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The Present => DC Transit Today => Topic started by: ChristopherF on December 02, 2008, 10:21:39 AM

Title: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: ChristopherF on December 02, 2008, 10:21:39 AM
We are now in the very last month of the calendar year.  Here are my very 1st bus sightings for the month of December:

RIDE ON:
975409 on the 15 (Langley Park)
015590 on the 16 (Silver Spring)
075763 on the 34, then the 9 & finally on the 2
085005 on the 30 (Medical Center)
015591 on the 10 (Hillandale)

METROBUS:
6139 on the P17
4020 on the A2
From which garage does 6110 operate out of?
9765 remains @ Montgomery.
9768 remains @ Montgomery.
9774 remains @ Montgomery.
4388 remains @ Landover.
2028 on the F4 with the destination sign stuck on "NOT IN SERVICE"
2327 on the R2 (Calverton) with the route destination sign stuck on "3855"
2307 on the R2 (Calverton & then to Ft Totten)
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: LandoverDivision on December 02, 2008, 10:26:38 AM
Quote from: ChristopherF on December 02, 2008, 10:21:39 AM
We are now in the very last month of the calendar.  Here are my very 1st bus sightings for the month of December:

RIDE ON:
5409 (stuck in silver) on the 15 (Langley Park)
5590 on the 16 (Silver Spring)
5763 on the 34, then the 9 & finally on the 2
5005 on the 30 (Medical Center)
5591 on the 10 (Hillandale)

METROBUS:
6139 on the P17
4020 on the A2
From which garage does 6110 operate out of?
9765 remains @ Montgomery.
9768 remains @ Montgomery.
9774 remains @ Montgomery.
4388 remains @ Landover.
2028 on the F4 with the destination sign stuck on "NOT IN SERVICE"
2327 on the R2 (Calverton) with the route destination sign stuck on "3855"
2307 on the R2 (Calverton & then to Ft Totten)

6110 is Annex.

Here are my sightings:
I corrected a bus driver today. The sign said F8 New Carrollton Station.

9705 on the F8 Langley Park
9740 on the F1 Takoma Station
4395 on the F13 Cheverly Station
3910 on the F12 Cheverly Station
6169 on the F12 New Carrollton Station

6101-6139 ANNEX
6140-6178 LANDOVER
9701-9747 LANDOVER
6179-6217 MONTGOMERY
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: Tristan on December 02, 2008, 11:30:56 AM
Whoops, asleep at the throttle.  Thanks for startin' us off Chris.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: 79MetroExtraMD on December 02, 2008, 12:42:02 PM
Yesterday

Metrobus

2547 D3 @ N. Capitol/Mass
2823 79 @ Silver Spring (Metro Local scheme ML)

Ride On
5004 18 @ Langley Park
5728 15 @ Langley Park & Silver Spring

Today

Ride On
572x 20 @ Piney Branch/Univ.

Metrobus
6161 F6 @ UMD (3839 SILVER SPRING STATION)
Does anybody know why this keeps happening with Landover buses?
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: LandoverDivision on December 02, 2008, 12:47:49 PM
Quote from: 79MetroExtraMD on December 02, 2008, 12:42:02 PM
Yesterday

Metrobus

2547 D3 @ N. Capitol/Mass
2823 79 @ Silver Spring (Metro Local scheme ML)

Ride On
5004 18 @ Langley Park
5728 15 @ Langley Park & Silver Spring

Today

Ride On
572x 20 @ Piney Branch/Univ.

Metrobus
6161 F6 @ UMD (3839 SILVER SPRING STATION)
Does anybody know why this keeps happening with Landover buses?


I'm clueless on that. I saw 6162 say 3829 on it. And another day it said 3838.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: WMATAGMOAGH on December 02, 2008, 02:12:59 PM
Quote572x 20 @ Piney Branch/Univ.

How is anyone else supposed to know the significance of this (if there is any) if you don't even tell us what type of bus it is?
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: 79MetroExtraMD on December 02, 2008, 03:53:46 PM
Quote from: WMATAGMOAGH on December 02, 2008, 02:12:59 PM
Quote572x 20 @ Piney Branch/Univ.

How is anyone else supposed to know the significance of this (if there is any) if you don't even tell us what type of bus it is?

I couldn't see the last number because it was further back on Piney Branch.

Plus, spotted 5545 on the 15 earlier at the same location.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: WMATAGMOAGH on December 02, 2008, 06:19:31 PM
QuoteI couldn't see the last number because it was further back on Piney Branch.

You still didn't answer my question.  Was it an Orion?  Was it a Gillig?  Why is this significant or unusual?
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: WES on December 02, 2008, 10:49:17 PM
Landover's buses have been doing some odd things lately.  One other thing is seeing this on a few Landover buses.

1) In the middle of the front destination sign:  A12

2)Next is: A12 Capitol Plaza

I have seen this a couple of times.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: LandoverDivision on December 04, 2008, 10:00:35 AM
If anyone wants to know which Bs are at Landover here they are:

9302, 9304, 9312, 9332, 9333, 9345, 9361, 9366, 9371, and 9391.

Landover Roster:
2000-2032
3900-3911
4388-4395
6001-6014
6040-6050
6140-6178
9701-9747

I know you all probably know this, but just wanted to pull it up again.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: WES on December 04, 2008, 11:19:41 AM
Unless they moved, also 9302 and 9364 are at Landover.

Also was heading up I-495 in PG, right after the Route 50 exit and saw Fairfax Connector 7988 racing from the opposite direction.  I must say it does look pretty decent.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: ChristopherF on December 04, 2008, 12:39:29 PM
FAIRFAX CONNECTOR:
7788 on the 171 (Franconia-Springfield)
NOTE: 7788 is 1 of only 3 40' Orion Vs in the new scheme.

RIDE ON:
995410, stuck in silver 4ever, on the 10 (Hillandale)
065753 on the 10 (Twinbrook)
025592 on the 10 (Hillandale)

METROBUS:
4020 on the NH1
4349 on the 42 (Metro Center)
From which garage does 9384 operate out of?
9771 remains @ Montgomery.
4337 on the 36 & is no longer wrapped in the MINI ad
4379 on the 28A (Tysons Corner)
4378 remains @ Arlington.
2078 on the Q2, remains unrehabbed
2508 on the 38B (Ballston Station) with "3831" on the route destination sign
2529, 2561, 2569 & 2704 are now in the NGV wrap
2588 is no longer in the NGV wrap
2679 on the REX (Fort Belvoir)
2680 on the REX (King Street Station)
2409 on the R2 (Calverton)
2353 on the R2 (Calverton)
From which garage does 9610 operate out of?
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: LandoverDivision on December 04, 2008, 12:48:44 PM
Quote from: ChristopherF on December 04, 2008, 12:39:29 PM
FAIRFAX CONNECTOR:
7788 on the 171 (Franconia-Springfield)
NOTE: 7788 is 1 of only 3 40' Orion Vs in the new scheme.

RIDE ON:
5410 (stuck in silver) on the 10 (Hillandale)
5753 on the 10 (Twinbrook)
5592 on the 10 (Hillandale)

METROBUS:
4020 on the NH1
4349 on the 42 (Metro Center)
From which garage does 9384 operate out of?
9771 remains @ Montgomery.
4337 on the 36 & is no longer wrapped in the MINI ad
4379 on the 28A (Tysons Corner)
4378 remains @ Arlington).
2078 on the Q2, remains unrehabbed
2508 on the 38B (Ballston Station) with "3831" on the route destination sign
2529, 2561, 2569 & 2704 are now in the NGV wrap
2588 is no longer in the NGV wrap
2679 on the REX (Fort Belvoir)
2680 on the REX (King Street Station)
2409 on the R2 (Calverton)
2353 on the R2 (Calverton)
From which garage does 9610 operate out of?

- 2529 was already in the NGV Wrap.
- 9610 is retired
- I forgot about 9302 and 9364.
- A non-Landover bus with 3831 on it? Wow what is going on with these destination signs?
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: WES on December 04, 2008, 03:30:07 PM
And I just remembered also 9385 that ran from Landover also.  Didn't look all that good, but saw 9391 and 9345 and BOY 9391 looks almost new.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: NewFlyer9736BCT on December 04, 2008, 03:48:52 PM
Ride-On:
5545 at Silver Spring
5551 on the 55 to Rockville
5726 on the 15 then 16
5729 on the 17
5820 has security cameras installed
5002 on the 45 to Fallsgrove (then back to Twinbrook)
-Everyone on the bus was stunned to find this bus on the 45, it was an awesome ride...but I failed to get a picture of it...

One more honorable mention: I saw 5579 deadheading from the I-270 to W. Montgomery Ave exit ramp...it was ORANGE CRUSHED! I literally gasped when I saw it...the rear sign was messed up but I was still excited to see it. It came from the I-270 northbound, like the route 127 used to, I don't know where it was headed or where it was coming from, so I can't confirm 100% that it's a Gaithersburg bus. Also, I didn't see the front or side signs.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: rideonrulez on December 04, 2008, 04:20:13 PM
Quote from: George on December 04, 2008, 03:48:52 PM
One more honorable mention: I saw 5579 deadheading from the I-270 to W. Montgomery Ave exit ramp...it was ORANGE CRUSHED! I literally gasped when I saw it...the rear sign was messed up but I was still excited to see it. It came from the I-270 northbound, like the route 127 used to, I don't know where it was headed or where it was coming from, so I can't confirm 100% that it's a Gaithersburg bus. Also, I didn't see the front or side signs.

5579 is a unique bus because the sign is a Luminator not a twinvision. Also it is a training bus that's why you saw it exiting at Montgomery Ave going back to the training track.

