Originally hailing from NCR,[1] Old Bill Ronte is a skilled machinist who installed Freeside's water pump a few years ago.[2] However, that was before he become addicted to Dixon's whiskey. If he could kick his addiction, he could continue to be an asset to Freeside and the Followers of the Apocalypse, rather than the burden he currently is.[3][4]
If Bill dies during the quest High Times the quest can still be completed for partial XP, but Tapper will continue to charge for water at Freeside's water pump afterwards. If both Bill and Jacob Hoff die during High Times, the Courier will gain infamy with the Followers of the Apocalypse when the quest is turned in. This can sometimes happen accidentally if caught in the crossfire by Freeside thugs.
After helping Bill shake the addiction, the Courier can talk to Tapper and use the Freeside water pump for free.
When entering the Atomic Wrangler in the company of Arcade Gannon, Bill Ronte appears to slurr "Howdy Arcade" although this does not appear to lead to any new speech options.
Bugs[]
PlayStation 3Xbox 360 When you go talk to him, his response will be: "..."
↑The Courier: "Are you trying to kill your customers?" Dixon: "Those fools are from NCR. I love seeing those squatters in agony. We were doing just fine before those shits came here and made a mess of things. We don't need NCR eggheads wandering around confusing things." (Dixon's dialogue)
↑The Courier: "What's all the fuss about the water pump?" Julie Farkas: "Bill Ronte installed that pump a few years ago, back when he was sober. It was a major improvement for the community. But lately The Kings have started charging locals to use it - and NCR squatters twice as much. That'll come to no good." (Julie Farkas' dialogue)
↑The Courier: "Tell me about Bill Ronte." Julie Farkas: "Old Bill Ronte is an exceptionally skilled machinist. He could fix the problems we've been having with Freeside's water pump, if he sobered up." (Julie Farkas' dialogue)
↑The Courier: "I helped with that addiction problem you mentioned." Julie Farkas: "I saw Bill, but found Jacob Dead. His death will be a big loss for Freeside. Thank you for helping Bill. At least he will help repair things around here." (Julie Farkas' dialogue)
