It's always a good idea to have a mechanic do a full inspection on the vehicle that you intend to buy. Sure, this make cost you a few hundred dollars but it will save you thousands over the next year. So, it's worth the extra money.
If you really want a good deal on a bus go directly to the school district and talk to the person over the bus yard and find out if there are any older spare buses that they would be interested in getting rid of. I just bought a very nice 99 amtran for nearly nothing just because it was an older bus and they had purchased a new fleet.
I got a 04 model 40' bus from a salvage yard that had several to pick from, test drove it, dropped 4k on the table and drove 400or so miles back home. I like the rear engine in mine, in the bay I installed a tankless water heater (it' for outdoor 4Gpm) and it fit great back there with the engine. IF you know where to look they can be had for not too much money. IF you get a auto, try and get the Allison MD3060, it has a built in retarder and also is a 6speed, though school buses are usually limited to 5 speeds, if yours is a push button it's likely a 3060, you just need to have it reprogrammed by a Allison dealer to "unlock" that 6th gear which will then give you 2 overdrive gears. Nice find and video buddy!
Tires, in any vehicle are considered consumables (justa like brakes,fuel,oil) and if you have a bus with considerable low mileage, it is cheaper to replace tires, than an engine, hands down. Also if you are going to do the conversion right away, any tires are going to rot even if they are not installed, and believe me, you do not want to have a blow out in one of this buses. Thanks for your insight.
I’ve got a 1990 GMC 71 passenger gas powered 366 big block v8 with a Allison 540 automatic transmission with 245k miles and she still runs strong and I wouldn’t hesitate to take her on a long trip and back any day.
Check your state laws on GVWR(gross vehicle weight rating). Some states require a cdl to drive(pre conversion) a vehicle weighing over 26,000 pounds and a non cdl class b license(after converted on title to a RV/Motorhome). Basically any full size school bus weighs over 26,000 pounds. Air brake systems also require an in cab brake test administered by a DMV employee.
if I watching this video it mean I don't have any money, if I have no money I have to pay attention, if you could pay attention you have time to do your research. good vid.
Thanks for making this video. I have watched a lot of this kind of video but none about the vehicle, only the makeovers. I did not know about the government requirement changes and the difference in the years.....that was really helpful. I have subscribed, please continue to inform me and others so we make wise decisions and are able to love our buses and not hate the headaches.
It's kinda strange that you worry about the price of a set of tires, but not about the price of a worn automatic transmission. Because AT's won't last you as long as the engine without a major overhaul, and maybe even two, since friction materials in the AT will be burned out long before the engine. On the other hand, manuals might last you as long as the engine, with exception of the clutch maybe, which still is a lot cheaper to replace than a complete automatic transmission (overhaul). And MT's are no "hassle" to drive, unless you've always been spoiled by automatics so far. After a while, you won't even notice you're operating a gearbox. It becomes an automatism after some getting used to.
+Skoda130 im not a mechanic but i could see MT lasting longer sure. But how many people can drive a manual in America? Also ive driven manuals for 5 years and still prefer automatic. So i hope you understand that there is preference for automatic regardless of being "spoiled by automatics". I hate the fact that you're supposed to love manuals once you learn to drive them. And its easier to the check the condition of tires as opposed to a trans.
Skoda130 Are you in the United States?? The only people I ever met that thought a manual transmission on a long road trip up and down mountains and such was no big deal was when I lived in Europe. I learned to drive a manual over there and then had to drive a manual transmission car over the Alps. I managed to do it, but it was hard and really terrifying and I couldn't drive too fast. I also had to endure a long line of faster drivers backed up behind me very irate and honking their horns and flashing lights behind me-and it seemed like every single person was driving a BMW. It was one of the worst experiences of my life, and even though it was probably only 45 minutes or an hour, it felt like forever.
Manual Transmissions FTW ... It's so sad that Auto Manufacturers are killing off the manual transmissions. Ford stopped putting manual transmissions in the F-Series trucks back in 2009 and I couldn't believe it. Pretty soon the new generation will not even know how to drive vehicle with a standard transmission.
