Converting 2003 Chevrolet GMC 3500? [Discussion]

[JayHerman]

I've been hunting in my area for a short-style bus to convert. Rarely is anything worth looking at, since I'm in the middle of nowhere. However, recently an offer came up and I'm headed to check it out Monday.

I'll do all the basic checks to make sure there isn't anything terribly wrong (exhaust, structural rust, oil/coolant coloration, etc). However, I'm interested in hearing your opinions before I give him a hard offer.

Asking Price: $2500
Model: 2003 Chevrolet GMC 3500
Engine: 6.5L Diesel
Odometer: 150,000 miles

Thoughts?

Picture:

[IdahoJoe87]

Nice bus. Looks just like the 2001 I just bought!

[crazycal]

Rust belt?

[M1031A1]

That Wisconsin bus will be LOADED with rust! It might be worth $1500 at best. The rust factor alone will be a nightmare to deal with.

Just sayin'.

M1031

[leadsled01]

Originally Posted by M1031A1

That Wisconsin bus will be LOADED with rust! It might be worth $1500 at best. The rust factor alone will be a nightmare to deal with.

Just sayin'.

M1031

Dude, that's pretty much rust free for a rust belt vehicle. You should see my daily driver POS...

[claydbal]

I WOULD guess that 1 ton chassis is already at load limit.

[Tango]

Welcome! --- It all comes down to what you want to do with it. Short, occasional runs vs cross-country treks. Simple, light weight build vs full house features. Sleeping bag & porta-potty vs Queen sized bed & full bath.

Van conversions are much more limited in capacity than a real bus chassis and are notorious for having lots of wiring & electrical issues since the systems were all "add-ons".

Not saying a bus chassis is better...it just all comes down to your needs and expectations, then finding a unit that is up to the mission.

Good idea to verify what the axle ratings are all the way around and compare it to it's empty weight. That will give you some idea of what can be safely added.

Best of luck on the hunt.

[crazycal]

Originally Posted by M1031A1

That Wisconsin bus will be LOADED with rust! It might be worth $1500 at best. The rust factor alone will be a nightmare to deal with.

Just sayin'.

M1031

How could you tell where it is from?

[joetx]

Originally Posted by crazycal

How could you tell where it is from?

Licence plate????

[crazycal]

If you can read those plates, you've got good eyes.