Bus MPG and parts? 1960 GMC

[hoser]

Anybody have an idea what kind of mpg a 1960 GMC 4104 Bus with a 671 Detroit Engine would get?

Yeah I am going to ask the owner but who knows if he is checking it right hehe, rather get an answer here so I know what to expect...

How about getting parts for a bus this old?

Thanks in advance!

[elkoskoolie]

http://www.busnut.com
is the site to ask these questions. I've got some manuals in PDF format somewhere. If the bus is running good, and you drive it right it can get 10+ mpg; I've heard reports of near 14 mpg. The bus is all aluminum, so it's pretty light for it's size. PD4104's have an air actuated shut-off called a skinner valve, unlike our skoolies which have (usually) an electric shut-off solenoid. It's a common failure point, and difficult to diagnose if you're new to the bus. It'll suddenly shut down, as though it has a fuel blockage (clogged line or filter). It may or may not start back up, when it feels like it. The skinner valve is located on the firewall behind the engine; check the electric connections before you drive it any distance!!!!! Has an air line going to the fuel linkage. Don't ask how I know all this....
No, I no longer have one. There's a HUGE amount of support out on the web; just don't go lookin' on the school bus sites!!
Good luck!
Email me and I'll look for the manuals winnemuccadave@NOSPAMnetscape.net
remove the obvious

[Griff]

Hey Hoser,

Is that bus in in North Carolina? I was drooling over one just like it last week on ebay. Hope it works out for you if you're gonna get it!

Griff

[Zcommanager]

Hoser,

I've got a 1961 GMC 4501 with a 6 71 in it, and driving cross-country I got between 8 and 10 mpg. Since yours, has the same drive train and is the same size as mine - 35 ft., I would think you should be getting the same milage as well. The worst milage I have ever gotten is around 5, and that was while traveling up through the Guadaloupe Mountains in New Mexico this summer. Like elkoskoolie suggested, go to busnut.com - as they specialize in highway coaches, and they should be able to help you out. I'm a member on that forum as well, and like this one, I have gained a wealth of knowledge when it comes to motorcoaching.

Good Luck!