I have known a few people who have had a bus with the transmission not so good, but last several years before an overhaul/replacement was needed... one was a manual, and it lasted almost a decade with a so-so tranny... if the tire gets dry rot, cracking on the sidewall, it is going to blow on the road.. it is not a matter of if, but when... do check the tires..
I live in PA and I taught myself manual using my parents old 94 Miata. It doesn’t have power steering either, and it is and has been by far my favorite car to drive. I’ve driven some Bentley’s at my work; I’d take the manual no power steering any day. Much more fun and you feel like you’re doing something and in control of the car rather than along for the ride.
I don’t understand the issue with manual transmissions. After a few weeks of driving it you won’t even notice it. Only PITA I ever had was driving my manual transmission pickup in Manhattan traffic. Start stop. Start stop. Luckily my trips into the city were limited.
So basically in regards to years for school buses after 2004 when the government regulation was passed to make school buses more fission things were crap until about 2007 when they actually started dishing out school bus is that follow the efficiency rules. So basically what you’re saying is I’d want a efficient schoool bus that’s no older than 2007 and a diesel as basic requirements I’ll factor into my requirement list when shopping around on those websites and auctions you mentioned. Gotcha. 2007 or younger.
Are there any particular things to look for mechanically? Even certain leaks aren't a big deal, depending on the leak. Any certain mechanical problems or leaks that should be a deal breaker?
As he said rust is a huge issue. Never buy a bus from a state that uses salt in the winter! Colorado is OK since they do use sand but I would recommend going to a southern state. Also watch out for areas by the ocean due to salt water. I personally wouldn't go with a van chassis due to the fact that the engine is hard to get to and costs more to have it repaired.
There is a place near my house that is basically a "dealership" in new and used buses. They also sell parts and have a shop too... Too bad their buses cost $10k+
So buying a Ford E450 7.3 would be a good idea or not... Ive heard lots of good things about them and how they sometimes hit 800,000 miles and everynow and then a million?
Buy one from directly from the school or contractor- talk to the mechanic- they will tell you exactly what is wrong with it and why they are getting rid of it.
I'm just about in the process of buying a 97'Ford E350 V10 Mini Bus (18 seater) (automatic, runs on gas, very minimal rust literally a few spots) it has 237,000 km and I need HELP…. (would one believe none of the guys I know drive anything bigger then a car - mini-s mostly? What up with that!) Anyway, I'm just curious what your thoughts are, since I will need to insulate the bus fully… live in a colder climate… but not certain how long the life will be in the vehicle… and I have no idea about engines!!! The guy seems nice but you know he's also wanting to sell the thing. BTW this is in Canada and the price if $2500. Any help/ideas would be great…. good tires though. Also buses are kinda hard to find where I am….
+Ms40Watts from what you said, I would recommend test driving it and listening for any funny noises. Maybe take it to a mechanic. Its diesel correct? Ask for any maintenance paperwork and a carfax if available. The more history you know about the bus the better
Manual transmissions OUTLIVE automatic transmissions 3 miles to one. Todays automatics are garbage accept for may Allison, still much better gas mileage with the standard shift.
hate to tell ya these new buses get 8 to 9 miles a gallon 10 if you really baby it and that is a navistar bus with 6.4 liter diesel with dpf system.older the better.
+KickOusFilms for us we did not need any special license! But every state is different so check with your secretary of state or dmv. Heres a tip, the size of the bus and how many seats it has usually matters. For example, if i can seat 15+ more people you need a commercial license in MI.
do you have a security camera? If so, where did you get it and how much did it cost.... i would like to have one for all four sides of the van for when i am sleeping mostly for stealth parking
craizygolf1980 No every bus should have a GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) which means how much it weighs plus extra weigh of passengers it can hold based on how many people its meant for. So we just used that number
Does every you tuber....just re make the same vids others make? Like they see someone do it....so...... the next next. Where is the original content anymore
It's always a good idea to have a mechanic do a full inspection on the vehicle that you intend to buy. Sure, this make cost you a few hundred dollars but it will save you thousands over the next year. So, it's worth the extra money.
If you really want a good deal on a bus go directly to the school district and talk to the person over the bus yard and find out if there are any older spare buses that they would be interested in getting rid of. I just bought a very nice 99 amtran for nearly nothing just because it was an older bus and they had purchased a new fleet.
