MAN SL200 #1908

MAN SL200 1908 is definitely another example of a BPASA bus that’s received a lot of attention, but is definitely still under works to bring it to original.

1908 was donated from the BPASA Secretary Bodie, to young keen gunzels Matthew, Joe, and George. Matthew being an apprentice auto electrician and heavy diesel mechanic at the time, decided to do a bit of troubleshooting and repair to get the unit back on the roads once and for all, so it could eventually relocate to a new home.

Initial work that it required before being relocated included:

• Fitting a new set of batteries

• Repairing many air leaks especially due to worn “quick release” fittings and split air lines

• Replacing the wiper blades

• Removing the air conditioning framework that was previously bolted externally to the rear of the bus

• Repairing the transmission wiring, and replacing the transmission’s (loom-end) cannon plug

• Replacing a dodgy relay for the cabin light

• and many more defects

1908 had also received some attention to uncover the old “Serco era” grey interior floor vinyl, which turned out to be very labour intensive, and time consuming. As trouble had loomed for acquiring any sort of interior parts for the bus, let alone a full set, followed by the sudden transmission failure (due to Cannon plug wiring), Joe decided to lose interest on the bus, and instead continue investing on his main bus, 256, and secondly 701. Matthew and George decided that the best use for 1908 in it’s current state (now operable) is as a parts storage and workshop bus. If at any point a partial or full interior set can be procured, 1908 will surely see it’s future restored, but for now it can kindly await it’s future destiny.

Torrens Transit 1908, on a route “T219” to Aberfoyle Hub via Goodwood Road
📷Nathan Crisp 5/12/2008