Today I drove 5550 and that bus can move!!
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: NewFlyer9736BCT on December 05, 2008, 07:05:20 AM
Quote from: rideonrulez on December 04, 2008, 04:20:13 PM
Quote from: George on December 04, 2008, 03:48:52 PM
One more honorable mention: I saw 5579 deadheading from the I-270 to W. Montgomery Ave exit ramp...it was ORANGE CRUSHED! I literally gasped when I saw it...the rear sign was messed up but I was still excited to see it. It came from the I-270 northbound, like the route 127 used to, I don't know where it was headed or where it was coming from, so I can't confirm 100% that it's a Gaithersburg bus. Also, I didn't see the front or side signs.

5579 is a unique bus because the sign is a Luminator not a twinvision. Also it is a training bus that's why you saw it exiting at Montgomery Ave going back to the training track.

Today I drove 5550 and that bus can move!!

Now why would you guys orange crush a bus only to get it to thr training track?
Also, where is the training track now? I remember over a year ago that it was on the corner of Clopper Rd and Kingsview Village Ave behind the gas station. Now that it's not there, I have no idea where I could find 5579 or the other training buses.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: rideonrulez on December 05, 2008, 09:39:56 AM
Quote from: George on December 05, 2008, 07:05:20 AM
Quote from: rideonrulez on December 04, 2008, 04:20:13 PM
Quote from: George on December 04, 2008, 03:48:52 PM
One more honorable mention: I saw 5579 deadheading from the I-270 to W. Montgomery Ave exit ramp...it was ORANGE CRUSHED! I literally gasped when I saw it...the rear sign was messed up but I was still excited to see it. It came from the I-270 northbound, like the route 127 used to, I don't know where it was headed or where it was coming from, so I can't confirm 100% that it's a Gaithersburg bus. Also, I didn't see the front or side signs.

5579 is a unique bus because the sign is a Luminator not a twinvision. Also it is a training bus that's why you saw it exiting at Montgomery Ave going back to the training track.

Today I drove 5550 and that bus can move!!

Now why would you guys orange crush a bus only to get it to thr training track?
Also, where is the training track now? I remember over a year ago that it was on the corner of Clopper Rd and Kingsview Village Ave behind the gas station. Now that it's not there, I have no idea where I could find 5579 or the other training buses.

See, what had happened was.....After the accident on Viers Mill Rd with WMATA's 6205, they sent it out to repair the damage and whoever (don't know who) wrote the specs put in "Luminator destination sign" little did they know that Luminator stopped making the flip dot sign it used to have. So the people that fixed the bus got a LED Luminator sign which NONE of our buses have.  ::)

Training track is now located at the Public Safety Training Academy at the corner of Great Seneca Highway and Darnestown Rd off the route 56.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: 79MetroExtraMD on December 05, 2008, 10:11:14 AM
Any word on if 5813 is back in service? I haven't seen it for quite a while. Also, there is a 5900 up in Baltimore which I still can't get the number of since its too dark when I travel.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: rideonrulez on December 05, 2008, 10:43:07 AM
Quote from: 79MetroExtraMD on December 05, 2008, 10:11:14 AM
Any word on if 5813 is back in service? I haven't seen it for quite a while.

5813 is doing the route 70 today, do you mean 5818?

Forgot to note that 5711 has been transferred to Gaithersburg as of yesterday (12/4/08).
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: smithavechuck on December 05, 2008, 10:57:57 AM
George:

What is so special about 5002 being assigned to the 45?

Chuck
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: LandoverDivision on December 05, 2008, 01:20:17 PM
Quote from: WES on December 04, 2008, 03:30:07 PM
And I just remembered also 9385 that ran from Landover also.  Didn't look all that good, but saw 9391 and 9345 and BOY 9391 looks almost new.

I forgot 9304 is also a Landover bus. You should see 9375 and 9376 (Bladensburg buses). They look like they JUST came to WMATA!
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: 79MetroExtraMD on December 05, 2008, 01:32:59 PM
Quote from: rideonrulez on December 05, 2008, 10:43:07 AM
Quote from: 79MetroExtraMD on December 05, 2008, 10:11:14 AM
Any word on if 5813 is back in service? I haven't seen it for quite a while.

5813 is doing the route 70 today, do you mean 5818?

Forgot to note that 5711 has been transferred to Gaithersburg as of yesterday (12/4/08).


Oh yea, I meant 5818. I had a rough past couple of days and am very delirious.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: NewFlyer9736BCT on December 05, 2008, 06:46:29 PM
Quote from: 79MetroExtraMD on December 05, 2008, 10:11:14 AM
Any word on if 5813 is back in service? I haven't seen it for quite a while. Also, there is a 5900 up in Baltimore which I still can't get the number of since its too dark when I travel.

5813 - Back in service, I saw it for the first time in a while yesterday on the 70, and later today on the 46 (I think).

5818 - IDK, Chris, what's the status?

Chuck - Nothing so significant about 5002 on the 45...just a new bus sighting.

Speaking of the baby Gilligs, 5004 was on the 45 today and 5001 on the 18.
(I was waiting for like 1/2 hour freezing my @$$ off at the route 8/18 stop, hoping to see a baby Gillig. I gave up, walked to the bus stop at Colesville & Wayne, and saw 5001 on the 18 going to SS. Knowing that I wouldnt make it to the other stop, I positioned myself to get a pic on the Colesville-Wayne. Unsuccessful front pic, someone got in the way. Got a back shot though, but I really want a front shot.)

-It just goes to show you, I have bad luck when it comes to getting pics of new buses.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: C40LF_2464 on December 06, 2008, 08:18:03 PM
I saw bus7xxx (lol) on the 70 in the new paint scheme

(http://i518.photobucket.com/albums/u341/LIL_J_558/kknj.jpg)
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: OrionFlyer on December 06, 2008, 08:51:30 PM
Looks like WMATA is getting around to the other buses with the new paint scheme. I can't wait to see the Orion VI's and VII's in this scheme.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: WES on December 06, 2008, 11:16:49 PM
2613 broken down close to Ballston, on Washington Blvd at Glebe Road doing a 2C.

2501 was doing a 25A, but in all of the sign it had 3832.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: rideonrulez on December 07, 2008, 11:05:14 AM
Quote from: George on December 05, 2008, 06:46:29 PM
Quote from: 79MetroExtraMD on December 05, 2008, 10:11:14 AM
Any word on if 5813 is back in service? I haven't seen it for quite a while. Also, there is a 5900 up in Baltimore which I still can't get the number of since its too dark when I travel.

5818 - IDK, Chris, what's the status?


Last I checked it was having issues with the CNG storage tanks on the roof. So it is still in the shop line. When it hits the streets I'll let you guys know.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: 79MetroExtraMD on December 07, 2008, 11:40:57 AM
Quote from: WES on December 06, 2008, 11:16:49 PM
2613 broken down close to Ballston, on Washington Blvd at Glebe Road doing a 2C.

2501 was doing a 25A, but in all of the sign it had 3832.

So its affecting Four Mile buses as well. There has to be some kind of glitch in the software or a programming error that's causing the route number to show 38xx. I haven't seen any  Montgomery, Bladensburg, Annex, or Western buses having these issues as of yet.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: OrionFlyer on December 07, 2008, 08:45:19 PM
Is WMATA replacing the slide glide windows with the top open windows? The windows of that Neoplan in the new paint scheme looks like they can only be opened from the top.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: Tristan on December 07, 2008, 10:34:21 PM
I looked at it closely and they look fine to me.  The photo was from apparently a phone so it's hard to make conclusion from it.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: ChristopherF on December 08, 2008, 11:19:53 AM
Time for me to play catch-up!

RIDE ON:
965378 on the 10 (Twinbrook)
965381 on the 10 (Hillandale)
995410, stuck in silver 4ever, on the 20 (Silver Spring)
085730 on the 20 (Hillandale)

METROBUS:
6110 on the A2
6118 on the NH1
From which garage does 9307 operate out of?
4349 on the 66
9312 remains @ Landover.
9345 remains @ Landover.
9351 on the C2 with an M block
9390 remains @ Montgomery.
9412 remains @ Montgomery.
9764 remains @ Montgomery.
9765 remains @ Montgomery.
9770 remains @ Montgomery.
An unknown 1995 NABI Ikarus bus has officially retired.
2416 on the R4 (Brookland Station)
2461 on the 80 (Kennedy Center)
2335 on the 80 (Ft Totten)
2378 on the 86 (Calverton)
2381 on the R2 (Calverton)
2311 on the R2 (Calverton) with "3821" on the route dest. sign
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: WMATAGMOAGH on December 08, 2008, 11:22:27 AM
QuoteAn unknown 1995 NABI Ikarus bus has officially retired.

How do you determine this?
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: LandoverDivision on December 08, 2008, 11:24:48 AM
Quote from: ChristopherF on December 08, 2008, 11:19:53 AM
Time for me to play catch-up!

RIDE ON:
5378 on the 10 (Twinbrook)
5381 on the 10 (Hillandale)
5410, stuck in silver, on the 20 (Silver Spring)
5730 on the 20 (Hillandale)

METROBUS:
6110 on the A2
6118 on the NH1
From which garage does 9307 operate out of?
4349 on the 66
9312 remains @ Landover.
9345 remains @ Landover.
9351 on the C2 with an M block
9390 remains @ Montgomery.
9412 remains @ Montgomery.
9764 remains @ Montgomery.
9765 remains @ Montgomery.
9770 remains @ Montgomery.
An unknown 1995 NABI Ikarus bus has officially retired.
2416 on the R4 (Brookland Station)
2461 on the 80 (Kennedy Center)
2335 on the 80 (Ft Totten)
2378 on the 86 (Calverton)
2381 on the R2 (Calverton)
2311 on the R2 (Calverton) with "3821" on the route dest. sign

A Bladensburg bus with the 3830s/3820s on it. Are they testing a new LED or something? Or some sign in thing? First a Landover bus, then a FMR bus, and now a Bladensburg bus? WOW.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: ChristopherF on December 08, 2008, 12:00:17 PM
Quote from: WMATAGMOAGH on December 08, 2008, 11:22:27 AM
QuoteAn unknown 1995 NABI Ikarus bus has officially retired.

