Any input before I pull the trigger is appreciated

[Pygmy Yeti]

1990 International
7.3 diesel
Allison trans
70,000 miles
25,000 miles on the rebuilt engine





Any downsides to this configuration? Absolutely any advice is very much appreciated.

[PNW_Steve]

Nice looking rig.

The 7.3 is likely the IDI, non-turbo engine. They have a pretty good reputation for reliability and economy. Not so much in the power department though.

Also, it is likely equipped with the Allison AT545 transmission. It is a 4 speed and lacks a lockup torque converter and overdrive.

If you want a great highway rig you may want to keep looking. If you will spend little time on the highway and primarily be parked then you will be in better shape.

[Versatile]

Originally Posted by Pygmy Yeti

1990 International
7.3 diesel
Allison trans
70,000 miles
25,000 miles on the rebuilt engine





Any downsides to this configuration? Absolutely any advice is very much appreciated.

How are the tires and you didn't mention price.

[Johnny Mullet]

This should be a reliable setup for you, but yeah, it's not a 70 MPH Interstate bus. Back roads are better anyway! Plus it's not yellow!

[Greatestrr]

Not sure whats better the america all over the side of that rig. Or, the fact that engine will run on anything. Jack daniels, bald eagle piss whatever. I have one its great defiantly not a " in a hurry" kinda rig. Nice and slow. That way you can see stuff

[Pygmy Yeti]

He said the tires are 80% and he is asking $2250.

[Pygmy Yeti]

Thanks for the input. Yeah, I am just looking to have some fun with the kids within a few states. No real consistent highway time so it may work out.

[Pygmy Yeti]

I really appreciate your $0.02. The paint job is a big factor for me.

[Pygmy Yeti]

Thanks for chiming in. Is your rig decked out with a heavy load or is a more bare-bones set up?

[Pygmy Yeti]

How do I confirm it is an IDI? Same question for the AT545.

[Rusty]

Originally Posted by Pygmy Yeti

How do I confirm it is an IDI? Same question for the AT545.

IDI has no turbo. info

[TJones]

With a rebuilt engine at that price that would be a good deal as long as the rest of the mechanical is in good shape and there is no to minimal rust. I would check with the seller for documentation of the overhall to see that it was actually done and what was done.

[PNW_Steve]

Originally Posted by Pygmy Yeti

How do I confirm it is an IDI? Same question for the AT545.

Take the VIN number of the bus to your local International dealer. They should be able to tell you all about it.

[Greatestrr]

Its a fairly heavy load. Full buildout I'm doing. Tho i haven't noticed much difference in how it drives with it empty and now loaded. Only real difference is its alot quieter now. Not so much rattle. Fuel mileage has been about the same also. At 55 i do about 10 mile a gallon. To know what the trans is look at the tag on the trans or find a serial number. Your motor is definitely an idi if its a 7.3 from 1990. Thats before international sold to ford. Easy motor to wrench on thats for sure. Any mechanic can work on it and you should have zero problems with parts. I'd buy it. If for nothing else that amazing paint job. Oooorah america

[PNW_Steve]

Originally Posted by Greatestrr

Its a fairly heavy load. Full buildout I'm doing. Tho i haven't noticed much difference in how it drives with it empty and now loaded. Only real difference is its alot quieter now. Not so much rattle. Fuel mileage has been about the same also. At 55 i do about 10 mile a gallon. To know what the trans is look at the tag on the trans or find a serial number. Your motor is definitely an idi if its a 7.3 from 1990. Thats before international sold to ford. Easy motor to wrench on thats for sure. Any mechanic can work on it and you should have zero problems with parts. I'd buy it. If for nothing else that amazing paint job. Oooorah america

Ford did offer the IDI 7.3 in early '90s pickups.

Definitely a good motor. It will require a bit of patience on the highway ☺

[Versatile]

Originally Posted by Pygmy Yeti

He said the tires are 80% and he is asking $2250.

Good buy.

[PNW_Steve]

Originally Posted by Versatile

Good buy.

I would have to agree IF it suits your needs.

If it doesn't then if would not be a bargain if they gave it to you for free.

It's a good looking bus but the drivetrane is quite "modest". Make an informed choice.

Good luck on your quest.

[Rusty]

Originally Posted by PNW_Steve

I would have to agree IF it suits your needs.

If it doesn't then if would not be a bargain if they gave it to you for free.

It's a good looking bus but the drivetrane is quite "modest". Make an informed choice.

Good luck on your quest.

Everyone seems to think that purchasing the bus is the largest expense, but that's usually not the case. It takes a lot of material to insulate, floor, ceiling, walls, appliances, fasteners, cabinets, HVAC....

Make sure you have a great foundation. That is a very solid-looking bus with a very strong motor & cool paint, but is it " the one" ?

Personally, I'd buy that bus and flip it. It's a huge trailer with an engine in it!

[PNW_Steve]

Originally Posted by Rusty

Everyone seems to think that purchasing the bus is the largest expense, but that's usually not the case.

Amen!

I spent $3410 on my bus and have another $17k budgeted for a modest conversion. About 1/3 of what we spent on our first conversion.

[Pygmy Yeti]

Originally Posted by Rusty

Personally, I'd buy that bus and flip it. It's a huge trailer with an engine in it!

What would you do to it, if anything, before reselling it ?