Greetings from Tacoma, WA USA, gateway to Fife!

[DaddyMonkeyman]

Hey everyone, excited to be here.

I just won a 2006 Thomas Freightliner 24 passenger, 24' bus with a 650lb hydraulic wheelchair lift in an auction. I am working as a contractor, and wanted a vehicle that I could dual purpose...make it a mobile carpentry shop that could convert to a live aboard and back with minimal fuss. When you see the price of a pickup truck and consider its lack of security and flexibility....no contest. Bus wins.

The hydraulic lift will be a key here!

I have not seen them in person yet (my bus prefers they/them...their request, not mine). I am traveling to Bellingham, WA Tuesday to retrieve them and drive them home to Tacoma.

One thing I know for certain. People nutty enough to do this are likely MY people.

[DaddyMonkeyman]

I have retrieved the bus, and they’re a beauty! Bellingham School district was the only owner, and did a custom order. I already have adequate insulation, and the ceiling is already 78”/1.98 m.

It’s essentially turn key. I am starting on what minimal conversion I need in one month as I am traveling until then.

I have two essential tasks:

Secure the doors and hatches

Install solar


I’ll be scanning the forums for tips here, but if anyone has a shortcut to info here, I’d love it!

[o1marc]

Retrieve "them", did you get more than one?

If you mean the factory insulation is adequate, you would be mistaken. It is not adequate for any period of time in any extreme temps. You'll regret not insulating properly if you plan on living in it.