How do you determine this?
Oren, I actually saw that 1995 NABI Ikarus bus, with the Metrobus & Metro logos removed, at WMATA's Montgomery bus division last Thursday.  The fleet number was removed as well.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: WMATAGMOAGH on December 08, 2008, 12:45:21 PM
Thank you.  It doesn't hurt to include those sorts of details when you make your initial posts.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: LandoverDivision on December 08, 2008, 12:54:19 PM
Quote from: ChristopherF on December 08, 2008, 12:00:17 PM
Quote from: WMATAGMOAGH on December 08, 2008, 11:22:27 AM
QuoteAn unknown 1995 NABI Ikarus bus has officially retired.

How do you determine this?
Oren, I actually saw that 1995 NABI Ikarus bus, with the Metrobus & Metro logos removed, at WMATA's Montgomery bus division last Thursday.  The fleet number was removed as well.

Not surprising. They're probably going to send this to CET.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: NewFlyer9736BCT on December 08, 2008, 04:07:40 PM
Quote from: landoverdivision on December 08, 2008, 12:54:19 PM
Quote from: ChristopherF on December 08, 2008, 12:00:17 PM
Quote from: WMATAGMOAGH on December 08, 2008, 11:22:27 AM
QuoteAn unknown 1995 NABI Ikarus bus has officially retired.

How do you determine this?
Oren, I actually saw that 1995 NABI Ikarus bus, with the Metrobus & Metro logos removed, at WMATA's Montgomery bus division last Thursday.  The fleet number was removed as well.

Not surprising. They're probably going to send this to CET.

Even though many routes are in need of artics, I think this is a good move because those NABI artics are slow as hell.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: LandoverDivision on December 08, 2008, 04:28:33 PM
Quote from: George on December 08, 2008, 04:07:40 PM
Quote from: landoverdivision on December 08, 2008, 12:54:19 PM
Quote from: ChristopherF on December 08, 2008, 12:00:17 PM
Quote from: WMATAGMOAGH on December 08, 2008, 11:22:27 AM
QuoteAn unknown 1995 NABI Ikarus bus has officially retired.

How do you determine this?
Oren, I actually saw that 1995 NABI Ikarus bus, with the Metrobus & Metro logos removed, at WMATA's Montgomery bus division last Thursday.  The fleet number was removed as well.

Not surprising. They're probably going to send this to CET.

Even though many routes are in need of artics, I think this is a good move because those NABI artics are slow as hell.

Not as slow as as the Flx-D. But I love those NABIs.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: WES on December 08, 2008, 10:24:01 PM
It is probably the 3 that have been there for a while now.  I saw those a few months back.  I think one maybe 5216, forgot the other two though.  Chris G was the first to spot them there.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: NewFlyer9736BCT on December 09, 2008, 07:06:06 AM
Quote from: WES on December 08, 2008, 10:24:01 PM
It is probably the 3 that have been there for a while now.  I saw those a few months back.  I think one maybe 5216, forgot the other two though.  Chris G was the first to spot them there.
5201, 5216, and either 5206 or 5215 (based on the fact that I haven't seen those buses in a very long time, so I'm not 100% sure...those retired NABIs could be Bladensburg buses for all we know).
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: LandoverDivision on December 09, 2008, 10:11:26 AM
Let me start the Landover Division Flxible Metro-B Roster all over. Here are the Bs that are at Landover:

9302, 9304, 9312, 9332, 9333, 9345, 9361, 9364, 9366, 9371, 9382, 9385, 9391.

Saw 9312 on the T18 and 9382 on the A12 today.

-2020 on the F8

And The Bus needs to get rid of ALL of their freaking Thomas'. Those things are nervewrecking.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: Antozilla on December 09, 2008, 10:32:01 AM
2020 my favorite bus when it was at Four Mile.  The Bus of Vision. 
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: LandoverDivision on December 09, 2008, 10:33:24 AM
Quote from: Antozilla on December 09, 2008, 10:32:01 AM
2020 my favorite bus when it was at Four Mile.  The Bus of Vision. 

Why is it "The Bus of Vision"? Seems like just an ordinary Orion VI.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: Antozilla on December 09, 2008, 10:35:47 AM
Bus # 2020 The bus of vision, get it ;D ;D ;D

What garage is it at now and does it usually do a specific run
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: LandoverDivision on December 09, 2008, 10:36:30 AM
Quote from: George on December 09, 2008, 07:06:06 AM
Quote from: WES on December 08, 2008, 10:24:01 PM
It is probably the 3 that have been there for a while now.  I saw those a few months back.  I think one maybe 5216, forgot the other two though.  Chris G was the first to spot them there.
5201, 5216, and either 5206 or 5215 (based on the fact that I haven't seen those buses in a very long time, so I'm not 100% sure...those retired NABIs could be Bladensburg buses for all we know).

Speaking of retired NABIs, anybody know what the number of the NABI is sitting at CET that looks like it was ripped apart by King Kong?
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: LandoverDivision on December 09, 2008, 10:38:26 AM
Quote from: Antozilla on December 09, 2008, 10:35:47 AM
Bus # 2020 The bus of vision, get it ;D ;D ;D

What garage is it at now and does it usually do a specific run

Landover and no, they randomize it like every other bus. Oh and now I get it I thought you were talking about something else. LOL.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: Tristan on December 09, 2008, 11:38:13 AM
I too miss all my REX Orion VIs that FLEW down Richmond Hwy - they could leave a VII in the dust any day.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: OrionFlyer on December 09, 2008, 12:46:15 PM
Quote from: landoverdivision on December 09, 2008, 10:11:26 AM
And The Bus needs to get rid of ALL of their freaking Thomas'. Those things are nervewrecking.

The only thing I like about them are the destination signs. You rarely see those signs now.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: LandoverDivision on December 10, 2008, 01:52:41 PM
Orion Vs at Annex:

4220-4224
4400-4412
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: C40LF_2464 on December 10, 2008, 05:05:31 PM
Yea i was in a car when i took the pic and the Orion VI REX Busses are retired?
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: NewFlyer9736BCT on December 10, 2008, 06:41:59 PM
1. The bus that looks ripped apart by King Kong is 5234, it was involved in a train accident many years ago.

2. 4224 is at Montgomery. 4220-4223 have moved to Annex.

3. The Orion VI REX buses are not retired, they are in regular colors and are Montgomery buses (2073-2084)
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: Antozilla on December 10, 2008, 09:37:32 PM
What happened with the train accident
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: Perry on December 10, 2008, 09:43:22 PM
It broke down on the train tracks on Randolph Road and a train sliced it in half.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: Antozilla on December 10, 2008, 09:49:20 PM
Is there a pic of this unfortunate fellow
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: ChristopherF on December 11, 2008, 12:32:49 PM
Catching up on my bus observations for this week:

Monday, 12/8:
RIDE ON:
075760 on the 10 (Hillandale)

METROBUS:
6110 on the W4
6139 on the A2
6107 on the NH1
4349 on the 31 (Potomac Park)
4397 remains @ Montgomery.
2421 on the R2 (Calverton & then to Ft Totten)

Tuesday, 12/9:
RIDE ON:
015591 on the 10 (Hillandale)

METROBUS:
4349 on the 66
CONFIRMED: 4311 is no longer wrapped in the MINI ad.
2311 on the R2 (Ft Totten) with "3855" on its route destination sign
2410 on the R2 (Calverton)
2327 on the R2 (Calverton)
2378 is now the SECOND HIGHEST numbered 2001 New Flyer C40LF with on-board security cameras.
2382 is now the HIGHEST numbered 2001 New Flyer C40LF with on-board security cameras.
2001 New Flyer C40LFs WITH cameras: 2300-2355, 2357, 2378, 2382
2001 New Flyer C40LFs WITHOUT cameras: 2356, 2358-2377, 2379-2381, 2383-2399

Wednesday, 12/10:
RIDE ON:
995410, stuck in silver 4ever,, on the 20 (Silver Spring)
995411 on the 10 (Hillandale)

METROBUS:
6139 on the NH1
4020 on the NH1
4349 on the 66
2414 on the 86 (Calverton)
2411 on the R2 (Calverton)
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: NewFlyer9736BCT on December 11, 2008, 04:08:35 PM
Oh I forgot to mention this...I saw a baby Gillig on the 75 the other night, but it was too far away to see the number.
And yesterday - saw 5001 and 5003 on the 45.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: WayneNYC on December 11, 2008, 04:16:52 PM
9305 on the X3.  Haven't seen this squared-backed Metro-B in a long time.

Also 5706 has been doing a lot of AM 70 trips lately.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: NewFlyer9736BCT on December 11, 2008, 08:49:42 PM
I knew this was gonna happen eventually (well maybe it did happen before but I witnessed this for the first time today)

A MetroExtra bus was seen on the D5 on McArthur Blvd near Sibley Hospital heading to Sangamore Rd. I know it wasn't 2801 because it had the green sign, but I was driving, it was dark, it was raining, so I couldn't see the number.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: LandoverDivision on December 12, 2008, 09:44:27 AM
Quote from: George on December 10, 2008, 06:41:59 PM
1. The bus that looks ripped apart by King Kong is 5234, it was involved in a train accident many years ago.

2. 4224 is at Montgomery. 4220-4223 have moved to Annex.

