NEWS ARCHIVE
October 2009 - July 2009 - April 2009 - January 2009
October 2008 - July 2008 - April 2008 - January 2008
October 2007 - July 2007 - April 2007
Museum News
Waddington Air Show - July 2009
A number of the buses from the museum, as well as a few owned by members, operated the usual internal 'car park shuttle' on both days of the Air Show this year. A selection of cars and our Cheverolet coach were on display in one of the hangars.
New Vehicle
HVL 4G, a 1969 Raleigh Wisp Moped has joined the collection.
Lincolnshire Day - 1 October 2009
A selection of artefacts from the Lincolnshire Road Car company, ranging from uniform items to an incendiary bomb that fell on the Bracebridge Heath Depot during World War II was displayed as part of our participation in the annual 'Lincolnshire Day'. (The bomb was suitably de-activated many years ago!)
Vehicle News
SOCIETY VEHICLES
FW 9805 -1937 Ford V8 Shooting Brake
A new 6 volt battery has been fitted to the V8
VL 1263 -1929 Leyland Lion LT1 s /d bus
The wheels were thoroughly cleaned and painted before the new tubes and tyres were fitted. These have now been fitted to the bus after the front end of the chassis was cleaned and painted black.
FHN 833 -1940 Bristol L5G s/d bus
A great step forward was the fitting of the new lino recently, a super colour match being obtained! The lino has also been fitted to new panels for the front bulkhead, and these should be installed before long.
Some re-chroming of interior parts has been undertaken, including the saloon heater units and stanchion pole fitments, amongst others.
In the cab new interior panels have been cut, painted and fitted together with the new door check strap and door lock. New interior panels also have been fitted to the emergency door.
A new rear seat frame has been manufactured and the correct seat moquette obtained for the upholstery of this unit.
The 'rain' strip has been painted on the reverse in 'Tilling' red and now fitted above the windows, and the body mouldings in the advertising panels are also in place, being the final strips to go on the exterior.
Sound proofing material was sourced at a stall when visiting a local car rally and this will go into the bulkhead section soon.
A new rear glass registration plate has been manufactured.
The two interior stanchion poles have been shot blasted and powder coated in the correct colour, one of the poles being expertly repaired beforehand.
Cab interior panels, the ticket box and interior 'decency' screen have been repaired as necessary and painted.
MEMBERS' VEHICLES
952 JUB -1964 AEC Regent V d/d Bus
The offside front wing has been repaired after much work and the interior wing treated similarly.
Museum News
The Society's 2009 Castle Rally took place in fine weather on Sunday 14 June. The event was sponsored by Rimmer Bros of Bracebridge Heath, suppliers of Parts, Spares and Accessories for Triumph, MG Rover, Land Rover, Range Rover and Rover SD1.
Vehicle News
SOCIETY VEHICLES
LFW 326 - 1955 Bristol Lodekka d/d bus
The lower deck has been refreshed with a lick of paint, while the upper deck seat cushions have been rebuilt with new filling; the original latex had deteriorated very badly to the extent that it was disintegrating. Three seats have also been reupholstered into the bargain.
The bus passed its MOT test in mid June.
DFE 383 - 1948 Guy Arab d/d Bus
The upper deck now has a full set of reupholstered seats complete with newly manufactured 'grab' plates; and lovely it looks too!
FHN 833 - 1940 Bristol L5G s/d Bus
A new rear bonnet section has been fabricated and new studs made to fit to the existing bulkhead bracket.
The radiator grill has been the subject of welding work before it was primed and painted prior to fitting. New screws were sourced before the grill could be mated up and assembled using copper grease and wax oil where needed. Finally the radiator was re-polished and the radiator blind lugs fitted after certain holes were tapped.
The engine block water transfer pipe has been repaired and refitted with new mounting studs being made. This entailed removal of the rocker covers and air inlet manifold, and the oil delivery to the rockers was checked before refitting. The top of the engine was cleaned and the rocker covers polished. A new rubber bypass hose was fitted and new studs were made for the air inlet manifold to replace the missing originals.
The lower windscreen has been realigned and the frame cleaned ready for some new glass.
Work has continued scrubbing part of the body floor and rectifying faults with the coving panels. The seat rails have also been cleaned and painted and new seat brackets for the same have been designed and fabricated locally.
VL 1263 - 1929 Leyland lion LT1 s/d Bus
The new tyres from the U.S. have arrived and should be fitted soon.
MEMBERS' VEHICLES
952 JUB - 1964 AEC Regent V d/d Bus
Much work has recently been completed with seat frames being sanded down, painted and refitted together with the upper deck n/s formica side panels refitted after warping.
Welding has commenced on the o/s front wing.
OLD 714 - 1954 AEC Regent 3 / RT d/d Bus
More wood framing has been manufactured and fitted.
CVL 850D - 1966 Bristol RELH6G Coach
Work is progressing at the 'Bus Works' in Blackpool
Museum News
The Museum is proud to announce achieving 'Accredited Museum' status in February 2009.
A few of our buses took part in this year's 'Discover Lincolnshire' weekend on 9 March, transporting visitors between a number of attractions in and around the City of Lincoln and North Kesteven districts.
