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RT buses

About the RT family

Some seven thousand buses of the RT family were built for London Transport between 1939 and 1954 creating the most standardised bus fleet in the world, although a number of design improvements and variations evolved as production progressed. The majority were finished in Central Area red livery, although many were painted green for Country Area and Green Line use.

RT1784 after completion of repaint in Spring 2002. The bus was restored to 1950’s livery to participate in the Queen’s Jubilee Tour 18/7/02.
Photo: J Hinson

Most were were based on the AEC Regent MkIII chassis built at Southall, being fitted with AEC 6-cylinder 9.6 litre engines. Transmission was through a four speed air operated pre-selective gearbox with fluid flywheel.

The majority were bodied by Park Royal Vehicles or Weymann.

RT4275 emerges from the paint shop, a little dusty on top, 24/10/17.
Photo: J Hinson

The type proved immensely efficient and reliable, and some remained in public service with London Transport until as late as 1979.

Details of the vehicles:      RT1784      RT4275