3. The Orion VI REX buses are not retired, they are in regular colors and are Montgomery buses (2073-2084)

4224 is at Annex. It was on the W4 about a week ago on Landover Road.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: ChristopherF on December 12, 2008, 11:19:10 AM
METROBUS:
2068 on the C4, freshly rehabbed
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: 79MetroExtraMD on December 12, 2008, 12:10:23 PM
Metrobus

54xx going thru University of Maryland just a few minutes ago. I just got out of class when I saw it going thru campus so I couldn't catch the number. Ironically, I had a dream that this would happen one day.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: ChristopherF on December 12, 2008, 12:21:59 PM
RIDE ON:
975409, stuck in silver 4ever, on the 20 (Silver Spring)

METROBUS:
From which garage does 9310 operate out of?
With 9610 now belly-up (retired), will ANY of the 1992 Orion Vs be back in service in the forseeable future?
9771 remains @ Montgomery.
4231 on the C8 & is now wrapped in the Russia Today ad
4239 on the C2 (Greenbelt Center)
4240 remains @ Arlington.
3020 on the R4 (Highview)
2421 on the R4 (Brookland Station)
2309 on the 80 (Kennedy Center)
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: WMATAGMOAGH on December 12, 2008, 12:28:23 PM
I would imagine that the 9600s are being kept as part of the contingency fleet Catoe wanted to create when gas prices were high.  I'm also wondering if those and other "retired" buses have a chance of showing up on January 20 in some capacity, whether it be revenue service, shuttle service, or security blockades July 4 style.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: OrionFlyer on December 12, 2008, 12:38:10 PM
Quote from: 79MetroExtraMD on December 12, 2008, 12:10:23 PM
Metrobus

54xx going thru University of Maryland just a few minutes ago. I just got out of class when I saw it going thru campus so I couldn't catch the number. Ironically, I had a dream that this would happen one day.

Is it possible that it could have been on one of Montgomery's or Landover's routes?
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: LandoverDivision on December 12, 2008, 12:47:05 PM
Quote from: NGOrion on December 12, 2008, 12:38:10 PM
Quote from: 79MetroExtraMD on December 12, 2008, 12:10:23 PM
Metrobus

54xx going thru University of Maryland just a few minutes ago. I just got out of class when I saw it going thru campus so I couldn't catch the number. Ironically, I had a dream that this would happen one day.

Is it possible that it could have been on one of Montgomery's or Landover's routes?

Chances are it was a Montgomery Division bus. Possibly the J4 or the C8.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: OrionFlyer on December 12, 2008, 01:25:12 PM
Or the C2.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: LandoverDivision on December 12, 2008, 01:32:11 PM
Yep almost forgot about the C2 though I rarely see artics on this route.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: OrionFlyer on December 12, 2008, 02:04:34 PM
The last time I was in the DC area, the day before Thanksgiving, I was lucky enough to see one going to Wheaton. I was on the DE40lf. I think metro should consider assigning more artics on that line during rush hour.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: NewFlyer9736BCT on December 12, 2008, 02:23:13 PM
Quote from: OrionFlyer on December 12, 2008, 02:04:34 PM
The last time I was in the DC area, the day before Thanksgiving, I was lucky enough to see one going to Wheaton. I was on the DE40lf. I think metro should consider assigning more artics on that line during rush hour.

Was it one of the new artics though?
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: OrionFlyer on December 12, 2008, 02:34:15 PM
No, just the older NABI.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: 79MetroExtraMD on December 12, 2008, 07:25:27 PM
Quote from: landoverdivision on December 12, 2008, 12:47:05 PM
Quote from: NGOrion on December 12, 2008, 12:38:10 PM
Is it possible that it could have been on one of Montgomery's or Landover's routes?

Chances are it was a Montgomery Division bus. Possibly the J4 or the C8.

1. Definately not. Had to be driver training. There was a C2 and a C8 that went thru at the same time. Plus, it was midday.

2. It was midday so the J4 wasn't running. Also, the C8 has mostly D40LFRs, Orion 5s, and a couple Flxs running midday.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: OrionFlyer on December 12, 2008, 09:39:51 PM
Um, I saw in another topic that Montgomery does the 60, 62, 64, 66, 68, 70, and 71 lines. Is that true? I find this very hard to believe, especially the 66, 68.   

Has anybody seen a Montgomery bus on one of those lines?
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: 79MetroExtraMD on December 12, 2008, 09:52:22 PM
Not true. Western does the 60 lines. Northern does the 70 and 71. Someone might have seen a Montgomery bus on these lines as fill ins. There have been times where a bus gets pulled off a line to cover a short trip on a line.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: wmata employee on December 12, 2008, 10:30:33 PM
montgomery operstes the 70/71 lines during rush hour only a 2 blocks  they also  do the 62 aswell now im emlployed there as a supervisor and I should no any question ask me!!!!
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: NewFlyer9736BCT on December 13, 2008, 03:50:55 PM
Forgot to mention this yesterday:

2044 and 2050 were on the M4 during PM rush...first time I ever saw 40-ft buses on the M4. I guess it's a rush hour thing, or maybe all-day, I don't know...
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: ChristopherF on December 15, 2008, 11:14:43 AM
RIDE ON:
055824 on the 56 (Rockville)
965394 on the 34 (Friendship Heights)

METROBUS:
6107 on the NH1
4221 on the NH1
4349 on the 66
4331 on the 31 (Potomac Park)
4330 remains @ Montgomery.
2824 on the 80 (Ft Totten)
2394 on the R3 (Ft Totten)
2375 on the R2 (Calverton) with the destination signs stuck on "NOT IN SERVICE"
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: 79MetroExtraMD on December 15, 2008, 11:20:09 AM
Metrobus

9755 70 N704 @ Silver Spring
5311 70 N703 @ Silver Spring
4293 N501 block displaying 52 L'ENFANT PLAZA @ Silver Spring (might have been a strategic).
9822 @ Silver Spring displaying J1 OLNEY. I got two not too good pics of it from across the street.


Ride On
5545 16 @ Silver Spring
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: LandoverDivision on December 15, 2008, 01:22:39 PM
Today:

4222 on the F13 Cheverly Station with an L Block. Got a pic of it.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: Tristan on December 15, 2008, 04:19:32 PM
Sat night: 3035 on the 10A
Sunday: 2612 (I think) has a New Flyer-style interior rear view (convex) mirror and a new LED stop requested sign mounted next to the front security camera.  Thought it was funny reading the topic about Orion VIIs and their bad Stop Request signs and then seeing this dramatic improvement.  I tried to get a picture but for the first day in months, I didn't have my camera with me.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: 79MetroExtraMD on December 15, 2008, 10:10:44 PM
Quote from: Tristan on December 15, 2008, 04:19:32 PM
Sat night: 3035 on the 10A
Sunday: 2612 (I think) has a New Flyer-style interior rear view (convex) mirror and a new LED stop requested sign mounted next to the front security camera.  Thought it was funny reading the topic about Orion VIIs and their bad Stop Request signs and then seeing this dramatic improvement.  I tried to get a picture but for the first day in months, I didn't have my camera with me.

I rode 2612 on the 38B last year and noticed that LED Stop Requested sign. It's a very bright orange (somewhat overpowers the orange CDS sign). I guess if you aren't sure the bell rang, you'll know now. I do want to see more installations of the LED ones because the regular incandescent ones burn out way too quickly and half the time they are dim or non-functioning.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: WMAveteran on December 16, 2008, 12:47:29 AM
RIDE ON sighting: (08)5005 (Baby G) on Route 45 (Destination: TWINBROOK) at East Middle Lane Lane and Route 355 at 1:15 p.m on  12/15/2008.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: LandoverDivision on December 16, 2008, 09:49:47 AM
What was with these Annex buses on Landover Routes? Later on yesterday, I saw 4221 on the A12. That bus was STINKIN'!! It had a Hershey's Park Ad btw.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: OrionFlyer on December 16, 2008, 01:05:45 PM
Did this bus have a "P" at the beginning of its block number?
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: LandoverDivision on December 16, 2008, 01:09:05 PM
Quote from: OrionFlyer on December 16, 2008, 01:05:45 PM
Did this bus have a "P" at the beginning of its block number?

L Block.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: OrionFlyer on December 16, 2008, 01:18:40 PM
Well I guess Landover is borrowing it from them.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: LandoverDivision on December 16, 2008, 01:52:19 PM
Probably. Here are my observations for today so far:

63169 on the 18 (You gotta love those Advantages)
6001 on the F12
20XX on the F8
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: NewFlyer9736BCT on December 16, 2008, 02:38:38 PM
Quote from: OrionFlyer on December 16, 2008, 01:18:40 PM
Well I guess Landover is borrowing it from them.

Either that or Annex is helping out Landover with some runs. I'm guessing that that's the case because I have heard about these 4220s being on the NH1 recently, plus landoverdivision has mentioned this situation before.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: LandoverDivision on December 17, 2008, 09:33:18 AM
Quote from: OrionFlyer on December 16, 2008, 01:18:40 PM
Well I guess Landover is borrowing it from them.

I saw 4222 AGAIN yesterday. This time on the T18.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: ChristopherF on December 17, 2008, 11:58:47 AM
RIDE ON:
995410, stuck in silver 4ever, on the 20 (Silver Spring)
995712 remains @ Silver Spring.

METROBUS:
6134 on the NH1
From which Metrobus garage does 9307 operate out of?
6139 on the A2
4020 on the NH1
4349 on the 64 (Ft Totten)
4217 on the 86 (Calverton)
2821 on the R2 (Calverton)
2309 on the R2 (Calverton)
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: ChristopherF on December 17, 2008, 12:01:42 PM
RIDE ON:
025598 on the 10 (Hillandale)

METRORAIL (hearing observation):
5088 has a slightly different "doors opening/doors closing" sound from most of its other cars.