Our Easter Sunday 'Open Day' took place on 12 April - a report and photographs can be seen here.
Vehicle News
SOCIETY VEHICLES
TE 8318 - 1929 Chevrolet Coach
New tyres have been fitted to both front wheels, and the wheels have also had a coat of paint. The headlights have been re-fitted; also the wiring has been checked over and a new 6 volt battery obtained. Following a service, the 'Chev' returned to the road on our Easter Sunday Open Day.
DFE 383 - 1948 Guy Arab d/d Bus
The nearside rear brake has been stripped and serviced; the offside rear brake serviced. The steering box, king pins and steering joints have all been checked, the pinion oil seal changed and new oil added. The speedo has been removed and repaired, and a new dip switch fitted. The reupholstered seats have been fitted, and some exterior paintwork has been refreshed. Following an MOT pass on 28 February, the bus returned to 'service' at our Easter Open Day.
FW 5698 - 1935 Leyland Tiger TS7 s/d Bus
The dynamo control box has now been refitted and tested all in order. Anti-freeze has been replaced. An inspection, full lubrication check with rear axle and gearbox oils changed was carried out prior to an MOT pass on 28 February, and a return to 'service' at the March 'Discover Lincolnshire' weekend.
FHN 833 - 1940 Bristol L5G s/d Bus
Recent work (even in the cold snap!) has included the engine pipework, new throttle springs and clevices being specially made. Work to tidy up the ceiling framework, repairs to the stanchion pole that will fit by the passenger door, and more bulkhead work has been done.
More seat units are being cleaned and painted, and in one case modified to suit, and the radiator painted ready for fitting. The conductor's and driver's bulkhead blinds are being renovated.
MEMBERS' VEHICLES
952 JUB - 1964 AEC Regent V d/d Bus
Work has now started on the offside front, with the wing removed for lots of attention and the underside being cleaned.
OLD 714 - 1954 AEC Regent 3 / RT d/d Bus
The new riser has now been fitted, and new associated metalwork is being sourced.
CVL 850D - 1966 Bristol RELH6G Coach
Work is progressing at the 'Bus Works' in Blackpool.
EVL 549E - 1967 Leyland Panther s/d bus
New lower framework has been fitted to the nearside.
RFE 416 - 1961 Leyland 'Titan' PD2 d/d bus
The engine front side-plate has been removed and repaired.
Museum News
Our 'end of season' Open Day took place on a wet Sunday 2 November 2008. A report and pictures can be seen here.
Vehicle News
SOCIETY VEHICLES
VFF 631 - 1953 Reliant 3-wheel Van
The van's front wheel and hub assembly has been removed and stripped down, the brake shoes have been relined; after Christmas the unit will be refitted and 'set up'.
TE 8318 - 1929 Chevrolet Coach
The new glass has been obtained and is now fitted into the framework. Some minor work is to be carried out on the wood frame before the chrome glass frame is refitted. A new driver's door step has been fitted, and the driver's door has had to be realigned; after all the 'Chev' is 79 years old The radiator and its surround is also back in place ensuring it should soon be back on the road for the Society's 50th birthday.
GLW 419 - 1942 Leyland TD7/Merryweather Fire Engine
The engine rebuild is now completed and will be tested after the starter motor is refitted; this has been removed from the engine for an overhaul. Inside it was 'grotty' but is now starting to look better. If all goes well it should be running shortly.
DFE 383 - 1948 Guy Arab d/d Bus
Recent work has included a rear axle brake service and work on the differential seal. Several seats are also being reupholstered.
FW 5698 - 1935 Leyland Tiger TS7 s/d Bus
Still experiencing "charging" problems the dynamo has now been removed for examination and to check that a newly acquired regulator will be compatible. Getting the dynamo out meant that the radiator, bonnet top etc had to be removed.
FHN 833 - 1940 Bristol L5G s/d Bus
Good news is that the radiator bottom tank has been successfully repaired after 12 hours of specialist help with a welder(!) and the radiator has been rebuilt with new gaskets and some new studs etc. While the radiator was off the opportunity was taken to manufacture and fit a new fuel pump cross shaft and bearings, and clean and fit a new fuel filter. Work has also started in earnest on the interior with the front bulkhead being inspected first of all. Some new ply is being shaped, and the conductor's cubby hole door being repaired. Whilst this was being undertaken a 'United' conductor's docket was found in good order under the ventilator - for route 107 in 1954 - a Scarborough local service we believe.
The luggage rack stanchions are being manufactured and repairs are being made to the clutch housing cover which has the legend ECW cast into it, and the decency cover inside the n/s saloon. The seats are also being 'offered up' in the saloon to see just how they will fit (these replacements slightly differ than the originals) sourced form Ben Jordan at Coltishall, Norfolk about 30 years ago! One of the seat frames will have to be altered and two leg units manufactured, and some of the supports will also have to be made for the seat rail on the body but it should not be too much of a problem - maybe! The rear seat will have to be completely rebuilt and reupholstered - yet more shaking of the piggy bank again!
MEMBERS' VEHICLES
FFU 860 - 1949 AEC Regal s/d Bus
The n/s oil seal failed again after the Meadowhall rally at Sheffield in September which meant more work on the pit! Touch wood the remedial work seems to have been satisfactory and the bus was out again for a rally at Sandtoft and our Open Day.
