SECTION 1 - SOME INFORMATION ON PRE 1960 EYEBROW STARLINERS I HAVE MANAGED TO GET PICTURES OF - WITH SOME DETAILS.
Present details will be updated when any new information comes. Listed in Serial Number order. The above pics are the same bus - Then and Now.
THE STARLINER CODES
218 - Length of wheelbase
WA - letters were powered by White 390-AS & AT Mustang engines
DD - for the Detroit Diesel.
GM - General Motors Detroit Diesel 4-71 engines
AC- - Air Conditioned
FA - Fageol
29 - 29 Passengers
33 - 33 Passengers
37 - 37 Passengers
SPECIAL - Signifies the Starliner was configured to a special order from a customer.
1 - (IC) Inter City Parlor Coach
2 - Airporter
3 - Club Coach
6 - Sightseer
7 (SU)- Suburban
8 - Mobile Studio
9 - Land Cruiser
10 - Highway Post Office
So breaking down the code for my Eyebrow Starliner - 218WA1-57-33SU- 218" Wheelbase, Intercity, White 390-AS & AT Mustang engine, 1957, 33 Passengers, Suburban.
The Starliners code followed 218 with WA1, WA6, WA7, WAS1, GM1, GM17. The Starliners with GM letters were powered by General Motors Detroit Diesel 4-71 engines. Some other models and years have DD for the Detroit Diesel. Those with the WA letters were powered by White 390-AS & AT Mustang engines. I don't know what the 1,6,7 or 17 would signify but I suppose it may have something to do with the engine.
The only exceptions to the WA and GM letters were 3 Eyebrow Starliners which were built for the Air Terminal Transport Co. in Toronto which had a code starting with 218OV207 built in 1957. The other was built as a special order for the Sound Drive Engine Co in Los Angeles. That code started with 182GM347C. This Starliner was purpose built and was several feet shorter than usual and without the eyebrows - A one off. The codes would change over the years and models. For example in 1960 the flat roof Starliners would start with 323.
Present details will be updated when any new information comes. Listed in Serial Number order. The above pics are the same bus - Then and Now.
THE STARLINER CODES
218 - Length of wheelbase
WA - letters were powered by White 390-AS & AT Mustang engines
DD - for the Detroit Diesel.
GM - General Motors Detroit Diesel 4-71 engines
AC- - Air Conditioned
FA - Fageol
29 - 29 Passengers
33 - 33 Passengers
37 - 37 Passengers
SPECIAL - Signifies the Starliner was configured to a special order from a customer.
1 - (IC) Inter City Parlor Coach
2 - Airporter
3 - Club Coach
6 - Sightseer
7 (SU)- Suburban
8 - Mobile Studio
9 - Land Cruiser
10 - Highway Post Office
So breaking down the code for my Eyebrow Starliner - 218WA1-57-33SU- 218" Wheelbase, Intercity, White 390-AS & AT Mustang engine, 1957, 33 Passengers, Suburban.
The Starliners code followed 218 with WA1, WA6, WA7, WAS1, GM1, GM17. The Starliners with GM letters were powered by General Motors Detroit Diesel 4-71 engines. Some other models and years have DD for the Detroit Diesel. Those with the WA letters were powered by White 390-AS & AT Mustang engines. I don't know what the 1,6,7 or 17 would signify but I suppose it may have something to do with the engine.
The only exceptions to the WA and GM letters were 3 Eyebrow Starliners which were built for the Air Terminal Transport Co. in Toronto which had a code starting with 218OV207 built in 1957. The other was built as a special order for the Sound Drive Engine Co in Los Angeles. That code started with 182GM347C. This Starliner was purpose built and was several feet shorter than usual and without the eyebrows - A one off. The codes would change over the years and models. For example in 1960 the flat roof Starliners would start with 323.
THE B.B. KING BUS
1957 FLXIBLE STARLINER
SERIAL No. 30926
MODEL NO. 218WA1-58-291CAC
The great B.B. King toured the States in a 1957 Flxible Starliner. This bus was the first off the line. It was delivered to him in Memphis Tn on the 3rd May 1958. This bus replaced his first bus which he called "Big Red".
In 1958 Big Red, collided with a butane truck on a bridge in Texas. The truck driver and a passenger in the truck died in the fiery wreck. All on the bus were safe. The company insuring the bus was suspended a day or two before the accident, leaving B.B. personally liable, though he was not present. An ongoing Court case and finally a large settlement puts B.B. in debt for many years.
In 1966 B.B. King's Starliner was stolen at Chicago. No trace was ever found, however, sometime after this a man was charged with having stolen bus parts in his possession. Although no parts could be traced to B.B. King's Starliner it is believed his bus was stolen for spare parts. Apparently the stealing of buses and stripping them for spares was not uncommon in Chicago at the time.
1957 FLXIBLE STARLINER
SERIAL No. 30926
MODEL NO. 218WA1-58-291CAC
The great B.B. King toured the States in a 1957 Flxible Starliner. This bus was the first off the line. It was delivered to him in Memphis Tn on the 3rd May 1958. This bus replaced his first bus which he called "Big Red".