WESpower13 that's what I have been planning to do
Casey o'keefe How Much Did You Buy It For?
I got a 04 model 40' bus from a salvage yard that had several to pick from, test drove it, dropped 4k on the table and drove 400or so miles back home.
I like the rear engine in mine, in the bay I installed a tankless water heater (it' for outdoor 4Gpm) and it fit great back there with the engine. IF you know where to look they can be had for not too much money. IF you get a auto, try and get the Allison MD3060, it has a built in retarder and also is a 6speed, though school buses are usually limited to 5 speeds, if yours is a push button it's likely a 3060, you just need to have it reprogrammed by a Allison dealer to "unlock" that 6th gear which will then give you 2 overdrive gears.
Nice find and video buddy!
Tires, in any vehicle are considered consumables (justa like brakes,fuel,oil) and if you have a bus with considerable low mileage, it is cheaper to replace tires, than an engine, hands down. Also if you are going to do the conversion right away, any tires are going to rot even if they are not installed, and believe me, you do not want to have a blow out in one of this buses. Thanks for your insight.
I’ve got a 1990 GMC 71 passenger gas powered 366 big block v8 with a Allison 540 automatic transmission with 245k miles and she still runs strong and I wouldn’t hesitate to take her on a long trip and back any day.
What kind of mileage with that setup?
TY for mentioning safe and alarms. ...good idea that I had not thought of yet.
Helpful and thought-provoking. Thanks much! Happy Travels 🍀
Not only is this very informative, but easy on the eyes too.
Easyy on the eyes is an understatement :)
Gary Hardin I mean WOW 😎
Great tips, we are on a hunt for a bus ourselves. We are a family of 5 so yeah we have some homework to do.
Good luck my friend! Where are you located and have you gotten the bus already?
Awesome video. Lots of great information. Thanks, for sharing your knowledge.
Thanks for the checklist...not many talking about the mechanics etc.
Check your state laws on GVWR(gross vehicle weight rating). Some states require a cdl to drive(pre conversion) a vehicle weighing over 26,000 pounds and a non cdl class b license(after converted on title to a RV/Motorhome). Basically any full size school bus weighs over 26,000 pounds. Air brake systems also require an in cab brake test administered by a DMV employee.
if I watching this video it mean I don't have any money, if I have no money I have to pay attention, if you could pay attention you have time to do your research. good vid.
Good info. Thank you.
I'm going to research which is better..a skoolie or a box truck..i like both ideas.
Great advice. I hope you continue with more informative videos.
Vivian B 8.i
jym8
Thanks for making this video. I have watched a lot of this kind of video but none about the vehicle, only the makeovers. I did not know about the government requirement changes and the difference in the years.....that was really helpful. I have subscribed, please continue to inform me and others so we make wise decisions and are able to love our buses and not hate the headaches.
It's kinda strange that you worry about the price of a set of tires, but not about the price of a worn automatic transmission.
Because AT's won't last you as long as the engine without a major overhaul, and maybe even two, since friction materials in the AT will be burned out long before the engine.
On the other hand, manuals might last you as long as the engine, with exception of the clutch maybe, which still is a lot cheaper to replace than a complete automatic transmission (overhaul).
And MT's are no "hassle" to drive, unless you've always been spoiled by automatics so far.
After a while, you won't even notice you're operating a gearbox.
It becomes an automatism after some getting used to.
+Skoda130 im not a mechanic but i could see MT lasting longer sure. But how many people can drive a manual in America? Also ive driven manuals for 5 years and still prefer automatic. So i hope you understand that there is preference for automatic regardless of being "spoiled by automatics". I hate the fact that you're supposed to love manuals once you learn to drive them.
And its easier to the check the condition of tires as opposed to a trans.
Skoda130 Are you in the United States?? The only people I ever met that thought a manual transmission on a long road trip up and down mountains and such was no big deal was when I lived in Europe. I learned to drive a manual over there and then had to drive a manual transmission car over the Alps. I managed to do it, but it was hard and really terrifying and I couldn't drive too fast. I also had to endure a long line of faster drivers backed up behind me very irate and honking their horns and flashing lights behind me-and it seemed like every single person was driving a BMW. It was one of the worst experiences of my life, and even though it was probably only 45 minutes or an hour, it felt like forever.
