The Independence

[New2Skool]

Hello Everyone,

Thanks for having this wonderful website.
It has proven to be extremely helpful and supportive.

Now, I don't consider myself new.
I have had my Skoolie for the last 2-3 months.
Not long in the grand scheme of things.
That being said, I have devoted a mass amount of time, effort and resources towards "The Independence."

I have;
Removed the seats
Removed the Roof Panels
Removed Side Wall Panels
Removed the Rubber Flooring
Removed the Plywood flooring
Removed the Mirrors
Removed the Driver's Seat
Removed the Engine Covering
Had the Bus professional Serviced
Replaced the Batteries
Removed Five Heater Units
Removed all of the Insulation
Removed Body Marker Lights
Removed all Stickers, Decals and Markings

I have purchased:
Power Tools, drill, impact driver, 5" angle grinder, work lights, sawzall, leaf blower, 4' pry bar, buzz box welder, numerous small hand tools, tool belt, several cans of Great Stuff, Air Freshener which proved very helpful to remove markings and decals, batteries for the bus and paid over $340 to have the Bus fully serviced professional.

Also, I have purchased nearly $700 worth of metal materials. Replacement body panels, wall panels for the roof lift in the future, tubes, bars, angle iron and one 10g sheet steel.

So far, I have put roughly one solid ten hour day per weekend towards the bus. Minus the three weeks it was parked at the mechanic's shop awaiting its turn for servicing.
In total, I would estimate that I have put 80 hours into the Bus.
I made 7 trips to the local transfer station, three full truck loads and two full trailer loads over the last couple of months.

I have had a difficult time with repurposing the seats. Everyone on Facebook wants Bus seats, nobody comes to get them. So, they have been sitting in my garage for a while now and will end up in the dump soon.

People have given me odd looks when I explain what I am doing and why.
They don't understand the concept.
So, don't feel awkward when faced with this dumbfounded look in your friends and family's eyes.

Stick with it, put in your time, carry bandages and don't be afraid to ask questions.

There are a lot of great youtube videos that can help you along the way and give you great ideas. Don't be afraid to ask either, this site is wonderfully helpful.

Thanks and Happy Skooling.

DLJIII