In 1958 Big Red, collided with a butane truck on a bridge in Texas. The truck driver and a passenger in the truck died in the fiery wreck. All on the bus were safe. The company insuring the bus was suspended a day or two before the accident, leaving B.B. personally liable, though he was not present. An ongoing Court case and finally a large settlement puts B.B. in debt for many years.
In 1966 B.B. King's Starliner was stolen at Chicago. No trace was ever found, however, sometime after this a man was charged with having stolen bus parts in his possession. Although no parts could be traced to B.B. King's Starliner it is believed his bus was stolen for spare parts. Apparently the stealing of buses and stripping them for spares was not uncommon in Chicago at the time.
THE NORTHERN ILLINOIS STATE TEACHER'S COLLEGE BUSES
2 X 1957 FLXIBLE STARLINERS
SERIAL No. 30927
MODEL No. 218WA1-57-29IC
SERIAL No.
MODEL No.
All that is known at this time is that one of the buses, Serial No. 30927 was delivered on the 25th April 1957. I do not have a record of another bus being delivered from Flxible however there is another one as it is in the photo below.
There are 4 buses "missing" from a list of all Eyebrow Starliners produced - 30971 - 30973. Mine is one of those - 30971. Perhaps another is one in the photo below and that is why there is only information available for one delivery.
2 X 1957 FLXIBLE STARLINERS
SERIAL No. 30927
MODEL No. 218WA1-57-29IC
SERIAL No.
MODEL No.
All that is known at this time is that one of the buses, Serial No. 30927 was delivered on the 25th April 1957. I do not have a record of another bus being delivered from Flxible however there is another one as it is in the photo below.
There are 4 buses "missing" from a list of all Eyebrow Starliners produced - 30971 - 30973. Mine is one of those - 30971. Perhaps another is one in the photo below and that is why there is only information available for one delivery.
THE SYRACUSE & OSWEGO MOTOR LINES INC 1957 FLXIBLE STARLINER
SERIAL No: 30928 MODEL No: 218WA159-37-SU This Starliner was delivered to the Syracuse and Oswego Motor Lines Inc on the 17th March 1959 although it was built in 1957. Owned by Jake and Kathy Adams in Tennessee. As of Oct 2022. It is now up for sale for $25,000 |
THE ILLINOIS STATE NORMAL UNIVERSITY BUS
1957 FLXIBLE STARLINER
SERIAL No: 30936
MODEL No: 218gM1-57-29IC
This Starliner was delivered to the Illinois State Normal University on the 24th April 1957. No further information is known about this bus at present.
1957 FLXIBLE STARLINER
SERIAL No: 30936
MODEL No: 218gM1-57-29IC
This Starliner was delivered to the Illinois State Normal University on the 24th April 1957. No further information is known about this bus at present.
THE NORTHWESTERN STAGE LINES 1957 STARLINER
SERIAL No. 30938 MODEL No. 218GM1- 57- 29IC This Starliner was delivered to the Northwestern Stage Lines in Boise Idaho on the 16th May 1957. No further information is known about this bus at present. Northwestern Stage Lines was incorporated in Idaho in 1946. The company is primarily a family-owned business with its roots in Boise, Idaho. |
THE VANCOUVER AIRLINES LIMO BUS
1957 FLXIBLE STARLINER
SERIAL No. 30941
MODEL No. 218WA7-57-33SU
This bus was delivered to the Vancouver Airlines Limousine Co. on the 17th May 1957. After its life as an Airport bus it was sold to a private concern who drove the bus after converting it into a Motorhome, through Alaska, the United States and Mexico.
At the time of writing (Nov 2014) it is owned by a guy named Gordon who has it up for sale. The price seems to fluctuate. On the market at present for $25,000 US. At present it lays deteriorating in his backyard in Kelowna British Columbia. In Oct 2015 it was placed on Ebay starting at $5000 - No bids.
It is now Dec 2015 and this Starliner has finally been sold. Going to Toronto for a restoration. Larry Feng who lives just outside of Toronto, Ontario is the new owner. The Starliner has been delivered and now the task of assessing and deciding where to start with the restoration begins. Good luck Larry
1957 FLXIBLE STARLINER
SERIAL No. 30941
MODEL No. 218WA7-57-33SU
This bus was delivered to the Vancouver Airlines Limousine Co. on the 17th May 1957. After its life as an Airport bus it was sold to a private concern who drove the bus after converting it into a Motorhome, through Alaska, the United States and Mexico.
At the time of writing (Nov 2014) it is owned by a guy named Gordon who has it up for sale. The price seems to fluctuate. On the market at present for $25,000 US. At present it lays deteriorating in his backyard in Kelowna British Columbia. In Oct 2015 it was placed on Ebay starting at $5000 - No bids.
