Mystic's Transit Gallery http://mystic.fotopic.net/ 29 rows en-gb 60 The Legends of Legendre http://mystic.fotopic.net/c940998.html A quick walk around the property of Legendre yesterday really showed me how many buses Legendre has sent off for early retirement, and it's not a pretty sight. I didn't see any cats at home, but there were lots of empty food wrappers laying around. Note that thankfully, some of these are most likely not set for retirement, but either for rebuilding, or maintenance, and are parked next to those that are retired, which makes telling them apart all the more difficult. (Since nowadays the STM retires buses that look and sound better than those currently on the road!) Friday 28 April 2006: A quick walk around the property of Legendre yesterday really showed me how many buses Legendre has sent off for early retirement, and it's not a pretty sight. I didn't see any cats at home, but there were lots of empty food wrappers laying around. Note that thankfully, some of these are most likely not set for retirement, but either for rebuilding, or maintenance, and are parked next to those that are retired, which makes telling them apart all the more difficult. (Since nowadays the STM retires buses that look and sound better than those currently on the road!)

STM Bus #11-092 - 1992 MCI Classic STM Bus #14-102 - 1994 Nova Classic: Probably waiting for a rebuild, or maintenance. STM Bus #11-071 - 1991 MCI Classic: There is a sign on the window warning everybody not to attempt to move this bus for any reason. STM Bus #11-094 - 1992 MCI Classic

Published in Mystic's Transit Gallery

]]> Fri Apr 28 2006 The STM 11-xxx Series 1991 MCI Classics http://mystic.fotopic.net/c821285.html The STM has already started to retire this series of vehicles, and most likely most will be gone by the end of 2006. So this photo collection is dedicated to all of my STM 1991 MCI Classic sightings. I hope you enjoy the photos, and remember, now's the good time to get out there and photograph them. Atleast 3 buses so far that I have photographed in the last few weeks have been retired, so it's never too early to start! Sunday 8 January 2006: The STM has already started to retire this series of vehicles, and most likely most will be gone by the end of 2006. So this photo collection is dedicated to all of my STM 1991 MCI Classic sightings. I hope you enjoy the photos, and remember, now's the good time to get out there and photograph them. Atleast 3 buses so far that I have photographed in the last few weeks have been retired, so it's never too early to start!

STM Bus #11-064 - 1991 MCI Classic on Route 535 - R-Bus Du Parc infront of Place des Arts with the R-Bus Diamond infront. STM Bus #11-083 - 1991 MCI Classic infront of Place Boneventure on Route #74 - Bridge Street. STM Bus #11-096 - 1991 MCI Classic STM Bus #11-009 - 1991 MCI Classic STM Bus #11-067 - 1991 MCI Classic: Route 535 Detouring onto Rene-Levesque. STM Bus #11-017 - 1991 MCI Classic STM Bus #11-038 - 1991 MCI Classic: Parked at Angrignon. STM Bus #11-038 - 1991 MCI Classic: unloading at Angrignon. STM Bus #11-038 - 1991 MCI Classic: Parked at Angrignon. STM Bus #11-038 - 1991 MCI Classic: Parked at Angrignon. STM Bus #11-082 - 1991 MCI Classic: loading up on route 506 - R-Bus Newman at Angrignon. STM Bus #11-082 - 1991 MCI Classic: Loaded up 506 R-Bus Newman, and departing. STM Bus #11-082 - 1991 MCI Classic: leaving Angrignon. STM Bus #11-038 - 1991 MCI Classic: leaving Angrignon. STM Bus #11-038 - 1991 MCI Classic: leaving Angrignon. STM Bus #11-044 - 1991 MCI Classic: parked while driver stepped inside for a bit. STM Bus #11-040 - 1991 MCI Classic: Loading up passengers for the 195 - Sherbrooke route. STM Bus #11-038 - 1991 MCI Classic: Parked at Angrignon. STM Bus #11-065 - 1991 MCI Classic on Route 535 - R-Bus Du Parc with the R-Bus Diamond infront. STM Bus #11-065 - 1991 MCI Classic: Faded Priorité sign. STM Bus #11-077 - 1991 MCI Classic Hors Service on VanHorne. 1/3 STM Bus #11-077 - 1991 MCI Classic Hors Service on VanHorne. 2/3 STM Bus #11-077 - 1991 MCI Classic Hors Service on VanHorne. 3/3 STM Bus #11-033 - 1991 MCI Classic: Bourque's Campaign poster is posted up, so this bus hasn't been here for long. The R-Bus arrow is still attached. STM Bus #11-033 - 1991 MCI Classic STM Bus #11-033 - 1991 MCI Classic: Parked at Frontenac waiting for work to be done. STM Bus #11-041 - 1991 MCI Classic: Loading up passengers for the 74 - Bridge route. STM Bus #11-041 - 1991 MCI Classic: Loading up passengers for the 74 - Bridge route. STM Bus #11-012 - 1991 MCI Classic STM Bus #11-033 - 1991 MCI Classic: Notice that the R-Bus arrow has been removed during the last month. STM Bus #11-033 - 1991 MCI Classic: You can easily tell a bus has been sitting at one place for a while when they start piling snow up infront of it... STM Bus #11-033 - 1991 MCI Classic: Less than one month ago, this vehicle was still sitting in the same general area. STM Bus #11-033 - 1991 MCI Classic STM Bus #11-033 - 1991 MCI Classic: Missing a step light, and somebody left their lunch on the stairs. STM Bus #11-033 - 1991 MCI Classic: The transfer box has been removed, a pretty definate sign that this bus has been retired. STM Bus #11-033 - 1991 MCI Classic: Notice that the R-Bus arrow has been removed during the last month. STM Bus #11-033 - 1991 MCI Classic STM Bus #11-095 - 1991 MCI Classic: Waiting for passengers on Route #69 - Gouin. STM Bus #11-095: The white number was removed and replaced by a black number in the front. STM Bus #11-095: Outside rear shot of this vehicle. STM Bus #11-095: Inside facing rear; the seats were recently waxed and look good as new! STM Bus #11-095: Inside facing front. A pretty clean and respectable interior all in all. STM Bus #11-095: We got off at Henri-Bourassa, and so did the driver, and lef the passengers in the bus while he took his break. STM Bus #11-031: A chase well rewarded! Several interesting features, most notably, this bus is carrying an R-Bus Balios diamond infront, as well as an Anjou bus serving the Route #935 Trainbus Blainville. STM Bus #11-031 - 1991 MCI Classic: Rear shot as I run along the sidewalk in the snow on Rene-Levesque Blvd. to get a front shot of this bus while it wades through traffic. STM Bus #11-003 - 1991 MCI Classic: Loading Passengers at Pie-IX on the 505/139 PIE-IX Route. An ex-Biobus from Frontenac with the Priorité Arrow infront and MCI Logo intact. STM Bus #11-004 - 1991 MCI Classic: On Route #92 just after Namur Metro; Priorité Arrow was removed. STM Bus #11-004 - 1991 MCI Classic: Rear view facing the Hippodrome. STM Bus #11-021 - 1991 MCI Classic: St-Laurent Garage vehicle on Route #121 Cote-Vertu in the direction of Sauvé. STM Bus #11-021 - A view of the lights on the steps inside the back door. The right is a standard bulb, but the left is a new set of Orange LED lights.

Published in Mystic's Transit Gallery

]]> Sun Jan 8 2006 Service Interuptions - Interuptions du Service http://mystic.fotopic.net/c816191.html Every week the metro line needs to be shut down for various reasons, including vehicle malfunctions, or rowdy passengers, and also for other reasons, such as someone deciding to terminate their existance infront of a moving train. But whatever the reason, most people are in a hurry either to get to work or go home, so when the service gets interupted, this is when tempers fly, and people sometimes get hurt. Included in this collection are photos of people waiting for service to resume, and then see how fast they can pack themselves in when service comes back online. Wednesday 4 January 2006: Every week the metro line needs to be shut down for various reasons, including vehicle malfunctions, or rowdy passengers, and also for other reasons, such as someone deciding to terminate their existance infront of a moving train. But whatever the reason, most people are in a hurry either to get to work or go home, so when the service gets interupted, this is when tempers fly, and people sometimes get hurt. Included in this collection are photos of people waiting for service to resume, and then see how fast they can pack themselves in when service comes back online.

Station: Berri-UQAM - Lineups were beginning to build to all accesses to the Yellow line. Station: Berri-UQAM. All accesses to the Yellow line were blocked off by Metro Security and STM personnel. Station: Berri-UQAM - People are really starting to get impatient. There was no SPS (Service Provisoire de Surface) so people had to wait almost 45 minutes to get on the Yellow Line during rush hour! Station: Berri-UQAM - After a Station: Berri-UQAM - Once we were on the train our driver spent a few minutes on appologizing for the interruption, and that the rest of our trip home and our even be a lot better, and to thank us fo Station: Berri-UQAM - Once the train leaves the security allows another group of people down the stairs to the platform; and the rush begins again. Station: Berri-UQAM - Those that missed the train will have to wait atleast another 10 minutes before another train will arrive. Station: Berri-UQAM - The gates are open, and people are now rushing to get to the platform to a full train. SPS Service for the Green Line loads here outside of Pie-IX metro station. Station: Berri-UQAM - Power is cut entirely, and restarted again. Station: Berri-UQAM - Security and CO's await while Providence tries to reopen the line once again. Station: Berri-UQAM - People are being held back by police line tape to prevent access to the platform. Station: Berri-UQAM - Security really has no control over this mass of angry transit users, so it's everyone for themselves. Station: Berri-UQAM - People running in all directions to find a place to board. Station: Berri-UQAM - Little to they know that they'll be stuck another 20 minutes at St-Laurent... Station: Berri-UQAM - Bumping and shoving people getting off as others try to get on. Station: Berri-UQAM - People crowded the entire platform. Station: Berri-UQAM - The train arrives into the station, and people break down the yellow tape and rush to board. Station: Lionel-Groulx - The Green line has been on and off all afternoon, and is down again... Station: Lionel-Groulx - Passengers crowd in as much as they can, since they seem unable to wait for the next train in 3-5 minutes. Station: Lionel-Groulx - Station: Lionel-Groulx - Station: Lionel-Groulx - The line reopens and masses of peole rush to board.

Published in Mystic's Transit Gallery

]]> Wed Jan 4 2006 J'arrive! http://mystic.fotopic.net/c816181.html J'Arrive the new campaign for the modernization of Montreal's MR73 model 1973 Bombardier model metro cars. Some notable changes are the interior colours have all been changed, such as the seats are being replaced by blue seats, in the style of the MR63's, and more space will be given for standees. Check out the photos for more details on what's to come in the next few years! Wednesday 4 January 2006: J'Arrive the new campaign for the modernization of Montreal's MR73 model 1973 Bombardier model metro cars. Some notable changes are the interior colours have all been changed, such as the seats are being replaced by blue seats, in the style of the MR63's, and more space will be given for standees. Check out the photos for more details on what's to come in the next few years!

From the outside you can see right away the difference, not only the giant The new glow-in-the-dark Evacuation Procedure signs are a nicely added feature (Thanks Dave for the tip). Welcome to j'arrive Car #78-086. The 1st out of 2 cars transformed at the STM. Gardons Notre Espace Propre (STM) issing a seat here, or several for that matter. Note to the far right that people are beginning to form a bad habit already of sitting sideways on the front/rear facing seats blocking the newly made accessible passage. An available seat, but I have no time to sit, I have more transit-fanning left to do! Welcome to j'arrive Car #79-671. The 2nd out of only 2 cars transformed yet at the STM. Blue seats and more accessible to walk through. Similar to the MR63 seating, except with blue/purple coloured seating. Brownish / Orange with shiny sparkles are the new paint scheme. The new reach bars are in slightly ackward positions, however it'll take some getting used to. These lights are definately brighter, however the panels seem to be installed a bit crooked. Looking inside it's almost like you're own display. Note as well that the scratchitti vandals have already paid a visit...

Published in Mystic's Transit Gallery

]]> Wed Jan 4 2006 The New Ticket Collectors Box - Les Nouvelles Loges a Changeurs! http://mystic.fotopic.net/c816158.html Over the next several years the ticket-taker (Changeur) boxes will be replaced. Several projects have already been started, in stations such as Place D'Armes, Boneventure and Sauvé. Here are a few pictures of the new as well as temporary boxes. Wednesday 4 January 2006: Over the next several years the ticket-taker (Changeur) boxes will be replaced. Several projects have already been started, in stations such as Place D'Armes, Boneventure and Sauv_. Here are a few pictures of the new as well as temporary boxes.

