How much mechanical knowledge did you have before starting your project?
I'm a digital 3D artist, so I have a reasonable understanding of space, but very little practical knowledge of physical construction. I have some engineering skills picked up from cosplay (I've soldered together some led lights for costumes, and constructed large wings and such), but I've never built anything on this scale before. I was counting on my ability to learn quickly and the craftsmanship and attention to detail I've honed as an artist. So far they have served me well.
What's the longest you or someone you "know" has lived in a skoolie?
I'm afraid I don't have a good answer for this one. I'm still building mine, but the plan is to live in it for about 5 years.
I am 6'2". Are school buses with 7' or more inside height uncommon?
My bus was originally 6' 6" high, and it was one of the taller school buses I've been in. I'm not certain, but transit style buses might be taller. (Or the sort of school buses used for field trips/band competitions/etc.).
How important is "stealth" from your experience?
When the bus was still yellow and parked next to the mechanics shop, no one batted an eye. Now that it's parked in my driveway and I'm grinding and drilling and sanding on it all day, it's attracted some attention, but most of my neighbors have been super kind about it. Someone did call the county about it, but since I am not violating any code, the officer wished me luck and said he's looking forward to seeing the finished skoolie. I have the privilege of being a white woman in a relatively well to do suburban neighborhood, however. I let my neighbors (with whom I already had a good relationship) know what I was planning to do before I brought the bus home, and nothing about me looks the least bit threatening or "shady" to anyone. I know that's not necessarily the case for everyone.
As for traveling and security... we will see? From my limited experience so far, truck stops are friendly. Campgrounds vary. Courtesy goes a long way. (Turn that southern charm up to 11!) We don't plan to carry anything super valuable, and we keep our noses clean.
Is someone who makes a living via internet going to have an especially difficult time?
I really hope not, since our lively hood depends on it. Check out technomadia.com for all sorts of info on staying connected while living on the road. They were a huge inspiration to me.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
I've not heard that before!! 
Linear Mode