It is now Dec 2015 and this Starliner has finally been sold. Going to Toronto for a restoration. Larry Feng who lives just outside of Toronto, Ontario is the new owner. The Starliner has been delivered and now the task of assessing and deciding where to start with the restoration begins. Good luck Larry
NOW UNDER RESTORATION IN ONTARIO CANADA
THE MISSOURI TRANSIT CO. BUS
1957 STARLINER
SERIAL No. 30943
MODEL No. 218GM1-57-29ICAC
The Missouri Transit Co. Bus was delivered on the 16th May 1957. At present little is known about the history of this bus however it is presently owned by Sam Pine Sr who has owned it for a long time.
At some point Sam Pine Snr bought 2 Starliners for his Intercity Coach business in Dighton Massachusetts. One of these Coaches, No. 135 was an Eyebrow as pictured here. The other, No. 136 was a flat top. Sam still owns the Eyebrow today. As more information comes to hand then this will be updated.
1957 STARLINER
SERIAL No. 30943
MODEL No. 218GM1-57-29ICAC
The Missouri Transit Co. Bus was delivered on the 16th May 1957. At present little is known about the history of this bus however it is presently owned by Sam Pine Sr who has owned it for a long time.
At some point Sam Pine Snr bought 2 Starliners for his Intercity Coach business in Dighton Massachusetts. One of these Coaches, No. 135 was an Eyebrow as pictured here. The other, No. 136 was a flat top. Sam still owns the Eyebrow today. As more information comes to hand then this will be updated.
THE WILLIAM BALLARD DOGGETT
1957 STARLINER - SPECIAL
SERIAL No. 30944
MODEL No. 218GM1-57-SPECIAL
The Doggett bus was delivered to William Ballard Doggett on the 14th May 1957 at Flushing New York. Doggettt was an American Jazz and Rhytm and Blues pianist and Organist who travelled with his band in the Starliner. At this time no more information is known as to what happened to the Starliner.
1957 STARLINER - SPECIAL
SERIAL No. 30944
MODEL No. 218GM1-57-SPECIAL
The Doggett bus was delivered to William Ballard Doggett on the 14th May 1957 at Flushing New York. Doggettt was an American Jazz and Rhytm and Blues pianist and Organist who travelled with his band in the Starliner. At this time no more information is known as to what happened to the Starliner.
THE SHIMER BUS
1957 FLXIBLE STARLINER
SERIAL No. 30951
MODEL No. 218GM1-57-33IC
1957 FLXIBLE STARLINER
SERIAL No. 30951
MODEL No. 218GM1-57-33IC
The Shimer bus was delivered to the Shimer College on the 26th June 1957. Little is known of the life of this bus. The College itself moved from Mt Carroll where the bus was delivered to Waukegan and then to where it is today - Chicago. According to several past students and present members of the College Alumni the bus was used in the 60's to carry the College Basketball team and it's Cheerleaders to the games. One of those Cheerleaders, Isabella Winkler, is presently the Director of Strategic Communications & Special Assistant to the President of Shimer College. The basketball team had and may still have the unenviable record in College basketball for having lost 65 games in a row.
In 1960 students recall, they traveled on the bus to a nearby town to hear President Kennedy speak. No further information is known at this time.
The latest news re this Starliner is that in 2000 it was reported to be owned by Al Peavy in MA. Previous to this it is also reported that Bob Partridge owned it for about 15 years.
November 2014 - I have just heard from Mike Middaugh, a self confessed Flxible nut from Columbus Ohio. He owns the Shimer bus and has owned it since December 2005. Mike is in the Motor Coach business www.coachquarters.com and he acquired the bus from Roland Shick of Agassiz Trading company (an antique business) trading in Bethlehem, New Hampshire. He has a long term goal of restoring the Starliner.
Mike informed me of the following -
"I believe Shimmer College only operated it for about 4 years. It was converted to a motor home I believe just after it left the Shimer College Ownership. I don’t believe it was used to carry passengers after Shimer sold it. The hub odometer shows less than 90,000 miles, which I believe could be accurate. It has much less rust than most. My plans for the Starliner are to use it locally for parades, weddings and Ohio State home football games. So the interior will be set up with a bathroom, small galley and lounge furniture, with seating for 12-14". I want to keep the body and running gear as original as possible. The GM4-71 runs pretty darn good. It had a 4 valve and Jake Brakes installed somewhere along the line. The torsion bars, steering links, etc have all been replaced as well as the drums and shoes. I'm thinking Clarke Custom Coach did some of the original cabinet work".
Thanks for the update Mike.
In 1960 students recall, they traveled on the bus to a nearby town to hear President Kennedy speak. No further information is known at this time.
The latest news re this Starliner is that in 2000 it was reported to be owned by Al Peavy in MA. Previous to this it is also reported that Bob Partridge owned it for about 15 years.
November 2014 - I have just heard from Mike Middaugh, a self confessed Flxible nut from Columbus Ohio. He owns the Shimer bus and has owned it since December 2005. Mike is in the Motor Coach business www.coachquarters.com and he acquired the bus from Roland Shick of Agassiz Trading company (an antique business) trading in Bethlehem, New Hampshire. He has a long term goal of restoring the Starliner.