METROBUS:
4349 on the 36
9771 remains @ Montgomery.
4239 on the Z2 (Colesville)
4240 remains @ Arlington.
2008 on the F6 (Silver Spring Station), freshly rehabbed
2822 on the 86 (Calverton)
2821 on the R2 (Calverton)
2359 on the R2 (Calverton)
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: WMATAGMOAGH on December 17, 2008, 12:32:08 PM
QuoteMETRORAIL (hearing observation):
5088 has a slightly different "doors opening/doors closing" sound from most of its other cars.

Can you elaborate more?
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: ChristopherF on December 17, 2008, 12:42:27 PM
"Doors opening, stand back so customers may exit, when boarding, move to the center of the car."  That's the exact voiceover quote from Metrorail car #5088.

5711 is now @ Gaithersburg, but 5712 remains @ Silver Spring.  Is 5710 now @ Gaithersburg?
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: Tristan on December 17, 2008, 12:57:23 PM
Probably the "demo" version of the initial recording:

http://transit.tecsbrain.org/recs/index.php?l=12&p=Odds%2C_Ends%2C_%26_Crap/NewWMATAChimes.mp3
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: WMATAGMOAGH on December 17, 2008, 02:13:09 PM
Quote from: Tristan on December 17, 2008, 12:57:23 PM
Probably the "demo" version of the initial recording:

http://transit.tecsbrain.org/recs/index.php?l=12&p=Odds%2C_Ends%2C_%26_Crap/NewWMATAChimes.mp3

That would be my guess, but specifics are always useful.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: wmata employee on December 17, 2008, 02:41:40 PM
Quote from: NewFlyer97BCT on December 16, 2008, 02:38:38 PM
Either that or Annex is helping out Landover with some runs. I'm guessing that that's the case because I have heard about these 4220s being on the NH1 recently, plus landoverdivision has mentioned this situation before.

annex does not help out landover.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: NewFlyer9736BCT on December 17, 2008, 07:16:07 PM
Well it looks like Annex is not the only division that has their buses appearing on Landover buses. I saw 4098 on the F6 about 45 minutes ago on Philadelphia Ave and Fenton Sts. The block was MbX4 where b=blank.

Also, more sightings from today:
9313 at Farragut Square not in service block B4xx
9404 on the 11Y
9329 on the P17 (got a picture of this, a little blurry because it was getting dark)
9772 is FINALLY at Montgomery. It was on the Z11 with an M block.
9409 on the Q2 this morning block MQ15 as well as 4324 on block MQ13.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: rideonrulez on December 17, 2008, 07:56:53 PM
Quote from: ChristopherF on December 17, 2008, 12:42:27 PM
5711 is now @ Gaithersburg, but 5712 remains @ Silver Spring.  Is 5710 now @ Gaithersburg?

Yes 5710 is at Gaithersburg and has been since last week. Actually I saw it on the 55 today...
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: OrionFlyer on December 17, 2008, 08:49:54 PM
Quote from: NewFlyer97BCT on December 17, 2008, 07:16:07 PM
Well it looks like Annex is not the only division that has their buses appearing on Landover buses. I saw 4098 on the F6 about 45 minutes ago on Philadelphia Ave and Fenton Sts. The block was MbX4 where b=blank.

To wmata employee:

Well it looks like Montgomery helped out Landover with that F6 run. Evidence: The bus had an "M" at the beginning of its block AND the bus was a Metro E. Last time I checked Landover doesn't have those buses.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: 79MetroExtraMD on December 17, 2008, 10:32:12 PM
Quote from: NewFlyer97BCT on December 17, 2008, 07:16:07 PM
Well it looks like Annex is not the only division that has their buses appearing on Landover buses. I saw 4098 on the F6 about 45 minutes ago on Philadelphia Ave and Fenton Sts. The block was MbX4 where b=blank.

Also, more sightings from today:
9313 at Farragut Square not in service block B4xx
9404 on the 11Y
9329 on the P17 (got a picture of this, a little blurry because it was getting dark)
9772 is FINALLY at Montgomery. It was on the Z11 with an M block.
9409 on the Q2 this morning block MQ15 as well as 4324 on block MQ13.

I saw 4098 this evening. That block sits as a strategic. I usually see it sitting there with a couple of supervisors I know on it and usually a Montgomery operator who I talk with (who operates that block) when I come to Silver Spring. Most of the time, I see that block run a Z8 short trip to White Oak. George, did you catch a glance as if it was going all the way to New Carrollton or short tripping?
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: NewFlyer9736BCT on December 18, 2008, 12:00:01 AM
Quote from: 79MetroExtraMD on December 17, 2008, 10:32:12 PM
Quote from: NewFlyer97BCT on December 17, 2008, 07:16:07 PM
Well it looks like Annex is not the only division that has their buses appearing on Landover buses. I saw 4098 on the F6 about 45 minutes ago on Philadelphia Ave and Fenton Sts. The block was MbX4 where b=blank.

Also, more sightings from today:
9313 at Farragut Square not in service block B4xx
9404 on the 11Y
9329 on the P17 (got a picture of this, a little blurry because it was getting dark)
9772 is FINALLY at Montgomery. It was on the Z11 with an M block.
9409 on the Q2 this morning block MQ15 as well as 4324 on block MQ13.

I saw 4098 this evening. That block sits as a strategic. I usually see it sitting there with a couple of supervisors I know on it and usually a Montgomery operator who I talk with (who operates that block) when I come to Silver Spring. Most of the time, I see that block run a Z8 short trip to White Oak. George, did you catch a glance as if it was going all the way to New Carrollton or short tripping?

The sign said "F6 New Carrollton" so I guess it did a full trip.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: C40LF_2464 on December 18, 2008, 08:44:34 AM
Just got off 5414 on the U8 and 2005 on the F4 and 9706 on the F4
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: OrionFlyer on December 18, 2008, 09:22:16 AM
How often does Montgomery to help out with the the F4,F6? Is it very rare that happens?
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: WayneNYC on December 18, 2008, 09:30:00 AM
Quote from: OrionFlyer on December 18, 2008, 09:22:16 AM
Is it normal for Montgomery to help out with the the F4,F6 or is it just one of those rare things that happens?

I've never seen a Montgomery bus doing any F4/F6 trips, but I'm sure this probably was a case of a bus being down for whatever reason and the Montgomery bus was made available to fill in.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: ChristopherF on December 18, 2008, 11:57:05 AM
METROBUS:
4349 on the 36
9409 remains @ Montgomery.
9771 remains @ Montgomery.
2320 on the R2 (Calverton & then to Ft Totten)

NOTES:
2674's destination signs look different from all the other Orion VIIs.  I do not think that 2674's destination signs are Luminator signs.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: LandoverDivision on December 18, 2008, 11:59:50 AM
I swear I think 4221 and 4222 is at Landover. But then again, I saw 4223 on the W4 earlier today. So I don't know yet.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: Tristan on December 18, 2008, 12:42:07 PM
Fancher, I agree with you and I will post photos for analysis when I get to a computer.

In other news so far today,
5401 5A - a GREAT ride, didn't feel a single bump, and passed an Orange line train.  Saw it a couple hours later when I was on WashFly, so it's on a day block...sch 9:45 AM out of Rosslyn towards Dulles if anyone wants to follow the block.

Also just saw 9488 on the 26A.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: ChristopherF on December 18, 2008, 12:43:16 PM
RIDE ON:
995713 remains @ Silver Spring.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: LandoverDivision on December 18, 2008, 01:59:08 PM
Quote from: Tristan on December 18, 2008, 12:42:07 PM
Fancher, I agree with you and I will post photos for analysis when I get to a computer.

In other news so far today,
5401 5A - a GREAT ride, didn't feel a single bump, and passed an Orange line train.  Saw it a couple hours later when I was on WashFly, so it's on a day block...sch 9:45 AM out of Rosslyn towards Dulles if anyone wants to follow the block.

Also just saw 9488 on the 26A.

Finally someone saw these on the 5A. So what other 60-BRT is at FMR besides 5401?
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: Antozilla on December 18, 2008, 02:10:14 PM
Are they at FMR? Staff told me that they could not accommodate artics at FMR
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: rideonrulez on December 18, 2008, 02:36:11 PM
Quote from: Antozilla on December 18, 2008, 02:10:14 PM
Are they at FMR? Staff told me that they could not accommodate artics at FMR

Well whoever told you that lied, They use to have about 5 MAN artics back in the day for the 8 line.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: NewFlyer9736BCT on December 19, 2008, 07:47:30 AM
Quote from: rideonrulez on December 18, 2008, 02:36:11 PM
Quote from: Antozilla on December 18, 2008, 02:10:14 PM
Are they at FMR? Staff told me that they could not accommodate artics at FMR

Well whoever told you that lied, They use to have about 5 MAN artics back in the day for the 8 line.
Yeah, FMR is artic-compatible. Maybe the staff said that because there was no more room for artics because of the amount of buses they have there already, but given the amount of room (which I'm almost 100% positive that there is enough room since FMR is huge), it is artic-capable.

Besides, I don't think any of the artics are at FMR, the ones seen on the 5A are done by Bladensburg. At least that's what I heard.

Oh, and I saw 5710 yesterday on the 76. The front sign was messed up.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: WMATAGMOAGH on December 19, 2008, 09:06:37 AM
QuoteBesides, I don't think any of the artics are at FMR, the ones seen on the 5A are done by Bladensburg. At least that's what I heard.

They are at FMR
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: wmata employee on December 19, 2008, 11:45:56 AM
FMR  has only 2 5401-5402 they are parked in the main lot were the maint.buswash area.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: C40LF_2464 on December 19, 2008, 12:55:28 PM
Hey are D40LFR common on the K6?
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: wmata employee on December 19, 2008, 01:44:53 PM
all depends on whats available,but  normally  the K6always gets I believe 97/98 flxible.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: Tristan on December 19, 2008, 05:34:37 PM
That's incorrect, not that they don't get Flxibles and maybe they even get them quite often but I know all I see on weekends is D40LFRs.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: 79MetroExtraMD on December 19, 2008, 10:07:43 PM
Metrobus

2633 83. Rode this going down to Rhode Island

2820 B2 @ Mt. Rainer
2822 86 going up Rhode Island
2824 M31 @ Rhode Island Avenue Sta.

Ride On
5734 15 @ Silver Spring and Piney Branch/Flower. This bus looks unwrapped from plastic new.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: ChristopherF on December 20, 2008, 11:43:40 AM
RIDE ON:
995713, 995714 remain @ Silver Spring.

