1986 GMC Schoolbus

[britishroamer]

I am travelling to view a 1986 GMC school bus 170K asking $2500, seats already removed but still needs conversion (it was posted here quite a while ago but I saw no bites so wondering why)

7.? diesel wit auto transmission

Anyone have any comments on this model to consider?

I have a good diesel mech coming with me but I plan to make this a cross USA venture next year so I'm wondering what concerns there might be.

I spoke with the seller, seems upfront about things and seen many pics it looks clean etc but if anyone has any inside knowledge in this model it would be greatly appreciated. Just trying to be careful here.

Cheers
Alan

 

[pete c-SKO]

things not work out with wanderer's bus? i know it will cost more, but, I think it's probably worth it.

 

[britishroamer]

Yeah he is away for 2 weeks and the price seems to have gone to $4500. Doesn't mean I'm not interested, just wondering whatt he best deal is

 

[lapeer20m]

a 7.?? liter 1986??? Hmmmmmmm......

too early for a 7.3 liter non-powerstroke isn't it?

there is a 7.8 ford brazialian...but in a gmc??

what other early diesels were there??? I'm curious what motor that is

 

[britishroamer]

Yeah me too, according to another reply from the general forum it is probably a detroit 8.1 and Alison tranny.

The seller needs to get back with me before travelling 300 miles to view ..

 

[the_experience03]

Ok...it did post...I didn't notice that you have two threads going.

 

[the_experience03]

Grumble grumble grumble....my post didn't...er...post...

My guess is that it's a 8.2 Detroit. That came out in 1980 and certainly was the most common diesel in GM medium trucks in that era. I think it's too early to be a 3116. A 1986 8.2 should have the revisions done to the head (headbolts specifically) to make it reliable.

I don't personally own nor have I ever owned an 8.2, but everyone that has one seems to be reasonably satisfied. They have decent power in turbocharged trim I believe and they are noted for getting good mileage. They were a common engine so parts and competent mechanics shouldn't be hard to find. At the same time the engine is no longer produced so don't expect every NAPA and Carquest to have stuff on hand for it.

The transmission is most likely an Allison AT545. You can read up on the advantages and disadvantages of an AT545 versus an MT643 but suffice it to say that the tranny will be fine.

I'd look at the common stuff...rust, tires, fluid levels, driveability, top speed, service records, etc. Then offer him less than $2500 and hopefully sign the paperwork to take it home.

 

[The Wanderer-SKO]

i assume you're talking about this one?
viewtopic.php?f=12&t=2588

if so, i know the seller and you can be rest assured it's in as described condition. i would of course prefer you to buy mine when i return though, lol.

if you're making the drive to nc to look at that bus, i can make arrangements for a friend to show you mine as well. might save you some time/trouble.