Mike informed me of the following -
"I believe Shimmer College only operated it for about 4 years. It was converted to a motor home I believe just after it left the Shimer College Ownership. I don’t believe it was used to carry passengers after Shimer sold it. The hub odometer shows less than 90,000 miles, which I believe could be accurate. It has much less rust than most. My plans for the Starliner are to use it locally for parades, weddings and Ohio State home football games. So the interior will be set up with a bathroom, small galley and lounge furniture, with seating for 12-14". I want to keep the body and running gear as original as possible. The GM4-71 runs pretty darn good. It had a 4 valve and Jake Brakes installed somewhere along the line. The torsion bars, steering links, etc have all been replaced as well as the drums and shoes. I'm thinking Clarke Custom Coach did some of the original cabinet work".
Thanks for the update Mike.
THE NEW YORK STATE - KING'S PARK HOSPITAL BUS 1957 FLXIBLE STARLINER
SERIAL No. 30953
MODEL No. 218WA1-57-29IC
SERIAL No. 30953
MODEL No. 218WA1-57-29IC
The King's Park Hospital Bus was delivered on the 11th June 1957. It was one of two 1957 Starliner's ordered by the New York State Hospitals that year. The other went to Rockland State Hospital. Both were delivered on the same day.
Looks like when it was converted the rear windows were changed. The eyebrows came off the line with a small window at the rear not a large one as seen here.
It underwent a conversion back in the 60's by "Clark Custom Coach" out of Massachusetts. At present this Starliner is sitting in a field in Vermont.
The Starliner has now been sold to another person in Vermont. NO IT HASN'T. Looks like it is still in the same field in Vermont. Update as of Sept 28-2022. Looks like it is for sale U.S.$25,000. I think it will be a struggle to sell at that price. October, and the price has fallen to $5,000
As of early Nov 2023 the Starliner is now the property of Samuel Pine Jr. And no he didn't pay that price.
.THE UNION PACIFIC RAILROAD BUS
1957 FLXIBLE STARLINER
SERIAL No. 30955
MODEL No. 218WA1-57-29IC
1957 FLXIBLE STARLINER
SERIAL No. 30955
MODEL No. 218WA1-57-29IC
The Union Pacific Railroad Starliner was first delivered to the railroad on the 12th June 1957 at Sun Valley Idaho. It was originally used seasonally for the Sun Valley Idaho ski resort.
The second owners was the Kirkland Bus Company of Twin Falls Idaho.
The third owner, Moffit Brothers Transportation of Lostine Oregon owned it from the mid 1960's until 2002. Mr. Moffitt, the owner of the company kept this bus for special occasions and drove it himself. It was in parades and carried Hollywood movie stars to filming locations. Lostine Oregon is dry country and the bus was garaged so it was never rusted. When the Moffits owned the Starliner, according to Roberta Moffit, it had a 471 Detroit engine and 4853 Spicer transmission and 5th over.
The fourth owner was David and Carol Lang. The Starliner is presently up for sale as of August 2014.
The new owners as of Oct 2014 are Jim & Joey Latimore. The Starliner has been kept in storage in Leipers Fork, Tennessee since then except for use in occasional parades and "exercise" from time to time.
It is now September 2016 and Starliner No. 30955 has just been sold and the new owner is Andy Pargh - The famous Gadget Guru. I hear he is very excited about owning the Flxible Starliner. A link to his site is on the links page.
It is now the end of March 2019 and Andy has sold this magnificent Starliner. The new owners are;
The second owners was the Kirkland Bus Company of Twin Falls Idaho.
The third owner, Moffit Brothers Transportation of Lostine Oregon owned it from the mid 1960's until 2002. Mr. Moffitt, the owner of the company kept this bus for special occasions and drove it himself. It was in parades and carried Hollywood movie stars to filming locations. Lostine Oregon is dry country and the bus was garaged so it was never rusted. When the Moffits owned the Starliner, according to Roberta Moffit, it had a 471 Detroit engine and 4853 Spicer transmission and 5th over.
The fourth owner was David and Carol Lang. The Starliner is presently up for sale as of August 2014.
The new owners as of Oct 2014 are Jim & Joey Latimore. The Starliner has been kept in storage in Leipers Fork, Tennessee since then except for use in occasional parades and "exercise" from time to time.
It is now September 2016 and Starliner No. 30955 has just been sold and the new owner is Andy Pargh - The famous Gadget Guru. I hear he is very excited about owning the Flxible Starliner. A link to his site is on the links page.
It is now the end of March 2019 and Andy has sold this magnificent Starliner. The new owners are;
THE KEYSTONE TRUCK AND TRACTOR MUSEUM - COLONIAL HEIGHTS VIRGINIA. Call in and check it out.
THE PENSACOLA SIGHT SEEING TOURS INC BUS.