Station: Place-D'Armes view of the temporary Changeur's box. Station: Place-D'Armes view of the new Changeur's box. (I'm not too crazy about the new Station: Place-D'Armes - Not sure why they didn't just keep the old box and move it over, rather than building a separate temporary box... Station: Sauvé - Temporary LOGE (View from walking down the stairs. Station: Sauvé - Temporary LOGE Station: Sauvé - New LOGE Station: Angrignon - Temporary Changeur's Box while they install the new Turnstiles. Station: Monk - New Turnstiles

Published in Mystic's Transit Gallery

]]> Wed Jan 4 2006 Meet the Prototypes http://mystic.fotopic.net/c808850.html During the last few years the STM has been testing 3 prototypes of MR73 metro car seating arrangements. Here are some photos showing the different configurations. Thursday 29 December 2005: During the last few years the STM has been testing 3 prototypes of MR73 metro car seating arrangements. Here are some photos showing the different configurations.

Prototype A - This wasn't a bad seating arrangement, eg: more elbow room, but less seats. STM - Metro Car #79-666 Prototype B Prototype B - Less expensive to rebuild, since this only requires seating arrangements of 2 x 2, which already exists. Prototype A - Lots of open space on this prototype, but how many people are comfortable staring at each other the whole way. STM - Metro Car #78-083 Prototype A Prototype A - The 3 pronged pole is in the middle, very close to where the original pole was located, however, there is nothing to hold onto in the middle between poles. (Similar to the LFS problem that I've noticed!) Prototype A - There are poles to hang onto, but there's nothing to hold onto while crossing from one pole to the other, so if the train is full, you could fall on the person sitting or standing next to you. Prototype A - Three seats in a row with ventalation undernethe. Prototype B - The light covering with the name Prototype B is beginning to turn yellow and fade. Prototype B - Less elbow room, but more seats can fit in the same space. Prototype B - Seats face each other, just like Prototype A, but they are separated every two seats, rather than 1x3x1 and they have handle railings, and poles more appropriately situated. Prototype B - As we get off 79-666 the doors close behind us and the train leaves into the tunnel.

Published in Mystic's Transit Gallery

]]> Thu Dec 29 2005 Major Construction at Frontenac http://mystic.fotopic.net/c800118.html Major Construction, which required the closure of the station weeknights from 10pm to Closing and Weekends all day until December 18th, 2005. In which time a shuttle service will be provided from Prefontaine to Papineau. Contained in this gallery are photos of all my experiences surrounding these events. Tuesday 20 December 2005: Major Construction, which required the closure of the station weeknights from 10pm to Closing and Weekends all day until December 18th, 2005. In which time a shuttle service will be provided from Prefontaine to Papineau. Contained in this gallery are photos of all my experiences surrounding these events.

Just outside Station: Frontenac is a sign for the 545 - Shuttle run which will be used every Friday after 10pm and Saturday & Sunday from Nov.3rd to Dec.18th. ///\\\ Devant la station Frontenac qui signifie le 545 - Navette entre les stations Papineau et Préfontaine. STM Bus #18-002 - 1998 NovaLFS (1/3) STM's 545 Frontenac Navette Service poster. All of the departures listed one by one for Frontenac's 545 Navette service. Outside of Prefontaine is this 545 R-Bus Navette Service sign. Most of the work must have been done at the entrance level, since nothing has changed on the platform level. It was back in 1998 when they had originally taken every single wall panel off to repair the drain pipe infrastructure, however, it looks like it needs to be done again. Several leaks are noticed on the platforms and behind the walls. Missing wall panels show where leaks have occured, Behind the ad panels shows all the pipework that is use to help the water to flow onto the tracks, and not on the platforms. The entire track level floor is rust coloured from previous floods. The river of rusty water still flows along the tracks. The guardrail was cut away as well as the lights so that a crane could bring lift up the necessary equipment, such as the temporary Changeur's LOGE. The temporary The escalator leads down to the ticket booth, as well as people working on the escalators. A few of the original cabin and the temporary stairs outside the station. The hours of operation of Frontenac during Construction. An old abandoned ticket box, which has now temporarily moved downstairs. Another view of the abandoned ticket box. The thick layer of dust covers the entire counter and original 1960's era phone. Temporary Entrance of Frontenac. VERY WINDY and COLD!!! LOGE, downstairs! Through the Changeur's box you can see people feverishly working on finishing the retiling of the main entrance level floor. An ouside view of the temporary hole that was drilled inside the side of the recently built Frontenac station entrance. A fenced perimeter surrounds the building. More photos of the boarded up accesses and fenced building. The ventalation shaft that sucks in all the smells of the McDonald's from across the street, and fills the air of the escalator hallway.

Published in Mystic's Transit Gallery

]]> Tue Dec 20 2005 First Ride on a 2006 LFS! http://mystic.fotopic.net/c799020.html STM's 2006's have already rolled out, and quite a few months ahead of schedule. During a busfanning day, I had the chance to ride on STM's superstitious and perhaps not so lucky 26-013. Contained are a few photos of my experience. Monday 19 December 2005: STM's 2006's have already rolled out, and quite a few months ahead of schedule. During a busfanning day, I had the chance to ride on STM's superstitious and perhaps not so lucky 26-013. Contained are a few photos of my experience.

STM Bus #26-013 - 2006 NovaLFS: After getting off at Cote-Vertu, we look outside, and look what we found. A 26 series 2006 LFS bus laying over on the side before picking up passengers on the Route #64. STM Bus #26-013 - 2006 NovaLFS: Less than a week into service, and the windows have already begun to be defaced. STM Bus #26-013 - 2006 NovaLFS: Inside looks pretty similar to previous years of this model. STM Bus #26-013 - 2006 NovaLFS: The difference with the doors is that they open much faster than previous models, but make more than twice the amount of noise (resembles opening a pop can) and close half the speed. STM Bus #26-013 - 2006 NovaLFS: Unfortunately the job was rushed to get these vehicles on the road early. Several imperfections were noted, such as plastic overlapping, missing screwholes and screws where they should be, a loose screw, and several missed attempts at screwing in fasteners! STM Bus #26-013 - 2006 NovaLFS: I don't remember seeing those blinking lights in the void above the door up there before. STM Bus #26-013 - 2006 NovaLFS: The front of the bus has no significant or even minor changes to it compared to the 25-2xx series. STM Bus #26-013 - 2006 NovaLFS: After we got off, it parked for a few minutes before returning on Route 64 Grenet STM Bus #26-013 - 2006 NovaLFS: After we got off, we prepared to board the 11-095, which was waiting on the other side street for Route #69 Gouin. STM Bus #26-013 - 2006 NovaLFS: A side rear angle of this vehicle from across the street. STM Bus #26-016 - 2006 NovaLFS STM Bus #26-016 - 2006 NovaLFS. STM Bus #26-013 - 2006 NovaLFS. STM Bus #26-013 - 2006 NovaLFS (Rear Shot). STM Bus #26-010 - 2006 NovaLFS STM Bus #26-018 - 2006 NovaLFS STM Bus #26-012 - 2006 NovaLFS STM Bus #26-030 - 2006 NovaLFS: One of the first ever to ride on this vehicle! STM Bus #26-030 - 2006 NovaLFS: The entire bus and seats were clean and tidy!

Published in Mystic's Transit Gallery

]]> Mon Dec 19 2005 STL (Société de Transport de Laval) http://mystic.fotopic.net/c798908.html Finally a gallery dedicated to Laval's Transit Service. I hope you enjoy the photos. I'll try to take another visit in the near future to see what other vehicles I can photograph, and hopefully next time I'll stay out of trouble while doing so... Monday 19 December 2005: Finally a gallery dedicated to Laval's Transit Service. I hope you enjoy the photos. I'll try to take another visit in the near future to see what other vehicles I can photograph, and hopefully next time I'll stay out of trouble while doing so...

STL Bus #0120 - 2001 NovaLFS: STL Bus #6011 - 1990 MCI Classic: STL Bus #6209 - 1992 MCI Classic: STL Bus #6006 - 1990 MCI Classic: STL Bus #6201 - 1992 MCI Classic: STL Bus #6006 - 1990 MCI Classic: STL Bus #6103 - 1991 MCI Classic: STL Bus #6205 - 1992 MCI Classic: STL Bus #6205 - 1992 MCI Classic: STL Bus #6402 - 1994 Nova Classic: STL Bus #6504 - 1995 Nova Classic: STL Bus #6201 - 1992 MCI Classic: STL Bus #9815 - 1998 NovaLFS: STL Bus #0406 - 2004 NovaLFS: STL Bus #6009 - 1990 MCI Classic: STL Bus #6009 - 1990 MCI Classic: STL Bus #6201 - 1992 MCI Classic: STL Bus #9801 - 1998 NovaLFS: STL Bus #0401 - 2004 NovaLFS: STL Bus #6109 - 1990 MCI Classic: STL Bus #6009 - 1990 MCI Classic: STL Bus #6009 - 1990 MCI Classic: STL Bus #6011 - 1990 MCI Classic: STL Bus #6103 - 1991 MCI Classic: STL Bus #6109 - 1990 MCI Classic: STL Bus #6109 - 1990 MCI Classic: STL Bus #6504 - 1995 Nova Classic: STL Bus #0103 - 2001 NovaLFS:

Published in Mystic's Transit Gallery

]]> Mon Dec 19 2005 Another One Bites The Dust... http://mystic.fotopic.net/c762073.html This is a gallery for the 3rd major fire reported on a first generation Nova LFS. STM Bus #17-001 (The first NovaLFS of 1997). The photos in here are pretty hard to swallow for LFS fans, but LFS haters will probably jump for joy at this sighting. Monday 14 November 2005: This is a gallery for the 3rd major fire reported on a first generation Nova LFS. STM Bus #17-001 (The first NovaLFS of 1997). The photos in here are pretty hard to swallow for LFS fans, but LFS haters will probably jump for joy at this sighting.

The bus remains sitting on jacks in the back of the field. From front to back, nothing remains untouched in this fire. Various bits of debris are scattered across the floor. Some bits are from the ceiling, while others are parts leftover from scavengers. The front dash was taken off, most likely to be used on another LFS. Except for the cloudy blackened tint of the window, you can still see the destination indicating The outside paint melted away, while the inside supports gave out as the ceiling colapsed. The charred vehicle sits by itself on its stilts. The damage was mostly centered around the engine compartment, and the entire interior and other side of the vehicle. The upper windows were broken out by the intense heat of the fire. The exteme heat melted away the bumper. To the left is what remains of the engine, and to the top right you can see the melted remains of the POLICE 911 sign. The remains of the rear panel of the vehicle were tossed into the bus before it was towed away. A very long pipe lay here on the ground, possibly the remains of the exhause pipe. The remains of this Cummins motor. Nothing much salvageable here... Undernethe the bus is totally charred and nothing remains. The outter wheel totally melted away, and even melted the wheel rim. The seats themselves remained intact, but the blue covering isn't so blue anymore. The plastic ad spaces melted back into their original forms of plastic fibres. The fireproof wall is infact still standing, however the fire decided to go around the wall and burn the rest of the vehicle. Some bits of melted shredded plastic are all that remain on this steel frame. More bits of wiring and shreds of plastic adorn the shell of this vehicle. A lonely orange cone stands in this mess of debris. The ceiling melted away and colapsed to the floor. What's left are a few support beams, and the outside world. The wheel melted clear off as well as the rim that buckled with the intensity of the heat. Yet they were still able to salvage the wheelchair ramp!

Published in Mystic's Transit Gallery

]]> Mon Nov 14 2005 Youville, Revisited... http://mystic.fotopic.net/c761205.html Recent discussion about a bus auction on Monday, November 14th, 2005 really got my attention. I was not available that day, and this would have been one of my last chances to see some of these vehicles. Fortunately I was permitted access to visit the Youville yards during the calm before the storm. Many buses that were photographed here are marked for auction, or other various parts sources. Again, a very heart breaking time for me to see buses in this condition, but I'm glad I had one last chance to visit them before they left. Sunday 13 November 2005: Recent discussion about a bus auction on Monday, November 14th, 2005 really got my attention. I was not available that day, and this would have been one of my last chances to see some of these vehicles. Fortunately I was permitted access to visit the Youville yards during the calm before the storm. Many buses that were photographed here are marked for auction, or other various parts sources. Again, a very heart breaking time for me to see buses in this condition, but I'm glad I had one last chance to visit them before they left.

