How much rust is too much?

[Pizote]

So...

Looking at a bus, 2008 IC-CE. Here's a list of the rust that I have seen and its nature:

some minor surface rust on sheet metal near the rear wheels
some minor surface rust on the steps and driver's seat mount
battery tray has pitting, but still structurally sound
front spring and frame have some surface rust, but not the brush-off kind. it would require sandblasting or sanding prior to treatment
Underbelly paint is lifting on metal floor - fairly minor, sand blasting and painting will resolve that

Again - no structural, cancerous rust has been seen so far. Other buses on the lot were bad enough I didn't even go in them.

Other features:
DT466 (220hp & 540ft.lbs)
Allison 2500
5.29 gears
Inside A/C
Three inside heaters
wheelchair lift

The engine is in real good shape as is the transmission.

So... how much rust is too much?

and... what would you olde-timer-pros pay for something like this?

[o1marc]

Most here would shy away from that year model for potential expensive and hard to diagnose electrical issues. Those gears will limit your top end.
The bitter taste of a bad decision lingers much longer than the sweetness of a good price.

[Pizote]

Originally Posted by o1marc

Most here would shy away from that year model for potential expensive and hard to diagnose electrical issues. Those gears will limit your top end.

It's actually a 2007 chassis and a 2008 bus. Cruises at about 2500rpm @ 65mph. I have a Class-C and it's about the same but without the torque so this is an improvement.

Any comments on the rust?

[EastCoastCB]

Rusty emissions bus? PASS!

[John.Smith]

It sounds like you’ve already evaluated the rust. But.....

Sounds good to me

A year later I am still cutting and replacing vertical supports and floor decking.