Drive-train swap - opinions?

[Brad_SwiftFur]

Hello, in addition to my current project, I am also considering another idea. There is an IH bus not far away that's for sale, dirt cheap but no engine/transmission. Why would I consider this? The Volvo I drive now is approaching 800K miles and will soon be retired. I can pick it up pretty cheap. I'm wondering if the ISX Cummins engine and 10 speed tranny would fit where there had been a DT466? I'm sure other things will need to be converted, adapted, retrofitted, and customized, but actual fitment is probably the biggest concern to start. I'd be half tempted to give it an overhaul first, but I drive it daily now and it does not use any oil and has been well maintained. Obviously the bus I am considering should have air brakes (or I should plan to use the road tractor hardware, though this would add to the complexity of the project) ... Thoughts?

[turf]

boy that be a nice swap! but i don't think school buses are meant to take that kind of horsepower and torque. 450hp is a lot of ponies.

i think youd be better off looking at something that already has that kind of power like a gillig or prevost.

[Docsgsxr]

Originally Posted by turf

boy that be a nice swap! but i don't think school buses are meant to take that kind of horsepower and torque. 450hp is a lot of ponies.

i think youd be better off looking at something that already has that kind of power like a gillig or prevost.

Electronic motors can have the HP tuned down via the ECM. You would possibly further that motor's life by turning it down to 350-300 HP with an allison 3000 series transmission. I'd do it if I had the time!