ISO: Shuttle for conversion

[Gkozz]

I am looking into my first conversion. I have most skills to complete task or resources to help with electrical. I am not that knowledgeable about engines and transmissions. I would like to take 30 day trips and not be limited by the mechanics or characteristics of the engine. Would like a Diesel engine. Would like a mechanically sound vehicle.
I am located in Ohio but willing to travel for the right vehicle.
Any advice on where to purchase or what is good and what to avoid would be appreciated.
May consider a partial conversion or prepped for conversion.

[PNW_Steve]

Hey Gkozz,

One of the great things about the whole bus conversion process is that we each get to do it "our own way ".

If you are set on a diesel shuttle I would definitely look for one with the 7.3 on an E450 or heavier chassis. Or a pre 2004 G3500 with the Duramax diesel.

However, I would suggest that you give ample consideration to similar sized school buses. A 6 window shorty on an International chassis is going to be of much better construction, chassis and drive train.

Good luck with your quest.

[Gkozz]

Thanks for the info. Much appreciated.
I prefer the aesthetics of a shuttle but also appreciate the benefits of a more solid vehicle. What are your thoughts on general comfort of ride between the two?

[Gkozz]

Just wondering. Anybody know the approximate interior dimensions of a 6 window bus. And headroom?

[o1marc]

Use the search bar above and ask it "Where Can i Buy A Bus?", there are several threads with long lists of the preferred place for purchasing a bus. You'll also see threads about the next questions you'll want to ask. One of the few forums where the search bar actually works well.

[roach711]

Originally Posted by Gkozz

Just wondering. Anybody know the approximate interior dimensions of a 6 window bus. And headroom?

Our 24' Eldorado is 16' from the back of the drivers seat to the back wall, 7'6"wall to wall and 6'7" tall at the center aisle.

[Gkozz]

Could you tell me the miles, mpg (gas?) asking price and condition. And any other info. Pics?

[Gkozz]

Sorry
After thinking about it. You were answering my size question and not selling it, right? My mistake sorry

[cowlitzcoach]

Originally Posted by Gkozz

Could you tell me the miles, mpg (gas?) asking price and condition. And any other info. Pics?

Gas mileage with the Ford 460 gas engine is about 5-8 MPG.


Gas mileage with the Ford V-10 gas engine is about 7-9 MPG.


Fuel mileage with the 6.9/7.3 diesel is going is about 10-14 MPG.


Gas mileage with the GM 6.0L gas engine is going to be about 10-14 MPG.


Fuel mileage with the Duramax diesel is going to be about 13-16 MPG.

[Gkozz]

Very helpful. Makes the search a bit easier

[leadsled01]

Welcome fellow Buckeye.. I found my shuttle on craigslist in PA. I have 2 bunk-bed futons in my bus that I use to tow my 20' trailer with ATV's for lots of riding trips and the annual nascar trip. Where you located?

[Gkozz]

I am not n Willowick on the lake

[Gkozz]

I would love to see any pics.
I am looking for about 17 ft interior for full/queen with bath and kitchenette to travel the northwest. Went to OU in the seventies so might have a little hippie in me.
How is towing the trailer. Much strain on the vehicle?

[o1marc]

Originally Posted by Gkozz

I am not n Willowick on the lake

Where are you located then?

[Gkozz]

It was a typo
I am in willowick

[Gkozz]

Just found the button for mobile version. That should help me see what I am typing.

[Hoverlover]

We will be selling the wrenn Roaster soon. but I doubt you want to come to Florida for a bus. but here is the link to it so you can at least check out what we did with ours. sadly we never got it completed. the Engine is the Powerstroke 7.3 L with Turbo.



http://www.skoolie.net/forums/f27/th...tml#post309264

[Gkozz]

Thanks for the response. Yes Florida is a bit far. After a lot of looking, it seems very improbable that I would find the floor plan that I am envisioning. So I think I would be happiest starting with a blank canvas. Ideally about 18 feet interior would be perfect. Best of luck with whatever you decide on your shuttle.

[Hoverlover]

Originally Posted by Gkozz

Thanks for the response. Yes Florida is a bit far. After a lot of looking, it seems very improbable that I would find the floor plan that I am envisioning. So I think I would be happiest starting with a blank canvas. Ideally about 18 feet interior would be perfect. Best of luck with whatever you decide on your shuttle.

yeah this is a 25' bus. the bed frame in the back is queen size, I have a shower base and toilet that I did not get installed yet. plan was to have the Toilet sit inside the shower base so if you wanted to you could take a shower sitting on the toilet. this would also allow for easier plumbing. had big plans for it, got tied up building hovercrafts and the Bus pretty much was side lined. it does drive great as I drove it home when we bought it. anyway good luck on your search.

[firebuild]

Originally Posted by cowlitzcoach

Fuel mileage with the 6.9/7.3 diesel is going is about 10-14 MPG.

Thanks for posting this - I was thinking I was getting crappy mileage at about 12 MPG in my 7.3, but now I see I'm right smack in the middle of the expectation.