Convert Ford B700 from gasoline to diesel engine?

[Elliot Naess]

I'm getting ahead of myself again, but there is this Ford B700 with Ward body very conveniently for sale near my house. Looks to be 1980-ish. And it's a stick shift! Trouble is, it has a gasoline engine (badge says 429 4-barrel). Has anyone converted one of these to a diesel engine? Any thoughts?

Always brainstorming -- trying to be ready when a bargain appears.

[Jarlaxle]

Don't bother...it's much easier to simply buy a diesel bus. A gas to diesel conversion is a MONUMENTAL job.

[Elliot Naess]

Thank you -- that settles that! I just "had to" explore the idea since that bus is right here in town.

That settled, I see many other B700's in these parts. And you have one. Anything I might want to know about them if I find one with diesel power?

Much obliged,

[lapeer20m]

Originally Posted by Jarlaxle

Don't bother...it's much easier to simply buy a diesel bus. A gas to diesel conversion is a MONUMENTAL job.

Agreed!

[bdavis441]

I thought about a deisel conversion if (when) my gas motor gives up. On second thought maybe a well built fuel injected big block chevy. Enough low end torque and maybe fuel economy wouldn't be so bad...... just a thought.

[lapeer20m]

Gregg the bus guy said that he is real pleased with the 454 efi.

[Supercrewzer76]

If you are mechanically inclined and a little good at wiring and diesel conversion is not at all hard. Espesially a 6.9 or 7.3 diesel from navistar. The 6.9 only requires a hot wire to the fuel shut off solinoid another for glow plug wiring solenoid and the in line fuel heater. Use you factory altenator. And your good to go. Take a trip to the scrap yard and compare a diesel bus to yours

[Jarlaxle]

Don't forget:

Engine mounts.
Exhaust.
Cooling system.
Will the laternator bolt to the engine in the same place.
Fuel system will have to be completely reworked.
Gotta dig up a trans bellhousing & clutch assembly.
Probably will need to regear the axle.

Better to just buy a factory diesel.