STM Bus #60-048 - 1990 MCI Classic: A leaky radiator hose has brought this bus out of service... STM Bus #60-048 - 1990 MCI Classic: Yet another 1990 retiree... :( STM Bus #12-071 - The wood could have just rotted away, but that doesn't explain why this bus was premeturely retired, rather than rebuilt. STM Bus #12-071 - Unusal damage ,usually caused by a hard hit front end collision, yet the front looks undamaged. STM Bus #12-071 - 1992 MCI Classic (Accident Victim) STM Bus #12-071 - 1992 MCI Classic STM Bus #12-071 - 1992 MCI Classic STM Bus #12-071 - 1992 MCI Classic STM's Rechaud Bus STM's Rechaud Bus Bus #143 - 1965 GMC New Look Bus #143 - 1965 GMC New Look Bus #143 - 1965 GMC New Look Bus #143 - 1965 GMC New Look Bus #143 - 1965 GMC New Look FHTCQ's Bus #33-008 - 1983 GM New Look Bus #143 - 1965 GMC New Look The remains of an Abrius that wanted to go out fighting! STM Minibus: One of the few that was still remaining after the auction a few weeks earlier. CO Van #88-937, waiting for the next sale. Anyone interested in a slightly used Dodge Caravan, only 350,000kms on it's original motor! STM Minibus #52-765 STM Minibus #52-776 STM Minibus: Route 251 STM Minibus: Route 251 STM Minibus: Route 251 ex-STM Bus #24-069 with even more missing parts as mechanics for the Rechaud Bus and the FHTCQ take out what they need. ex-STM Bus #24-069 - GM New Look ex-STM Bus #24-069 - GM New Look STM Bus #60-026 - 1990 MCI Classic A storage container. STM Bus #60-007 - 1990 MCI Classic STM Bus #59-017 - 1989 MCI Classic: One of the only two 1989 Classics on this lot. STM Bus #59-018 - 1989 MCI Classic: The other 1989 Classic on the lot. STM Bus #60-045 - 1990 MCI Classic STM Bus #59-017 - 1989 MCI Classic STM Bus #60-008 - 1990 MCI Classic STM Bus #54-041 - 1984 GM Classic: The Oldest GM on the STM Property, not for sale as of yet... STM Bus #11-012 - 1991 MCI Classic STM Bus #60-0xx - 1990 MCI Classic STM Bus #11-012 - 1991 MCI Classic: This bus may have been through a bad accident, but it still purrs like a kitten... STM Bus #60-045 - 1990 MCI Classic STM Bus #54-041 - 1984 GM Classic STM Bus #60-042 - 1990 MCI Classic STM Bus #59-018 - 1989 MCI Classic STM Bus #60-077 - 1990 MCI Classic Side by Side STM logo next to STCUM logo... STM Bus #60-0xx - 1990 MCI Classic STM Bus #11-012 - If it weren't for this minor accident damage, this bus would certainly still be running today, though it's a 1991 vehicle and would be retired anyways by the STM next year... :( STM Bus #11-012 - Now the heater is up to a nice warm temperature, and the bus is running as smooth as silk... STM Bus #11-012 - The backdoor is open, so the Arret light is lit up.

Published in Mystic's Transit Gallery

]]> Sun Nov 13 2005 A Day with the FHTCQ and the 14-008 http://mystic.fotopic.net/c695511.html The summer's coming to an end. And so is a great year with the FHTCQ. Here are some pics of one of our final outings for this year. A Trip to the southshore as we spent the day riding in our very own 1972 GMC New Look as we followed the original CTCUM routes. Unfortunately the weather didn't cooperate with us, so a lot of photo opprotunities were missed; Though I tried the best I could under these circumstances to bring you guys the best pics I could! Enjoy! Monday 19 September 2005: The summer's coming to an end. And so is a great year with the FHTCQ. Here are some pics of one of our final outings for this year. A Trip to the southshore as we spent the day riding in our very own 1972 GMC New Look as we followed the original CTCUM routes. Unfortunately the weather didn't cooperate with us, so a lot of photo opprotunities were missed; Though I tried the best I could under these circumstances to bring you guys the best pics I could! Enjoy!

Garage Centre de Transport St-Michel: The start of our day, and the place where I boarded. Here comes our bus now! The 14-008 pulls in and everyone gets on, including Matt, MTL Bus Pat, and quite a few others. Authenticity was of utmost importance. Even to the detail of adding the flags infront of the bus! Parked outside of St-Michel Centre de Transport. 1/2 Parked outside of St-Michel Centre de Transport. 2/2 Everyone's onboard. It's time to leave... But don't forget me! We left St-Michel and now we're entering St-Denis Centre de Transport Garage. Not many buses parked outside here. Though there were quite a few Classics parked on the otherside, though we didn't have a chance to stop for very long. Centre de Transport St-Denis: CO Parked out front. Centre de Transport St-Denis: Driver's entrance. We're now going to leave St-Denis and now we're heading to Mont-Royal Centre de Transport Garage. STM Bus #25-223: 2005 NovaLFS - Home of the 25-xxx series, and there are lots of them here now! STM Bus #25-223: 2005 NovaLFS, testing out it's 911 - Police sign. Taking a look inside the garage here we can see that there are a few Classics inside, an MCI and a Nova (With Flash). Mostly 2005 LFSes, like this one though... From one end of the garage out to the other. The left has the Classics and the right are the LFSes. STM Bus #25-219 - 2005 NovaLFS: One of the first 2005's that I photographed back in May, doing the 430 on Rene-Levesque. While parked at Mont-Royal, take note the emergency door on the side. Here inside the garage are Nova's 17-177 LFS and clean looking 13-088 Classic. A rear shot of us parked at Mont-Royal. Another shot looking into the Mont-Royal garage. We're about ready to leave, but then a few STM drivers come out of the garage to check out our bus. STM Bus #16-012: 1996 NovaLFS - One of the first low floors built is parked here inside the garage at Mont-Royal, with an advertisement for a car company. STM Bus #'s 17-108 and 18-019: 1997-98 NovaLFS first gens. The driver in the 25-229 is getting ready to leave and just checking his systems. Our driver was invited to check out one of the new 2005 LFSes, and while he was gone, a few Mont-Royal drivers came out and got in his bus checking it out and instantly fell in love. A few quick shots at the garage entrances of the building at Mont-Royal 1/3. A few quick shots at the garage entrances of the building at Mont-Royal 2/3. A few quick shots at the garage entrances of the building at Mont-Royal 3/3.. STM Bus #25-223 is on it's way out after testing it's 911-Police sign, and he's off. STM Bus #25-219 parked inside Mt-Royal garage. STM Bus #25-219: 2005 NovaLFS. An outside look at this bus as our driver was invited to check it out for a few minutes, but then it's off we go to Frontenac, we have to keep on schedule! We pull up for a quick stop to pick up Dave at Frontenac Centre de Transport Garage. Parked outside of Frontenac Centre de Transport with the original destination listed for this location: GARAGE Du Havre / Maisonneuve Everyone ran to window upstairs and then came downstairs to check out our bus. It's not often that you see a 1972 GMC New Look park outside your bus garage nowadays. Parked outside of Frontenac Centre de Transport. 3/3. STM Bus #17-147: 1997 NovaLFS pulling into Frontenac garage. The flags on the front of the 14-008 are blowing in the wind. Driver's entrance to Frontenac Centre de Transport. Just a few more minutes before we have to leave and a Classic pulls up and its driver has to get a second look at our bus. Parked in the car behind is our president, who videotaped our journey from Frontenac all the way to the restaurant in Lasalle. Parked outside of Frontenac Centre de Transport getting ready to leave. All Aboard! :) A shot of one of the garage entrances at Frontenac. And a last minute effort to get in some more photographs before we leave. As I was saying, authenticity was of utmost importance. Our driver put on an original CTCUM hat while driving. We arrive in Lasalle. While waiting at the intersection of Newman and Shevchenko, an older woman and young man were waiting at the bus stop staring at our bus, and the woman stepped forward once, and looked back again, the man just starred. So I thought it might be a bit funny, though it was kind of mean, to go up and change the side rollsign to 109. Then the guy and woman both stepped forward and scratched their heads, and the light turned green and we drove off. Two members and myself chipped in and made a thankyou gift to our driver Camille for all of our visits to the fireworks at LaRonde all summer long. Parked outside of the restaurant just before we head off to Longueuil. 1/3 Parked outside of the restaurant just before we head off to Longueuil. 2/3

Published in Mystic's Transit Gallery

]]> Mon Sep 19 2005 Bud-Wei-Ser & Sony http://mystic.fotopic.net/c669240.html Remember those leaping frogs from those Budweiser commercials; well, that's all I could think of while writing a title for this collection... As most of you know me by now, I'm always a master of "over doing it" with photography. So I decided to dedicate a collection area containing my first sighting of the Budweiser train wrap in the metro. Also in this gallery are a few pics of the Sony Wrapped train that is currently circulating our network. Sunday 28 August 2005: Remember those leaping frogs from those Budweiser commercials; well, that's all I could think of while writing a title for this collection... As most of you know me by now, I'm always a master of "over doing it" with photography. So I decided to dedicate a collection area containing my first sighting of the Budweiser train wrap in the metro. Also in this gallery are a few pics of the Sony Wrapped train that is currently circulating our network.

While at Peel, after a day of photography, and various other activities, I decided to wait for the first train to pass, and I would get on the next one; and boy was I lucky! The driver already got in on the other end, so I decided to wait at the end of the platform to get some more shots of the train. To think, as I watched this train racing past that at one time in 1963 our metros could have all been painted in this colour! The train pulls up into the station on the return platform. The insides and outsides were one big ad for Budweiser! While we were riding back to Angrignon; quite a few people looked and pointed at our train. Everyone knows about the ORANGE line, but not too many people have ever seen an ORANGE metro before! A side shot of 80-018. This must have taken days to cover this entire train with this train-length advertisement. I'm sure it didn't come cheap either! A few tourists (or metro fanatics) were taking a few photographs from the otherside of the platform at the same time! As you can see, I wasn't alone with my passion for photography. I was joined by a metro driver as we both took picture after picture! The train departs back for another circuit, and for other passersby to stare at something strange and out of the ordinary. The Sony wrap train arrives into Station: Peel. From the front to the back. But follows the entire length of the train. The wrap is only waist high.

Published in Mystic's Transit Gallery

]]> Sun Aug 28 2005 Short Visit to the RTL http://mystic.fotopic.net/c651759.html Just a quick peek at the RTL Garage on the south shore to check out if there's anything interesting. And I did catch some interesting finds on Camera. So here's my quick tour of the RTL garage and yards. Saturday 13 August 2005: Just a quick peek at the RTL Garage on the south shore to check out if there's anything interesting. And I did catch some interesting finds on Camera. So here's my quick tour of the RTL garage and yards.

