Recent content by Benno

Briefly, 458s were being refurbished and reformed to 4 cars to work on the Portsmouth line. Covid came and passenger numbers dropped so SWR didn't need them, however the refurb project has started so the 458s continue to be refurbished. As the 458s go for conversion SWR have less units for...

In this case it's not about extending the lease. It is running out of miles until heavy maintenance is due, a C4 exam I believe. This would need carrying out before the lease could be extended. Much better to get one of the 458/4s into traffic, or even get some 701s into service.

458534 is running out if miles and will be stopped shortly, and that one isn’t going for conversion.

458527 is the next unit planned for conversion at Widnes. Due to move from Bournemouth Tuesday 30th April.

Next unit to go should be 458513 next Tuesday.

Yes, the next move will be 458513 next Tuesday 16th April.

They have the yellow stripe above first class.

458501

I do, but not one that can be linked to. Due to the 458 programme continuing SWR have asked Porterbrook to assist with cab modifications (whatever they might be) to get six 458/4s into service for the end of April. 458/5s are continuing to go to Widnes every 2 weeks for modification with...

Definitely a deep clean. 458521 had a deep clean before it went to Widnes. I think an upgrade to TPWS mark 4 is included too, but I’m not 100% sure on that.

Nothing guaranteed but six units to enter service at the end of April after cab modifications (whatever they might be).

Now announced by the ROSCO https://www.porterbrook.co.uk/news/porterbrook-acquires-electrostar-fleet

458521 is the next unit to go to Widnes for conversion. Due to move from Wimbledon to Bournemouth on Friday 8th March and then move to Widnes on Tuesday 12th March.

I think it is 458424 coming back. The next move to Widnes should be 458522 moving from Bournemouth depot on Tuesday 27th Feb. This means it is likely to stop at Wimbledon Wednesday 21st or Thursday 22nd as it planed to move from Wimbledon to Bournemouth on Friday 23rd Feb.

Quite possibly. It should move to Bournemouth shortly after for preparation to move to Widnes (Strapping up collector shoes, removal of step boards etc.)