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Old 02-07-2017, 04:22 PM   #1
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Would you buy? 1995 Thomas Vista

Hi bus-minded people, my husband and I are about to bite the bullet on a 1995 Thomas built Vista 66 passenger with a DT466m and an AT545 with 180k miles for $3,250. We're looking at this bus to convert to a full time travelling home for our family of 2 dogs, 2 cats, and our son. Our question is, would anyone that has experience with this bus recommend it? Space/Mechanics/Reliabilty input is appreciated. Thanks!

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Old 02-07-2017, 04:45 PM   #2
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Chassis: Crown Supercoach
Engine: Detroit Diesel 6-71 Mid-ship
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Well, the d466 is a fine modern engine. The 545 is ok, but not great on the highway. Thomas is a fine body manufacturer.

BUT the real question is the condition, rust, etc. that I can't answer without pics!
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Old 02-07-2017, 04:51 PM   #3
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Here are some of the photos, we haven't seen the bus in person.
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IMG_9336.JPG   IMG_9338.JPG   IMG_9339.JPG   IMG_9348.JPG   IMG_9345.JPG  

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Old 02-07-2017, 04:54 PM   #4
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Meh. Not terrible not great.

Devil's in the details and the rust.
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Old 02-07-2017, 05:00 PM   #5
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We've been told it isn't loaded with rust. My concern is the body damage, age, and transmission. Which we would like to replace
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Old 02-07-2017, 05:02 PM   #6
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Chassis: Crown Supercoach
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For over 3K, get a bus with the transmission you want already installed. It's a huge project to change.
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Old 02-07-2017, 06:35 PM   #7
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Year: 1999
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Chassis: Freighliner FS65
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Not that great a deal and not the ideal bus for highway miles and comfort.
They ride like farm implements.
SOrry vista owners, but that's my opinion after a ride in one.
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Old 02-07-2017, 07:15 PM   #8
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I agree, you're better off waiting for the engine/tranny combo you want and need along with the gear ratios for highway use. My vote would be "pass" and wait for the one you really want. It took us three years of being extremely picky and getting us what we wanted at the price point we were looking for. It was sooooooo worth the wait!!!!!!!!

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Old 02-07-2017, 09:20 PM   #9
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At $2K that would be a great bus.

Over $3K that bus is not even so so.

With the AT545 transmission the engine is probably, at the most, set at 190 HP. It could be as low as 160 HP. So while it is a great engine, in that bus it is more probably going to be a slug that rides hard and it won't go very fast anywhere.

Take your time and find a better bus.

Good luck and happy trails to you!
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Old 02-08-2017, 10:37 AM   #10
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Thank you all for your input! We're hard pressed to find the drivetrain we'd like in our area. Looks like we'll have to go further North or West
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Old 02-08-2017, 01:34 PM   #11
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Quote:
Originally Posted by minitoba View Post
Thank you all for your input! We're hard pressed to find the drivetrain we'd like in our area. Looks like we'll have to go further North or West
Go as far as you need to.
A solid AZ or CO bus is hard to beat.
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