Howdy Marc.
I don't know how I missed your post, but I am an expert (more or less) on school buses. I've owned about 50, and have worked on so many I've lost track. I've also dismantled 7 and am working on my 8th.
I have worked on and owned Cummins C-190, C-180, 220, 250, 290s, CAT 1160 and 3208, Detroit 6-71 and 6V71, and DT466 Internationals. I have also (helped) to rebuild a CAT 1160 (my current bus) and a C-180.
I have buses for sale, and LOTS of parts, and have an excellent network of friends (Transportation supervisors and veteran mechanics) who can solve any problem or answer any question.
I use my buses as trucks to haul medical supplies to latin America andalso to Haiti. If you have a moment, check out my web site.
Also feel free to call if you want. I've helped many new bus owners get a bus, and have trained them on driving, maintenance, and all the ins and outs of bussing. I drive my bus alone to Guatemala and back, and am responsible for everything and all repairs when I'm on the road.
I recommend Gillig pushers, with diesel power. There are other configurations, but the mid engines are hard to work on. I just had a heck of a time pulling a water pump out of a mid engine bus, a job that takes about a half an hour if your bus is a pusher.
OK get back to me if I can help
Patrick Young
http://www.fresnoalliance.com/wheelchairproject
Wheelchair Project
Fresno, CA
mailto:WheelchairBusProject@yahoo.com
(559) 244-1042 (559) 251-3814