History of Yorkshire Traction 658 (A658OCX)

658 is a Leyland Olympian with ECW bodywork that was new to Yorkshire Traction in June 1984. It was purchased for preservation in 2006 and after restoration work was carried out, it was painted in Mexborough and Swinton livery, to commemorate the company that was taken over by Yorkshire Traction in 1969.

The bus has been rallied extensively since then and was a very popular vehicle on the rally circuit, often appearing on free bus services. Unfortunately, on the way back from an event in Nottingham in 2015 the bus suffered engine failure and had to be towed back to Sheffield. After investigation work, it was discovered that the failure was due to no.4 big end bearing and the engine now being fit for scrap only.

A replacement Gardner 6LXB unit had been sourced and been fitted meaning the bus is now once again able to move itself around. The bus made its return to the road in 2023 and is a regular on service at the SYTT open days.

Owner - Private