1957 FLXIBLE STARLINER SERIAL No: - 30959 MODEL No: - 218WA1-57-33SUAC This Starliner was delivered to the Pensacola Sight Seeing Tours Inc Company in Florida on the 18th July 1957. A recent barn find in Ohio. As of July 2017 it is up for sale US$19,500 As of Nov 2023 she is being parted out according to Samuel Pine Jr. |
THE KANSAS STATE TEACHER'S COLLEGE BUS 1957 FLXIBLE STARLINER
SERIAL No: - 30962
MODEL No: - 218WA1-57-29IC
This Starliner was delivered to Kansas State Teacher's College on 16th August 1957. Presently owned by Sarah Bowman (Nov 2014)
It has been in California for quite a few years. I think it's current owner lives in Malibu. About a year ago they had acquired it from someone else in California.
SERIAL No: - 30962
MODEL No: - 218WA1-57-29IC
This Starliner was delivered to Kansas State Teacher's College on 16th August 1957. Presently owned by Sarah Bowman (Nov 2014)
It has been in California for quite a few years. I think it's current owner lives in Malibu. About a year ago they had acquired it from someone else in California.
THE JOHN ZINK Co. COACH
1957 FLXIBLE STARLINER
SERIAL No: 30966
MODEL No: 218GM1-57-SPECIAL (Custom Coach)
This was a custom built Starliner which was ordered by wealthy businessman John Zink. Zink was a professional engineer, inventor and industrialist who was born on October 17, 1928, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. His father, also named John Zink, was a chemist for the Oklahoma Natural Gas Company, founded the John Zink Company to manufacture oil and gas combustion units in 1929 .
When the Coach came off the line it was sent to Custom Coach Corporation in Columbus Ohio to be completed according to the specifications of John Zink. It was delivered on the 26th June 1957 to the Zink Company in Tulsa Oklahoma.
At present little is known of the history of this Starliner. As mentioned, it belonged to John Zink of Oklahoma and when this picture was taken it was in his museum - Zink Ranch Museum in Broken Arrow, OK. John ZINC died in 2005 and his son Darton has taken over the reins. As more details come to light they will be added.
1957 FLXIBLE STARLINER
SERIAL No: 30966
MODEL No: 218GM1-57-SPECIAL (Custom Coach)
This was a custom built Starliner which was ordered by wealthy businessman John Zink. Zink was a professional engineer, inventor and industrialist who was born on October 17, 1928, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. His father, also named John Zink, was a chemist for the Oklahoma Natural Gas Company, founded the John Zink Company to manufacture oil and gas combustion units in 1929 .
When the Coach came off the line it was sent to Custom Coach Corporation in Columbus Ohio to be completed according to the specifications of John Zink. It was delivered on the 26th June 1957 to the Zink Company in Tulsa Oklahoma.
At present little is known of the history of this Starliner. As mentioned, it belonged to John Zink of Oklahoma and when this picture was taken it was in his museum - Zink Ranch Museum in Broken Arrow, OK. John ZINC died in 2005 and his son Darton has taken over the reins. As more details come to light they will be added.
THE PAINTER BUS LINES INC.
1957 FLXIBLE STARLINER
SERIAL No. 30967
MODEL No. 218-GM1-57-29-1C - AC
1957 29 seat Inter City Parlor Coach. First sold to the Painter Bus Lines of Uvalde and delivered in Oct 1957. The original engine was a General Motors Detroit Diesel 4-71.
-San Antonio singer-guitarist George Chambers bought the bus from Kerrville Bus Lines on January 12, 1968. The Starliner was named "Rodney the Road Toad". The name was given by George's band, The Country Gentleman in the late sixties, so the new owner is going to keep the name.
Kerrville Bus Lines which is still in operation today bought it from Painter Bus Co and put it into service till George bought it from them. The interior was pretty much gutted and bunks were installed for the band. No plumbing or appliances of any kind were put in, so the shell is all original! The interior currently is half gutted once again, so it appears they were going to remodel but lost interest for some reason.
Now owned by Steve Anderson in Texas U.S.A
1957 FLXIBLE STARLINER
SERIAL No. 30967
MODEL No. 218-GM1-57-29-1C - AC
1957 29 seat Inter City Parlor Coach. First sold to the Painter Bus Lines of Uvalde and delivered in Oct 1957. The original engine was a General Motors Detroit Diesel 4-71.
-San Antonio singer-guitarist George Chambers bought the bus from Kerrville Bus Lines on January 12, 1968. The Starliner was named "Rodney the Road Toad". The name was given by George's band, The Country Gentleman in the late sixties, so the new owner is going to keep the name.
Kerrville Bus Lines which is still in operation today bought it from Painter Bus Co and put it into service till George bought it from them. The interior was pretty much gutted and bunks were installed for the band. No plumbing or appliances of any kind were put in, so the shell is all original! The interior currently is half gutted once again, so it appears they were going to remodel but lost interest for some reason.
