Your dream bus.....

[Jeffbegin]

Hey! Newbie here seriously into a future conversion project. Been reading A LOT about all this conversion info, bus type, engine, transmission, brakes, suspension and it seems the more I read, the more I get confused.

Now mecanics is of upmost importance for me. I don't care Much at this stage about ceiling heights, floor plans, etc. I just want a good bus with a reliable combination engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, etc, to start to build up from the ground.no use in converting a rotten piece of metal or something with known sy stematic problems. Everytime I find what seems to be a "good" bus to buy, I read about that drive train or that one and read horror stories. And same thing repeats itself when it comes to suspension, transmission,etc....So confusing.

So....here is the question.... What is YOUR BEST bus combination. Engine, transmission, brakes, suspension,etc....what would be YOUR DREAMBUS and why? What would you systematically avoid and why? I know I can find bits and pieces of answers here and there but trying to have info in the same thread. Sorry if this is a repeat.

Thanks.... can't wait to read you.

Cheers

Jeff

 

[o1marc]

Too vague to give a pat answer. It really depends on your intended use of the bus. Size requirements may dictate engine and drivetrain requirements. Do you want rear access, then a rear engine bus won't do. Lots of variable that you need to decide if they work for you or not.

 

[Jeffbegin]

Thanks! I get it. 72 Passenger bus. Will be using it as RV not a tiny full time house. Puller w rear access. Might be pulling a small car behind...not sure yet.

This helps?

JFB

 

[EastCoastCB]

Thanks! I get it. 72 Passenger bus. Will be using it as RV not a tiny full time house. Puller w rear access. Might be pulling a small car behind...not sure yet.

This helps?

JFB

You want a DT466 or Cummins 8.3. Air ride and high headroom are also good to look for. Also hold out for a bus that has overdrive, or at the very least anything but a 545.
Just my 2 cents.

 

[Jeffbegin]

Thanks EastcoastBc,

And should I avoid any of the CAT engines?

Jeff

 

[Twigg-SKO]

My ideal bus:

40' Pusher
Cummins 8.3 or DT530
Alison MD3060
Ai Brakes
Air Suspension
High Ceiling
Low Mileage
1995-2003
No Rust
11R22.5 Tires, with tread
$1000

Oh hang on ... I got all that except the air-ride and the price

 

[Jeffbegin]

Thanks. Great find then! Nice work!

Jf