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Double deck buses Coach fleet 1749 (1963)
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Our current major project - number 1749 Coach 1749 (left) was delivered new in 1963 to Southdown Motor Services, Sussex, for use on their luxury tours and excursions. The chassis is a Leyland Leopard L2 with bodywork by Harrington of Hove to their Grenadier style. Originally fitted with 28 sumptuous reclining seats, the coach was a later rebuilt to seat 41 for use on general coaching duties. We bought the coach 10 years ago from another operator who had acquired the vehicle as a possible future spare. We then placed the vehicle in dry storage whilst other projects were completed. |
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Reserve fleet |
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The coach is now our main restoration project and will see the coach transformed back to 1963 condition. Already the engine has been stripped down to replace parts damaged by flood water, a rebuilt gearbox has been fitted and the front axle has been refurbished. Brake, air suspension, water, electrical and fuel systems are currently being attended to plus replacement of damaged chassis parts. Repairs to side lockers, wheel arches and battery compartment are also planned. It is expected the project will take 3 – 4 years to complete. |