952 JUB - 1964 AEC Regent V d/d Bus
The n/s front wing and associated panels (4 sections in total) have been painted after a 'dry' fit and the whole area reassembled. This was not as easy as it sounds. Complementing the result is a now highly polished aluminium bonnet top.
Does anyone know, by the way, why Leeds Corporation specified unpainted bonnets for many of its batches of half-cabs?
OLD 714 - 1954 AEC Regent 3 / RT d/d Bus
The locally sourced rear bodywork riser has now been delivered and final dismantling of the frame on the bus has been completed. It is expected that the Christmas period will see the riser in place or at least not far off! (several vehicles in the workshop will have to be moved for this to happen)
CVL 850D - 1966 Bristol RELH6G Coach
Former Lincs Road Car 1431 left the museum in December for renovation at 'Bus Works' in Blackpool. Fingers crossed it will be back to be shown off at the Open Day at Easter.
Museum News
Waddington Air Show - 5 & 6 July 2008
Following last year's wash-out, a more successful bus operation on the internal 'car park shuttle' service was operated this year, and 5 vehicles owned by the Society or its members were on display in one of the hangars. Eight buses operated the 'bus service' including a modern (and fully accessible) bus on loan for the weekend from our friends at Stagecoach Lincolnshire.
Leyland Society Rally - 13 July 2008
'Lincoln No. 1' made the journey to the National Tramway Museum in Derbyshire for the Leyland Socety's Rally, and was parked for the day alongside the tram route.
Vehicle News
SOCIETY VEHICLES
VFF 631 - 1953 Reliant 3-wheel Van
The van has now moved from the Museum display area into the Spares building so that restoration can be finished - i.e. the brakes and refitting the remaining glass in the rear doors and side panels.
TE 8318 - 1929 Chevrolet Coach
Work has restarted on the 'Chev' to replace the window screen glass; this is necessary due to damp creeping into the laminations of the original glass.
FVO 714J - 1971 Triumph 1500 Saloon
The Triumph has left Whisby Road for temporary storage off site.
HBE 554D -1966 Hillman Super Minx Estate
The Minx has also left Whisby Road for storage off site.
KW 474 -1927 Leyland Lion PLSC s/d Bus
The four new tyres have been fitted to the rear and all the wheels on the bus re-painted
FHN 833 - 1940 Bristol L5G s/d Bus
The bottom tank of the radiator is still away for repair - and is still causing some concern. On a happier note the water pump has been overhauled and fitted, the interior 'Clayton Dewandre' heater refurbished and now in place on the bulkhead with the necessary plumbing attached, being manufactured as necessary. Some new woodwork has been fitted to the n/s bulkhead and the small panel behind the n/s wing fitted.
The canopy has also been receiving more attention with further beading fitted together with the 'eye' for cylinder head removal. The front of the chassis has also been repainted. The hinged panel above the passenger door and the n/s/f wing are also being tidied up. Aluminium rain louvers have been manufactured and at the time of writing are being fitted to both sides of the bus and the rear window surrounds are being smartened. The front destination box has had the locking mechanism fitted, new chrome covers applied to the front, and the blinds fitted to both front and back boxes. The front 'flashers' are now in place.
FW 5698 -1935 Leyland Tiger TS7 s/d Bus
New dynamo couplings have been sourced and will be fitted shortly.
TFE 475W -1981 Austin Allegro Saloon
The Austin has received a replacement water pump - no more wet Museum floor!
MEMBERS' VEHICLES
FFU 860 - 1949 AEC Regal s/d Bus
After work on the rear axle the vehicle has been MOT'd and has returned to the road after a few years' absence.
EVL 549E -1967 Leyland Panther s/d Bus
New framing has been sourced for the n/s lower part of the bodywork. Extensive work is being carried out on the near side. This requires replacement of the wide skirt rail and also the angle iron floor rail. An aluminium floor rail has been fitted in an attempt to prevent any further decomposition by electrolysis of the interior alloy panels.
Some of the ceiling panels are being taken down to allow a longitudinal roof rib to be inserted. This will hopefully reduce the 'bellying' that the Panther 'Roe' bodies were prone to.
OUT & ABOUT
HPW 133: The 1949 Bristol K d/d bus was out to the East Coast Rally in June which concluded at Bridlington. It also attended the Lincolnshire Steam Rally near Lincoln in August.
FFU 860: The AEC Regal attended its first rally for some time - at Meadowhall in September.
Museum News
Two 'new' vehicles (if the term can be used for vehicles of this age) have joined the Museum collection in recent months-
AGO 903 -1933 Austin 7 'Septimus' has joined the collection. He is unusual in being a male vehicle, so is exceptionally happy to have the company of so many old ladies in our Museum. The Board took a while to admit him, but any fears of the Exhibition Hall becoming overrun with tiny cars are quite unfounded; Septimus is a gentleman and can be relied on to behave like one. This fully restored and very smart little car was driven into the Museum in time for Easter Open Day, following an MOT passed with flying colours.
UH 1773 - Ford Model TT Truck During this year's Castle Rally Society Member Larry Riches made a formal presentation of a Ford Model TT Truck to the Society. This gesture was made in appreciation of the friendship and support shown to him by members of the Society since he became infected with "collecting old cars".
