When I took 296 to Llandudno Festival of Transport in May two of the air suspension air bags sprung leaks on my way there, it was not going to deter me from going with having breakdown cover if the system completely broke down I could get the bus back to Ruddington. When I got back I had to source a company that could put me a brand new air suspension system in. Easier said than done, after trying numerous commercial repairers who did not seem interested or had not got the skills to undertake such a job I sourced one nr to Ilkeston who informed me that they could do it. The firm that undertook the job was AMBER VALLEY COMMERCIALS LTD of Awsworth NG16 2RN, I took the bus in their place in June they then had to find air bags that would fit and do the job, witch wasn't easy. Below are pictures of the old air bags
Amber valley Commercials searched the markets for replacement bags and came up with brand new ones pictured below.
This is one of a pair that goes at the front axle
That is the pair that go to the front of the rear wheel.
And that is one of a pair that fit at the back of the rear wheel.
After a few weeks of measuring and adapting the new air bags where fitted into place and ready to be tested on the road. Above is the rearmost bag fitted in situ.
The middle position.
And finally the front axle one.
In the coming days the bags have to be allowed to settle then final adjustments will be made to keep them level. My sincere thanks go out to Steve Keeling Managing Director of Amber Valley Commercials and his engineer Steve Boden WELL DONE! I have no sympathy for those companies who would or would not undertake the work they missed out on a good profit, and I know were I will go in future if I need any more good work done.
P.S. The bus passed its M.O.T. the day the last bag was fitted.
Below is some information about Amber Valley Commercials.