With 5499 being a rare vehicle type (it and 5500 are the only two examples of the type in the country), I expect they are awaiting parts for it which have probably been delayed somewhere.

(27 Apr 2026, 7:47 am)Retro Nero wrote 6046 & 6961 join 6048 at Sunderland, 6046 currently on 20s & 6961 on 700s 6048 currently to be allocated today

6043, 6046 & 6048 are all now allocated to Sunderland depot (Deptford).  6043 arriving last night from Riverside depot.  6961 is on loan from Consett depot.

(30 Apr 2026, 3:41 pm)BFK wrote 6043, 6046 & 6048 are all now allocated to Sunderland depot (Deptford).  6043 arriving last night from Riverside depot.  6961 is on loan from Consett depot.

I take it 6043 has went across to be another additional spare for the 700/701?

(27 Apr 2026, 3:22 pm)deanmachine wrote It's been sitting round the back of Deptford for a few weeks, not sure if it's still there. You'd be able to see it from the A1231.

I have heard it needs a new engine. Not sure if thats 100% correct though

(30 Apr 2026, 4:04 pm)X919 WGR wrote I take it 6043 has went across to be another additional spare for the 700/701?

6043, 6046 & 6048 are meant to be allocated to services 700N & 701N.  Both 6046 & 6048 arrived at Sunderland with defects that need fixing.  Hence why 6961 is on loan.

(29 Apr 2026, 8:05 pm)Rapidsnap wrote With 5499 being a rare vehicle type (it and 5500 are the only two examples of the type in the country), I expect they are awaiting parts for it which have probably been delayed somewhere.

Agreed. I was talking to a gateshead driver who said exactly that when off the road can be for Month's. Ive only been on one once on the 27 and really enjoyed it srened fast but the driver pissed on my parade saying they were awful to drive

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