Transport Enthusiasts Club of Ireland http://tec-ireland.fotopic.net/ 6 rows en-gb 60 SPECIAL FEATURE: Wrightbus http://tec-ireland.fotopic.net/c1781088.html A Special feature celebrating 1st anniversary of Wrightbus Gemini double-deckers into service with Bus Eireann and Dublin Bus showing them in production at Wrightbus in Ballymena Northern Ireland. Dublin Bus ordered 50 Wrightbus Gemini double-deckers (VG1-50). All were built on Volvo B9TL chassis and featured the high Dublin Bus Spec. All the front windscreens were modified and recessed to counteract reflections at night. Everything from VG1-VG35 arrived in standard Dublin Bus livery with the exception of VG9 and VG10 which were delivered in the all-over-white ‘Wedding bus livery’. VG36-VG48 were destined to replace the AV Airlinks in Summerhill on the 747 and 748 routes. They were delivered in a basic green livery. This batch also featured extra luggage racks. They were finished in the complete Airlink livery by a contractor in Dublin. VG49 and VG50 arrived in standard Dublin Bus livery but were fitted with the luggage racks to operate Airlink and normal routes. Dublin Bus also leased and later bought an extra Wrightbus Gemini. WH1 was delivered to Summerhill garage to run on the route 16. It features hybrid technology and is bulit on a VDL DB250 glider chassis. It has a small Ford diesel engine that charges and works with the Siemens ELFA hybrid driveline. Sadly, it is not reliable enough to be in active service all the time. Bus Eireann ordered 10 double-deckers (VWD1-VWD10). They were also built on Volvo B9TL chassis. They were fitted with high-back seats for commuter routes. VWD1-4 were allocated to Broadstone and are mainly on Dublin-Ashbourne. VWD6-10 were allocated to Cork. Sunday 15 November 2009: A Special feature celebrating 1st anniversary of Wrightbus Gemini double-deckers into service with Bus Eireann and Dublin Bus showing them in production at Wrightbus in Ballymena Northern Ireland. Dublin Bus ordered 50 Wrightbus Gemini double-deckers (VG1-50). All were built on Volvo B9TL chassis and featured the high Dublin Bus Spec. All the front windscreens were modified and recessed to counteract reflections at night. Everything from VG1-VG35 arrived in standard Dublin Bus livery with the exception of VG9 and VG10 which were delivered in the all-over-white _Wedding bus livery_. VG36-VG48 were destined to replace the AV Airlinks in Summerhill on the 747 and 748 routes. They were delivered in a basic green livery. This batch also featured extra luggage racks. They were finished in the complete Airlink livery by a contractor in Dublin. VG49 and VG50 arrived in standard Dublin Bus livery but were fitted with the luggage racks to operate Airlink and normal routes. Dublin Bus also leased and later bought an extra Wrightbus Gemini. WH1 was delivered to Summerhill garage to run on the route 16. It features hybrid technology and is bulit on a VDL DB250 glider chassis. It has a small Ford diesel engine that charges and works with the Siemens ELFA hybrid driveline. Sadly, it is not reliable enough to be in active service all the time. Bus Eireann ordered 10 double-deckers (VWD1-VWD10). They were also built on Volvo B9TL chassis. They were fitted with high-back seats for commuter routes. VWD1-4 were allocated to Broadstone and are mainly on Dublin-Ashbourne. VWD6-10 were allocated to Cork.

