BusTalk

[NEW YORK OMNIBUS 2629]

I just received my copy yesterday; priced at $60, this outstanding hardcover is worth FAR MORE than the cover price.

I've always considered my self fairly knowledgeable on these unique vehicles, but, in all honesty, I only knew a fraction of the information in this book.

I did not know that there were no dual wires in the garages/carbarns; the ASV's dropped their poles upon entering, and then raised them (aided by rewiring pans) when they again exited.

Also, did not know that some off-street loops lacked wires.

Did not know that some of the more modern ASV's were stripped of their electrical gear after ASV service ended in 1948, and were used in tripper service as gas buses for several years.

Each PS Division is well represented; TONS of photos taken on the HUDSON and ESSEX Divisions; most photos I have never seen before.

There is also much on all aspects of ASV operation; this book is exhaustive, in-depth, and more than worthy in any transit library.

"PUBLIC SERVICE OF NEW JERSEY'S ALL-SERVICE VEHICLE"

(Wilkins/Phraner)

"NYO"

[NEW YORK OMNIBUS 2629]

There is also a very comprehensive and detailed chapter in the aforementioned book on the experimental D900; this was the GM-built test vehicle that would have been the forerunner of a new postwar fleet of diesel/electric ASV's.

Many would have operated out to the suburbs via the City Subway.

After tests were concluded PS found out that the City of Newark would not foot the bill for repaving the City Subway for ASV operation, D900 was converted into a "straight" diesel, and ended its days on the HUDSON Division, assigned to the GREENVILLE garage (Jersey City)

It was sold for further use around 1970.....

"NYO"

[NEW YORK OMNIBUS 2629]

This book also gives maps showing the ASV lines on all PS divisions, including sections of lines that were not under wire.

Some lines lacked wired loops at the end of the line, requiring the driver to pull down the poles, switch to gas power, complete the loop, and then raise the poles again for the next trip.

Also, PS fare zone maps are also in this book.

In the chapter on the experimental GM-built D900, I learned that the roof of this bus had to be strengthened to accommodate the weight of the trolley poles and other electrical gear mounted up above.

There is also a series of rare photos showing the procedures for raising and lowering the poles; also, the operation of switches at junctions and intersections.

Interestingly, as a part of PS's "equipment mileage balancing", ASV's (with trolley poles locked down) could be found operating on "bus" routes......

"NYO"

[NEW YORK OMNIBUS 2629]

Comprehensive garage assignments (by division) as well as complete rosters are also given in this book.......

"NYO"