Manual Transmissions FTW ... It's so sad that Auto Manufacturers are killing off the manual transmissions. Ford stopped putting manual transmissions in the F-Series trucks back in 2009 and I couldn't believe it. Pretty soon the new generation will not even know how to drive vehicle with a standard transmission.
I have known a few people who have had a bus with the transmission not so good, but last several years before an overhaul/replacement was needed... one was a manual, and it lasted almost a decade with a so-so tranny... if the tire gets dry rot, cracking on the sidewall, it is going to blow on the road.. it is not a matter of if, but when... do check the tires..
I live in PA and I taught myself manual using my parents old 94 Miata. It doesn’t have power steering either, and it is and has been by far my favorite car to drive. I’ve driven some Bentley’s at my work; I’d take the manual no power steering any day. Much more fun and you feel like you’re doing something and in control of the car rather than along for the ride.
Thanks for the information.
First Last any time!
Thanks brother, the information you give is important and very helpful.
I don’t understand the issue with manual transmissions. After a few weeks of driving it you won’t even notice it. Only PITA I ever had was driving my manual transmission pickup in Manhattan traffic. Start stop. Start stop. Luckily my trips into the city were limited.
So basically in regards to years for school buses after 2004 when the government regulation was passed to make school buses more fission things were crap until about 2007 when they actually started dishing out school bus is that follow the efficiency rules. So basically what you’re saying is I’d want a efficient schoool bus that’s no older than 2007 and a diesel as basic requirements I’ll factor into my requirement list when shopping around on those websites and auctions you mentioned. Gotcha. 2007 or younger.
Great info! How much gas does it take? And how much does it cost to fill a tank? Looking at one to start a business in.
Thank you!
Thanks ,planning on buying one in 6 months
No problem! :)
I loved the tips! I want to get a bus for traveling someday.
Are there any particular things to look for mechanically? Even certain leaks aren't a big deal, depending on the leak. Any certain mechanical problems or leaks that should be a deal breaker?
As he said rust is a huge issue. Never buy a bus from a state that uses salt in the winter! Colorado is OK since they do use sand but I would recommend going to a southern state. Also watch out for areas by the ocean due to salt water. I personally wouldn't go with a van chassis due to the fact that the engine is hard to get to and costs more to have it repaired.
John Culver f*
There is a place near my house that is basically a "dealership" in new and used buses. They also sell parts and have a shop too... Too bad their buses cost $10k+
thanks 4a lots good infor. i will share with others. thanks again.
Good points. Thanks!
Thanks for the info!
Great advice! Can you tell me where you are in that cliff driving footage?
+Melanie G yes Glacier National Park in Montana!
Go to a junk yard. Or someone's junky yard. I live in Florida. Really easy to find any kind of bus you want to buy.
Great advice! Thanks for sharing
So buying a Ford E450 7.3 would be a good idea or not... Ive heard lots of good things about them and how they sometimes hit 800,000 miles and everynow and then a million?
So grateful for this 💛 Thank you!
and thanks so much it has helped me for knowledge of buying I just want to know of class driver license you need
Thx, My mom still thinks im a mistake, i painted team jammy on it,
if i could afford it c;
I bought an old 1994 International diesel bus that I'm converting into a car hauler
Thank you very much. Very informative.
Thank you, thank you!!
Buy one from directly from the school or contractor- talk to the mechanic- they will tell you exactly what is wrong with it and why they are getting rid of it.
One question I have about all these do-it-yourself RV's is how do you air condition them when they are parked somewhere?
Nice info....enjoy...
I'm just about in the process of buying a 97'Ford E350 V10 Mini Bus (18 seater) (automatic, runs on gas, very minimal rust literally a few spots) it has 237,000 km and I need HELP…. (would one believe none of the guys I know drive anything bigger then a car - mini-s mostly? What up with that!) Anyway, I'm just curious what your thoughts are, since I will need to insulate the bus fully… live in a colder climate… but not certain how long the life will be in the vehicle… and I have no idea about engines!!! The guy seems nice but you know he's also wanting to sell the thing. BTW this is in Canada and the price if $2500. Any help/ideas would be great…. good tires though. Also buses are kinda hard to find where I am….