UH 1773 was built in Manchester (UK) in 1926 and has always seen use in the UK. Restored for the centenary celebrations of transport company A.T. Mays it attended many rallies, winning frequent trophies before being laid up for many years. Larry purchased the vehicle after A.T. Mays were bought out, but used it sparingly during his ownership as the top speed is only about 18mph! At every event it has entered it has won trophies for its original condition.
Spires and Steeples Event Leyland Tiger Lincolnshire 1411 provided transport for North Kesteven District Council's dignitaries and guests on Sunday 3 May as part of the launch of the 'Spires and Steeples' trail, a new 27 mile arts and heritage walking route running from Lincoln Cathedral to St Deny’s Church in Sleaford (it is permitted to walk it in instalments!)
The day started with a journey from Washingborough to Lincoln Cathedral. A break parked in Minster Yard attracted a lot of interest from tourists, and minor confusion to a platoon of mediaeval re-enactors. The afternoon involved a return to Washingborough and then on to Branston for further events, prior to return to Washingborough.
Steam & Oil Days For the eleventh year, we co-operated with the Museum of Lincolnshire Life for their 'Steam and Oil Days' over the May Day bank holiday weekend, when many of their steam powered static and traction engines are 'fired up'. No steam was emitted by our buses – Lincolnshire 2115 (Bristol K), 2318 (Bristol Lodekka) and Lincoln 89 (RFE 416) which operated the service, with Leyland Tiger 1411 making one journey up the hill.
Castle Rally Our annual Castle Rally took place on Sunday 8 June - a report can be seen here.
Vehicle News
SOCIETY VEHICLES
VFF 631 - 1953 Reliant 3-wheel Van
John has now started to paint the van and it should be finished in time to go on display at RAF Waddington Airshow. Following the Waddington weekend, it has moved into the Museum building and is now on display.
TE 8318 -1929 Chevrolet Coach
New ribbed aluminium sheet has been purchased for the steps.
MFE 454J - 1970 Morris 1000 Van
A replacement heater matrix has now been fitted to the van, so if it goes out in the cold weather the driver should still be warm.
KDT 393 -1951 AEC Regent III d/d Bus
This has now been MOT tested.
KW 474 - 1927 Leyland Lion PLSC s/d Bus
Now re-sited in in the Exhibition hall. That was a bit of fun one weekend! The bus is now receiving a new set of tyres - total negotiated cost of over £1,700.
FHN 833 -1940 Bristol LSG s/d Bus
Many hours have been put in by the team over the last few months resulting in a lot of fiddly jobs being completed, including manufacture of roller blind end pieces (not the "normal type") and completion of the front blind (handles etc.) More work has been carried out on the window pans. The locking mechanisms have now been fitted to the rear boot doors (sourced at a recent rally) and the final beading has been completed on the emergency door along with the lower inside panel (not as easy as it seems!)
Most of the interior wood has been cleaned, stained and varnished so that this will be ready to fit once the glass is in - not too far away now we hope! The rear destination box has been renovated. Many smaller items have been checked over and painted - fan heater motor, fan blades, wiper motor, horn and a new brake light switch fitted. Attention has also been paid to the cab windows, with the glass being cleaned and the metal finishers removed for chroming and polishing. The 3 (out of the 4) existing opening windows have been stripped down for re-chroming and the search is on for a 4th window mechanism which is proving elusive. We have e-mailed many museums and enthusiasts to see if they can help. The new window rubber has been sourced and is at the museum.
Items in need of re-chroming - i.e. the interior heater, door handles and widow fasteners - are also being checked and marked up with many pieces being 'smartened up'. One step back in the project has been an idea to remove the radiator grill for fettling up. This did not come out easily - different fittings to the post-war ones we had previously encountered - and along the way we found a 'frost crack' in the bottom tank, above a previous repair, no doubt in 'United' days. So the radiator is now off the bus and being repaired. The water pump has also been removed for overhaul.
FW 5698 -1935 Leyland Tiger TS7 s/d Bus New batteries have been fitted but the voltage regulator has failed so this has been removed for repair.
HBE 554D - 1966 Hillman Super Minx Estate The Hillman has not run for over 5 years, but has been moved from the display area, so with a battery fitted and a few drops of fresh petrol in the carburettor it 'sprang into life'. Some bodywork will be required i.e. new sills etc plus work on the brakes to put it back on the road. Any help with this would be appreciated.
PFE 542V - 1980 Bristol VR d/d Bus This has received new windscreen wiper mechanism (thanks to Carl for supplying a nice new one) and motor, and is being prepared for MOT. A water pipe repair has been needed and associated brackets fitted.
DFE 383 - 1948 Guy Arab III d/d bus Rear hub inspection and handbrake mechanism work is being carried out prior to its MOT.
MEMBERS' VEHICLES
OLD 714 - 1954 AEC Regent 3/ RT d/d Bus Quite a large amount of the new woodwork has been cut out ready for fitting after a new 'riser' has been constructed.
