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Ernie · 15-01-2009, 18:55

As a supplementary point and having mentioned half-cabs, I read on another site that the final batch of PD3s, 166-9, were converted to o-p-o in 1972. A feature in Classic Bus some time ago reckoned only 8 companies used half-cab buses as driver only, and Hyndburn wasn't on that list, so does anyone know if they were used as driver-only buses or were the plans shelved?

Thanks in anticipation of replies![/quote]

You are quie correct Dave, the PD3s 166 to 169 were converted but never regularly used in service. I have personally used those vehicles when I was on the Accrington buses but only as an emergency on school specials or works runnings when no O.P.O bus or conductor was available, the dificulty was that the pneumo cyclic gear selector mechanism was a lot bigger on the PD3 than the Atlantean and this prevented the driver from turning round in the seat to operate the ticket machine which in those days were T.I.M 12 manually operated. I hope I have shed some light on the subject, always happy assist.

15-01-2009, 18:55	#171
Ernie Resting In Peace Join Date: Jan 2004 Location: Bury, Lancashire, UK. Posts: 314 Liked: 2 times Rep Power: 47	Re: Accy Buses............ As a supplementary point and having mentioned half-cabs, I read on another site that the final batch of PD3s, 166-9, were converted to o-p-o in 1972. A feature in Classic Bus some time ago reckoned only 8 companies used half-cab buses as driver only, and Hyndburn wasn't on that list, so does anyone know if they were used as driver-only buses or were the plans shelved? Thanks in anticipation of replies![/quote] You are quie correct Dave, the PD3s 166 to 169 were converted but never regularly used in service. I have personally used those vehicles when I was on the Accrington buses but only as an emergency on school specials or works runnings when no O.P.O bus or conductor was available, the dificulty was that the pneumo cyclic gear selector mechanism was a lot bigger on the PD3 than the Atlantean and this prevented the driver from turning round in the seat to operate the ticket machine which in those days were T.I.M 12 manually operated. I hope I have shed some light on the subject, always happy assist.