Now owned by Steve Anderson in Texas U.S.A
THE ROBBINS CHARTER Co. BUSES
1957 FLXIBLE STARLINERS
SERIAL No. 30971
MODEL No. 218WA1 - 57 - 33SU
SERIAL No. 30972
MODEL No. 218WA1 - 57 - 33SU
1957 FLXIBLE STARLINERS
SERIAL No. 30971
MODEL No. 218WA1 - 57 - 33SU
SERIAL No. 30972
MODEL No. 218WA1 - 57 - 33SU
Both of these Starliners started life with the Robbins Charter Bus Company. Both Starliners were delivered on the 28th June 1957. At this time very little else is known about the life of either of these Starliners.
It has been said however that 30971 was used as a Party Bus at some stage during its life. This can be backed up by the fact that when it was found it had 2 bars at the rear of the bus. Also, towards the rear on the outside there are 4 holes going straight through the side of the Starliner. Apparently there were 2 large ice buckets which were bolted on the inside of the bus. As you are probably aware now #30971 belongs to MEEEE!!!!!! now
It has been said however that 30971 was used as a Party Bus at some stage during its life. This can be backed up by the fact that when it was found it had 2 bars at the rear of the bus. Also, towards the rear on the outside there are 4 holes going straight through the side of the Starliner. Apparently there were 2 large ice buckets which were bolted on the inside of the bus. As you are probably aware now #30971 belongs to MEEEE!!!!!! now
THE SOUNDRIVE ENGINE Co. 1957 FLXIBLE
STARLINER
SERIAL No. 30976
MODEL No.1 - 182GM347C-57-25IC - SPECIAL
No.2 - 187 57FV1 SPECIAL
The Soundrive Starliner was a special order delivered to the Company at 3300 Cahunga Boulevard Los Angeles California on the 6th September 1957. This Company were involved in the Industrial Research of sounds in signals, transmissions, etc. At times they were contracted by the United States Military. Based in L.A they had physicists, engineers, Researchers and other personal working for them. Research activities included - Amplitude sound, High energy vibrations - Jet and other loud noises together with research on air-breathing engines and rocket engine combustion.
Fred, the present owner states that California Custom Coach fitted it out as a Motor home.
You will notice that they had 3 large windows along each side leaving out the smaller rear window at the rear. This made the bus about 30 to 32 foot long compared to the normal 35 foot. No Destination box. The rear drip rail curves immediately behind the baggage doors where as a normal Starliner has the drip rail continue further to the rear.
At the time A.G. Bodine was the President and Research Director and undoubtedly he would have made the final decision on purchasing the Starliner. At some point the Company was renamed the Bodine Soundrive Co.
The Starliner as at Oct 2017 is up for sale in Arizona together with a 1963 Flxible Flat roof Starliner.
As of Jan 2018 Robert is the new owner and this special Starliner now lives in Minneapolis Minnesota. The restoration has already started with Robert sourcing replacement parts.
Date is now May 2022 and unfortunately Robert has had to put the Starliner up for sale. Offers around then $75,000 will be considered. Robert mentioned the following.
"All, I am sadly in need of selling my 57 Starliner (30 ft...special order). It is not operational but has had a complete new suspension installed, new brakes, a 330 hp. Cummins 8.3L with an Allison Transmission and rear end (source...a 2000 Freightliner RV chassis that had 88k verifiable miles on it. The frame has been sandblasted and epoxied, the interior of the shell is the same green as originally used by Flx. New high performance radiator, an air to air, fuel tank, etc. The body/shell is not roached out from rust. Most of the deliberate holes created during its first life have been professionally corrected; its roof platform has been removed. The Flx spent all of its operational life in the rust free SW.
I lost my mechanic and access to a shop due health problems. The Flx is currently located near Red Wing, MN. I currently have over $75,000 into the project...will entertain offers...and don't expect to come away whole.
Msg me if you have a interest.
Thanks,
I have somehow deleted all the info I had on the Neeley Bus. When I get it back I will upload.
THE HALIFAX AIRPORT TRANSFER Co. BUS
1957 FLXIBLE STARLINER
SERIAL No: 30981
MODEL No: 218WA1-57-29IC
Now known as The Pickle, Starliner #30981 was first delivered to The Airport Transfer Company in Halifax, Nova Scotia Canada on the 30th September 1957 - approximately 1400 miles from the Loudonville Factory. It was a 29 passenger bus servicing the Halifax Airport - dropping off and picking up passengers.
Presently owned by Rick Norcross. Rick is from Burlington Vermont and is also the Secretary Treasurer of the Vermont Musicians Assc. Rick is a long time musician and uses the Starliner for his "Rick & the Ramblers" Concert tours.
SOLD - TO THE CONGRESS OF COUNTRY MUSIC
THE HOTARD BUS LINES 1957 FLXIBLE STARLINER
SERIAL No: 30983
Model No: 218GM17-57-37SU
Delivered to the Hotard Bus Lines IN Reserve Louisiana on the 18th October 1957. This Company is still in operation today under the name of Hotard Coaches in several areas including New Orleans, Louisiana.
More information is on the way.
