Bristol K Type

The story of GHN 189 in one of survival. It is the oldest remaining United double-decker.
The chassis was assembled in 1942 from parts produced before Bristol switched to war work. It was fitted with a utility body built by Northern Counties.
In 1954, the current 1949 ECW lowbridge body was fitted.
Registered as GHN 189 on the 10th August 1942, Fleet No. BDO29 changed to BGL 29 on Ist May 1951.
The bus was sold to Silcox of Pembroke dock, South Wales in March 1959.
It was withdrawn in November 1969 and bought by the Reverend Phillip Battersby in 1970 for preservation; later passing to this Society in 1981.
In the mid 1980's considerable restoration work was undertaken to keep the vehicle roadworthy; it has recently had new rear springs fitted and oil seals renewed on the back axle. Further substantial bodywork and engine refurbishment will be needed for the next ten years of active life.
GHN 189 has been seen on YTV's Heartbeat dramas along with its L type single deck stablemate LHN86O.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
Chassis built by Bristol Tramways & Carriage Co Ltd. - K5G type
Engine Gardner 5LW 5-cylinder diesel. 7.0 litre, developing 94 bhp (70.1 kW) @ 1700 rpm, bolted directly to the chassis.
Water cooling system unpressurised with no fan-assistance.
Gearbox and transmission 4 speed crash (without synchromesh but with a clutch brake) and reverse to an underslung worm rear axle.
Speed 38 mph (61.2 kph)
Fuel Consumption 12 mpg (4.3 km/litre) urban, 20 mpg (7.1 km/litre) distance work.
Weight 7tons 6cwts 2 quarters (7.325 tonnes).
Dimensions width 7' 6" (2.13 m) length 26' (7.92 m) height 13' 5" (4.09 m)
Seating 53; upper saloon 27; lower saloon 26.
Electrical System 12 volts
Brakes Vacuum-assisted triple servo.
Current body composite steel and wood framed lowbridge construction, by Eastern Coach Works of Lowestoft, built 1949 for a Leyland Titan TD2 and fitted to this bus in 1954.