OUT & ABOUT
Colchester Daimler CVD6 - OHK 432 took some Society members on a hastily organised trip to the Coors Visitor Centre (ex Bass V.C.) at Burton-upon-Trent to enjoy the last bus and coach rally there. Now in its 40th year of preservation, Colchester No. 4 engaged in two trips around the town with full loads. One Daimler enthusiast on board revelled in the unexpected ride; it was 28 years since he had travelled on a CVD6 double decker.
HPW 133 - 1949 Eastern Counties Bristol K was entered for the rally at the Nottingham Heritage Centre in Ruddington in May and also made the journey across the River Humber for the Hull - Bridlington rally in June.
Museum News
The Museum took part in the fifth 'Greater Lincoln Attractions' weekend over 8 / 9 March, with over 200 visitors coming to the Museum. Four of our vehicles, FW 5698 (Leyland Tiger TS7), DBE 187 (Bristol K6A), LFW 326 (Bristol LD6B) and PFE 542V (Bristol VR) operated a network of free bus services on the Sunday, linking various attractions in and around the City.
A new item on display in our Museum is a section of near side panelling from former Lincolnshire Road Car Bristol VR 1963 (SVL 173W) which received a special livery in 1995 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of VE Day (a photo of it in service can be seen here. The bus has since been withdrawn from service and scrapped, but this section of panelling was retained and donated to us by Stagecoach Lincolnshire.
Our traditional 'start of season' Open Day took place on Easter Sunday, 23 March, despite wintry weather at the start of the day.
A visit was made to the Museum in April by members of the Institute of Customer Service, and transport was provided with our ex Lincolnshire Leyland Tiger TS7.
TF 818 (Leyland Lion), has returned to the Museum building, changing places with HPW 133 (Bristol K5G) which is at present in the Workshop building, and is not be on regular display for the time being.
Vehicle News
SOCIETY VEHICLES
VFF 631 -1953 Reliant 3-wheel Van - Another cylinder head has been acquired and fitted. New brake cables have been fitted and a new exhaust system will be fitted shortly. Three new tyres have been fitted.
TE 8318 - 1929 Chevrolet Coach - The complete windscreen has been removed so that new glass can be fitted.
MFE 454J - 1970 Morris 1000 Van - The 'Moggy' van is in the process of having an overhaul to its cooling system; i.e. new hoses, re-conditioned radiator, thermostat and new fan belt.
KDT 393 - 1951 AEC Regent III d/d Bus - The correct type of front wheel rims have been cleaned, painted and fitted to 'Doncaster 122' . The brake servos have also been inspected and oiled.
JDN 668 - 1954 AEC Regent III d/d Bus - The brake servos on 'York Pullman 64' have also been checked and oiled. Thanks to Bob for both of these.
FHN 833 - 1940 Bristol L5G s/d Bus - The usual hours expended weekly on this have seen all the screw heads now filled up (Alleluia!) and the window 'pans' receiving attention prior to painting.
The boot doors are now on and awaiting the check strap being fitted (after they have been covered in real leather or similar). The hinged flap above the passenger door has now been repaired and welded (it was rather rotten) and the rain louvres are being manufactured. These should be fitted shortly.
FW 5698 - 1935 Leyland Tiger TS7 s/d Bus - Thanks to the 'two Kens' and John this has now been fitted 'sympathetically' with 'flashing' direction indicators.
MEMBERS' VEHICLES
RFE 416 - 1961 Leyland PD2 d/d Bus - This vehicle has now been MOT tested.
952 JUB - 1964 AEC Regent V d/d Bus - The n/s front wing area has been renewed; four new sections being fabricated and fitted.
OLD 714 -1954 AEC Regent RT d/d Bus - Since the last Open Day (November 2007) all the back end of the bodywork has been carefully dismantled to reveal, not unexpectedly, a (very) rotten body riser – and important part of the structure of these bodies as no rear platform extension is fitted to the chassis.
HPW 133 - 1949 Bristol K5G d/d Bus - The chassis is being re-silvered.
Museum News
Another very successful Open Day took place on 4 November - a full report can be seen here.
After the November Open Day, there has been a 're-shuffle' of vehicles - ONO 59 (Bristol K5G) , FW 5698 (Leyland TIger) and KDT 393 (AEC Regent III) have moved into the Museum building.
OLD 714 (AEC Regent RT), TF 818 (Leyland Lion), and DFE 383 (Guy Arab) have moved into the Workshop building, and will not be on regular display for the time being. OHK 432 (Daimler CVD6) has moved into storage away from the Museum.
THA 313G (Daimler 2.5 V8 saloon) has returned to the Museum after storage elsewhere for the Summer, and TFE 475W (Austin Allegro) has been moved to storage away from the Museum.
Vehicle News
SOCIETY VEHICLES
JV 4936 - 1936 Austin 18 York Saloon Cracks were starting to appear in two of the 18’s tyres so it now has two new tyres and tubes.
FHN 833 – 1940 Bristol L5G s/d Bus Work continues on filling and rubbing down the screw heads on most of the moulding around the body. Some ‘T’ beading has been reattached to the pillar adjacent to the cab door and the door fittings have been modified so that the cab door does fit better. Some small round joint mouldings have been made from a large piece to replace a missing unit on the cab. Some ‘finishing’ work has started on the rear boot doors, rear corner panels and ‘advert’ panels and the rear light units have been fitted. Work on the interior of the boot will recommence shortly. New sidelights have been fitted too, following the manufacturer of a missing bracket.
