Right. So, I've been contemplating this for a while. I need a shorter bus, as a full size one will not fit in my driveway. So I compiled a list of what I needed and wanted:
Manufacturer: IH (I want a full frame, heavy duty chassis)
Engine: DT466 preferred, T444 might be acceptable if a good deal is found
Transmission: No preference. Yes, I know the AT545's shortcomings, but I don't plan to make many long trips, most of my driving with be local.
Brakes: Air brakes *HIGHLY* preferred. My driveway is not flat and I want a lot of stopping power. I am a truck driver by trade, so I am very knowledgeable about such systems.
Air ride would be nice, but not mandatory. The ability to run 22.5 tires would also be a plus. A/C would be a HUGE plus.
So with most of that out of the way, I saw this:
https://www.govdeals.com/index.cfm?f...19&acctid=5141
Seeing as it has coach seating, luggage racks and a DT466 engine in an otherwise short bus, I'm thinking this was a "field trip" bus and is likely to have a desirable transmission and highway gearing. I haven't done an extensive check, but a quick VIN scan shows air brakes, which was one of the things I really want.
Thoughts?