RTL Bus #8907 - 1989 VanHool AG700 Artic, with an orange sign saying it's defective. Reason: Hydraulic problem in rear door... RTL Bus #8914 - 1989 AG700 Artic: This bus seems to have recently been in a pretty bad accident. I wonder if this was the vehicle involved in the accident (in this gallery) at TCV last week. // Edit: This was infact the bus implicated in the TCV accident that drove through the passenger waiting area. Quite an interesting find if I must say! RTL Bus #20014 - 2000 NovaLFS Parked at the RTL Garage. RTL Bus #C9416 - 1994 Nova Classic: Parked at RTL Garage. RTL Bus #9035 - 1990 MCI Classic. RTL Bus #20514 - 2005 NovaLFS: Parked at RTL Garage. RTL Bus #9035 - Rear View. RTL Bus #20514 - Back View: Parked at RTL Garage. RTL Bus #P9814 - Parked at RTL Garage. RTL Bus #9704 - 1997 NovaLFS RTL Bus #20315 - 2003 NovaLFS awaiting repairs at the RTL Garage. RTL Bus #C20306 - Parked at RTL Garage. RTL Bus #9049 - One of the last MCI Classics purchased by the RTL. RTL Bus #9017 - 1990 MCI Classic. RTL Bus #20506 - 2005 NovaLFS parked at the RTL Garage. RTL Bus #C9501 - 1995 Nova Cummins Classic: Parked at RTL Garage. RTL Bus #9033 - (Side/Rear view). RTL Bus #C9501 - At the back of the Cummins Classics they have a hump in the middle rather than a seat. RTL Bus #C9501 - A quick look inside Bus #C9501, and their GFI Automated Farebox. RTL Bus #9033 - 1990 MCI Classic. RTL Bus #9708 - 1997 NovaLFS. (I wonder if their 97's have the same engine fire problems as STM's last 3 fires?) RTL Bus #9033 - 1990 MCI Classic (Side View). RTL Bus #20517 - 2005 NovaLFS: Not sure how far the numbers go up for 2005's with the RTL, but this one seemed pretty new, however it was parked in the row of broken down buses. Well, this vehicle is definately Defective... RTL Bus #9001 - 1990 MCI Classic, the first year RTL purchased MCI's, and the RTL also used Roll signs rather than Luminators or Balios in this model year. RTL Bus #9001 - 1990 MCI Classic - Rear. RTL Bus #9713 - 1997 NovaLFS: Parked at RTL Garage. RTL Bus #9020 - 1990 MCI Classic. RTL Bus #9718 - 1997 NovaLFS: Parked at RTL Garage. RTL Bus #9919 - 1999 NovaLFS: Parked at RTL Garage. RTL Bus #9719 - 1997 NovaLFS: Parked at RTL Garage. The main entrance for the vehicles, the other garage doors are open, but most are blocked with pilons. Open doors to let in the cool air on a hot day. There's Artic #8919 with the Balios, as well as other vehicles waiting to go into service Monday morning. This half of the garage has about 75-100 buses, and the other half is currently under construction. Perhaps an expansion project is underway. Inside RTL's Old Longeueil Garage Inside RTL's Old Longeueil Garage Inside RTL's Old Longeueil Garage A small area in the front corner of the garage is where the buses are fitted for rims and tires. A little peek inside shows how huge this garage is! Side view of the RTL Garage, main building. Front view of the RTL Garage, main building. Welcome to the RTL Garage! RTL Bus# 9525 - 1995 Nova Cummins Classic laying over at Panama Terminus in Brossard. RTL Bus #C20211 - laying over at Panama Terminus in Brossard RTL Bus# 20108 - 2002 NovaLFS laying over at Panama Terminus in Brossard. RTL Bus# 20108 - 2001 VanHool AG300 Artic laying over at Panama Terminus in Brossard. RTL Bus# 20108 - 2001 VanHool AG300 Artic laying over at Panama Terminus in Brossard. 2/2 Seems like a bus recently drove through the passenger waiting area. // Edit: It appears that the vehicle that did collide through the passenger waiting area was infact RTL Bus #8914, which I have photographed from the garage a few days after the accident had occured. (Also located in the RTL Visit Gallery section). RTL Bus #20108 - 2001 VanHool AG300 Artic leaving TCV in Montreal.

Published in Mystic's Transit Gallery

]]> Sat Aug 13 2005 Be careful next time you loan something out, or this might happen... http://mystic.fotopic.net/c644480.html FHTCQ's Quebec #7303 once stood a chance; if only a slim one, to be restored and added to our historical fleet. But unfortunately some inconsiderate movie company decided to make the decision for us... Feel free to browse these photos, but allow me to make my standard word of warning... There are some really upsetting photos in this area, and it really upset my stomache to see the bus in this condition... Monday 8 August 2005: FHTCQ's Quebec #7303 once stood a chance; if only a slim one, to be restored and added to our historical fleet. But unfortunately some inconsiderate movie company decided to make the decision for us... Feel free to browse these photos, but allow me to make my standard word of warning... There are some really upsetting photos in this area, and it really upset my stomache to see the bus in this condition...

Nothing was left untouched; the destination rollsign was totally smashed, and ripped out of the front. Just two weeks ago, I took this exact same photo; however, something is dreadfully different... What was once a rare vehicle, possibly with a chance to be restored, now has its fate sealed... As we walk into the bus, more carnage awaits! Parts scattered here and there; broken glass, sharp metal sticking out of the floor... Nothing was left untouched, the panel above the back door was yanked so hard that all of the clamps were busted off. Would it have killed them to twist 3 clamps 45 degrees! I'm surprised they left one thing on this bus undamaged, a mirror... They must have been superstitious... Windows in the door were smashed out... The seats that were removed were all piled in the back of the bus. Notice that at one time they were clean and in really good condition... Now they are all splattered with paint. Paint all over the bus, inside, outside, everywhere! They dumped gallons and gallons of paint off the roof to make this bus look What was once a clean bus, especially for its age has now been totally destroyed, even the seats were lifted out. They even ripped down the standee poles, not just unlatch them, they pulled them so hard the ceiling is starting to come down above this area... Where a seat once was, now rests part of the ventalation grate from the back of the bus. On the drivers seat lay a broken window from the door. The motor hopefully still works under there, but this is the only way now to protect it! All of the panels were removed from the side of the bus... Not unscrewed, but phsyically torn off and tossed away... Removing the lights wasn't enough, they had to pull so hard taht the wiring all came out, and cut the wires with a sharp object. The numbers of this rollsign were made from paper, and were torn out of the window and sliced with a knife or other sharp object. The window protecting the rollsign was completely shattered, and the rollsign was destroyed. Somebody punched or bashed in the sides of the bus... If the brown paint wasn't enough, they drove forklifts through the side of the vehicle! The rubber border around the tires was torn off, and the rust below was stabbed to break the border. No window left untouched... What remains of most of the windows; the rubber liner... Where the plastic cover they had to put on wasn't sufficient, water had started to infiltrate, as well as broken glass, and scattered debris. The ceiling was coated with paint that dripped all over the walls, floor and seats. What remains of the backend of the bus, which was completely torn off with no possibility to reattach it, since the bolts and clamps were twisted and broken off. No window left untouched; most of the standee windows were broken out.. Plastic covering was placed all around the bus to protect it, and the stored items from futher water damage. About the only thing that can be salvaged here is the door opening mechanism... They didn't finish the job with this window, which looks like someone threw rocks at it, or hit it with a hammer! The remainder of the missing rows of seats lay piled in the back of the bus.

Published in Mystic's Transit Gallery

]]> Mon Aug 8 2005 The Last of its kind... http://mystic.fotopic.net/c629235.html Here's a small gallery entry containing pics of the last remaining STM owned New Look (Rechaud Bus aside) still located on STM property in the backyards of Youville. This New Look hasn't undergone any restoration or been in service since it was retired in 2002. It is not for sale, and will remain on the lot until every useful part of it has been considered for use on the FHTCQ New Looks. I hope you enjoy the pictures, and unlike the FHTCQ's 33-008; this New Look reminds me most of my childhood. Monday 25 July 2005: Here's a small gallery entry containing pics of the last remaining STM owned New Look (Rechaud Bus aside) still located on STM property in the backyards of Youville. This New Look hasn't undergone any restoration or been in service since it was retired in 2002. It is not for sale, and will remain on the lot until every useful part of it has been considered for use on the FHTCQ New Looks. I hope you enjoy the pictures, and unlike the FHTCQ's 33-008; this New Look reminds me most of my childhood.

A back view of the 24-069. Note the advertisement is still intact. This one's been parked here for a long time, and the wheel rims have rusted all up. A driver's side view of the bus; notice the numbers have been blacked out. As well, a few of the standee windows have been taken out as well. The Front view of the 24-069. Missing the windshield. Probably kept safe incase it's needed in one of the FHTCQ's New Looks. As well, the original roll sign is still installed, and intact, though this will most likely go to the FHTCQ for their New Look. Somebody yanked out the driver's seat... Strange. Taking a look from the front to the back of the interior in this bus. It looks like it's been through a lot, but it has some potential; however, there are no chances that this bus is going to be restored. The back bench was pulled out and the back panel towards the engine was lifted. No wonder it feels so hot when you sit on the back seat of New Looks. The engine's right there! Facing towards the back of the vehicle, you can notice the ceiling design isn't the same as on the FHTCQ's 33-008. However, this is the design I remember the most. An interior view facing the front. It doesn't feel that long ago since I last was on a New Look... McKay doors, still in their original redish glory. ;) More benches missing... The side roller is still instaled, however it's already been called for... (darn, and it wasn't by me either!) Somebody removed the front roller levers... As well, you notice the bus # is very clearly marked. Some benches along the side were taken out as well. Hmmm, I wonder if one of it's last runs was on the route 430? The driver's area isn't in too bad of condition, considering the years of abandonment it has received.

Published in Mystic's Transit Gallery

]]> Mon Jul 25 2005 The Backyards of Youville http://mystic.fotopic.net/c626490.html The last time I saw Youville was back in 2002, when we had our trip with the MdM forums to the Youville metro Workshops. Back then the yards were filled with New Looks. But today, they are filled with Classics from 1989 and 1990. As well as a few surprises too! Saturday 23 July 2005: The last time I saw Youville was back in 2002, when we had our trip with the MdM forums to the Youville metro Workshops. Back then the yards were filled with New Looks. But today, they are filled with Classics from 1989 and 1990. As well as a few surprises too!

STM Bus #60-026 STM Bus #60-007 STM Bus #60-024 STM Bus #59-018 STM Bus #60-034 STM Bus #60-005 STM Bus #59-032 Detroit Diesel inside an open compartment. 1/2 Detroit Diesel inside an open compartment. 2/2 STM Bus #60-035 Another view of an outside entrance to the Youville Workshops, and a metro motorcar is parked here undergoing interior repairs. The only place in the Montreal metro network where trains can drive right out of these garage doors out into the open! Looking into the Youville workshops at the metros being worked on. STM Bus #15-098 had a minor fire in the back (possibly arson) and is awaiting its fate. STM Bus #22-308 waiting for maintenance work to be done at Cremazie. The Rechaud Bus, as well as a few Classics. STM Bus #59-042 has been parked here a while, most likely retired... STM Bus #60-040 has had its hood removed and STM number blacked out. Probably being used for parts now... STM Bus #59-042 as well as others wait their turns to be looked at. STM Bus #60-040's number was blacked out, then somebody added it back on with a black marker. STM Bus #59-038 says goodbye The new Diesel tractors used to push and pull rolling stock, and equipment underground through the metro system after hours.

Published in Mystic's Transit Gallery

]]> Sat Jul 23 2005 One Down, 359 First Gens to go... http://mystic.fotopic.net/c626269.html This gallery is dedicated to the first ever officially confirmed retired LFS in Montreal. Caused by an engine fire; this bus was very heavily damaged, and is not worth repairing, so this will be a salvage job for the next few months. Saturday 23 July 2005: This gallery is dedicated to the first ever officially confirmed retired LFS in Montreal. Caused by an engine fire; this bus was very heavily damaged, and is not worth repairing, so this will be a salvage job for the next few months.

As we enter the bus, first thing we notice... No steering wheel! Various pipes, and cables were scattered along the floor. All that remains of the licence plate; the paint has been melted off by the heat. The heat was so intense that it almost broke through this fireproof wall. The back window was broken during the fire. The fire spread from the engine compartment to the ceiling. The plastic advertisement isn't too badly damaged; strange. The fire travelled along the electrical conduits on both sides of the bus. The wheelchair ramp was removed, and probably added to another LFS. The emergency hatch didn't melt or burn, but everything around it did. Must be a safety feature. From this angle, this looks like a regular bus, however very dirty. These ropes are used to tie the plastic cover over the back of the vehicle. Possibly the remains of the engine compartment cover. The advertisement mentioned 2004, as did the 2004 Tarifs on the window. Bits and pieces are scattered throughout the bus; perhaps from mechanics looking for salvagable parts. The transfer machine, change box, and fire extinguisher were all removed. STM Bus# 17-098, all is normal from this angle, until you turn around! The ceiling panels were badly burnt in the back, and the fire used the lighting conduit as a path to the front. The cover protects the insides from further damage, and possibly from people seeing the damage. So, we decided to lift 'er up and see what's inside. The remains of the engine were removed. Nothing remains from the engine. Everything that was in here was either destroyed or removed afterwards. If you look in through the little holes, you can see the inside of the bus! From this angle you can look in one side and out the other. From the outside, all looks well...

Published in Mystic's Transit Gallery

]]> Sat Jul 23 2005 The end of the Line... http://mystic.fotopic.net/c591000.html Photos taken from my visit to Legendre's bus depot. Note to everybody. If you're a true Classic fan, then some of these sights may make you pretty sad. I took as many pictures as I could, but it was hard not to get emotional at seeing the fleet in this condition. Friday 24 June 2005: Photos taken from my visit to Legendre's bus depot. Note to everybody. If you're a true Classic fan, then some of these sights may make you pretty sad. I took as many pictures as I could, but it was hard not to get emotional at seeing the fleet in this condition.

