Fleet number 31753

WX53 UKK

Transbus ALX400 Volvo B7TL

Preserved since 2021

Body
Transbus ALX 400
Chassis
Volvo B7TL
Engine
Volvo D7C 7-litre
Gearbox
ZF 5HP500
Euro status
Euro 3
Top speed
51mph
Capacity
76 seated, 6 standing
Registration year
2003
WX53 UKK photographed as fleet number 32289

32289 operating a 77 to Hartcliffe, seen on Rupert Street in 2008.

Photograph by Regional Bus Photos

First West of England 32289, registration WX53 UKK

Upon entering preservation in Winter 2021, seen at Portway Park & Ride.

Photograph by FirstWoEPhotos

Preserved First 31753, registration WX53 UKK, at Creeting St Mary

Seen at Creeting St Mary after attending The Big Bus Show in August 2026.

Photograph by Martin Ruthe's Transport Photos

At a glance

Current Status

Operational status
Operational
Preservation stage
Ongoing care
Next appearance
Checking future events…
Technical Details Fleet identity, specification and operating history
Manufacturer
Transbus International
Bodywork
ALX400
Body number
3014/14
Chassis
Volvo B7TL
Chassis number
YV3S2J4183A002784
Engine
Volvo D7C, 7-litre
Transmission
ZF 5HP500
Emissions standard
Euro 3
Passenger capacity
76 seated, 6 standing
Year registered
2003
Original fleet number
31753
Bristol fleet number
32289
Registration
WX53 UKK
Intended registration
WR03 YZY
Original operator
First Bristol
Former depots
Muller Road, Lawrence Hill, Hengrove, Weston-super-Mare and Bath
Service liveries
Barbie 1 and Urban
Preserved since
November 2021

History

WX53 UKK was new to First Bristol based at Muller Road depot part of the batch numbered 32279-32292. It was part of a batch originally ordered by First intended for South Yorkshire and was assigned fleet numbers for the South Yorkshire numbering system with WX53 UKK being assigned 31753. The order for the batch was diverted to Bristol and WX53 UKK was reassigned a new fleet number of 32289 to fit in with Bristol's numbering system. 32289 is one of only two vehicles of the batch that entered service with a 53 plate rather than 03 like the rest of the batch, the other vehicle being 32290 WX53 UKL. 32289 was originally assigned the registration of WR03 YZY however was registered after the cutoff so was reassigned a new registration of WX53 UKK.

32289 was delivered new in Barbie 1 and was repainted into the new corporate "Urban" livery in 2014 where it gained the "West of England" skyline titles. During its time in service 32289 worked at Muller Road, Lawrence Hill, Hengrove, Weston-super-Mare and Bath depots before finishing its service life at Lawrence Hill in 2021.

In Preservation

During the preservation of 31753, extensive work was undertaken to restore and enhance its condition. In 2023 and 2024, the vehicle proudly participated in the Brislington Bus Show, showcasing its progress. A complete repaint in the iconic Barbie colours gave it a fresh and vibrant look, while outdated ad boards were removed for a cleaner appearance. Significant bodywork included the installation of new panels and the correction of the rear bumper. On the mechanical side, we replaced critical components such as air bags, shock absorbers, and brake pads, alongside smaller but essential updates like new wipers, refreshed seats, updated flooring, and thorough cleaning. In January 2025, vinyls were added to complete the look, including the original First logos and fleet number. These efforts ensure the vehicle is preserved in pristine condition for years to come.

Diagnostics being undertaken in the cab of 31753

Diagnostics being undertaken to fix an issue causing the bus to be a non-starter.

Photograph by FirstWoEPhotos
The interior floor of 31753 undergoing a deep clean

Interior of 31753 undergoing a deep clean with years of dirt being cleaned from the floor.

Photograph by FirstWoEPhotos
WX53 UKK undergoing restoration at Image Coachworks

WX53 UKK seen at Reliance Bus Works undergoing extensive restoration with new body panels and repairs.

Photograph by FirstWoEPhotos

Future Plans

Looking ahead, most of the remaining work on 31753 will focus on internal features. Improvements will include detailed interior refurbishments, as well as ongoing maintenance to ensure it remains in top condition. Additionally, 31753 is set to attend more bus shows and rallies in the future, continuing to share its story and progress with enthusiasts and the public alike.