VL 1263 – 1929 – Leyland Lion LT1 s/d Bus KW 6704 – 1930 – Leyland Badger s/d Bus Both of these vehicles have been MOT tested.
FW 5698 – 1935 Leyland Tiger TS7 s/d Bus This has now been tested and licensed and was ready for use at the Open Day following a road test.
VFF 631 – 1953 Reliant 3-wheel Van The van’s floor boarding has been replaced with new wood. The metal sides have also been refitted and rubbed down ready for repainting. We are still looking for a new cylinder head for this vehicle - can you help?
MEMBERS' VEHICLES
DBE 187 – 1946 Bristol K6A d/d Bus The overheating problem turned out to be due to some blocked radiator tubes. Following rectification the vehicle was successfully MOT tested.
Out and About From the Museum
We were invited by the Trolleybus Museum at Sandtoft, and the Doncaster Omnibus and Light Railway Society to take the York Pullman AEC Regent over to their museum on October 15th and celebrate the acceptance of a delightful hand made bench seat for the museum in Tony Peart’s memory.
Mick Crabtree, a long time friend of Tony’s, was there at 2 o'clock to present this to the museum and photo’s of the engraved seat were taken with Doncaster 122 and York Pullman 64 behind. The 15th was also the day of the St Leger Historic Vehicle Rally which concluded at the Trolleybus Museum.
In addition trolleybuses from London, Newcastle, Maidstone, Nottingham and Marseille were giving rides throughout the afternoon. Progress on certain restoration projects - the red London RT, the Bradford Leyland PD2 and an early 1930’s Karrier six-wheel trolleybus (latterly a store in South Lincolnshire) could be viewed - some good work being done here!
A most enjoyable day but marred with the news that Jim Scarrisbrooks, one of the organisers, had been viciously assaulted the evening before when in Doncaster. Thankfully he was out of hospital within a few days and was hoping to come over to our Open Day on 4th November.
Former Lincoln Corporation number 89, a 1961 Leyland Titan PD2/41, ventured over to the Manchester Museum of Transport on October 22nd for their special event celebrating 60 years of the use of the famous Leyland 0.600 engine in PSVs. A very pleasant journey there and back in lovely sunshine via the Woodhead Pass was enjoyed by the intrepid members who left Whisby Road just after 7am. Besides buses from the extensive collection at the Manchester Museum there were examples of Leyland Titans from Liverpool, Barrow, Lytham, Bradford, Southport and Ribble visiting for the day.
The “Co-op” Moggie Minor van attended a shoppers event at the Moorland Centre of the Lincolnshire Co-operative Society in late November
Museum News
The Society took part once again in the RAF Waddington International Air Show on 30 June - unfortunately, the Sunday opening was cancelled due to flooding. 8 buses belonging to the Society and its members operated a 'park and ride' service in the airshow car park, and a number of cars from the Museum and our members' collections were on display in Hangar 3.
Vehicle News
SOCIETY VEHICLES
SVL 185 – 1961 Austin Gypsy Fire Tender New member Chris has painted the undersides of the mudguards ready for refitting to this vehicle.
FHN 833 – 1940 Bristol L5G s/d Bus The end of August saw a four man team re-cover the middle section of the roof with Calico and paint one Saturday. This has since received more coats of paint and looks rather good (if you bother to get the ladder out and take a look!) More beadings are also being applied to the roof edging. The rewire is now virtually at an end although the main leads have yet to be checked. New destination roller ends have also been manufactured. These are of the spring loaded type rather than the usual fixed rollers with spring gear located in the winding mechanism. The rather tedious job of filling in the screw heads in the waistrail and beadings has commenced.
TE 8318 - 1929 Cheverolet LQ Coach The rear springs and new shackle pins are in the process of being refitted.
KW 6704 – 1930 – Leyland Badger s/d Bus The Badger has been fitted with another dynamo and regulator.
FW 5698 – 1935 Leyland Tiger TS7 s/d Bus At the time of writing the bus is now ready for a road test which should be carried out shortly. Things look promising!
BFE 419 – 1941 Leyland titan TD7 d/d Bus Lincoln No 64 has now been tested. Thanks to Dexel tyres for helping out with a ‘flat’ on the day of the test.
VFF 631 – 1953 Reliant 3-wheel Van John has now removed the engine and gear-box from the van. The cylinder head is cracked; so the Society is on the lookout for another head! This is a side valve head of Reliant manufacture, not the Austin 7 type. Have you got one?
CVL 444D – 1966 Rover P6 2000 Saloon The P6 is now looking a lot smarter thanks to new member Dave, who has given the car a very good clean both inside and out. Pity it needs a lot of work to go back on the road.
MEMBERS' VEHICLES
HPW 133 – 1949 – Bristol K5G d/d Bus Now tested and attending several rallies. This has had a charging fault which is being investigated.
DBE 187 – 1946 Bristol K6A d/d Bus On the way back from the ECW Event at Carlton Colville the engine started to get rather hot so this too is under scrutiny.
