Grace's Progress from Start to (almost) Finish

[Gracetheawesomebus]

Hi All!

I started Grace in March of 2013, and swore to contribute back to the communities that inspired me. So here she is:

https://www.flickr.com/photos/120209...7642280557274/

2000 Chevy School bus, I think she originally seated 24. Bluebird body. 6.5 L diesel. 8 mpg (I think that the hardwood floors might have had a bit to do with it). I have a generator in a Jobox on the back, completed with a transfer switch so I can plug into shore power. I am working on getting descriptions and explanations under all the pics so that others can understand and learn, but you know it is a big job.

I did all the carpentry myself with the exception of the plywood sheets - for those, I needed a bit of assistance. Interior electrical (conduit, outlets) was done by a friend, complete with fuse box. I did the rest, including installation of remote start in genny, transfer switch and exterior receptacles, GPS and rear camera, and last but certainly not least, the FRIDGE!

Custom skylights still had to be modified with addition of roof flashing, but survived a winter of Pacific NW rain without a single leak.

Skipped plumbing and running water due to space and monetary limitations. Have Thetford portable toilet hidden in bench, and old school Victorian basin for bathing and dishes. Water tank yet to be installed under passenger side. Oh, and had 6' locker welded under driver's side for extra storage, side panel cut out and hinged back on for access.

Will add more pics to Flicker account as the rest is done - including, eventually, paint. Would love suggestions on paint. I don't like the colors that are available for straight-to-metal at HD and L's, so am going to do it myself with high grade exterior house paint. From what I gather, I should rough up the existing surface with diluted paint thinner, then prime, then paint, then... Seal? Suggestions from those who have been there, done that would be great.

Also, apparently I got a bad unit in my Dometic fridge. Purchased on Ebay (lesson learned), so no warranty to speak of. Would appreciate reference to any RV fridge repair people in the Portland, OR area that are not condescending to women - most of the RV shops so far have been pretty, um, snooty. Maybe it is the bus thing...

Anyway. Enjoy!

[c_hasbeen]

awesome build, I just stumbled on this and really enjoyed your flicker page.

I have a little sewing machine like yours on your dash. Nice conversion!

[Missourileo]

Wow, amazing build. That thing looks OCD great, a lot of detailed work in there. Have you looked at Hot rod flatz. Maybe a cool hue in a matte finish would be slick. It would surprise you when the door is open and you're greeted by beautiful woodwork.

[dond]

Very nice!!

[M1031A1]

You set the bar in which I aspire my build to attain. I'm good at turning a wrench, but carpentry is my weak area. I copied your pics to give me the road map I need to keep focus. Thank you!

M1031

[Tango]

Out-freakin-standing!

[roach711]

Well done!

[c_hasbeen]

I just saw this was an old post, I feel bad something this nice sat here over a year

[dgorila1]

Awesome job! I like the use of the old file cabinets as a wall divider/storage. All of the dark wood and fixtures give an old gypsy wagon feel to it. So you didn't remove the original interior wall and rood panels and add insulation? How was the temp inside over the winter and summer with the stock insulation?

[opus]

I'm impressed.....

[Invisicat]

I see you like the Victorian era, too! Fantastic woodwork. Thanks for sharing the pictures.

I-Cat

[HolyBus]

I can only say one thing.. I am so disappointed. I saw pics of chains and hooks over the bed and then it turned out to be a way to access storage under the bed! It does give me ideas to use on mine for sure! Thanks for the great pictures! They show real dedication and that goals can be reached with hard work!

[EastCoastCB]

Originally Posted by HolyBus

I can only say one thing.. I am so disappointed. I saw pics of chains and hooks over the bed and then it turned out to be a way to access storage under the bed! It does give me ideas to use on mine for sure! Thanks for the great pictures! They show real dedication and that goals can be reached with hard work!

Funniest post of the year, possibly

[M1031A1]

Originally Posted by HolyBus

I can only say one thing.. I am so disappointed. I saw pics of chains and hooks over the bed and then it turned out to be a way to access storage under the bed! It does give me ideas to use on mine for sure!

What goes on in a bus, well....... Just don't mention whips with those chains..... TMI!!!!! LOL

[jean]

She's beautiful. How much time is invested in this? Please keep pics coming.