VG36-VG48 were delivered in the above format. The graphics were applied after delivery. VG36 Lower Saloon - Note the extra Luggage Racks. VG10 prior to delivery. VG9 and VG10 received the Wedding-bus livery. VG1 fresh from the spray booth. Both the VGs and VWDs received the newly designed rear. VG1 Lower Saloon. The VGs and VWDs were fitted with a straight staircase. This makes passenger movement easier but reduces seat capacity on the upper deck. VG1 Upper deck front. Note the screen bracket at the front window. These would be later fitted to the VG Airlinks. VG1 Offside. VWD1 just out of the spray booth. VWD1: The VWDs were fitted with High-Back seats. Note the ‘Bus Eireann’ branding on the stairs. VWD1: Upper deck. VWD2 fresh from the spray booth. Stage 1: The Volvo B9TL chassis is brought into the factory. Each side of the bus is assembled on a jig and then fitted to the bus. The roof is assembled in a different part of the workshop. The wiring looms are run through before the floor and interior are installed. This bus will become VG4 Stage 2: The floor is fitted. The front is fitted as one complete panel. Note the recessed windscreen. This was a modification requested by Dublin Bus to avoid glare by interior lights at night. The above bus will become VG3. Stage 3: The interior side walls are fitted - VG2 Stage 4: The windows, doors and wheelchair ramp are fitted. The above bus will become Bus Eireann’s VWD10. Unlike the Dublin Bus VGs, The VWDs received the standard windscreen and bonded side windows. Stage 5: The seats, grab-rails, partitions and light-fittings are installed, completing the interior. The above bus will become Bus Eireann’s VWD9. This would become the Dublin Bus Hybrid based at Summerhill – WH1. It is photographed on a test run near the Wrightbus factory.

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]]> Sun Nov 15 2009 Showbus 2009 http://tec-ireland.fotopic.net/c1764778.html This years annual Showbus Rally was held on the 27th of September at Duxford in Cambridgeshire. The large number of buses at the show included both preserved and modern buses from around the UK and Europe. It is by far the largest bus show in the UK. Ex-Dublin Bus Olympian, RH7 built in Belfast in 1990, attended the Show while on a 5 day tour of the UK, visiting North Wales, London and Ensignbus in Essex. We are delighted to report that RH7, won 'Best Overseas Entry' at the show. Three years ago preserved coach, CVH4, a 1986 ex-Bus Eireann VanHool Acron won this same prize. Sunday 27 September 2009: This years annual Showbus Rally was held on the 27th of September at Duxford in Cambridgeshire. The large number of buses at the show included both preserved and modern buses from around the UK and Europe. It is by far the largest bus show in the UK. Ex-Dublin Bus Olympian, RH7 built in Belfast in 1990, attended the Show while on a 5 day tour of the UK, visiting North Wales, London and Ensignbus in Essex. We are delighted to report that RH7, won 'Best Overseas Entry' at the show. Three years ago preserved coach, CVH4, a 1986 ex-Bus Eireann VanHool Acron won this same prize.

The TEC attended with ex-Dublin Bus Olympian RH7. The bus was restored over a number of months and was unveiled at the I.T.T Rally in Cultra Belfast last April. It is photographed arriving at the show. RH7 was a surprise entry at Showbus 2009 and was well received by enthusiasts. Many were interested in RH7 as the majority of the ex-Dublin Bus Olympians now work in the UK. RH7 at Showbus 2009. Routemaster RM5 (VLT 5) on display. The stalls were packed with various parts for different vehicles. It’s always a good place for vehicle owners to look. There is something for everyone. Here souvenir Bus Stops are for sale During the day, there were various runs on preserved buses around the local area. One of Ensignbus’ latest acquisitions, a Volvo B10L Alexander Ultra. Routemaster RML2589 (JJD589D) ‘Cambridge Citi’ Alexander Dennis Enviro 200, 36011 (AE07 KYS) Wrightbus Eclipse 21230 (AE09 GZA) and Alexander Dennis Enviro 400 15464 (AE09 GZA) in Stagecoaches new ‘Bio Bus’ Livery. The annual Showbus Rally took place in Duxford on the 27th of September 2009. As usual, there were plenty of entries both new and old. The weather for the day was excellent. The ‘best overseas entry’ prize was deservedly won by RH7. In 2006, ex-Bus Eireann VanHool Acron CVH4 won the prize. Oxford Tube’s brand new, £350,000 VanHool Astromega, 50223 (OU59 AVW). It was one of the stars of the show. It is one of 26 ordered/delivered. Each has 87 seats, toilets and Wifi on board.

