15/04/2018, 11:36
(30/06/2017 10:33)kuyoyo Wrote: [ -> ]MAN ALX300 22012/26/71/2/5/6 and Dart SLF 34611 are in the process of being prepared for their new roles in the training divisions:
22012 is to replaced 22673 in the role of Slatyford's Route Learning Vehicle
22026 will fulfill the same role at Stockton, effectively replacing 20121
34611 will replace 22215 at Sunderland
22075 is to be Stockton's new Driver Training Vehicle, replacing 20841
22071 will fulfill the same role at South Shields, replacing 20552
22072 will replace 20553 at Slatyford
22076 will replace 20550 at Walkergate
This currently leaves just 20551 at Sunderland awaiting a confirmed replacement.
Since this post, there's been further moves:
22074 has been converted for use at Stockton depot - who will retain two training vehicles. 22074 has replaced 20121 which is now withdrawn and stored inside the main shed at the depot - likely to be used as a source of spares to keep 20841 going. 22075 is presently away for conversion or repaint - not sure which.
Sunderland's training vehicle is 22073
Of the intended conversions, only 22071/3/4/6 appear to have been treated so far.
Of the MANs intended for 'route learning vehicles', all remain in front line service at their home depots - 22012 at Slatyford, 22022 at Walkergate and 22026 at Stockton.
Volvo B12BT 54045 has transferred to South West following the end of the X55.
The ongoing saga of the MAN Kinetics continues. This week has seen 22511 finally enter service at Slatyford, 22 months after the batch arrived in the region. Meanwhile, in a bid to improve reliability at Slatyford, 22512-5 have been transferred out of the depot:
22512/3 to Walkergate, in a direct swap for 22341/2
22514/5 to Stockton, in a direct swap for 22065/6