Built by Yellow Coach in 1939, they were one of the early pioneers in bus development. In 1943 Yellow Coach became a division of General Motors under the name GM Truck and Coach Division. The Model 740 was introduced as the first large capacity 40 passenger with a diesel engine and automatic hydraulic transmission.

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Ordered by the Connecticut Company, 351 and its twin 350 were among the first diesel powered transit buses built in the US. The body was built by the Bender Body Company and has a wood frame covered by sheet metal panels. These were considered very modern at the time with the automatic transmission and improvements in driver comfort.

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This bus served in the Hartford Division until it was retired in 1965. The Connecticut Company recognized the historical value of this bus and used it occasionally for public events and displays. In 1976 the State of Connecticut took over the Connecticut Company
bus operations. However, ConnCo retained ownership of this bus and it was donated to the museum in 1978 by E. Clayton Gengres, the owner.

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Mechanical Specifications

Engine - Detroit 6V71

Transmission - 2-Speed Allison VH Hydraulic Transmission

Seats - 40

A/C? - No

Length/Width - 35 Feet / 96 Inches