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]]> Sun Sep 27 2009 Fingal Vintage Rally 2009 http://tec-ireland.fotopic.net/c1764750.html The Fingal Vintage Society held their annual show on September 20th 2009 near Lusk Co.Dublin. It had been postponed from earlier in the summer due to poor weather. The main theme this year was the '250th Anniversary of Guinness'. A large number of preserved Guinness vehicles were in attendance. The National Transport Museum also brought along a number of vehicles. TEC attended with Ex-Dublin Bus Olympian RH7 and Ex-CIE Leopards C26 and C160. All buses were delivered to the event the night before. Brian O'Leary attended with his former CIE Leyland Beaver truck and trailer. Thanks to the Fingal Vintage Society for organising the event. Sunday 20 September 2009: The Fingal Vintage Society held their annual show on September 20th 2009 near Lusk Co.Dublin. It had been postponed from earlier in the summer due to poor weather. The main theme this year was the '250th Anniversary of Guinness'. A large number of preserved Guinness vehicles were in attendance. The National Transport Museum also brought along a number of vehicles. TEC attended with Ex-Dublin Bus Olympian RH7 and Ex-CIE Leopards C26 and C160. All buses were delivered to the event the night before. Brian O'Leary attended with his former CIE Leyland Beaver truck and trailer. Thanks to the Fingal Vintage Society for organising the event.

The TEC attended with Ex-Dublin Bus Olympian RH7 and Ex-CIE Leopards, C26 and C160. As seen from the photograph, the weather was excellent. The show was mainly agricultural however Trucks were a close second with the numbers attending. Plenty of people at the show. Mercedes 220SE Two 1974 Ford Torinos in the ‘Starsky and Hutch’ style. Brian O Leary’s Ex-CIE Leyland Beaver truck and trailer. This rally was RH7’s first event with its new advertisements, ‘CIE Down all the days’ on the nearside and Heinz Ketchup ‘Delicious on Double Deckers’ on the off side. Corvette Stingray

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]]> Sun Sep 20 2009 C26 http://tec-ireland.fotopic.net/c1747454.html Fleet number: C26 Registration: EZH 26 Year: 1965 Chassis: Leyland Leopard PSU3 Body: CIE Spa Road Engine: Leyland 0.600 W/d: 1995 Status: Fully Restored C26 was delivered to Tralee garage in Co. Kerry in 1965. It maintained its original format, never having had its roof domes changed. It was one of 14 Cs which were never modified, so it was ideal for preservation. It was one of four that weren’t done in Tralee garage – two short Cs and two long Cs – C26/28, 223, 230 were four of the 14 that weren’t done nationally. The mould machine that made the domes and fronts were damaged by fire in 1979. The machine also made fronts and rears for Ds and Ms. C26 was bought for preservation in 1995 following its transfer to schools service. It was in poor condition when it entered restoration. Restoration work began in 1998, three years after its retirement. It was returned to cream roof, red livery with cream waist line. It has yet to return to Tralee where it was stationed new. It is the second-lowest C in preservation after the TMSI’s C17. On the rally circuit, it has been around a lot. Shortly after restoration in 1998, it travelled across to the UK to attend the Red Rose Rally. It was at nearly every large event including the 1999 ITT rally in Cultra where it was lined up with other Cs in the many different liveries that they wore. C26 was placed into storage and not used until it was requested by Bus Eireann in July 2009, almost 10 years since it was last out. Over a number of weeks, C26 was serviced and various parts were replaced ahead of the Ballina Vintage Festival. On the 9th of August, C26 attended the Moynalty Steam and Threshing Festival. Monday 31 August 2009: Fleet number: C26 Registration: EZH 26 Year: 1965 Chassis: Leyland Leopard PSU3 Body: CIE Spa Road Engine: Leyland 0.600 W/d: 1995 Status: Fully Restored C26 was delivered to Tralee garage in Co. Kerry in 1965. It maintained its original format, never having had its roof domes changed. It was one of 14 Cs which were never modified, so it was ideal for preservation. It was one of four that weren_t done in Tralee garage _ two short Cs and two long Cs _ C26/28, 223, 230 were four of the 14 that weren_t done nationally. The mould machine that made the domes and fronts were damaged by fire in 1979. The machine also made fronts and rears for Ds and Ms. C26 was bought for preservation in 1995 following its transfer to schools service. It was in poor condition when it entered restoration. Restoration work began in 1998, three years after its retirement. It was returned to cream roof, red livery with cream waist line. It has yet to return to Tralee where it was stationed new. It is the second-lowest C in preservation after the TMSI_s C17. On the rally circuit, it has been around a lot. Shortly after restoration in 1998, it travelled across to the UK to attend the Red Rose Rally. It was at nearly every large event including the 1999 ITT rally in Cultra where it was lined up with other Cs in the many different liveries that they wore. C26 was placed into storage and not used until it was requested by Bus Eireann in July 2009, almost 10 years since it was last out. Over a number of weeks, C26 was serviced and various parts were replaced ahead of the Ballina Vintage Festival. On the 9th of August, C26 attended the Moynalty Steam and Threshing Festival.

