MR-63 Element 3 – Post-Retirement Fate
We could have had an MR-63 in service up until now, but unfortunately not. Element 3 (cars 81-505, 80-003, 81-506) was part of the historic final retirement run of the MR-63 fleet on June 21, 2018, on the Blue Line. This marked the end of 52 years of service for the original Montreal Metro rolling stock.
Storage After Retirement
Not much is publicly documented about its immediate post-retirement placement. After decoupling (the rest of the final train was separated earlier), Element 3 was stored behind Saint-Michel station's arrière-gare tail tracks on the Blue Line for movies, and special events. It was also reportedly positioned near the raccordement (connection) tracks to Youville shops. Photos from around 2021 show it stored behind Saint-Michel.
Scrapping in 2021
In 2021, the STM decided to scrap Element 3 due to maintenance costs, storage space constraints, and the overall reclamation plan for retired MR-63 cars (most of the fleet was recycled under a sustainable program). This is confirmed through internal STM documents and accounts from operators. Google Earth imagery from 2021 shows what appears to be cars 81-505 and/or 81-506 in the process of being scrapped or dismantled at AIM Recyclage Montreal. The element lingered longer than many others, but was ultimately not preserved.
Photos of it in 2021 behind Saint-Michel will not be shared due to the original authors' privacy and decisions.
Legacy and Outcome
This is essentially all that is known publicly about Element 3's fate. If you have additional photos, documents, or details, please share them in the Discord community.