+Ms40Watts from what you said, I would recommend test driving it and listening for any funny noises. Maybe take it to a mechanic. Its diesel correct? Ask for any maintenance paperwork and a carfax if available. The more history you know about the bus the better
Good to know the info
Great info
Thanks:)
Hey thanks for making the video.
thanks for the info
Manual transmissions OUTLIVE automatic transmissions 3 miles to one. Todays automatics are garbage accept for may Allison, still much better gas mileage with the standard shift.
hate to tell ya these new buses get 8 to 9 miles a gallon 10 if you really baby it and that is a navistar bus with 6.4 liter diesel with dpf system.older the better.
mack1ford good to know
Can you tell me if a Bus has air brakes? Something I heard but not sure that is true. We are interested in buying a smaller Bus.
gb Marie ours were hydraulic brakes!
gb Marie large are air. Small regular.
loved your vid. what you do for a toilet?
+green boy we used gas stations and food places.
The Bus Boys Did you have one of those hand pumped portable showers also? If yes, what did you think of it?
Mary Anne Brown no we did not so we really cant say :/
what about the class of driver license which class is needed?
+Eugenia Padilla every state is different but we just needed a regular drivers licence, no commercial license or anything else
When you convert them they are no longer titled as buses. You have to title them as an RV, therefore you only need a regular class c license.
good vid. do you know what kind of license you need to drive a bus if you plan on converting it? i live in pa and I'm not sure if you need a CDL.
+KickOusFilms for us we did not need any special license! But every state is different so check with your secretary of state or dmv. Heres a tip, the size of the bus and how many seats it has usually matters. For example, if i can seat 15+ more people you need a commercial license in MI.
do you have a security camera? If so, where did you get it and how much did it cost.... i would like to have one for all four sides of the van for when i am sleeping mostly for stealth parking
+Alvara DaCosta we did not have any cameras ourselves! But if you have the money that would be a good investment specially traveling alone
You could also set it up so the rear security camera feeds into a monitor the driver can see and use for backing up.
If you're sleeping how could you watch the cameras? Ugh. Next
You drove that up in Glacier over the pass? Christ...balsy hahaha
Thank you!!
Thank you!
+New Life No problem :)
SWEEET IM FROM MICHIGAN TOO
Thanks.
you don't buy a school bus, you STEAL IT !
$1000 just for the rear tires
4x$200+50ea (for mount and balance).
soiboughtabus yep! Real expensive
Do we still have to go through training in order to drive a school bus before buying one?
+Jamaal Schaeffer we took zero training, we just figured it out as we went lol
Hey Oregon has no letter "E, at the end of it. It's Oregon, .....
bottlenose Dolphin careful all who enter! We have the fu****g grammar police here. Ugh. Next!
hey - what kind/brand of solar panels did you go with? I'm looking to do the same thing.
My gawd 💘💘💘 🙃
He's HOT right?!? And I'm black - don't even date white guys but he's a cutie!
air brakes or hydraulic
David Quintero our bus had hydraulic brakes! Both have pros and cons tho
What's the gas mileage like on diesel ????
we got about 10 miles per gallon
my '99 ford expedition gets 12 mpg
ty
How much is cheap???
Do you have to stop at weight stations or not ?
craizygolf1980 No every bus should have a GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) which means how much it weighs plus extra weigh of passengers it can hold based on how many people its meant for. So we just used that number
Such a cutie!
Can you buy me a school bus and send it to 6 Sheffield Rosedale road
thanks
Schoolbuses are not cheap i cant find a 100 doloar one
Lol yes not that cheap! If you find one for $100, I'm sure you will not want it! 😅
i might my max is 580
Wolfpuppy1010 Gaming Dude, you're gonna need at least 1000 dollars to get any kind of bus
wellthen i cant get one cause i dont have 1000 dollars at all
Wolfpuppy1010 Gaming How old are you?
I thought you had something new to say. Ugh. Next!™
Does every you tuber....just re make the same vids others make? Like they see someone do it....so...... the next next. Where is the original content anymore