STM Bus #13-019: 1993 Nova Classic. This one is almost certainly in for maintenance, though there is No transfer box nor a farebox. STM Bus #59-006: 1989 MCI Classic. Note the original foldout R-Bus Panel. STM Bus #13-019 (Rear). Very clean, with recent ads. Most likely an overhaul or heavy maintenance job. STM Bus #59-006 (Rear). The XXX Bus! STM Bus #14-047: 1994 Nova Classic. Must be in for maintenance, but looks like it's been waiting a long time. STM Bus #11-099: 1991 MCI Classic. Parked near some LFSes, so maybe this one's just in for repairs. Though there is No transfer box nor a farebox. (But neither was one in the two other LFSes next to it.) Note that the bus number location was moved from the white on blue stripe to black on white paint. STM Bus #14-047 (Accident). Looks like something big hit the driver's side corner. Hopefully they will repair this. STM Bus #12-101: 1992 MCI Classic. Waiting inbetween two LFSes, and nearby to 11-099. Hopefully just waiting for repairs. STM Bus #12-101 (Interior). Here lays a copy of the STM Bus #56-048: 1986 GM Classic. Rusting around the windshield, but otherwise looks alright. STM Bus #59-007: 1989 MCI Classic. Destination: STM Bus #56-048 (Interior). The rear door mechanism was being taken apart. STM Bus #59-046: 1989 MCI Classic. Certainly a victim of the 16 year rule. As well, somebody completely removed all of the destination and number rollers inside. This bus still has the original, rare, MCI logo on front centre of the vehicle. STM Bus #59-001: 1989 MCI Classic. The first MCI ordered by the STCUM in 1989; hopefully this bus will be preserved by the FHTCQ. It still looks in great shape inside and out! STM Bus #56-037: 1986 GM Classic. This one's certainly been through a lot. Another Luminator on a GM, Which was busted by something that hit the windshield. This one's been here for a while, the rust is starting to consume this vehicle. STM Bus #60-055 (Rear). Note the website and bus number have been blacked out. (But I can still see the number!) STM Bus #60-055 (interior/back). The standee pole had broken off and fell on the seat. STM Bus #60-055 (interior/front). STM Bus #60-055: 1990 MCI Classic. Somebody REALLY didn't want you to know what number this one was; it looks like somebody took a pair of really strong scissors and tried to cut it out! STM Bus #53-029: 1983 GM Classic. The oldest bus in this lot, and a better looking body than some of the current active fleet, and this is a 1983 GM we're talking about! STM Bus #56-057: 1986 GM Classic. White numbers on blue line, as well the destination plastic looks like it's come off a 1989 MCI Classic. But the route/destination roller is original. STM Bus #56-057 (Interior). Look at those spider webs at the back right of the bus. STM Bus #56-057. Somebody had a sense of humor and placed a McGill ad within the spider webs. STM Bus #56-057 (Rear). Another recently retired after the company name change. STM Bus #56-037 (Rear). Somebody tagged this one. And there's also the rust accumulating from all the joints. Though it was changed to STM, so perhaps it just was an unlucky target. STM Bus #59-001: 1989 MCI Classic. STM Bus #59-007: 1989 MCI Classic. Another clean looking vehicle, though must have some serious mechanical problem, or simply another victim of the 16 year rule. STM Bus #11-096 (Rear). Clean backend as well. No Adverts, but that doesn't mean anything. STM Bus #11-096: 1991 MCI Classic. No transfer box nor a farebox, though it is in remarkable condition. Luminator is functioning, so maybe it's just in for repairs, and parked suspicously close to the back yards. STM Bus #56-017: 1986 GM Classic. Another Luminator on a GM! As well STM Bus #56-052: 1986 GM Classic. Another victim of the 16 Year rule... STM Bus #11-009: 1991 MCI Classic. Very clean looking vehicle on the outside; though lots of dust inside. Luminator not functioning. No transfer box nor a farebox, though it is in remarkable condition. Hopefully waiting for service. STM Bus #56-067: 1986 GM Classic. This one has had a 1989 MCI Classic destination plastic and rollers to replace the original. STM Bus #12-082: 1992 MCI Classic. (Not Retired). Just passing by, and thought a nice MCI Classic to get a photo of. ;) STM Bus #55-056: 1985 GM Classic. This one's been here for a while. The suspension has collapsed completely and some idiot had thrown a rock through the first passenger window. STM Bus #56-055 (Side). Note the HUGE Graffiti Tag!!! :*( STM Bus #56-055: 1986 GM Classic. Starting to rust around the edges, but still pretty solid looking however check the next photo and you'll see why nobody will want this one...) STM Bus #59-008. I wonder if this bus ever did the 69 Gouin route? (Note the destination sign roller was broken... darn...) STM Bus #55-059: 1985 GM Classic. Someone took the time to place the destination to Hors-Service. STM Bus #55-065 (Rear). STM Bus #56-007: 1986 GM Classic. This has to be one of the rare GM Models with a Luminator display, and it's still functionning! STM Bus #55-058: 1985 GMC Classic. Rare White numbers on blue stripes. Heavy rust damage, this one's been sitting here for a while it appears. STM Bus #56-014: 1986 GM Classic. Must have been retired due to age; certainly not body condition. This one's solid. STM Bus #55-065 (Interior). Avis: STM Bus #53-029 (Interior). Rust damage to the dash, and a thick coating of dust all around. STM Bus #53-029. Note the grafitti... Really Sad. STM Bus #53-029 (Interior). Seats in this bus were the New Look standard cushioned benches. STM Bus #53-029 (Rear). Note they changed the name on the sides to STM. STM Bus #56-048 (Interior). Driver's area. STM Bus #56-048 (Interior). Atleast two inches of dust have settled on these seats.

Published in Mystic's Transit Gallery

]]> Fri Jun 24 2005 Visit to the ExpoRail Train Museum http://mystic.fotopic.net/c575087.html During the Free Museum day, and our third and final stop for the day on our FHTCQ tour-de-ville was at Exporail, the Train Museum in Delson just off the island of Montreal. It was a great trip, and I hope you enjoy the pics I took of the visit. Note that the lighting was pretty dim in some places, and therefore some pictures were modified accordingly. Saturday 11 June 2005: During the Free Museum day, and our third and final stop for the day on our FHTCQ tour-de-ville was at Exporail, the Train Museum in Delson just off the island of Montreal. It was a great trip, and I hope you enjoy the pics I took of the visit. Note that the lighting was pretty dim in some places, and therefore some pictures were modified accordingly.

As we proceed into Exporail we see our group is starting to join us. There are lots of box cars around the site. This one is from CPRail. Hiding around the corner of the barn is CN #9171, not restored yet but still attached to its load. This engine seems too new to be here, but maybe it's the restoration that was done to #4563. Montreal Tramways #8. Inside the passenger car tour of the site, pulled by engine from the Port of Montreal. Port of Montreal engine #1002. As we debark from the passenger car, it loads up and continues on its last tour of the day. Here's a sideshot of the CN passenger car we rode in. HAYS Station, terminus, everyone out! In the fields behind the museum building we see all kinds of rolling stock all preparing to be restored. Hmmm. Spectator stands, I wonder if they have demonstrations here? - This is also one of the only places you'll see CN and CP rolling stock attached to each other. Some older wodden box cars rest here. Hopefully they'll be restored soon before it's too late. ViaRail Train #6309 FP9ARM. (I remember when these used to be in service!) Ontario Northland engine #1400.

Published in Mystic's Transit Gallery

]]> Sat Jun 11 2005 STM Metro Collection http://mystic.fotopic.net/c574858.html Photos from down under; in the Montreal metro that is. Saturday 11 June 2005: Photos from down under; in the Montreal metro that is.

Hmmm, has anyone seen this photo anywhere before? ;) ... This is a scan of a photo which was taken back in 2002 on a trip to the Youville metro shops. This is the Prototype C's seating arrangement; which was chosen as the new layout for the MR73's. ***** Est-ce qu'il y a quelqu'un a vu cette photo quelque part deja? C'était un numerisation d'un photo 35mm qui datent de 2002 pour le visite des Ateliers Youville. C'était le configuration des sieges chosi par le STM pour les MR73 bientot. (Et aussi cet photo apparait dans un publication recent.) Station: Frontenac - The wall panel here was removed to perform repairs on the drainage system. Station: Frontenac - The escalator replacement program continues. Station: Frontenac - Looking towards the tunnel in the direction of Angrignon. Station: Frontenac - Looking into the station from the Angrignon platform. Station: Frontenac - Looking down the tunnel in the direction of Angrignon. Station: Angrignon - As a train prepares to switch tracks 2/2. Station: Angrignon - As a train prepares to switch tracks - 1/2. Station: Berri-UQAM - looking towards St-Laurent 1/3. Station: Berri-UQAM - looking towards St-Laurent 2/3. Station: Berri-UQAM - looking towards St-Laurent 3/3. Station: Lionel-Groulx - Tunnel shot, Line 1 - direction: Atwater. Station: Lionel-Groulx - Looking into the station along Line 1. Station: Honore-Beaugrand - The scene of the accident lay beyond these tracks. Yellow danger tape and flashing red lights warn trains not to enter the garage area. Station: Honore-Beaugrand - The scene of the accident lay beyond these tracks. Yellow danger tape and flashing red lights warn trains not to enter the garage area. Station: Honore-Beaugrand - The scene of the accident lay beyond these tracks. Yellow danger tape and flashing red lights warn trains not to enter the garage area. Station: Honore-Beaugrand Station: Honore-Beaugrand - The scene of the accident lay beyond these tracks. Yellow danger tape and flashing red lights warn trains not to enter the garage area. Station: Honore-Beaugrand Station: Honore-Beaugrand Station: Honore-Beaugrand - The scene of the accident lay beyond these tracks. Yellow danger tape and flashing red lights warn trains not to enter the garage area. Station: Honore-Beaugrand Entrance to Garage Beaugrand // Entre pour les Ateliers Beaugrand Station: Angrignon - Soon after the line closure, the 3 reserve trains in the tail tracks were put into service, and others are now coming out of the garage. Station: Guess??? Station: Prefontaine - The station length Station: Prefontaine - The architecture of this station is amazing! Station: Prefontaine - Soon after the line reopened; leaving the station in CM. Station: Prefontaine - At the top of the stairs. Station: Prefontaine - Looking Up! Station: Berri-UQAM - They now reopened the line, and very shortly there will be a massive rush of people filling up these cars. Station: Jean-Drapeau / Ile-Ste-Helene soon after the reopening of the line. Station: Jean-Drapeau / Ile-Ste-Helene: On the return tracks back to Berri; Strang, 3 trains passed to Longeueil, but nothing returned! Station: Jean-Drapeau / Ile-Ste-Helene soon after the reopening of the line. As we wait in the direction of Berri, this is Train #2 that passed, and not one in our direction. Station: Place-des-Arts - I don't think this piece of art was here the last time I was at this station! Station: Place-des-Arts Station: Place-des-Arts - This exact spot is one of the worst areas in the Montreal metro for people who want to end it all... :( Station: Angrignon - After the reopening of the metro, the extra trains were then returned to their parking area. Station: Angrignon - Looking into the Station: Champ-De-Mars Station: Champ-De-Mars view a small field behind. Station: Champ-De-Mars view of the rear. Station: Place D'Armes view just outside of the station and the Palais des Congrès. Metro fire hydrant hooked up to a fire hose? I wonder where this leads? Station: Snowdon (lower level) - A look at the worksite waiting for parts no doubt for this escalator. Station: Joliette - Construction Station: Prefontaine - Frontenac Navette Station: Prefontaine - Frontenac Navette Station: Prefontaine - Frontenac Navette

Published in Mystic's Transit Gallery

]]> Sat Jun 11 2005 The STM LFS Collection http://mystic.fotopic.net/c566628.html From 1996 - 2005 Novabus Canada has produced the NovaLFS model for the STM. And here are a few pics of buses from this generation. Though some may say that this model in general is no good, however many advances have been made and the new 2002-2005 2nd generation LFS has shown great improvement; though nothing will match the force and weight of a New Look and the speed and capacity of a Classic. Sunday 5 June 2005: From 1996 - 2005 Novabus Canada has produced the NovaLFS model for the STM. And here are a few pics of buses from this generation. Though some may say that this model in general is no good, however many advances have been made and the new 2002-2005 2nd generation LFS has shown great improvement; though nothing will match the force and weight of a New Look and the speed and capacity of a Classic.