METROBUS:
6107 on the NH1
2036 on the 36
4349 on the 36
9362 on the 83 (Cherry Hill)
4239 on the C8 (White Flint Station)
4240 remains @ Arlington.
4331 on the 36
4330 remains @ Montgomery.
4397 remains @ Montgomery.
2210 on the 64
2631 on the 86 (Calverton) & is no longer in the NGV wrap
2388 on the 80 (Kennedy Center)
2821 on the 80 (Kennedy Center)
2372 on the 80 (Ft Totten)
From which garage does 9310 operate out of?
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: LandoverDivision on December 20, 2008, 12:25:29 PM
Saw 4222 again yesterday on the T18. So I can probably officially say that 4221 and 4222 at Landover now.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: C40LF_2464 on December 20, 2008, 12:36:21 PM
9362 on the 83  :o
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: Tritransit Area on December 21, 2008, 07:03:39 PM
Quote from: DE40LFR on December 19, 2008, 12:55:28 PM
Hey are D40LFR common on the K6?

D40LFRs are actually common the K6.  Those and DE40LFs basically hold down the line nowadays.  Of course, other buses also make their way onto the line frequently as well.

Of course, I'm only down there several times a year, but those have been my observations when I used it.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: WayneNYC on December 22, 2008, 06:36:31 PM
Couple of Ride On buses with mechanical problems today.  This morning spotted 5906 on Girard Street with a road truck behind the bus.  The bus' engine was running.  I'm guessing that if it was an engine issue the mechanic managed to get it restarted to make it back to the base. 

This afternoon spotted 5836 with engine door open on the 55 at Frederick near Deer Park Ave.  Rescue bus had just taken passengers from 5836.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: ChristopherF on December 23, 2008, 11:06:08 AM
RIDE ON:
055934 on the 59 (Montgomery Village)

METROBUS:
4247 on the 3B (Falls Church Sta)
6139 on the A2
4020 on the NH1
4349 on the 36
9483 on the 26A
9492, still in the old 2nd scheme, on the 3T
9772 on the K6 (White Oak) with an M block, was previously a Bladensburg bus
5212 on the C2 (Greenbelt Center)
4261 on the 3A (Annandale) & is no longer wrapped in the MINI ad
4262 remains @ Northern.
4311 on the Z2 (Silver Spring Station) & is no longer wrapped in the MINI ad
4310 remains @ Northern.
4331 on the 66
4330 remains @ Montgomery.
2033 on the 64 (Georgia Ave Petworth), freshly rehabbed
2588 on the 38B (Farragut Square)
2417 on the R2 (Calverton)
2824 on the 80 (Kennedy Center)
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: 79MetroExtraMD on December 23, 2008, 05:59:20 PM
Two sexy ladies on the 5A today. I caught both 5401 and 5402.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: uncle_shawn on December 23, 2008, 06:22:20 PM
Yesterday, about 7 am, 5410 or 5418?? leaving the BWI Business District en route to the airport on the B30. Now, are the new 'tics going to Landover??
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: 79MetroExtraMD on December 23, 2008, 06:29:43 PM
Quote from: uncle_shawn on December 23, 2008, 06:22:20 PM
Yesterday, about 7 am, 5410 or 5418?? leaving the BWI Business District en route to the airport on the B30. Now, are the new 'tics going to Landover??

Probably an extra to help with the holiday rush. They had regular buses on the B30 during the Thanksgiving travel period on both the Wednesday before and Sunday after.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: OrionFlyer on December 23, 2008, 07:46:25 PM
oh hell yeah. i'm definitely taking a bus trip to dc tomorrow. i hope i get a chance to ride one of them on the b30 and i will get pics.

metroextra those pics are sweet!
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: 79MetroExtraMD on December 23, 2008, 08:15:53 PM
Quote from: OrionFlyer on December 23, 2008, 07:46:25 PM
oh hell yeah. i'm definitely taking a bus trip to dc tomorrow. i hope i get a chance to ride one of them on the b30 and i will get pics.

metroextra those pics are sweet!

The 5A is your best bet. It's not a guarantee that they'll be on the B30 tomorrow. The 5A has two of them on two blocks during midday. I found them on FD05 and FD06. Try following the 9:30am outbound run to Dulles.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: WMAveteran on December 24, 2008, 12:55:56 AM
I was doing holiday shopping at Montgomery Mall on the afternoon of 12/23/2008 and noticed what amounts to a mini NY Port Authority Terminal in operation at the north end parking lot near the SEARS Auto Center.  The MTA and EYRE coaches that operate the Route 991 service line up there before they start their runs from Rock Spring to Hagerstown and Frederick.  There were about nine coaches (4 MTA MCI 102DL3s, and the rest were assorted EYRE types).  Unfortunately because of the traffic I couldn't stop to record bus numbers and manufacturers.  I did record the numbers 142-C and 143-C on two of the MTA coaches.  It was a nice change from the normal transit buses at Montgomery Mall and the coaches are not visible from the Montgomery Mall Transit Center.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: C40LF_2464 on December 24, 2008, 10:54:33 AM
I ahve a pic of them on the 5A ill post it later
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: WES on December 24, 2008, 08:56:45 PM
Loudoun County has gotten some more MCIs.  These look like they have the new front caps along with the new rear.  Don't know how many they have but it seems they have just recently entered service.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: OrionFlyer on December 24, 2008, 09:30:08 PM
5417 on the B30 i was on it and got pictures to prove it. they are attached. why was the block "OKAY"?

2032 T16, 6157 89, 6195 C2,
6148 R12*, 6041 89M, 4329 C2,
2002 R12, 6170 F13, 6047 R12,
2001 F14*, 6046 F14, 5414 U8* with 3856 as the route number, 5410 U8 with 3855 as the route number,
3011 U4, 5407 U8, 5415 U8,
2311 U5, 2359 X2, 2413 X2,
2326 U6, 5416 U8, 2365 X2,
2442 V7, 4215 V7*, 2327 U5,
2379 M6, 2378 B2, 2370 B2,
2434 V7, 4217 P6, 2581 2587* N22,
2454 P2, 4303 92, 2149 92,
2567 N22, 4305 96, 3013 D4,
2820 D6*, 2812 79*, 4308 70,
9754 70, 5304 70, 2353 H2,
2203 64, 5303 70, 5310 70,
5308 70, 5311 70 local scheme looks nice on the Neoplan,
9805 J2, 4297 S2, 9825 Z2,
2070 Y8*, 4308 71, 2151 S2,
6193 Q2, 2074 Q2, 2094 C2*,
6189 C4, 2086 J4, 6180 C2,
2376 86, 2007 R12, 9127 T17,
9332 87, 6044 R12, 9719 T17,
4390 B30*, 6032 C2
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: 79MetroExtraMD on December 25, 2008, 10:08:39 PM
Quote from: ChristopherF on December 25, 2008, 10:08:14 PM
Happy Holidays from all of us at the DC Area Transit Zone!

RIDE ON:
5730 on the 10 (Hillandale)

METROBUS:
From which garage does 6110 operate out of?

Annex
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: ChristopherF on December 25, 2008, 10:14:43 PM
RIDE ON:
085730 on the 10 (Hillandale)

METROBUS:
2000-2032: LANDOVER
2033-2066: WESTERN
2067-2099: MONTGOMERY
From which garage does 9310 operate out of?
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: OrionFlyer on December 26, 2008, 06:54:05 AM
lol those brts were catching the eyes of everybody at bwi and on 295. it was like they never seen a bus before. they was like " what kind of bus is that?"

oh yeah and other thing, those buses are slow on the highway.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: LandoverDivision on December 26, 2008, 11:04:56 AM
4220 at Addison Road Station this morning.

6150 C21 (Pointer Ridge)
63169 on the 18
6174 on the C22 (Addison Road Station)
6148 on the F12 (New Carrollton Station)
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: LandoverDivision on December 26, 2008, 01:00:05 PM
Confirmed:

4220-4222 ARE NOW LANDOVER DIVISION BUSES
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: 79MetroExtraMD on December 26, 2008, 01:54:41 PM
Quote from: OrionFlyer on December 26, 2008, 06:54:05 AM
lol those brts were catching the eyes of everybody at bwi and on 295. it was like they never seen a bus before. they was like " what kind of bus is that?"

oh yeah and other thing, those buses are slow on the highway.

I beg to differ. Ride 5401 and 5402. They have good speeds on the Toll Road going up to Dulles. Let me ask you this. How was traffic on 295?
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: BladensburgB2 on December 26, 2008, 06:16:10 PM
Were are the pic at of the 5400's on the B30 ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: OrionFlyer on December 26, 2008, 09:32:27 PM
79MetroExtraMD: Traffic was smooth. Maybe its just 5417. The driver was complaining about how slow it was too. It was like  the bus has a mind of it's own when it comes to speed. It would go a little fast then slow. But the overall ride was slow especially when we were on Powder Mill Rd. Cars were going around us.

BladensburgB2:  They are on page 9.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: Tritransit Area on December 26, 2008, 10:49:08 PM
I saw 4399 again on the K6.  A suburban.  I'm wondering if this is interlined with an express bus route, because this isn't the first time I saw this bus in service on this route.  I think it was around the same time I rode it on the route as well!