SERIAL No: 30983
Model No: 218GM17-57-37SU
Delivered to the Hotard Bus Lines IN Reserve Louisiana on the 18th October 1957. This Company is still in operation today under the name of Hotard Coaches in several areas including New Orleans, Louisiana.
More information is on the way.
THE FOLSOM PRISON BUS
1957 FLXIBLE STARLINER
SERIAL No. 30989
MODEL No. 218WA7-57-36SU
Delivered to the Folsom Prison for the State of California on the 21st Dec 1957
As of May 2019 it is IN Salem Florida and for sale on Craig List for US $6,000
1957 FLXIBLE STARLINER
SERIAL No. 30989
MODEL No. 218WA7-57-36SU
Delivered to the Folsom Prison for the State of California on the 21st Dec 1957
As of May 2019 it is IN Salem Florida and for sale on Craig List for US $6,000
THE RED LION BUS
1958 FLXIBLE STARLINER
SERIAL No: 30993
MODEL No: 218WA1-58-33IC
All that is know of this bus is that it was delivered to the Red Lion Bus Company in Red Lion, Pennsylvania on the 14th February 1958.
1958 FLXIBLE STARLINER
SERIAL No: 30993
MODEL No: 218WA1-58-33IC
All that is know of this bus is that it was delivered to the Red Lion Bus Company in Red Lion, Pennsylvania on the 14th February 1958.
THE NEBRASKA STATE TEACHERS COLLEGE BUS
1959 FLXIBLE STARLINER
SERIAL No. 30994
MODEL No. 218GM1-59-29IC
The Nebraska State Teacher's Bus was delivered on the 18th August 1959. At present little is know of its life however it is presently undergoing restoration by its current owner John Salick. A 3208T Turbo charged Cat together with a MT 643 Allison and a SQHD Rockwell are being installed. Engine trans, rear, air brakes, tanks, wiring, larger radiator, and other components donated by a '86 Bluebird. Interior has 3 sets of original Starliner seats. The rest is empty with the exception of some new shrouding and floorboards. Four electric fans controlled both thermostatic and manual.
She is registered and on the road.
1959 FLXIBLE STARLINER
SERIAL No. 30994
MODEL No. 218GM1-59-29IC
The Nebraska State Teacher's Bus was delivered on the 18th August 1959. At present little is know of its life however it is presently undergoing restoration by its current owner John Salick. A 3208T Turbo charged Cat together with a MT 643 Allison and a SQHD Rockwell are being installed. Engine trans, rear, air brakes, tanks, wiring, larger radiator, and other components donated by a '86 Bluebird. Interior has 3 sets of original Starliner seats. The rest is empty with the exception of some new shrouding and floorboards. Four electric fans controlled both thermostatic and manual.
She is registered and on the road.
THE SMEAL BUS COMPANY BUS
1958 FLXIBLE STARLINER
SERIAL No. 30996
MODEL No. 218WA1-58-37SU
All that is known of this Starliner is that it was delivered to the Smeal Bus Company in Newcastle Pennsylvania on the 4th April 1958. More info will be added when it comes to hand.
1958 FLXIBLE STARLINER
SERIAL No. 30996
MODEL No. 218WA1-58-37SU
All that is known of this Starliner is that it was delivered to the Smeal Bus Company in Newcastle Pennsylvania on the 4th April 1958. More info will be added when it comes to hand.
THE AMPEX CORPORATION BUS
1958 FLXIBLE STARLINER
SERIAL No. 30997
MODEL No. 218WA1-58-SPECIAL
1958 FLXIBLE STARLINER
SERIAL No. 30997
MODEL No. 218WA1-58-SPECIAL
THE LOS ANGELES AIR TRANSPORT BUS
1958 FLXIBLE STARLINER
SERIAL No. 31000
MODEL No. 218WA7-58-33SU
All that is known of this Starliner is that it was delivered to The Los Angele's Airport for use as a transporter on the 14th April 1958. The Starliner was scrapped in Northern California in 2009.Some of the sid bumpers and seats were saved and are now in Starliner 30994.
1958 FLXIBLE STARLINER
SERIAL No. 31000
MODEL No. 218WA7-58-33SU
All that is known of this Starliner is that it was delivered to The Los Angele's Airport for use as a transporter on the 14th April 1958. The Starliner was scrapped in Northern California in 2009.Some of the sid bumpers and seats were saved and are now in Starliner 30994.
THE NORTHERN TRANSPORTATION Co. BUSES
1959 FLXIBLE STARLINERS
SERIAL No. 31013
MODEL No.218FA1-59-29IC
SERIAL No. 31014
MODEL No.218FA1-59-29IC
These Starliners are the 3101e body style. Starliner Serial No. 31013 belongs to Randy Tucker while Starliner Serial No. belongs to his brother Brian Tucker - both from Pocola Oklahoma.
Randy and Brian's father bought both of them from North Dakota driving one and pulling the other. At present 31013 has a diesel in it with a 6 speed automatic transmission and 31014 has a Ford 540 gas engine with the same transmission. Both are under a slow restoration.