STM Bus #25-219 - 2005 NovaLFS near TCV - Destination: Spécial. (Note the French accents can now be used on the 2005 models). STM Bus #25-219 - 2005 NovaLFS on Rene-Levesque - 2nd time in one day! STM Bus #22-367 - 2002 NovaLFS on Rene-Levesque performing route 535 - R-Bus Parc/CDN. STM Bus #24-231 - 2004 NovaLFS on Rene-Levesque performing route 535 - R-Bus Parc/CDN. STM Bus #23-216 - 2003 NovaLFS STM Bus #17-171 - 1997 NovaLFS: Sorry to say what a sad shape this bus is looking in... Tagged everywhere... STM Bus #17-171 - 1997 NovaLFS: Not in very presentable condition. Scratched up, paint peeling off, lots of tags, etc... STM Bus #22-303 - 2002 NovaLFS STM Bus #16-139 - 1996 NovaLFS STM Bus #16-139 - 1996 NovaLFS STM Bus #16-102 - 1996 NovaLFS STM Bus #16-122 - 1996 NovaLFS STM Bus #16-139 - 1996 NovaLFS: Destination (Side: SPEC / Front: CEGEP). STM Bus #22-406 - 2002 NovaLFS STM Bus #22-289 - 2002 NovaLFS. Prototype vehicle used for new seating. STM Bus #17-008 - 1997 NovaLFS STM Bus #24-254 - 2004 NovaLFS (1/4) STM Bus #25-232 - 2005 NovaLFS STM Bus #17-079 - 1997 NovaLFS (1/2) STM Bus #23-235 - 2003 NovaLFS (1/2) STM Bus #17-079 - 1997 NovaLFS (2/2) STM Bus #23-235 - 2003 NovaLFS (2/2) STM Bus #24-254 - 2004 NovaLFS (2/4) STM Bus #24-254 - 2004 NovaLFS (3/4) STM Bus #24-254 - 2004 NovaLFS (4/4) STM Bus #18-027 - 1998 NovaLFS (1/2) STM Bus #18-027 - 1998 NovaLFS (2/2) STM Bus #24-261 - 2004 NovaLFS STM Bus #22-367 - 2002 NovaLFS near the Pine/Parc interchange performing route 535 - R-Bus Parc/CDN. (1/2) STM Bus #22-361 - 2002 NovaLFS (2/2) STM Bus #18-085 - 1998 NovaLFS STM Bus #18-085 - 1998 NovaLFS: Parked outside Frontenac garage waiting for work to be done. STM Bus #17-136 - 1997 NovaLFS: These buses are parked back to back inside the garage. STM Bus #16-063 - 1996 NovaLFS: From the front to the back the floors were resurfaced. STM Bus #16-063 - 1996 NovaLFS: The entrance and floors were completely redone on this and several other first gens. STM Bus #16-063 - 1996 NovaLFS: Parked outside Frontenac Garage. Note the slight defect forming on the Luminator sign. STM Bus #16-063 - 1996 NovaLFS: The grooves in the floor will help people's shoes grip into the floor when its slippery. STM Bus #16-063 - 1996 NovaLFS: The metal borders are there to help protect the sides from corrosion caused by water and salt. STM Bus #16-053 - 1996 NovaLFS: As well as various other buses waiting in line. STM Bus #17-135 - 1997 NovaLFS: As well as others parked bumper to bumper inside the garage. STM Bus #17-044 - 1997 NovaLFS: As well as other buses are first in line for the next day's service. STM Bus #22-424 - 2002 NovaLFS STM Bus #22-425 - 2002 NovaLFS - Laying over at Square Victoria after completing the route 36 Monk. STM Bus #16-088 - 1996 NovaLFS STM Bus #16-024 - 1996 NovaLFS STM Bus #23-237 - 2003 NovaLFS STM Bus #17-179 - 1997 NovaLFS STM Bus #25-214 - 2005 NovaLFS STM Bus #25-214 - 2005 NovaLFS STM Bus #22-293 - 2002 NovaLFS (Let me know what you guys think of the photography). :)

Published in Mystic's Transit Gallery

]]> Sun Jun 5 2005 RTL / STRSM Collection http://mystic.fotopic.net/c565398.html Reseau de Transport Longueuil (or Societe de Transport de Rive-Sud de Montreal) bus Pictures. Saturday 4 June 2005: Reseau de Transport Longueuil (or Societe de Transport de Rive-Sud de Montreal) bus Pictures.

RTL Bus #9611 - 1996 NovaLFS near TCV RTL Bus #9017 - 1990 MCI Classic near TCV RTL Bus #9045 - 1990 MCI Classic near TCV RTL Bus #9051 - 1990 MCI Classic entering TCV RTL Bus #9062 - 1990 MCI Classic near TCV RTL Bus #20105 - 2001 Van Hool AG300 near TCV RTL Bus #20105 - 2001 Van Hool AG300 entering TCV RTL Bus #20110 - 2001 VanHool AG300 near TCV RTL Bus #20112 - 2001 VanHool AG300 near TCV RTL Bus #9710 - 1997 NovaLFS near TCV RTL Bus #9614 - 1996 NovaLFS near TCV RTL Bus #9070 - 1990 MCI Classic near TCV RTL Bus #9004 - 1990 MCI Classic near TCV RTL Bus #9020 - 1990 MCI Classic near TCV RTL Bus #9069 - 1990 MCI Classic near TCV RTL Bus #9067 - 1990 MCI Classic near TCV RTL Bus #9002 - 1990 MCI Classic near TCV RTL Bus #9621 - 1996 Nova LFS near TCV RTL Bus #9051 - 1990 MCI Classic near TCV RTL Bus #C20207 - 2002 NovaLFS near TCV RTL Bus #C9054 - 1990 MCI Classic near TCV RTL Bus #8913 - 1989 Van Hool AG700 near TCV RTL Bus #8915 - 1989 Van Hool AG700 near TCV - 1 RTL Bus #8915 - 1989 Van Hool AG700 near TCV - 2 RTL Bus #8917 - 1989 Van Hool AG700 near TCV RTL Bus #8919 - 1989 Van Hool AG700 near TCV - Note the Destination display panel has been changed. RTL Bus #9001 - 1990 MCI Classic near TCV - First MCI of that year. RTL Bus #C9066 - 1990 MCI Classic near TCV RTL Bus #9501 - 1995 Nova Classic near TCV RTL Bus #9710 - 1997 NovaLFS near TCV RTL Bus #20105 - 2003 Van Hool AG300 near TCV RTL Bus #8913 - 1989 Van Hool AG700 near TCV RTL Bus #20107 - 2001 Van Hool AG300 near TCV RTL Bus #20111 - 2001 Van Hool AG300 near TCV RTL Bus #20111 - 2001 Van Hool AG300 near TCV RTL Bus #9619 - 1996 NovaLFS near TCV RTL Bus #9603 - 1996 NovaLFS near TCV RTL Bus #C20114 - 2001 VanHool AG300 near TCV RTL Bus #9043 - 1990 MCI Classic near TCV RTL Bus #9043 - 1990 MCI Classic near TCV RTL Bus #C20202 - 2002 NovaLFS near TCV RTL Bus #9516 - 1995 Cummins/Nova Classic near TCV RTL Bus #C20004 - 2000 NovaLFS near TCV RTL Bus #9626 - 1996 NovaLFS near TCV RTL Bus #C20004 - 2000 NovaLFS near TCV RTL Bus #C9503 - 1995 Nova Classic near TCV RTL Bus #9716 - 1997 NovaLFS near TCV RTL Bus #9719 - 1997 NovaLFS near TCV RTL Bus #9605 - 1996 NovaLFS near TCV RTL Bus #20101 - 2001 Van Hool AG300 near TCV

Published in Mystic's Transit Gallery

]]> Sat Jun 4 2005 Other Transport Companies http://mystic.fotopic.net/c563646.html Even off the island, there are some really great treasures to be found. So here are some of my pics off the island. Thursday 2 June 2005: Even off the island, there are some really great treasures to be found. So here are some of my pics off the island.

Chateauguay CITSO/AUGER/METROPOLITAIN Bus #851 - 1997 Nova Classic taken on St-Jean-Baptiste Blvd. (This is said to be the last Classic ever created!!!) CITSO Bus #715 - 2004 Prevost XLII - seen in Chateauguay on Blvd. D'Anjou. Chateauguay CITSO/AUGER/METROPOLITAIN Bus #849 - 1991 MCI Classic waiting for Passengers at Angrignon Terminus. 1/2 Chateauguay CITSO/AUGER/METROPOLITAIN Bus #849 - 1991 MCI Classic waiting for Passengers at Angrignon Terminus. 2/2 Laval Bus #0509 - LFS2005 used on our Laval Metro tunnel shuttle. Greyhound Canada / Voyageur Bus #1249 Starting it's day, leaving it's home in Griffentown. CITLR Bus #2472 - Modified Classic - Seen near TCV CITSO Bus #712 - 2002 Prevost XLII - parked near TCV CITLR Bus #9451 - Nova Classic - Seen near TCV La Quebecoise Bus #9123 - MCI Classic - near TCV CIT Bus #9136 - MCI Classic near TCV CITSO Bus #707 - 1992 Prevost Mirage - entering TCV Viens Bus #29806 - Prevost - Near TCV CITSO Bus #853 - 2002 Orion V - entering TCV 2/2 Coach Canada Bus #63575 near Berri. Voyageur Bus #1061 Voyageur Bus #1250 CITSO Bus #853 - 2002 Orion V - near TCV 1/2 Hmmm, I wonder if any indication on the plates mean anything, if so, then this was a pretty famous rock group riding this bus! Private Touring Coach for probably some rock band! Voyageur Bus #1250 Expedia ad on Bus #881859 The Greyhound's Lilpup package delivery service that attaches onto the back of specified Greyhound/Voyageur vehicles. Not labeled Bus #M-864208. Voyageur Bus #1250 CITSO Bus #858 - Ex1984 CTRSM GM New Look rebuilt. CITSO Bus #850 - 1997 Nova Classic CITSO Bus #850 - 1997 Nova Classic CITSO Bus #851 - 1997 Nova Classic CITSO Bus #844 / ex8844 - 1988 MCI Classic (One of the first Classics made by MCI. CITSO Mini bus #25 - Kahnawake Route, leaving Angringon. CITSO Bus #849 - 1991 MCI Classic CITSO Bus #712 - 2002 Prevost XLII - leaving Angrignon CITSO Bus #848 - 1991 MCI Classic CITSO Bus #848 - 1991 MCI Classic Voyageur Bus #1261 Voyageur Bus #1261 Orleans Bus #5204 Orleans Bus #5204 Orleans Bus #5204 Tour-de-Ville Bus #19107 Bus #2510Aerobus - Airport de Montreal Bus #2510 Aerobus - Airport de Montreal Bus #2510 Aerobus - Airport de Montreal Molson-Ex Bus CITLR Bus #2574 Coach Canada / Connaisseur bus #16-102 La Quebecoise Bus #9908 - 1999 H3-45 Coach Canada / Connaisseur bus #16-102 CITSO Bus #756

Published in Mystic's Transit Gallery

]]> Thu Jun 2 2005 The Rare Photo Collection http://mystic.fotopic.net/c563060.html Rare Pictures of Bus or Metro Sightings. Thursday 2 June 2005: Rare Pictures of Bus or Metro Sightings.

