BUS AC systems

[Hotpuppy]

I am down here in Texas, still hunting for my next bus... I see units like this from time to time:


Are these engine driven compressors? Or are they electrical?

I usually see what look like vents on the side of the bus, like this (same unit):


Does anyone have any info about them? I was thinking it might be straightforward enough to relocate the interior units if they weren't right where I wanted them. But it is a simple solution to AC while moving.

[crazycal]

Compressor is probably on the engine. I bought a bus fro Texas and the AC was added after the fact.

[cowlitzcoach]

IMHO, it would be much smarter to scrap the A/C systems.

The skirt mounted condensers usually need fans replaced. If the bus has been operated in areas of salt the condensers are usually toast. If the bus has a roof top mounted condenser they usually have fewer problems.

The evaporators can be relocated but it will most probably require new hoses.

The compressors are usually automotive and not transit/coach spe'c and usually have a very short service life.

Because the evaporators are a long way away from the compressor it takes a LOT of Freon to charge the system. With multiple evaporators and lots of corners, t-intersections, and a lot of connections the systems always leak. You usually need to service the systems annually to keep them operating at peak performance. Figure on at least $1K per year if nothing is found to be in bad condition.

It would be much less expensive and more efficient to install roof top RV style A/C units and either run a genset or run a second alternator to operate a convertor to run the roof top A/C units.

[superdave]

my bus came with 2 separate systems, one one each side mounted to the ceiling. 2 engine drivin compressors. they work great, my bus is rust/corrosion free. you could use this bus to hang meat in. one i moved down under my couch, the other i put under the kitchen cabinet.time will tell!

[2kool4skool]

Originally Posted by superdave

my bus came with 2 separate systems, one one each side mounted to the ceiling. 2 engine drivin compressors. they work great, my bus is rust/corrosion free. you could use this bus to hang meat in. one i moved down under my couch, the other i put under the kitchen cabinet.time will tell!

Same here, great for traveling. Had to add one can of 134 to the rear unit when I got it.

[numberthree]

I just removed the fan and all the AC components today. It started because of a faulty ac compressor, then we decided to go without AC and stick to our electric window unit. The fan worked great. The lines seem good. I can't speak on the condenser though. Because of the broken compressor, it hasn't run cold since we bought the bus in October. But the bus has lived inland it's whole life. Does anyone know if the fans and condenser would be valuable to someone else? Otherwise, it's to the scrapyard!

[superdave]

yes im sure they wood be, do you have the space to store them? put them up on the for sale section with your location.