Picking up our bus 4,000 kms away

[chasingsunshine]

So we are going on Thursday to pick up our bus - it is going to take around 12 days in total and a full 8,000 km round trip with 4,000 driving the bus back. Any advice on what tools, etc. we should bring?

The bus is a 1997 Ford Thomas with a Cummins engine and a manual trans - not sure the make...

[BlackJohn]

Interesting decisions need be made in your case. Is this in Canada or USA? Or?
How are you travelling to the bus limits what you can take vs. what you might need.
Ball is in your court.

John

[Jameson]

I had to fly to pick up mine. So on the receiving end I went to a Walmart and bought all kinds of emergency type supplies; extra oils, tool kit, road cones, etc... I returned almost all of it after my 800 mile journey with no questions asked. Just a thought.

[Walter]

Some wrenches, sockets, oils (engine & tranny) but most importantly get a mechanic onboard. Mine saved the day when the oil pressure sensor stopped working, or was able sense problems engine wise ahead of time. Also it gives you a sense of security..

[mmoore6856]

Originally Posted by chasingsunshine

So we are going on Thursday to pick up our bus - it is going to take around 12 days in total and a full 8,000 km round trip with 4,000 driving the bus back. Any advice on what tools, etc. we should bring?

The bus is a 1997 Ford Thomas with a Cummins engine and a manual trans - not sure the make...

ill speak with the diesel gods and wish good karma on you what part of canada you from and going to? used to truck up there not long ago along a inucksuk trail

[chev49]

fuel filters of course plus all types of flluids, all necessary tools, tire spare, and lots of money

[chasingsunshine]

We are bringing the bus from Northern British Columbia back to Southern Ontario. No mechanic on board but one on speed dial so hope that will be enough lol Hopefully we will get home with minimal scaring fingers crossed. We are driving out there so at least we will have our pick up if worst comes to worse - unfortunately it will never tow the bus but at least we have a ride lol - also got CAA RV plan so should be good there if we need a tow to a local garage

[Carytowncat]

Snacks, lots of snacks

Good luck!

[mmoore6856]

Also a while back there was a mention of a skoolie convention in Canada that would be fun in summer of course

[EastCoastCB]

Originally Posted by mmoore6856

Also a while back there was a mention of a skoolie convention in Canada that would be fun in summer of course

Just make sure you bring bug spray. Those gnats are annoying!

[cadillackid]

Lots of Pop!!!!!!

[EastCoastCB]

Music. Trucker music is best, but whatever suits you.

[BlackJohn]

Now that I know you are driving west I can add to your "must take list." nearly impossible if flying so glad I waited.

Tool box- various screwdrivers,pliers, channelocks, electrical tester
3/8" socket set and various extensions
1/4" socket set and extensions
Coveralls
rags
Flashlights
Bug spray
Maybe a port a potty, toilet tissue for sure.
Coolers for drinks, food etc.

When you get there, if the deal isn't closed yet, ask about oil and filter change while there. And grease where needed. They might do it. You should in any case.
Before I even started the bus, I would open the hood and tighten every hose clamp you can find. Then you have a better idea where any possible system leaks might occur. Check battery connections for cleanliness and tightness.
Spray any linkage with WD40 to make them work easier during your first major trip.
Check the rad cool and top up if necessary.
Check the brake and steering fluids and all lighting before you head out.
Much easier to check now than on the side of the road in BFIdaho.
Anything else you can likely buy enroute.

If you are then happy with the bus, pay the guy and have a great trip back as well as a safe one. This is a fabulous chance to see how it performs on many road types and conditions. Once you know it is running well, make it work and push it to its limits depending on the conditions.
Good move on getting CAA RV plan. Lots of other services besides towing which I hope you don't need.

If you can let us know how the trip is going.

All the best,

John

[CaptSquid]

I'd also recommend yanking out a couple of rows of seats and bringing some cots and sleeping bags, as well as a camp stove.

[mmoore6856]

actually the bugs are way worse in se usa i found every thing there bites or stings all my trips way up north i used to sleep with my sleeper door open all nite and never got bitten but once you hit ga i would keep windows up and just run ac

[BlackJohn]

I guess you realize there are over 140 forest fires burning out in BC right now. Some areas aren't allowing any traffic into them for obvious reasons.
pretty dangerous situation, keep your eyes and ears tuned to the radio and weather reports.

John

[mmoore6856]

hope it going ok let us know im using my last vacation this week getting close to retirement going to head your way sometime pm me when you can

[chasingsunshine]

Still out west. Drive in went great but have been stuck in Prince George BC now for 3 days. Broke the spring on the throttle after a half hour drive. Got that fixed cheap and quick but has them look it over and have a few more issues getting fixed before we are back on the road. Have a loose injector, getting a new steady bearing a few other things loose to tighten and an oil leak. Hope to be back on our way tomorrow

[mmoore6856]

every thing ok?

[chasingsunshine]

Took a week extra and three more mechanic trips but back home. Will update more about our trip once we have a chance to catch our breathes lol