STM Bus #59-020 seen on Rene-Levesque Blvd. During Afternoon rush hour on May 19th, 2005 while taking care of business on Route 430. Another angle of STM #59-020, taken on May 19th, 2005. STM Bus #60-010 on Route 75 - De la Commune infront of Place Boneventure. Note how clean this bus looks. I hope they don't plan on retiring this one anytime soon, even if it is a 60-xxx. STM Bus #59-058 - 1989 MCI Classic: Arriving to let off passengers from the 113 route. STM Bus #59-058 - 1989 MCI Classic STM Bus #59-058 - Letting off passengers from the 113 route. STM Bus #60-013 - returning back again for another 506 departure. STM Bus #60-013 - Loading passengers on the route 506. STM Bus #60-013 - What a find, two great Classics travelling on this route all rush hour long. STM Bus #60-013 - Probably been recently repainted and rebuilt, this bus still serves the STM well, and hopefully they'll recognize this by keeping it onboard. STM Bus #60-013 - STM Bus #60-013 - 1990 MCI Classic: Collecting passengers and Matt for a 506 tour. STM Bus #59-053 - 1989 MCI Classic: Parked at Angrignon. STM Bus #59-053 - Parked at Angrignon. STM Bus #59-053 - Parked at Angrignon. STM Bus #59-053 - Parked at Angrignon. STM Bus #59-053 - Parked at Angrignon. STM Bus #59-053 - Parked at Angrignon. STM Bus #59-053 - loading up the 106 at Angrignon. STM Bus #59-053 - loading up the 106 at Angrignon, while attempting to change the roll sign. Note that the driver went from one end of the sign to the other, and there was only: 11..22..33..44..55..66..77..88..99..00 on the first set, and 0..1..2..3..4..5..6..7..8..9 on the second set. So a STM Bus #59-053 - Figuring out that the number rollers don't work properly, the driver attempted the street name sign, and bingo; it works. Hmmm, Don't think we're going on the 12 Ile-Des-Soeurs. STM Bus #59-053 - Lets try that again; Nope, not the 29 Rachel either. STM Bus #59-053 - Keep going, we're at the 44 A-Bombardier route. STM Bus #59-053 - There we go, knew it was there somewhere. 106 Newman. Strange thing about this destination roller is that it looks like it was taken out of a GM Classic, due to the route number and street name on the same roller. STM Bus #59-058 - No time for rest; after everyone got out, this bus packs it in again for another 113 departure. STM Bus #59-053 - All loaded up and off they go! STM Bus #59-053 - Around the corner and leaving Angrignon for another 106 run. STM Bus #59-058 - STM Bus #59-058 - Arrives back from another 113 route. STM Bus #59-058 - Again Leaving Angrignon, but this time heading off to Jolicoeur to pick up a 112 route. STM Bus #59-058 - Leaving Angrignon on the 113 route. STM Bus #59-053 - Back again for another 106 departure. (506 actually, but I don't suppose it was installed on this sign.) STM Bus #59-058 - Back again are we? STM Bus #59-058 - Wow, what a busy bus. Passed twice as a 113, left empty the second time and switched to a 112, and arrives back to Angrignon as a 106! STM Bus #59-058 - Switches destinations, once again, to take on a 110, possibly for its final departure of the day. STM Bus #59-058 - Loading up passengers on the 110. STM Bus #59-058 - A nice front view of this vehicle; unfortunately a bit of bumper damage, and somebody stole the MCI logo from the front... Weird... STM Bus #60-033 - 1990 MCI Classic: Arriving at Angrignon at the end of Morning Rush Hour. STM Bus #60-033 - Quickely unloading and departing back to the garage as Hors-Service. STM Bus #60-033 - 1990 MCI Classic: Around the turn and out he went! Metro Notice: Station Berri Clef T manuelle. Informer les voyageurs qu'il n'y a pas d'arret a la station Beaudry. Max: 20mph. Merci! Metro Notice: Attention aux opperateurs(es). Vous devez faire essai de votre radio portatif a l'exterieur de votre loge. Pour une communication efficase vous devez etre a un metre du train et du tympan. Merci de votre collaboration. Bernard St-Laurent. Chef d'expolitation en ligne. STM Bus #60-074: The ads still remain on all sides, and up until just over a week ago this vehicle was enjoying the 505 R-Bus route on Pie-IX. STM Bus #60-074: Not a spec of rust around this entire vehicle. STM Bus #60-074 - 1990 MCI Classic: Not yet STM Bus #60-074: If it weren't for STM's retirement policy, I'd have just assumed that this vehicle was waiting for a replacement destination Luminator. STM Bus #60-074: One last look before I head back to the metro... STM Bus #60-013 - 1990 MCI Classic: After the passengers got off the driver rested for a bit while I took a few night-shot photographs. STM Bus #60-013 - 1990 MCI Classic: Loading passengers on the 106, most likely for it's final departure for the day at approx 6:30pm STM Bus #60-013 - 1990 MCI Classic: The driver begins boarding passengers, and hopefully the driver wasn't looking, but the flash accidentally went off for one of these shots.

Published in Mystic's Transit Gallery

]]> Thu Jun 2 2005 The FHTCQ Collections http://mystic.fotopic.net/c563057.html Photos taken during my trips with the "Fondation de l`Héritage du Transport en Commun du Québec." This is a heritage group of bus drivers; their families and fans alike who are going out there to save Montreal area buses and give them a new life by restoring them to their former glory. ***** Les photos sont prise pendant mes voyages avec le "Fondation de l`Héritage du Transport en Commun du Québec." C'est un groupe d'héritage y compris des chauffeurs d'autobus; leurs familles et des amateurs d'autobus qui sortent pour sauver des autobus d'époque de la région de Montréal et pour leur donner une nouvelle vie en les reconstitusant à leur ancienne gloire. ------------------------------ BELOW: OTHER COLLECTIONS OF MY ADVENTURES Thursday 2 June 2005: Photos taken during my trips with the "Fondation de l`H_ritage du Transport en Commun du Qu_bec." This is a heritage group of bus drivers; their families and fans alike who are going out there to save Montreal area buses and give them a new life by restoring them to their former glory. ***** Les photos sont prise pendant mes voyages avec le "Fondation de l`H_ritage du Transport en Commun du Qu_bec." C'est un groupe d'h_ritage y compris des chauffeurs d'autobus; leurs familles et des amateurs d'autobus qui sortent pour sauver des autobus d'_poque de la r_gion de Montr_al et pour leur donner une nouvelle vie en les reconstitusant _ leur ancienne gloire. ------------------------------ BELOW: OTHER COLLECTIONS OF MY ADVENTURES

FHTCQ Bus #33-008 arrives to pick me up at Frontenac Centre de Transport at 10:00am on Free Museum day! ***** Arrive pour me ramassé au Centre de Transport Frontenac à 10hrs pour le jour des portes ouvertes des musées! We're now arriving at our first Museum, the Chateau Ramsay, as well as other STM buses folllow filled to capacity with passengers. This is a rare moment and a great pose of the 33-008! After lunch we all got in to head off to the Train Museum, but not without a little humour. Our driver changed the destination sign to say: Seaway & Indian Reservation Tour; which is infact that area is very close to the train museum. There are 4 places for buses to park at the Train Museum. This van was taking up two of them. La Quebecoise backed in first, and then we boxed in the rest of the van. :D Well, now that our visit is done, it's time to leave. One problem though, a car decided to park in the reserved bus parking as well, and boxed us in; so we had to wait until he left to move on... (Didn't want to damage our bumper, or else we would have sent him flying!) ;) 5:00pm, the 33-008 arrives at the Honore-Beaugrand loop, and picks us all up for our night on the town! ***** Notre 33-008 arrive à la boucle de Honore-Beaugrand, et nous prend tous pour notre nuit sur la ville! Our ride awaits us and we're ready to go! ***** Notre tour nous attend et nous sommes prêts à aller! Our first pit stop, after we left Honore-Beaugrand, we decided to stop in at Frontenac bus garage for a break. ***** Notre premier arrêt après que nous ayons quité Honore-Beaugrand, nous avons décidé de nous arrêter au garage d'autobus de Frontenac pour une couple de minutes. Ah yes, the heart, brains and brawn of the 33-008! ***** Le coeur, le cerveau et la force du 33-008! Here's another angle inside the engine compartment of the 33-008; look how clean it is in there! ***** Voici un autre angle à l'intérieur du compartiment du 33-008; regarder comme il est propre dedans! Our original plans were to have supper at Magnan, however children aren't allowed in a bar, so the next best thing was to head back to Normise in Verdun for our supper. Thanks Normand and Lise! ***** Nos plans originaux étaient de dîner chez Magnan, toutefois on ne permet pas des enfants dans une brasserie, ainsi la prochaine meilleure chose était de se diriger de nouveau à Normise dans Verdun pour notre dîner. Merci Normand et Lise! Here we are arriving at LaRonde for the fireworks, just finished parking in our reserved parking area. ***** Ici nous arrivons a LaRonde pour les feux d'artifices, nous sommes arrivés dans notre aire de stationnement réservé. The end to another fine visit with the FHTCQ, as we bid farewell to the 33-008 at Honore-Beaugrand. ***** La fin à une autre visite extrordinaire avec le FHTCQ, comme nous avons offert l'adieu au 33-008 a Honore-Beaugrand. Inside STCUQ bus #7303; currently used as a storage area for spare parts. The back door consisted of one single door. Rust has begun to take hold of the inside and outside of this vehicle... Is it too late? From the front to the back, the seats are in great shape. Unfortunately if they were to have seen today's passengers, they would have been torn and tagged the first time out... If the bus were not to be kept, the original seats are still in good condition, however, they tried, and they don't fit on the other New Looks that the group owns. The destination rollers were still intact, and even a list of all destinations was there too. (Though I couldn't get a close enough clear picture to show you guys...) The driver's area is in good looking shape, and even after several months, the engine turned over on the first try. Mechanic = A1 / Body = D- The current FHTCQ fleet of New Looks. (The Classic is just off to the right.) FHTCQ Bus #33-008 parked at home in Youville Yards. ***** Chez eux dans les ateliers d'Youville. Quebec City, and Toronto New Looks sit side by side at their home away from home. FHTCQ Bus#14-008, while parked at home in Youville Yards. ***** Stationné chez eux dans des ateliers d'Youville. The front of STCUQ Bus #7303 - The hope was one day that this bus would be restored and returned to the road; however budget, current condition and time before it's too late all play a major part on it's revival. (edit: The headlight cap was removed by the FHTCQ crew to make it look older for the movie.) FHTCQ Bus #3988 - Toronto Transit 1966 New Look. Parked at home, waiting for one day to be fully restored and back on the road again. Facing the front of the 3988, Toronto New Look. Looking towards the back of the bus now. Notice the small window in the middle is able to slide open! FHTCQ Bus #55-001, here's the next project, a fully rebuilt and restored GM Classic, ready for the road again! FHTCQ Bus #14-008 - The back door message, as well as the excellently restored CTCUM logo in its traditional tan livery. ***** Le message de porte arrière, excellemment reconstitué avec le logo de CTCUM dans son temps brun traditionnel. Very clean interior, (except the storage), with very little to no rust anywhere. Aside from the storage, after it's restoration, this 1966 New Look will once again see the road. FHTCQ Bus #3988 - The seats look well used, but still in restorable condition. FHTCQ Bus #3988 - Driver's Area. A comfortable rear seating of this bus adds to the luxury of riding on a true classic vehicle! ***** Une allocation des places arrière confortable de cet autobus s'ajoute au luxe de la monte sur un véritable véhicule classique! The MacKay doors, a standard of Montreal transit, and no exception in 1972 either. ***** Les portes de MacKay, un niveau de passage de Montréal, et aucune exception en 1972 non plus. The drivers area of the 14-008, always an important part of any vehicle. ***** Le secteur de chauffeur du 14-008, toujours une partie importante de tout véhicule. Manual Rollers, one for the number and destination and the other for the direction or METRO. ***** Girouettes manuels, un pour le nombre et la destination et l'autre pour la direction ou Taking a look back in the 14-008 we notice that the one-seaters are located on the right (photo left) of the bus rather than the otherway around. This bus is probably one of the cleanest buses I've ever seen. The floor shines like NEW! ***** Nous prenant à un regard en arrière dans le 14-008 notons que la rangée des sièges uniques sont situées du côté droit (photo à gauche) de l'autobus plutôt que l'autre manière autour. Cet autobus est probablement l'un des autobus les plus propres que j'ai jamais vus. Le plancher brille comme NOUVEAU ! A strange, yet authentic transfer from the time this bus was built is sitting here on the dashboard. A rare find, and certainly an important treasure for the FHTCQ. ***** Un transfert authentique à partir du temps où cet autobus a été construit. Une découverte rare, et certainement un trésor important pour le FHTCQ. FHTCQ Bus #14008 - 1972 GMC New Look (Note the destination, very authentic!) ***** (noter la destination, très authentique!) FHTCQ Bus #33008. After serving us well for the entire summer, it's time for a well deserved rest, however that air leak should be looked into, for asthetical reasons mostly; after it restarts, and the air builds up again everything will balance out and be normal, but it looks strange when one side sags before the other three airbags. ***** Après un été bien rempli, il est temps pour un repos bien mérité, cependant cette fuite d'air devrait être verifié, pas majeur, mais il semble étrange quand un côté fléchit avant les trois autres. I wouldn't trade our 33-008 seats for these ones anyday. FHTCQ Bus #55-001, just a bit of dust and this bus will be ready for the road! When you want to get off, the original A clean interior, very little grafitti or scratchiti, since this bus was retired before the proliferation of STM vehicle damage begun. The MacKay doors are just waiting for somebody to push them open. Original roll sign still sits in here, and will most likely be used on special trips once the FHTCQ restores this vehicle. The classic driver's area pose, except this time on the 55-001.