Also, after many embarrassing moments and sheepish grins today while attempting to use my Smartrip on the bus (like holding up an entire C2 busload of people at Wheaton), I finally figured out how to get mine to work!  I think I was tapping it the wrong way, holding it down for too long.  If I hold it horizontally and barely touch the target, I'm welcomed with a beep.  I must say that Smartrips read much better at the Metrorail turnstiles, though.

So, no need to buy a new one, although I just purchased an Obama Smartrip card as a collectible...just wanted to share that with those who witnessed my Smartrip issues today, lol.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: 79MetroExtraMD on December 27, 2008, 07:18:16 AM
Quote from: OrionFlyer on December 26, 2008, 09:32:27 PM
79MetroExtraMD: Traffic was smooth. Maybe its just 5417. The driver was complaining about how slow it was too. It was like  the bus has a mind of it's own when it comes to speed. It would go a little fast then slow. But the overall ride was slow especially when we were on Powder Mill Rd. Cars were going around us.

BladensburgB2:  They are on page 9.

Another thing might be they could have been tuned for city driving and not so much for suburban highway driving. Since they get assigned to the U8, wouldn't really need to go 50 on Burroughs. 5401 and 5402 seem to be tuned for highway speeds and run very smooth. To be honest, CNG engines don't have that feel of diesel engines as for take off but as for getting up to speed, they are okay. It's just the initial take off that's a problem.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: WMATAGMOAGH on December 27, 2008, 01:59:47 PM
Quote from: Tritransit Area on December 26, 2008, 10:49:08 PM
I saw 4399 again on the K6.  A suburban.  I'm wondering if this is interlined with an express bus route, because this isn't the first time I saw this bus in service on this route.  I think it was around the same time I rode it on the route as well!

Also, after many embarrassing moments and sheepish grins today while attempting to use my Smartrip on the bus (like holding up an entire C2 busload of people at Wheaton), I finally figured out how to get mine to work!  I think I was tapping it the wrong way, holding it down for too long.  If I hold it horizontally and barely touch the target, I'm welcomed with a beep.  I must say that Smartrips read much better at the Metrorail turnstiles, though.

So, no need to buy a new one, although I just purchased an Obama Smartrip card as a collectible...just wanted to share that with those who witnessed my Smartrip issues today, lol.

I don't know what your issues were, but I've also found that my Smartrip is registered faster on Metrorail than on Metrobus.  I've also discovered that other cards can cause problems for Smartrip (Smartrip wouldn't register at all when my Oyster from London was in my wallet for a few days after I got back from Europe in June), so it helps to have Smartrip near the outside of your wallet, or to remove it entirely.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: C40LF_2464 on December 27, 2008, 02:04:50 PM
please dont tell me Landover does the B30
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: NewFlyer9736BCT on December 27, 2008, 03:29:19 PM
Quote from: DE40LFR on December 27, 2008, 02:04:50 PM
please dont tell me Landover does the B30
It does. What's wrong with that?
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: C40LF_2464 on December 27, 2008, 05:21:21 PM
Because we need those buses on diffrent routes
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: 79MetroExtraMD on December 27, 2008, 05:51:09 PM
Quote from: DE40LFR on December 27, 2008, 05:21:21 PM
Because we need those buses on diffrent routes

What buses are you talking about?
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: WMATAGMOAGH on December 27, 2008, 06:27:44 PM
Quote from: DE40LFR on December 27, 2008, 05:21:21 PM
Because we need those buses on diffrent routes

The NABI Artics aren't assigned to Landover in the first place, fueling them there would be difficult.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: C40LF_2464 on December 27, 2008, 06:35:09 PM
yea lol Landover isnt a CNG division wish we had those nice Orion VII's there i will ride them till i die
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: 79MetroExtraMD on December 27, 2008, 06:39:24 PM
Quote from: DE40LFR on December 27, 2008, 06:35:09 PM
yea lol Landover isnt a CNG division wish we had those nice Orion VII's there i will ride them till i die

Maryland didn't want to build a CNG facility. Only VA and DC.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: Scrabbleship on December 27, 2008, 07:38:25 PM
And Maryland sucks for doing so and should have been forced to build one by WMATA.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: 79MetroExtraMD on December 27, 2008, 07:43:08 PM
Quote from: Scrabbleship on December 27, 2008, 07:38:25 PM
And Maryland sucks for doing so and should have been forced to build one by WMATA.

WMATA can't force Maryland to do anything. Remember, its a tri-jurisdictional authority. Maryland got the hybrids and DC and VA got the CNG ones. Ride On comes close to a CNG facility, but it probably would have been costly to install CNG facilities at Montgomery and Landover alongside the diesel fueling facilities.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: WMATAGMOAGH on December 27, 2008, 07:47:39 PM
Quote from: 79MetroExtraMD on December 27, 2008, 07:43:08 PM
Quote from: Scrabbleship on December 27, 2008, 07:38:25 PM
And Maryland sucks for doing so and should have been forced to build one by WMATA.

WMATA can't force Maryland to do anything. Remember, its a tri-jurisdictional authority. Maryland got the hybrids and DC and VA got the CNG ones. Ride On comes close to a CNG facility, but it probably would have been costly to install CNG facilities at Montgomery and Landover alongside the diesel fueling facilities.

Maryland WAS going to build a CNG facility at Montgomery before an Erlich appointed board member said it would be cheaper and just as environmentally friendly to get the hybrids and other clean diesels.  He wasn't very pro transit in general though and is known for making some other strange decisions.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: 79MetroExtraMD on December 27, 2008, 08:02:43 PM
Quote from: WMATAGMOAGH on December 27, 2008, 07:47:39 PM
Quote from: 79MetroExtraMD on December 27, 2008, 07:43:08 PM
Quote from: Scrabbleship on December 27, 2008, 07:38:25 PM
And Maryland sucks for doing so and should have been forced to build one by WMATA.

WMATA can't force Maryland to do anything. Remember, its a tri-jurisdictional authority. Maryland got the hybrids and DC and VA got the CNG ones. Ride On comes close to a CNG facility, but it probably would have been costly to install CNG facilities at Montgomery and Landover alongside the diesel fueling facilities.

Maryland WAS going to build a CNG facility at Montgomery before an Erlich appointed board member said it would be cheaper and just as environmentally friendly to get the hybrids and other clean diesels.  He wasn't very pro transit in general though and is known for making some other strange decisions.

We kinda forgot about Ehrlich. As for the anti-transit standing, GBBI pretty much sums everything up.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: WMATAGMOAGH on December 27, 2008, 08:58:59 PM
Who is we? 
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: Tritransit Area on December 28, 2008, 12:49:23 AM
The suburbans sure were out tonight on WMATA bus routes!  I found 6208 on the C8 "Express" (according to the sign), then saw 6217 on the J2.  I saw 6206 on another route as well.

Finally, I got a comfortable and all too short ride on 4397 on the K6.

Other things to note:

*Ride On 5934 on the 48.  Not unusual, but I'm starting to see why people down here (there) have a general dislike for ZFs.  This bus was rather on the slow side, and had issues taking the hills on Viers Mill Road.  The gears seemed to shift slightly shorter than average (for a ZF) as well, although that's debatable.

*Baby G 5003 arriving at Silver Spring, Not In Service.  The interesting thing is that this bus pulled into the upper Ride-On section at around 8pm and then parked, still out of service.  The 18 doesn't serve Silver Spring that late in the day - what route could it be going on?  Maybe the 5, but didn't residents want cutaways on that route after a certain hour?  This request goes back to the days when Ride-On had nothing larger than 30 ft, if I remember correctly.

The 4300s and 2100s sure are different (tested both of them in DC).  Other than seating arrangments and window opening styles, I feel the 4300s have a stronger engine.  Plus, they seem a bit faster than 2100s as well!  They sound very similar, but the 4300s have a slight hum to it.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: 79MetroExtraMD on December 28, 2008, 10:07:59 AM
Quote from: Tritransit Area on December 28, 2008, 12:49:23 AM
The suburbans sure were out tonight on WMATA bus routes!  I found 6208 on the C8 "Express" (according to the sign), then saw 6217 on the J2.  I saw 6206 on another route as well.

Finally, I got a comfortable and all too short ride on 4397 on the K6.

Other things to note:

*Ride On 5934 on the 48.  Not unusual, but I'm starting to see why people down here (there) have a general dislike for ZFs.  This bus was rather on the slow side, and had issues taking the hills on Viers Mill Road.  The gears seemed to shift slightly shorter than average (for a ZF) as well, although that's debatable.

*Baby G 5003 arriving at Silver Spring, Not In Service.  The interesting thing is that this bus pulled into the upper Ride-On section at around 8pm and then parked, still out of service.  The 18 doesn't serve Silver Spring that late in the day - what route could it be going on?  Maybe the 5, but didn't residents want cutaways on that route after a certain hour?  This request goes back to the days when Ride-On had nothing larger than 30 ft, if I remember correctly.

The 4300s and 2100s sure are different (tested both of them in DC).  Other than seating arrangments and window opening styles, I feel the 4300s have a stronger engine.  Plus, they seem a bit faster than 2100s as well!  They sound very similar, but the 4300s have a slight hum to it.

Meh. I'm more ZF and Voith. Allisons just plain suck. As for 5003 at Silver Spring, there is the 8. It could have been coming off the 8. The 5 doesn't go to Nicholson until late night, sometime after 10pm I think.

The 4300s are really nice. I like riding them on the S line heading down 16th Street. Although I haven't been on that line in quite a while (thanks to the 79), I'd still take it on a weekend to get downtown faster than on the 70.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: Antozilla on December 28, 2008, 11:04:22 AM
Metro has suburbans?  Only one door and all that???
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: WayneNYC on December 28, 2008, 11:29:48 AM
Quote from: Antozilla on December 28, 2008, 11:04:22 AM
Metro has suburbans?  Only one door and all that???

