Midland took delivery of 75 Albion Vikings between 1965 and 1969. The Viking VK43AL has a rear in-line mounted Leyland O.400 engine driving through an Albion 5-speed constant mesh gearbox. The type was relatively popular with the Alexander companies; Fife, Midland and Northern taking 211 examples. Elsewhere the type struggled: Scottish Omnibuses and Central SMT taking small numbers and disposing of them quickly.
The vehicles did gain recognition for their reliability especially in rural operations where they often bettered much newer deliveries.
MNV37 spent its entire working life at Perth depot. After withdrawal in December 1980 the late Frank Clark purchased it for preservation. It passed to its current owners (the Albion Vehicle Preservation Trust) upon his death in 1990.
The bus has been uprated with a six speed gearbox and has been re-trimmed inside.
Photographs
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Perhaps you travelled on it, saw it at work, or know part of its story we have not yet recorded. Use the comments section below to share what you remember – every detail helps build a richer picture of Glasgow’s transport history.
- Registration
- JMS 452E
- Chassis type
- Albion Viking VK43AL
- Chassis number
- 53415J
- Body type and seating
- Alexander Y C40F
- Body number
- 89/Y/1966/49
- Date new
- May 1967
- Original operator
- Alexander (Midland) (MNV37)