Published in Mystic's Transit Gallery

]]> Thu Jun 2 2005 The STM Classic Collection http://mystic.fotopic.net/c563055.html Various Pictures of my GM/MCI or Nova Classic model photo collection. Thursday 2 June 2005: Various Pictures of my GM/MCI or Nova Classic model photo collection.

STM Bus #14-083 - 1994 Nova Classic, taken near TCV performing Route #420 - NDG. STM Bus #13-043 - 1993 Nova Classic seen near TCV performing Route #410 - Notre-Dame. STM Bus #15-006 - 1995 Nova Classic on Rene-Levesque performing Route #935 - Metrobus Express. STM Bus #14-030 - 1994 Nova Classic turning on Rene-Levesque performing Route #168 - Cité-du-Havre. STM Bus #13-073 - 1993 Nova Classic on Rene-Levesque performing Route #535 - AvParc/CDN. STM Bus #13-091 - 1993 Nova Classic on Rene-Levesque (Hors-Service). STM Bus #12-067 - 1992 MCI Classic on Rene-Levesque performing Route #410 - Notre-Dame. STM Bus #13-094 - 1993 Nova Classic on Rene-Levesque performing Route #535 - AvParc/CDN. Note the bizarre white square above the front door. STM Bus #12-069 - 1992 MCI Classic on Rene-Levesque performing Route #410 - Notre-Dame. STM Bus #15-020 - 1995 Nova Classic Route #535 DuParc/CDN. STM Bus #15-050 - 1995 Nova Classic: on route 24 - Sherbrooke Street. STM Bus #12-020 - 1992 MCI Classic: On Rene-Levesque infront of Phillips Square on Route 535 R-Bus DuParc/CDN. STM Bus #14-070 - 1994 Nova Classic: Arriving at Angrignon. STM Bus #15-044 - 1995 Nova Classic: Loading up at Angrignon. Notice the burnt out light on the right, and the grafitti made with marker along the back. STM Bus #14-068 - 1994 Nova Classic: Parked at Angrignon, having a slight front/left airbag problem, and somebody stole the STM Bus #14-068 - 1994 Nova Classic: Still parked on the side, engine off, and the airbag is still deflating. However the driver later walked over to it, stuck his hand in and started it up and went back to the lounge for about 10 minutes, when he came back the front had lifted up again. Probably going to need some repairs, or will have to leave the engine running while in service until the problem is fixed. STM Bus #14-092 - 1994 Nova Classic: Loading up a 506 R-Bus Newman. Note that this bus is missing its Balios/R-Bus sign as well. STM Bus #15-050 - 1995 Nova Classic: Parked on the side waiting for the next run. STM Bus #14-090 - 1994 Nova Classic: Loading up on the other side of the terminal this time. STM Bus #14-090 - 1994 Nova Classic: Loading up passengers for the 113 - LAPIERRE route. Note that this bus needs a rebuild soon. The front corner near the door is rusted out, and rust is starting to appear on the sides around the wheel base. Also note that the Balios or Arrow has been removed and the original number is still hiding benethe. STM Bus #12-036 - 1992 MCI Classic: loading up passengers at Angrignon. STM Bus #15-039 - 1995 Nova Classic. Note that the number on the side is touching the top of the blue line and not centered. STM Bus #12-042 - 1992 MCI Classic: Awaiting next run at Angrignon. Note the original paint, and STM Bus #15-039 - 1995 Nova Classic. This bus must have recently been rebuilt, however this Classic appears to be having airbag problems as well. As soon as the engine turned off, the front dropped and the back stayed up. The driver left this bus parked here around 4pm, and then left around 5:30pm. STM Bus #14-092 - 1994 Nova Classic: Starting up to leave at Angrignon. STM Bus #14-092 - 1994 Nova Classic: Racing past me as I catch it on photo! STM Bus #12-039 - 1992 MCI Classic: Entering Angrignon. STM Bus #14-028 - 1994 Nova Classic: Finishing a School Special at Angrignon. STM Bus #15-039 - 1995 Nova Classic: Starting up and taking off! Note the next photo, the 15-050 was serving the 24 - Sherbrooke. Not sure if this is a Lasalle garage transfer, or Lasalle serves the 24 route as well. STM Bus #15-039 - 1995 Nova Classic: About 3 minutes later the driver throws it into drive and takes off empty, most likely back to the garage. STM Bus #15-039 - 1995 Nova Classic: 5:30pm, and the driver gets back in, starts it up, and holds the pedal to the floor and while I was watching the front began to lift up off the ground. STM Bus #15-092 - 1995 Nova Classic: Taking one of the last 506's of the evening around 6pm as the sun sets, and it gets really difficult to photograph while the sun is so low. STM Bus #15-035 - 1995 Nova Classic Route #129 Côte-Sainte-Catherine. Laying over in Old Montreal. STM Bus #15-035 - 1995 Nova Classic. STM Bus #15-009 - 1995 Nova Classic along Route #129 Côte-Sainte-Catherine. STM Bus #15-009 - 1995 Nova Classic along Route #129 Côte-Sainte-Catherine. STM Bus #13-071 - 1993 Nova Classic near the Pine/Parc interchange on Route 535 R-Bus DuParc/CDN. 1/3 STM Bus #13-071 - 1993 Nova Classic. STM Bus #13-071 - 1993 Nova Classic. STM Bus #15-026 - 1995 Nova Classic Route #535 DuParc/CDN. After all of those LFSes, finally I found a Classic to ride on to my destination in Outremont. This pic is taken at the intersection of VanHorne and Parc Avenue. STM Bus #15-026 - 1995 Nova Classic Route #535 DuParc/CDN. It was a very windy day and may buses were losing their side panel ads! This one kept flapping in the wind making a lot of noise and hitting trees along the side of the road. At first I thought it was the engine compartment hood flapping back and forth, but after a passenger told the driver that the ad was falling off, then I had to see for myself. STM Bus #13-020 - 1993 Nova Classic awaiting repairs. STM Bus #13-020 - 1993 Nova Classic: Awaiting work to be done outside Frontenac. STM Bus #15-074 - 1995 Nova Classic: Check how high up the STM Bus #15-074 - 1995 Nova Classic: Someone stole the arrow out of the STM logo! STM Bus #15-074 - 1995 Nova Classic STM Bus #15-074 - 1995 Nova Classic: Parked alongside Frontenac Garage awaiting work to be completed on it. STM Bus #15-002 - 1995 Nova Classic: Parked inside Frontenac garage waiting for a driver to take it out for a run. STM Bus #12-045 - 1992 MCI Classic: Wider shot of the vehicle. STM Bus #12-045 - 1992 MCI Classic: Parked inside Frontenac waiting for Monday morning rush hour.

Published in Mystic's Transit Gallery

]]> Thu Jun 2 2005 Strange and Unusual Sightings http://mystic.fotopic.net/c563050.html Here you will find some of my strange and unusual bus findings. Anything weird and different will be located in this collection. Thursday 2 June 2005: Here you will find some of my strange and unusual bus findings. Anything weird and different will be located in this collection.

STM Bus #25-224 taken during afternoon Rush Hour on Rene Levesque Blvd. shortly after it's inauguration into service. Running the 410 - Notre Dame EXPRESS route, also take note that this Mount Royal garage bus has already been defaced not even a week after it entered service. The clip that holds the engine cover appears to have either broken off or wasn't fastened down properly. I remember this used to be a frequent problem on older buses, where the clamps had broken off completely. STM Bus #11-083 taken during Afternoon Rush Hour on Route #74 - Bridge Street. See if you can see what's strange about this pic? STM Bus #15-026 - 1995 Nova Classic: It was a very windy day, and several advertisements were flying off the sides of the buses, including this one in the photo. Something about this place seems to attract to piegeons to hang on almost vertically! Photo anyone? How would you like to be tailgated by this monster machine? Round and Round she went, where she stopped was surely a dent! STM Bus #13-078 - 1993 Nova Classic on Route R-Bus 535 with one strange and unusal thing I noticed! STM Bus #22 Series- Route 168 - Taking a detour along Philips Square 1/3 STM Bus #22 Series- Route 168 - Taking a detour along Philips Square 2/3 STM Bus #22 Series- Route 168 - Taking a detour along Philips Square 3/3 I've begun noticing these wiring setups throughout the network; most likely for future surveillance cameras. Well, well, the small orange and white boxes are for salt in the winter, but these huge ones are for, guess what, GARBAGE! ;) One of the last remaining Abribuses still seen on a major Montreal route. Another shot of this Abribus; and its windows still intact! Streetcar tracks, inches under Montreal's city streets sometimes reappear every now and then. One window remains on this bus shelter; the others, well, who knows where they're gone? STM's Fire Prevention Vehicle #87-024 (1/2) STM's Fire Prevention Vehicle #87-024 (2/2) STM's Taxi service? A view inside Frontenac's CT. STM Bus #11-077 - 1991 MCI Classic: I didn't know that the 54 Chabanel stopped here? STM Bus #11-077 - 1991 MCI Classic: Hmmm... 545 R-Bus, interesting destination! Route #545 R-Bus Papineau, during the temporary closure of Papineau metro, this 545 will provide a shuttle service between Frontenac and Papineau in intervals of less than 5 minutes. Notice for drivers at Frontenac CT that a training session will be held at these dates for the new Fare Collection boxes.

Published in Mystic's Transit Gallery

]]> Thu Jun 2 2005 Laval Metro Tunnel Visit http://mystic.fotopic.net/c560321.html A tour of the construction site of the Montreal Metro in Laval. This tour included a 750 metre passage from one emergency exit to the next one. Along the way the tour included an exposition of sounds and pictures of the evolution of the work done. This was held the 14th and 15th of May, 2005 from 8am to 6pm. At the moment there are no other plans for tours, but probably before the construction work is done, there will most likely be another tour of the work before completion. Those that missed this chance, or were unable to attend, you'll still have a chance to see a virtual tour of the tunnel construction from the 14th of June to the 26th of July at the "Centre Laval". Tuesday 31 May 2005: A tour of the construction site of the Montreal Metro in Laval. This tour included a 750 metre passage from one emergency exit to the next one. Along the way the tour included an exposition of sounds and pictures of the evolution of the work done. This was held the 14th and 15th of May, 2005 from 8am to 6pm. At the moment there are no other plans for tours, but probably before the construction work is done, there will most likely be another tour of the work before completion. Those that missed this chance, or were unable to attend, you'll still have a chance to see a virtual tour of the tunnel construction from the 14th of June to the 26th of July at the "Centre Laval".

Entrance to Concorde Emergency Exit Looking Down, Way Down! A view in the Montreal direction. Once we enter, we have 750 meters of track to explore. Entrance to ventalation shaft. Emergency Exit from the tracks. A sidewalk runs along both sides of the track, incase of emergencies, passengers can evacuate along this walkway. A drain where water from both sides of the track can meet and disperse. Works of art depicting the stages of construction of the metro line in Laval. Future housing of emergency equipment; currently being used to serve as a place for the sound effects speaker. The small cracks and water penetration is normal, since it allows the ground to breathe around the tunnel, and isn't pressurized. A view down the tunnel. The foreman's trailer. The stairs up to a bridge that crosses over the tracks, and then the 200 stairs out to the exit. An unfinished ventalation shaft. Currently being used to store the generator and water pump and hoses for the construction site. The almost infinitly long tunnel beyond the public barrier. All that's left to place is the tracks, and this portion of the tunnel will be complete. The overpass above the tracks. Yuck. This was dripping from the ceiling! A recently placed concrete block wall was placed, which previously looked over the tunnel and onto the tracks. (Perhaps this was changed due to safety regulations, since it appears to have been an afterthought. 200 stairs up to daylight. A look back at the passageway at the bottom of the stairs. The unfinished emergency exit building. Bon Voyage: 2005 STL LFS To the far left, the entrance to the 3rd platform at Henri-Bourassa, which will lead to the Laval Line.

Published in Mystic's Transit Gallery

]]> Tue May 31 2005