Before you leave MD, change the fuel filter and water separator. There's a Petro and a TA at Elkton. The filters ain't cheap, though. You can DIY the filter change; they are readily accessible. I didn't, but mine had just been driven to the lot from IN. Your air filter is cyclonic and doesn't need replacement.

Be sure to visit Billings.

I am picking the bus up in Maryland - driving it to California. I really hope its a near relative to your model. The perks of yours are really great. Air suspension to boot! I hope I get the same mileage. The first trek home is 3835 miles. Cruising at 65 MPH and still get 7.5 MPG sounds like an easier trip than I had expected. A friend of mine is a CAT mechanic and he said check all the fluids and the air filter before anything else - if its dirty the turbo will suck out the oil and give you an unexpected stop. I'll let you know how it all goes. Thanks for the reply.

1. Serpentines don't usually break a lot, but, it's cheap insurance to replace it. At least, you'll know that it won't break unexpectedly.

2. I drove Brunhilde from Kankakee, IL to Billings, MT. Mostly interstate driving, I had the pedal nailed to the floor at 65 mph (more or less). It tracked like it was on rails and ran like a top. I imagine I should be getting better fuel consumption once I change the fuel filter and water separator.

3. I really wouldn't know if that mileage is standard. Remember, you're driving a brick.

4. Cruise control? Whazzat? I just kept my foot nailed to the floor.

5. I bought Brunhilde for living quarters with the ability to relocate when and IF I decide to change the scenery.

A'hoy CaptSquid!

I just bought a 2003 Thomas that looks like yours. This is my first bus. I have a few questions and I thought maybe you could help me. I want to perform any preventative maintenance because we will be going from California to Montana on our maiden voyage.

About the Bus:
2003 Thomas 66 PASS
Engine: Caterpillar - ER3126E
Transmission: Allison - AD2000

1. I have been told to get a serpentine belt, not sure if the current belt is missing or worn out or simply service required. Do they break a lot?

2. I saw you said you got 7.5 mpg, what HWY speeds were you cruising at?

3. Is MPG standard across these models?

4. Did it come with Cruise Control?

5. Did you look into changing your differential for HWY cruising?

I will post picture as I make progress and maybe we can compare notes.

Thank you,

-Charles
San Joaquin Valley, California