First-Timer in WA

marbury

Advanced Member
Joined
May 16, 2015
Posts
58
Location
Kirkland, WA
Hey, guys! Long time lurker, first time poster. I've been plotting and dreaming about converting a short bus for years and am in a place where I can start moving forward.

Seems like there's a bunch of folks in the PNW into schoolie conversions. I'm the first to profess that I have no relevant skills for dealing with a bus... if there's anyone within a reasonable distance of Western Washington that would be willing and able to mentor me I would LOVE to help folks with their projects to get some experience, learn some skills, and tally some "ya-owe-me" points for when I need help getting out those pesky seats one day! :dance:

I'd love any tips on where to buy a reasonably priced used short school bus in the area, mechanics folks have used and trust (I know nothing about engines!), electrical tips, on-board batteries and RV-style wiring, how to appropriately register a schoolie in Washington, resources, so much more - any help appreciated! If anybody local is willing and able, I'd be very happy to trade labor on your project for a buddy to help check out busses when the time comes. I wouldn't know what to look for other than the obvious and I'd love someone with experience tagging along who could point out possible issues I would otherwise miss.

I'm not going for a traditional living space conversion. I train and show German Shepherds and would love to use my bus for dog shows and camping. That means plenty of space for canines, no built-in water tanks, no bulky kitchen or bathroom setups, and rugged/durable finishes. I imagine it as a cross between a toy hauler and a lightweight camper. If I can park it on an incline and hose out the back all the better! Five GSDs shed more than you can imagine. :rofl:

Nice to meet you all after lurking for so long. Hope this sunny weather makes everything easier for everybody in the PNW! :greetings:
 
I live in Winlock, WA and have been in the bus business in one way or another for forty years.

There isn't much about buses I haven't had to deal with over the years so I know which power packages are great, which power packages are okay, and which power packages to avoid.

Good luck and happy trails!
 

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