Newbie looking for information regarding buying a wheelchair lift school bus

[JasmineR29]

Hello,

I’m looking to purchase a used mid-size 25-30’ wheelchair lift school bus to convert into a RV. What engine/transmission combination would best suit me as I will be using this RV tiny home for traveling (highway, mountains, varies regions) ? Also I am interested in purchasing from a school district auction or site ie govdeals.com publicsurplus.com or onlinepros.com as I am located in Texas Any recommendations, tips?

[CullenHydraulics]

Originally Posted by JasmineR29

Hello,

I’m looking to purchase a used mid-size 25-30’ wheelchair lift school bus to convert into a RV. What engine/transmission combination would best suit me as I will be using this RV tiny home for traveling (highway, mountains, varies regions) ? Also I am interested in purchasing from a school district auction or site ie govdeals.com publicsurplus.com or onlinepros.com as I am located in Texas Any recommendations, tips?

I bought my bus from PublicSurplus.com for really cheap. The ad said it had bad floors but that was fine with me because I'm replacing it all anyway. Mine is a 2000 International 3800 with a Navistar DT466E engine and an Allison AT545 4-speed automatic transmission. I've had it up to about 65 mph on the highway and it has performed well. My bus is 25' long with a wheelchair lift on the back passenger side (I will be removing this and selling it because I have no use for it). My advice would be don't nickel and dime for the cheapest bus because it will most likely cost you more in the long run. Best of luck!

[JasmineR29]

Originally Posted by CullenHydraulics

I bought my bus from PublicSurplus.com for really cheap. The ad said it had bad floors but that was fine with me because I'm replacing it all anyway. Mine is a 2000 International 3800 with a Navistar DT466E engine and an Allison AT545 4-speed automatic transmission. I've had it up to about 65 mph on the highway and it has performed well. My bus is 25' long with a wheelchair lift on the back passenger side (I will be removing this and selling it because I have no use for it). My advice would be don't nickel and dime for the cheapest bus because it will most likely cost you more in the long run. Best of luck!

Okay that sound really good. I
Will keep this information in mind. Thanks

[2002Amtranvacationer]

hey be sure to ask questions I think its best to be sure it has good tires on top of a good engine and trans of course tires can cost as much as the bus also ask for all the service records that helps to know your bus
and like for me i found that patients will be your best friend in getting the best bus/price
it took me 2 months
good luck

[JasmineR29]

Originally Posted by 2002Amtranvacationer

hey be sure to ask questions I think its best to be sure it has good tires on top of a good engine and trans of course tires can cost as much as the bus also ask for all the service records that helps to know your bus
and like for me i found that patients will be your best friend in getting the best bus/price
it took me 2 months
good luck

Thanks for responding and I will definitely check tires as well and take my time I’m in no rush.

[JasmineR29]

Originally Posted by CullenHydraulics

I bought my bus from PublicSurplus.com for really cheap. The ad said it had bad floors but that was fine with me because I'm replacing it all anyway. Mine is a 2000 International 3800 with a Navistar DT466E engine and an Allison AT545 4-speed automatic transmission. I've had it up to about 65 mph on the highway and it has performed well. My bus is 25' long with a wheelchair lift on the back passenger side (I will be removing this and selling it because I have no use for it). My advice would be don't nickel and dime for the cheapest bus because it will most likely cost you more in the long run. Best of luck!

Thanks yes I’m looking for the same type of bus so I’m just watching the auction sites for the best one.