1992 Thomas Built School Bus - ADVSkoolie34

[ADVSkool3434]

Hey Everyone!

I am new to this forum and I have the opportunity to take a bus from my uncle.

It is a 1992 Thomas Built School Bus, I believe 40ft. It has the 3208T Caterpillar Engine with the MT643 Transmission.

Here is a photo of the information:


Here is a photo of the bus:




If you know anything about these buses please come forth. We are serious about converting this bus but want to make sure we are making the right choice for our family.

We are a family of 6 planning on living full time in a Skoolie and can't wait!

Thank you all in advance for your insight.

[PNW_Steve]

Welcome,

That's a nice looking bus.

I can't say much about the 3208 motor but I can tell you that the MD3060 is probably the best transmission commonly used in school buses.

I have worked on a couple of Thomas's. They seemed to be well built. I liked that the interior panels were screwed in and not riveted.

Good luck.

[cadillackid]

Originally Posted by PNW_Steve

Welcome,

That's a nice looking bus.

I can't say much about the 3208 motor but I can tell you that the MD3060 is probably the best transmission commonly used in school buses.

I have worked on a couple of Thomas's. They seemed to be well built. I liked that the interior panels were screwed in and not riveted.

Good luck.

MT-643 which is also a good transmission.. the 3208 / MT643 combo wont be a powerhouse but it is all mechanical with zero electronics to deal with.. parts for both engine and trans are still readily available.. (though CAT parts may have to be dealer purchased).. I hear good things about the longevity of the 3208.
-Christopher

[PNW_Steve]

Originally Posted by cadillackid

MT-643 which is also a good transmission.. the 3208 / MT643 combo wont be a powerhouse but it is all mechanical with zero electronics to deal with.. parts for both engine and trans are still readily available.. (though CAT parts may have to be dealer purchased).. I hear good things about the longevity of the 3208.
-Christopher

Oops!

I misread the OP and had in my head that it was the 3060.

I agree with Christopher. The MT643 is also a very good transmission.

[ADVSkool3434]

Originally Posted by cadillackid

MT-643 which is also a good transmission.. the 3208 / MT643 combo wont be a powerhouse but it is all mechanical with zero electronics to deal with.. parts for both engine and trans are still readily available.. (though CAT parts may have to be dealer purchased).. I hear good things about the longevity of the 3208.
-Christopher

Awesome! That is what I wanted to know. The bus starts right up without a hitch and idles very well. Virtually no-body rust with light cosmetic rust on the outside here and there.

When you say not much of a powerhouse will that mean tackling hills will be a challenge?

Thank you again for you response!