Hello all! Long time reader but first time poster here. My wife and I recently sold our converted 15 passenger van to upgrade into the skoolie domain. Our goal is not full time but to be used for camping and road trips.
After some research, I think we have narrowed down what we are searching for. A 6-7 window bus with most likely a DT466/E on a 3800 chassis and preferably an MT643 transmission, since that seems to be a good combination.
Unfortunately we are located in WV and it seems many postings in our area struggle with rust. I recently came across an 2001 International Bluebird with a DT466E (230 HP) with an MT643, air brakes, 190K miles, 13k engine hours, wheel chair lift (no need for lift but like the extra door), A/C (Not Cold though), 60 gallon tank, and I believe a speed governor at 65 mph. I have no real indicator of rust yet but it's currently at a dealer that sells school buses outside of the rust belt.
Other than being at the max of length we want, they are asking for a whopping $12K
....which seems really high to me. I messaged them asking for some information on maintenance records and such but is this honestly worth considering? The bus is 1,000 miles from me so it would still require more monies to fly and drive back.
I have read about many getting buses way cheaper but they were usually full size so I do know these shorter ones "decked out" can go for more.
After some research, I think we have narrowed down what we are searching for. A 6-7 window bus with most likely a DT466/E on a 3800 chassis and preferably an MT643 transmission, since that seems to be a good combination.
Unfortunately we are located in WV and it seems many postings in our area struggle with rust. I recently came across an 2001 International Bluebird with a DT466E (230 HP) with an MT643, air brakes, 190K miles, 13k engine hours, wheel chair lift (no need for lift but like the extra door), A/C (Not Cold though), 60 gallon tank, and I believe a speed governor at 65 mph. I have no real indicator of rust yet but it's currently at a dealer that sells school buses outside of the rust belt.
Other than being at the max of length we want, they are asking for a whopping $12K
....which seems really high to me. I messaged them asking for some information on maintenance records and such but is this honestly worth considering? The bus is 1,000 miles from me so it would still require more monies to fly and drive back.I have read about many getting buses way cheaper but they were usually full size so I do know these shorter ones "decked out" can go for more.