OHK 432 – 1949 Daimler CVD6 d/d Bus This too has been MOT tested although this also had a tyre problem the week previous.
Out and About From the Museum
CVL 212 – 1947 Austin 10 GS1 Saloon This was on show together with the 1936 Austin 18 York at Wragby Show, just north of Lincoln, on the 2nd September. This show also has a good display of cars, motorcycles and tractors.
DBE 187: Bristol K6A d/d busattended the ECW Event at the East Anglian Transport Musuem. HPW 133: The Bristol K5G has been to events such as Showbus, Meadowhall, Norwich and Ruddington as well as attending the Lincolnshire Steam & Vintage Rally.
FW 9605 – 1936 Ford V8 Shooting Brake The shooting brake attended the Lincolnshire Steam & Vintage Rally held on the Lincolnshire Showground on 19th August.
VL 1263 – 1930 Leyland Lion s/d Bus Also on show at the Lincolnshire Steam & Vintage Rally, with several members on board.
MFE 454J – 1970 Morris 1000 Van The ‘Moggy’ van attended the Waddington Airshow on the Saturday. Sunday, as most people know, was called off. The van was also on show at the Morris Register National Rally held at Thoresby Park in Nottinghamshire on the 12th August.
Museum News
Recent events have included our Easter Sunday Open Day, the June Castle Rally, and operation of a bus service linking our Museum with the Museum of Lincolnshire Life in uphill Lincoln over the May Day bank holiday weekend in connection with their 'Steam and Oil Days' event.
Privately owned Austin 7, JV 1447, has left the Museum.
Vehicle News
SOCIETY VEHICLES
TL 3513 - 1934 AEC Monarch Tipper Also exhibited at the AEC Rally, this 4-cylinder machine had to have its fuel system cleared out the day before due to ‘all sorts’ being found in the carb and autovac. Thanks to Dave, Robin and Bill amongst others.
JDN 668 - 1954 AEC Regent d/d bus A few jobs had to be undertaken to see the bus through its MOT. Thanks to Neil and Mike for their help here.
KDT 393 - 1951 AEC Regent d/d bus Thanks to Mike (again) Doncaster 122 has been MOT tested after a brake reline. (Both JDN 668 & KDT 393 were exhibited at the AEC Rally on May 27)
FTL 138 - 1950 Albion HD55 six-wheeled lorry The body has been moved backwards a few feet so that the body ‘front’ and ‘cab back’ can be painted before the body is permanently fitted.
TFE 475W - 1981 Austin Allegro The radiator had several bad leaks so a new core was required. This thankfully turned out a lot cheaper than the Chev’s radiator. The new radiator has been fitted by Carl, together with two door-mounted mirrors. The Allegro attended the Castle Rally.
CVL 212 - 1947 Austin 10 GS1 Saloon The ‘10’ has also been over the pit for a clean up and grease on the underside, ready for its M.O.T.
JV 4396 - 1936 Austin 18 York Saloon The ‘18’ passed its M.O.T. on the 25th May and is ready for the new season.
FHN 833 - 1940 Bristol L5G s/d bus Recent work has seen the interior and cab wiring now in place and a full set of tyres and wheels ready to go on (subject to a little touching up with the paint brush). A few little woodwork jobs are also being attended to (back window surrounds and a little nasty bit on the floor near to the step) and the old floor lino has been taken up. Preparatory work is being undertaken in readiness for the windows to be fitted and the interior framework around the roof area has been painted. The interior circular ‘Clayton’ heater has been dismantled for re-chroming but a 12V heater motor for this unit complete with fan is required. Can anyone help? Thanks to Ian, Steve and the two Kens here.
PFE 542V - 1980 Bristol VR d/d bus One of the chassis cross members has had to be plated up due to bad corrosion and new undertrays, carrying the water pipes, have been fitted - again due to rot.
TE 8318 - 1929 Cheverolet LQ Coach Four new tyres and inner tubes have been obtained, and fitted. The wheels are having a repaint; so hopefully ‘The Chev’ will soon be back on the road.
FW 9805 - 1937 Ford V8 Shooting Brake The V8 has been over the pit for an inspection and grease prior to its annual M.O.T.
KW 7604 - 1930 Leyland Badger TA4 s/d bus One of the internal rear wooden panels has been replaced and repainted in readiness for its trip to Plaxtons in April. (The Badger carries a Plaxton made body)
TF 818 - 1930 Leyland Lion s/d bus This should soon be ready for MOT testing
FW 5698 - 1935 Leyland Tiger s/d bus A continuing saga this one! Poor old Lincolnshire 1411 is still not running correctly but Robin and Bob are determined to get to the bottom of things here and have dismantled the engine again to ensure it is correctly timed. Thanks to Bob and Paul for sending through a copy of the engine manual.
MFE 454J - 1970 Morris 1000 Van New webs have been fitted to the passenger seat, the originals having seen better days. New door trims have also been fitted to the front doors. Whilst the van was over the pit a clean and paint of the underside was carried out.
VFF 631 - 1953 Reliant goods tricycle Work has commenced, courtesy of John, on the bodywork framing renovation.
