Mercedes O305 3000
A Mercedes Benz O305 with a PMC MKIV “Galvastress” Body
Eventually 3000, along with the other Mount Hotham MKIV’s went for auction. A Victorian gunzel (ironically also named Matthew) accidentally bought 3000, with no intention to keep the bus. Through a mutual friend, it was recommended that I would be a suitable candidate to take up 3000, and I’m glad that was so. $2000 later, and a short flight to Melbourne, I had myself an O305!
With a Chassis built in 11/86, and bodied in 2/87, 3000 was delivered new to Waverly Depot on the 19th of February, 1987.
Post retirement, 3000 was bought by Snow Bus in Mount Hotham, where it operated in service doing shuttles and loop runs, up until Mid-Covid. This was evidenced by the amount of COVID signage and even taped-on sanitiser bottles still remaining on the bus!
The current plans for 3000 are to keep it in it’s current STA corporate livery, having removed the Mount Hotham wrap, with most time to be spent restoring the bus mechanically and electrically.
3000’s Mechanicals
Engine:
Type: OM 407 h
Position: Rear Underfloor
Capacity (cc): 11412
Cylinders: 6
Compression: 16.5:1
Bore (mm): 125
Stroke (mm): 155
Max kW/rpm: 147/2200
Max Nm/rpm: 716/1400
Fuel Pump: Bosch
Injectors: Bosch
Transmission:
Type: W3D080/2.2R
Ratios/max road speed (km/h):
1st Torque Con. 5.95/13
1st lockup 2.12/35
2nd lockup 1.35/55
3rd lockup 1/75
Reverse Ratio: 2.23:1
Rear Axle type: HO7/8DL/10
Final Drive: 5.9:1
Brakes:
Type: Front and rear air operated drums
Secondary: Hydraulic Retarder
Handbrake: Air Actuated spring parking brake
Electrical:
Alternator: Bosch
Voltage: 24
Amperes: 120
Capacities (L):
Fuel: 250
Engine Oil: 24.5
Transmission: 20
Differential: 7.5
Power steering: 8.5
Coolant: 55
Dimensions (mm):
Length: 10750
Width: 2500
Height: 3050
Wheelbase: 5330
F. Overhang: 2370
R. Overhang: 3050
Turning circle: 19300
Weights (kg):
Unladen front: 2950
Unladen rear: 5950
Laden front: 6000
Laden rear: 10000
GVM: 16000