:popping: :o :-[ :'( :'( :'( :-\
That is more distressing than seeing 990 in a scrapyard...
Quote from: King of Buses on August 11, 2015, 05:58:07 PM
And yes, I am searching through the Bus Australia Fleet lists looking for all the ones that survive...and 725!!! ;D
Someone called "Brock Ginman" enquired into finding 725, and while surfing the net today, this came up:
http://www.busaustralia.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=81061
Yeah, I don't think you realise who that is.....
Quote from: Bus 503 on August 23, 2015, 04:50:47 PM
Someone called "Brock Ginman" enquired into finding 725, and while surfing the net today, this came up:
http://www.busaustralia.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=81061
Hehe...
Quote from: #Domelight Drew on August 23, 2015, 05:07:36 PM
Yeah, I don't think you realise who that is.....
I wonder if he will work it out now... ::)
'725 is superior to the other 180.2s'????? They were all mechanically identical, apart from 709.
Quote from: King of Buses on August 23, 2015, 05:16:46 PM
Hehe...
I wonder if he will work it out now... ::)
Ahhhhhh, (would use Mr Barry drive's face palm pic in this circumstance...)
Quote from: The Love Guru on August 23, 2015, 07:59:56 PM
'725 is superior to the other 180.2s'????? They were all mechanically identical, apart from 709.
What was different about 709?
725 ran better than most of the Renault artics in my opinion and many others.
And mechanically identical? No...they were all plagued with different problems and ran slightly differently...let's not bring 724 into this.
709 had a ZF transmission unlike the rest which had a Voith gearbox.
Plus I had to fancy it up do they actually did anything over on ATDB.
709 had a ZF gearbox, all other had Voith.
Sent from my SM-N9005 using Tapatalk
725 is alive and well still in ACTION Livery, with ACTION desto rolls, and even the Tuggeranong Depot 'S' on the windscreen. ;D
Where did it end up?
And meanwhile, a few weeks ago Bus 503 went full internet stalking bus surfing mode and found out that Ex712 is still in Canberra according to Shannon's insurance.