1973 Stock and Hounslow West

[superteacher]

I’m pretty sure that the first 1973 stock entered passenger service in July 1975 (the day of the opening to Hatton Cross). However, during trial running, did a 73 stock ever run into the old Hounslow West platforms?

[Chris L]

I joined London Transport as a trainee in July 1972 and as part of my background course we were taken to the worksite for the new platforms.

Quite surprising that it took until 14 July 1975 to get the new platforms into use.

[Dstock7080]

The first ‘73 Stock train was delivered to Ruislip depot on 14 August 1974.
It didn’t venture out under its own power until February 1975 (to White City station and back) then transferred to Northfields depot.

Although no specific mention in the LURS archives I would think that one would’ve gone to the old station before the new platforms were opened on 14 July.

[superteacher]

May 13, 2021 8:06:18 GMT Chris L said:

I joined London Transport as a trainee in July 1972 and as part of my background course we were taken to the worksite for the new platforms.

Quite surprising that it took until 14 July 1975 to get the new platforms into use.

They had to wait for the line to Hatton Cross to be operational as there were no reversing facilities at Hounslow West using the new platforms.

[jimbo]

May 13, 2021 9:48:40 GMT Dstock7080 said:

The first ‘73 Stock train was delivered to Ruislip depot on 14 August 1974.
It didn’t venture out under its own power until February 1975 (to White City station and back) then transferred to Northfields depot.

Although no specific mention in the LURS archives I would think that one would’ve gone to the old station before the new platforms were opened on 14 July.

Back then most new stock went to Northfields to prove itself on the then eastbound fast line test track. The original Hounslow West terminal had three roads, but during construction of the extension the northernmost road was abandoned.