If the engine on this vehicle is that unreliable - will it get another repaint in August, or are we looking towards a slow withdrawal.
To spend more money on a bus with a limited life expectancy seems strange.
As for it working the 24, that isnt an easy route. Apart from the section between Gateshead and Kells Lane, it is basically all hills. Waverley Road has been mentioned, but Chowdene Bank and Hertford arent exactly easy stretches either.
If the engine is that unreliable, then this is probably the shortest route from Sunderland Road. At least it won't breakdown at the back of beyond and is in easy reach to go and work on/collect.
Re the X1. Most of the time I have seen a cover/replacement on it, it seems to be an ex-London Trident working.
RE: Go North East