I grew up in the late 60s/early 70s when true suburbans were going strong.  I'm my mind WMATA hasn't had suburbans since 100 series Flxibles of the late 70s.  After those anything suburban-like (WMATA) has simply been a transit bus with suburban interior.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: 79MetroExtraMD on December 28, 2008, 12:27:39 PM
Quote from: WayneNYC on December 28, 2008, 11:29:48 AM
Quote from: Antozilla on December 28, 2008, 11:04:22 AM
Metro has suburbans?  Only one door and all that???

I grew up in the late 60s/early 70s when true suburbans were going strong.  I'm my mind WMATA hasn't had suburbans since 100 series Flxibles of the late 70s.  After those anything suburban-like (WMATA) has simply been a transit bus with suburban interior.

Metro doesn't really consider them suburbans. They call them high backs. I have a roster for Montgomery and they do have HB as being high back.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: Tritransit Area on December 28, 2008, 04:19:48 PM
The 2 NABI 60BRTs are still at Landover - just saw them moments ago, parked in the depot (that IS Landover by the train tracks, right?)  Although I imagine they are still being used to for the B30 (why aren't they running then?), I must wonder how exactly they are fueling these buses.

Is Bladensburg nearby?
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: C40LF_2464 on December 28, 2008, 04:27:22 PM
Maybe they are borowing fuel from Blade or transporting those buse from Landover to Blade idk
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: WMATAGMOAGH on December 28, 2008, 04:52:31 PM
Quote from: Tritransit Area on December 28, 2008, 04:19:48 PM
The 2 NABI 60BRTs are still at Landover - just saw them moments ago, parked in the depot (that IS Landover by the train tracks, right?)  Although I imagine they are still being used to for the B30 (why aren't they running then?), I must wonder how exactly they are fueling these buses.

Is Bladensburg nearby?

You can see CET from the Orange Line or NEC (I assume those are the tracks you are referring to), but not Landover Division itself.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: WES on December 28, 2008, 07:59:33 PM
Bladensburg is about a 20 minute ride from Landover.  With Benning Road still undergoing construction and WMATA, trying to keep these buses from sitting in a yard till the Benning Road construction wraps up, don't be surprised if WMATA doesn't test these buses on other routes (other than the B30).

This is WMATA we are talking about, surprises are common.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: rideonrulez on December 28, 2008, 09:37:09 PM
Quote from: Tritransit Area on December 28, 2008, 12:49:23 AM

*Baby G 5003 arriving at Silver Spring, Not In Service.  The interesting thing is that this bus pulled into the upper Ride-On section at around 8pm and then parked, still out of service.  The 18 doesn't serve Silver Spring that late in the day - what route could it be going on?  Maybe the 5, but didn't residents want cutaways on that route after a certain hour?  This request goes back to the days when Ride-On had nothing larger than 30 ft, if I remember correctly.

The 5 is operated by Nicholson as follows:
Weekdays: 10pm from Silver Spring, 10:46pm from Twinbrook
Saturdays: 7pm from Silver Spring, 7:46pm from Twinbrook
Sundays: 8pm from Silver Spring, 8:46pm from Twinbrook

These are the first trips and operate to the end of service.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: Tritransit Area on December 29, 2008, 02:31:50 AM
Quote from: WMATAGMOAGH on December 28, 2008, 04:52:31 PM
Quote from: Tritransit Area on December 28, 2008, 04:19:48 PM
The 2 NABI 60BRTs are still at Landover - just saw them moments ago, parked in the depot (that IS Landover by the train tracks, right?)  Although I imagine they are still being used to for the B30 (why aren't they running then?), I must wonder how exactly they are fueling these buses.

Is Bladensburg nearby?

You can see CET from the Orange Line or NEC (I assume those are the tracks you are referring to), but not Landover Division itself.

Oh my goodness, I apologize for the error!  That would explain why there was that 1/2 an Ikarus parked there as well.   Well, there were two BRTs sitting there, anyway.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: ChristopherF on December 29, 2008, 12:30:47 PM
RIDE ON:
995411 on the 34 (Wheaton)
Do U know Y these Gillig Phantoms will NEVER be crushed?

METROBUS:
2065 on the 64
6110 on the NH1
4063 on the 3B (Falls Church Sta)
From which garage does 9310 operate out of?
4396 remains @ Montgomery.
4399 remains @ Montgomery.
2824 on the 80 (Kennedy Center)
2411 on the 80 (Ft Totten)
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: WMATAGMOAGH on December 29, 2008, 12:59:26 PM
Why should the Ride On Gilligs get new signs?
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: Tritransit Area on December 30, 2008, 04:01:42 AM
I guess to avoid problems like this:

(http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b62/Bastranz/DC%20Area%20Transit/Ride%20On/Gilligs/Ride-on5414-Hillandale-12-27-08.jpg)

(http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b62/Bastranz/DC%20Area%20Transit/Ride%20On/Gilligs/RideOn5414-RandolphRd-ViersMillRd-1.jpg)

Route 10 to Rockbrook, anyone?

But anyway, it'd be too much of a headache to install such signs now, as these Gilligs are hitting 10 years old (with the others around the 12 year mark).  Soon they'd be gone as well.  But who knows with Ride On...after all, I was just riding around 1996 Gillig Phantoms that were announcing stops and showing the date and time!
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: Tritransit Area on December 30, 2008, 04:04:39 AM
(http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b62/Bastranz/DC%20Area%20Transit/PowerMillRdshelter-12-27-08.jpg)

This is a shame - it was such a nice bus shelter, too.  I've been noticing that both DC and Montgomery County have been upgrading the shelters - they look great!
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: BladensburgB2 on December 30, 2008, 06:06:05 PM
 :o :o  What the HAM SANDWICH happen to that?
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: 79MetroExtraMD on December 30, 2008, 06:08:39 PM
Today's sightings

Metrobus

5402 5A FD06 @ Tysons Westpark
9319 38B FM16 @ Ballston (An Arlington fill in)
9356 13B (displaying 23B) @ 7th & Constitution
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: rb8888 on December 31, 2008, 10:48:29 AM
This morning I saw the following on 16th St NW (southbound):

9752 (S1 Potomac Park)
2158 (S2 McPherson Square)
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: WMATAGMOAGH on January 01, 2009, 01:43:05 PM
I made the sighting yesterday (December 31) so I'll post it here:

While driving on River Road, I saw an Orion VI with an updated headsign reading for Friendship Heights:

FRIENDSHIP
HEIGHTS STATION

The display was static with both lines showing at once. 

I think it is too much to cram onto a sign, but clearly someone at WMATA thinks otherwise.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: ChristopherF on January 02, 2009, 11:55:33 AM


Quote from: Tritransit Area on December 30, 2008, 04:04:39 AM
(http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b62/Bastranz/DC%20Area%20Transit/PowerMillRdshelter-12-27-08.jpg)

This is a shame - it was such a nice bus shelter, too.  I've been noticing that both DC and Montgomery County have been upgrading the shelters - they look great!
Quote from: Tritransit Area on December 30, 2008, 04:04:39 AM
(http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b62/Bastranz/DC%20Area%20Transit/PowerMillRdshelter-12-27-08.jpg)

This is a shame - it was such a nice bus shelter, too.  I've been noticing that both DC and Montgomery County have been upgrading the shelters - they look great!
That is exactly what I saw when I was coming back home from my almost-weeklong Christmas visit with my parents in Front Royal, Virginia.  Apparently, a car wrecked the bus shelter (pictured here) near my own backyard last week.  That damaged shelter at the intersection of New Hampshire Ave & Powder Mill Road has since been removed.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: LandoverDivision on January 03, 2009, 03:53:00 PM
Why did 4220-4222 move to Landover?
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: ChristopherF on January 05, 2009, 10:36:10 AM
And now, my very last observations of 2008:

RIDE ON:
965999 on the 48 (Rockville) with a blown engine
995716 remains @ Silver Spring.
025593 on the 10 (Hillandale)
055823 on the 48 (Wheaton)
085737 on the 10 (Hillandale)

METROBUS:
6110 on the W4
6107 on the NH1
4366 on the 28B (King Street Station)
From which garage does 9310 operate out of?
4247 on the 3B (Falls Church Sta)
6139 on the A2
9387 remains @ Montgomery.
9767 remains @ Montgomery.
4213 on the 80 (Ft Totten)
4235 on the K6 (White Oak)
2012 on the F4, freshly rehabbed
2062 on the 66
2093 on the C4, freshly rehabbed
2621 on the 38B (Farragut Square)
2412 on the R2 (Ft Totten)
2417 on the 80 (Ft Totten)
2301 on the 80 (Kennedy Center)
2431 on the 80 (Ft Totten)
2066 on the 66

NOTES:
2163 is now the only Orion V from the 2000 model year that has Aesys signs.  2164, 2165 & 2166 no longer have Aesys signs as all 3 of these buses have switched to Luminator destination signs.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: Tristan on January 06, 2009, 07:07:53 PM
Quote from: landoverdivision on January 03, 2009, 03:53:00 PM
Why did 4220-4222 move to Landover?

Because someone in Bus Operations said so.
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: WES on January 06, 2009, 10:28:36 PM
This was observed last Monday Dec 29th, and yes it is late, but I am slow
so here it is.

2628 was on the 38B, saw this at Farragut Square.

An unidentified Metro E at Federal Triangle was signed "34-Ballston"
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: Perry on January 07, 2009, 09:50:40 AM
Hah, was that you playing around with the sign or ESP for a 30's route finally going to Arlington? LOL
Title: Re: December 2008 Obervations
Post by: WES on January 07, 2009, 11:37:52 PM
*whistling* *whistling* *whistling*........................

Um no  ;D   My original plan was to try and program the bus to say "8220 Sheriff Road", but it didn't take  :P  Might as well program it for somewhere I go on a regular basis.