17/05/2026
M53447 has now been fully assessed and a component recovery plan formulated. As part of this assessment it has been photographically recorded for future posterity, particularly the side that has been non-public for over three decades, with some of the views shared here in evening eastern sunlight.
The assessment confirms terminal decline to the structural integrity of the body, the likes of which would require years of work to ever rectify. Other areas are incomplete and in poor condition. Commentators quick to suggest that it should have been saved should take some time and thought to view the side angles in particular towards the end of the photo reel to illustrate this situation.
Put simply there is not the time, the money, or even the future work/purpose (if rebuilt) for this vehicle. Its parts are of greater value to the restorations of sisters M50479 & M53437, which will give preservation a total of four Class 104 DMBS vehicles. No parts will be surplus, as ALL usable items will be stripped off and saved for the preserved Class 104 fleet.
For those who have already commented with pragmatic reactions, understanding of our resource balancing act and support to our ongoing mission to provide QUALITY 104 vehicles alongside retaining a certain quantity, we thank you for your maturity and support.