Starliner 31013 has been sold to Steve Skeid and will be restored.
THE ATLANTA BAGGAGE AND CAB Co. BUS
1959 FLXIBLE STARLINER
SERIAL No. 31018
MODEL No. 218GM1-59 - 29ICAC
This Starliner started its life with the Atlanta Baggage and Cab Company. Delivered to the Company on the 20th March 1959. It seated 29 passengers, was classified as an Inter City Bus and had air conditioning.
The Starliner was bought by Don Kendall from Australia in 2013 and imported into Australia. The previous owner was Duane Dobbs of Columbus MT.
At the time this was the first Flxible Starliner to be imported into Australia. Since this date another has been sent to Oz (Serial No. 30971 - Mine)
Latest news in Dec 2015 is that Don intends to restore and modernise the interior.
1959 FLXIBLE STARLINER
SERIAL No. 31018
MODEL No. 218GM1-59 - 29ICAC
This Starliner started its life with the Atlanta Baggage and Cab Company. Delivered to the Company on the 20th March 1959. It seated 29 passengers, was classified as an Inter City Bus and had air conditioning.
The Starliner was bought by Don Kendall from Australia in 2013 and imported into Australia. The previous owner was Duane Dobbs of Columbus MT.
At the time this was the first Flxible Starliner to be imported into Australia. Since this date another has been sent to Oz (Serial No. 30971 - Mine)
Latest news in Dec 2015 is that Don intends to restore and modernise the interior.
THE PETER PAN BUSES
1958 FLXIBLE STARLINERS
No. 77 - Curly
SERIAL No: - 31019
MODEL No: - 218GM1-58-29IC
Peter Pan Bus Lines is a long-distance bus carrier headquartered in Springfield, Massachusetts. It operates in the northeastern United States. Over four million passengers per year travel on Peter Pan's bus routes.
According to the Peter Pan Co. Historical records No. 77 was named "Curly" and was delivered to Peter Pan Bus Lines Inc in Springfield Massachusetts on the 11th June 1958.
1958 FLXIBLE STARLINERS
No. 77 - Curly
SERIAL No: - 31019
MODEL No: - 218GM1-58-29IC
Peter Pan Bus Lines is a long-distance bus carrier headquartered in Springfield, Massachusetts. It operates in the northeastern United States. Over four million passengers per year travel on Peter Pan's bus routes.
According to the Peter Pan Co. Historical records No. 77 was named "Curly" and was delivered to Peter Pan Bus Lines Inc in Springfield Massachusetts on the 11th June 1958.
No. 78
SERIAL No: - 31022
MODEL No: 218GM1-58-29IC
Peter Pan bus No. 78 is the same bus in the below pics. The blue bus pic was taken between the time it was Peter Pan bus No. 78 and it's present owner who has completely restored and refitted it as a Motor home. At this time (Nov 2014) the present owners are John and Paulette Lingafelter. The Lingafelters purchased the coach in North Dakota in late 2009.
They updated the interior, which already had been converted to a motor home; rebuilt damaged walls and floor; and painted the exterior.
It was first delivered to the Peter Pan Bus Lines in Springfield Massachusetts during December 1958. As yet I do not know what has happened to the other Peter Pan Eyebrow Starliner.
SERIAL No: - 31022
MODEL No: 218GM1-58-29IC
Peter Pan bus No. 78 is the same bus in the below pics. The blue bus pic was taken between the time it was Peter Pan bus No. 78 and it's present owner who has completely restored and refitted it as a Motor home. At this time (Nov 2014) the present owners are John and Paulette Lingafelter. The Lingafelters purchased the coach in North Dakota in late 2009.
They updated the interior, which already had been converted to a motor home; rebuilt damaged walls and floor; and painted the exterior.
It was first delivered to the Peter Pan Bus Lines in Springfield Massachusetts during December 1958. As yet I do not know what has happened to the other Peter Pan Eyebrow Starliner.
THE CHAUTAUQUA TRANSIT INC. BUS
1959 STARLINER SERIAL No. 31025 MODEL No. 218GM1-59-29IC The Chautauqua Transit Bus was delivered to the Co. on the 14th October 1959 in Jamestown New York State. Presently in Gainesville Florida.This could very well be the last of the Eyebrow Starliners. Now owned by Michael Madore |
SECTION2 - PICTURES OF STARLINERS WHICH NEED TO BE IDENTIFIED - ANY INFORMATION WOULD BE MUCH APPRECIATED - IF YOU HAVE ANY INFO PLEASE CONTACT ME OR LEAVE MESSAGE. LOOKING FOR MODEL YEAR, SERIAL No., HISTORY, OWNERS PAST AND PRESENT ETC
NOTES: -
1 - It is believed that Pics 19, 20 and 22 is the same Starliner and owned by a guy named Tom from Connecticut.
2 - Pic 11 was taken across the road from the Loudonville factory
3 - Pic 8 and 23 appear to be the same Starliner
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