MEMBERS' VEHICLES
952 JUB - 1964 AEC Regent V d/d bus New wings (inner and outer) and associated panels have been made for the nearside front and work on reassembling the front end should recommence soon. Some new wood has been fitted at the nearside rear wheel arch and new panels will also be fitted soon. New fuel pipes have been made for the engine bay. (Thanks to Dave H, Bill and Brian B. here).
GRW 382 - Austin K4 Lorry The K4 has had a short road run but some problems came to light with the brakes. The master cylinder has been removed and will be overhauled.
HPW 133 - 1949 Bristol K5G d/d bus Dave has been organising remedial work to stop an internal water leak on the engine.
OHK 432 - 1949 Daimler CVD6 d/d bus A vacuum leak has been rectified so the vehicle can be tested (Thanks Robin - Again!)
RFE 416 - 1961 Leyland Titan d/d bus The water pump has been overhauled and refitted. (Thanks Robin!)
Out and About From the Museum
CVL 212 - 1947 Austin 10 GS1 Saloon The ‘10’ attended “The Austin Ten Drivers Club” Lincolnshire Austin's in Action Day on the 22 April. This was in the form of a road run from ‘The George’ at Leadenham via country lanes to ‘Woodland Waters’ at Ancaster, with a good turn out of Austin’s from 10’s to 16’s.
MFE 454J - 1970 Morris 1000 Van & TL 8513 AEC Monarch Lorry The Morris van and the AEC Monarch Tipper both attended the ‘Great North Road Transport Extravaganza’, hosted by the AEC Society, at the Newark & Notts Showground on the 27 May. A good turnout of vehicles were on display, but it’s a pity the rain also decided to attend on the day.
Museum News
The major news recently has been the acquisition by the Society of two AEC Regent IIIs -
JDN 668 (York Pullman 64) and KDT 393 (Doncaster 122) - both buses formerly being owned by the late Tony Peart. Tony Peart was a very well known and widely respected figure in the preservation movement. The standard of restoration plus ongoing care lavished upon these buses over the years has set a ‘gold standard’ for other preservationists to try and emulate. Tony was a long-standing member and enthusiastic supporter of the LVVS and the Society was honoured to have these two fine vehicles bequeathed to us upon his death in 2006.
Both buses have now joined the collection at Whisby Road. Both buses have been MOT tested, and appeared together at the AEC Rally at Newark in May, and made their 'service' debut at the November 2007 Open Day.
The Society has also acquired a 1953 Reliant 'Regent' goods tricycle.
Four of the Museum's buses operated a special service in connection with the 'Discover Greater Lincoln' weekend on Sunday 11 March, connecting the Museum with a number of other attractions in and around the City - the Museum was also open on the Saturday.
Vehicle News
SOCIETY VEHICLES
FTL 138 - 1950 Albion HD55 six-wheeled lorry Work progresses well with the interior of the body fitting many wooden slats to the framework.
TFE 475W - 1981 Austin Allegro After extensive bodywork attention the Allegro has passed its MOT test. (Yippee!!) More work will be carried out including taking the front screen out to repair the bodywork in that area. Brake repairs have been necessary - new cylinder bits and hoses. New front tyres. It is currently being repainted. It will need a replacement radiator and still requires a n/s door mirror. Can anyone help?
FHN 833 - 1940 Bristol L5G s/d bus All the exterior panelling is now complete on the n/s of the bodywork - one very small window capping needs to go on the o/s - together with the cast waist-rails and associated new strapping between the panels. The n/s wing is temporarily in place and the sliding door has been refitted following the fitment of new bearings (the originals have long since disappeared!) to the bottom of the door. New aluminium cappings had to be made for around the door apertures of the boot area. Work has also included stripping the rear boot doors of paint revealing that Greyhound’s had painted FHN at least twice (it was Greyhound’s fleet No. 23) and that the doors are off similar bus - United fleet No. BG 120. FHN 833 was BG 147.
A new rear number glass is being lettered at the present time and thought is being given to lining out the interior of the boot with plywood and wooden strappings as per the original spec, before the boot doors go back on. The boot door locks will also have to be fitted once we have sussed out the mechanism properly. We have had to repair the rather beaten up and corroded n/s/f/ wing rather than replace it with a nice new one which we had in the shed due to the nice and new one being slightly larger and not fitting under the valance no matter how we tried! Very frustrating and expensive. Other work has seen new woodwork go in around the canopy so that area can be re-panelled and framing preparation before the zinctec panelling could be fitted to the lower body and some of the roof.
TE 8318 - 1929 Cheverolet LQ Coach The radiator repair has turned out to be very expensive as a new core was required, the cost nearly £1000. The treasurer would be grateful if anyone would like to make a donation towards the cost of this repair. The coach will also have four new tyres and inner tubes. A new driver’s door step is also to be made and fitted as the original is getting a little weak; after all ‘the old lady’ is 78 years old.
KW 7604 - 1930 Leyland Badger TA4 s/d bus One of the internal rear wooden panels has been replaced and repainted in readiness for its trip to Plaxtons in April. (The Badger carries a Plaxton made body)
TF 818 - 1930 Leyland Lion s/d bus ‘202’ is now on the pit for the brake rods to be adjusted ready for its annual test.
FW 5698 - 1935 Leyland Tiger s/d bus The newly overhauled fuel pump is now being fitted.