Some of the nearside frame needed replacement. 9th of August 2009 - C26 at the Moynalty Steam and Threshing Festival. One area needing attention was the suspension, some shocks and airbags needed replacement. Saloon looking front: The original seatbacks would have had the checkerboard design similar to the interior wall trim. Even in the vast spares acquired, none of these seats were found in suitable condition. The very best of what was available was used. C26 cab area. Ger Grant also did the electrics. The pneumatic semi-automatic gearbox was very popular among drivers on the C and D class. In 1999, after it’s appearance with other preserved Cs at the ITT rally in Cultra, C26 was placed into storage as other vehicles were used on the rally circuit. In July 2009, over 10 years after it was last on the road, C26 was prepared to attend the Ballina Vintage Festival at the request of Bus Eireann. The seats had to be replaced as they were worn from years of use. The C class seat design was also featured in the D and SS class. The chassis and underside of the frame was cleaned and treated to keep it in good condition. After all the servicing and replacing of various parts, C26 is again part of the front line preservation fleet. It’s expected to attend numerous events in the coming months. Thanks to all those involved in getting it back on the road. C26 was delivered new to Tralee garage Co. Kerry in 1965. It is photographed well into its service life awaiting departure to Killarney. C26 was an excellent candidate for preservation as it retained original features, such as the roof domes, rear corner windows and original fiberglass front. The staff in Tralee Garage were delighted when it was chosen for preservation. C26’s bodywork was restored to a very high standard by John Wheatley in Drogheda and was delivered in undercoat. John started work in Spa Road as a coachmaker building the last of the C class buses, and his interest is evident in the high quality of his work, as seen in C26 with Gerard Grant at the wheel. Shortly after acquisition. Thankfully it retained the rear corner glass which was amazing after a 30 year service life. Most Cs were just panelled over if they lost a rear window as they were costly to replace. C26 with Ian Molloy’s C234. It underwent an extensive restoration. It was re-built with original domes by John Wheatley to an exceptional standard. It was re-sprayed to CIE coach brown in 1997 and one is of the best restorations around today. C26 at the Dublin Bay Rally. It was housed at the Local bus depot while in Manchester. C26 on the 70 mile Trans Pennine Rally for preserved commercial vehicles. C26 on the 70 mile Trans Pennine Rally for preserved commercial vehicles. Vehicles of all shapes and sizes took part in the rally. C26 returning to Dublin, photographed in Dun Laoghaire Co. Dublin just off the ferry with Paschal Boland at the wheel. C26 at the ‘Manchester Museum of Transport’, Over 10 years later, Preserved Olympian RH7 called by the museum en route back to Ireland after it’s restoration. C26 attracting the attention of enthusiasts while arriving at the Red Rose Rally. Very soon after the restoration was completed, C26 travelled across the Irish sea heading for Manchester Airport to meet a Ryanair flight from Dublin to attend the local Red Rose Rally. C26 also took part in the gruelling 70 mile Trans Pennine Rally for preserved commercial vehicles. After the bodywork was completed, Ger Grant was tasked with returning the bus to it’s original red livery with cream roof. As seen in the photograph, he did just that and to an exceptional standard. It was cascaded onto the schools fleet and re-classified as CS26. It retained it’s original fiberglass front and domes. C26 was withdrawn from the Bus Eireann schools fleet in 1995. It was subsequently acquired for preservation. Bus Eireann invited the TEC to attend the 2009 Ballina Vintage Festival requesting a former CIE vehicle. C26 is photographed at the festival on Wednesday 15th July 2009. The TEC has attended with a number of vehicles over the years at Bus Eireann’s request such as KE35. 15th July 2009 - C26 at the Ballina Vintage Festival.

