Going to see a bus in the morning, what should I look for?

[HomesteadDad]

I’m heading to look at a bus tomorrow. It’s a 2000 Thomas built mvp with 94,000 miles, a cat 3126 engine, a md3060 trans, new alternator, newer tires, needs batteries.

What should I be looking for. Checking oil for color/cleanliness? Fuel filter for water? Rust on body and chassis?

Where would I look to confirm that the trans is what they say it is?

Things to listen for when engine runs and revs?

Things to feel for when driving?

Anybody a diesel mechanic who’d care to pm me their number?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Ninjakitty]

Transmission: bring some rags and degreaser. Crawl under and find the plate. Wipe it clean and it should tell you exactly what it is.

 

[Tall Grass]

New batteries about $350 or so and look at those cables as well. Feel under the back side of the wheel wells for rust, Confirm tires are new by tire code NOT tread depth. LOOK WHERE IT IS PARKED FOR ANY LEAKS AND THEN MOVE TO ANOTHER SPOT AND LET IT SIT (darn caps sorry.) and look for leaks. Look at Serpentine belt and any other for cracking. Diesel oil is very black and dirty looking .READ everything you can on this forum and keep reading.

 

[HomesteadDad]

Passed on the bus this morning. Too much rust, a possible significant oil leak, no coolant in the tank when we got there and it started leaking after we added. Back to searching.