Hello All! New here (obviously), and I had a few questions I was hoping you could answer?
So DH and I are contemplating moving up to a Class A in 5 or so years. In addition to camping, we are avid off roaders, and would like something that can tow our trailered Ustabea Jeep. We need something that can house me, DH, DD (currently 10 mos.), and the dog AND tow our Jeep.
So we head out of town to check out a Class A we saw on line. (Can’t find a floor plan we like) We are wondering the lot looking as As and Cs, and then I see IT. Lo and Behold, over in the corner is this ratty old Bluebird Bus
! I must have gone crazy, but I can’t stop thinking about that cute, old bus! DH said we could do a conversion, but he would only do it if I got him a new welder (he wants a Lincoln, they’re the expensive ones, right?) We are both reasonably inclined, as we build Jeeps as a hobby. The thought of driving that old flatfront down the road just makes me happy! (I would paint it red! ) I don’t know too much about it, as we were trying to keep up with the sales guy. But here is what I know:
*Disclaimer*- OK, so it is not really a school bus, but I figure this is the best place to get info, as I could not find a “SWAT bus Conversion Forum”
It is an old SWAT bus. It has three generators on it and a diesel engine. The body looked to be in good condition, and we did not see any rust. It is lined with cabinets on both sides and has a driver’s seat. It runs (the sales guy laughed at the memory of them driving it on to the lot; it that a good thing?)
I thought I should arm myself with info before we go back. So here are my questions:
(Please forgive my ignorance.
)
1. How do you determine the value of something like this?
2. On average, how much would it cost to have the “systems” put in? (We figure we can do most everything except for propane lines, and maybe the water lines.)
3. Can a bus tow stuff? How much?
4. Are busses reliable, as The kid and I will be going out west alone sometimes?
5. Have I gone crazy? Am I getting us in over our heads?
Any and all opinions appreciated!
Thanks!
Kathryn