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]]> Mon Aug 31 2009 CVH29 - Dublin - Waterford - Cork http://tec-ireland.fotopic.net/c1746040.html CVH29 was out for a run during the 15th & 16th of August 09. It departed Dublin on the Saturday morning and followed the 004 route to Waterford. It was significant as Waterford was the garage which CVH29 was delivered to when it was new in 1986. To make the weekend interesting and limit time pressure, it was decided that the CVH would overnight during the run and return to Dublin on the Sunday. After some photographs and lunch in Waterford, the bus headed for Cork, following the 040 route via Youghal. Once again photos were taken around Cork and outside Parnell Place bus station. The following morning the bus headed back to Dublin on the 008 route. It was a most enjoyable trip onboard CVH29. Thanks to Bus Eireann Waterford who accommodated the CVH at the Bus Station for photos and to CVH29’s owner Des Willis. Saturday 22 August 2009: CVH29 was out for a run during the 15th & 16th of August 09. It departed Dublin on the Saturday morning and followed the 004 route to Waterford. It was significant as Waterford was the garage which CVH29 was delivered to when it was new in 1986. To make the weekend interesting and limit time pressure, it was decided that the CVH would overnight during the run and return to Dublin on the Sunday. After some photographs and lunch in Waterford, the bus headed for Cork, following the 040 route via Youghal. Once again photos were taken around Cork and outside Parnell Place bus station. The following morning the bus headed back to Dublin on the 008 route. It was a most enjoyable trip onboard CVH29. Thanks to Bus Eireann Waterford who accommodated the CVH at the Bus Station for photos and to CVH29_s owner Des Willis.

CVH29 at Parnell Place bus station. After Waterford, CVH29 followed the 040 to Cork. It is photographed approaching Parnell Place. CVH29 alongside LC15. Thanks to the inspectors for allowing the bus into one of the empty bays. The CVH was greeted by the inspectors and drivers at the Bus Station, many of whom had driven it in service. CVH29 preparing for departure on the morning of Saturday 15th of August. CVH29 at Parnell Place with owner Des Willis at the wheel. After this photo, CVH29 headed back following the 008 route to Dublin. The first leg of the journey was the 004 route to Waterford. CVH29 is photographed in Crookstown near Athy Co.Kildare. The first leg of the journey was the 004 route to Waterford. CVH29 is photographed in Crookstown near Athy Co.Kildare. This was the first 'Stop' on the run. Drivers looking at CVH29 in Waterford, perhaps remembering better days. The CVHs were well liked with drivers and passengers. The comfort was superior to the Ms and KEs which were on the road when the CVHs were delivered in 1986.

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]]> Sat Aug 22 2009 C26 - Ballina Vintage Festival http://tec-ireland.fotopic.net/c1728444.html Bus Eireann invited the TEC to attend the Ballina Vintage Festival on Wednesday 15th July 2009, requesting a former CIE vehicle. The TEC have brought a number of vehicles to Ballina over the years including KE35. C26 was prepared specially for this year’s event as it was in storage since 1999 due to other buses being used on the rally circuit. After some servicing and mechanical work, a large amount on the suspension, it was ready in time to travel to Ballina. Upon arrival on the Tuesday it was well received by Bus Eireann staff at the garage. On display at the festival in Ballina, it attracted a lot attention from both enthusiasts and the general public. A special thanks to Bus Eireann for their usual hospitality and accommodation. Wednesday 15 July 2009: Bus Eireann invited the TEC to attend the Ballina Vintage Festival on Wednesday 15th July 2009, requesting a former CIE vehicle. The TEC have brought a number of vehicles to Ballina over the years including KE35. C26 was prepared specially for this year_s event as it was in storage since 1999 due to other buses being used on the rally circuit. After some servicing and mechanical work, a large amount on the suspension, it was ready in time to travel to Ballina. Upon arrival on the Tuesday it was well received by Bus Eireann staff at the garage. On display at the festival in Ballina, it attracted a lot attention from both enthusiasts and the general public. A special thanks to Bus Eireann for their usual hospitality and accommodation.

C26 performed well, back at base alongside Bombardier KE35, another veteran of the Ballina Vintage Festival. C26 awaiting departure on the long trip west to Ballina on Tuesday 14th July. C26 on display at the festival. Festival winding down as the bus prepares for its trip back to Dublin. Bus Eireann drivers looking on board C26 remembering earlier times, a stark contrast from the fleet of 2009. The weather was great and crowds at the festival were large.

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