My father had a really awesome dream about 12 years ago to go buy a bus and convert it into an RV. We all thought he was crazy.... Blah blah blah you all know how this goes. But we all supported him and said "cool, let do it" So he got a good deal on a fully functional MCI 9 with a Detroit 6 Cylinder diesel in North Houston and drove it home (over 2 hours) with minimal issues(a little smoking, but nothing major). He then proceeded to buy updated headlights, a huge air conditioner system to mount, tanks for all water, new updated bumper and a new updated endcap. Lots of big money parts among various other small things that now are stacked up in the garage collecting dust. We worked on the bus, stripping it almost completely down, windows, seats, siding even that awful middle isle(wow that sucked). We raised the roof 8 inches, welded everything down secure and only need 2 more sheets of sheet metal to have it completely closed back in. This was done over the span of a few years and my father ended up going into a fit of depression over the slow progress of it due to his illness. He has arthritis in his spine and after working at the plant all day just doesn't have the energy in his old age to go out and do the exhausting work. So now that I'm finished with college and settled down I was thinking about taking over the project and getting him revitalized and finishing it. I think working together will make it much easier for him to get out and do it and I hate to see such a cool dream go to waste. Not to mention the money. My mom wants to sell it in parts or scrap it all, but I refused to let them do that I told them to give me another 2 years and I'll finish it. So all that happy days family matters stuff aside the problem I face is this. I'm an electronics technician by trade and my father is as well we are both....mediocre mechanics but not great and know next to nothing about diesel engines. The bus has been sitting without being ran for about 8 to 9 years now, it wasn't drained or sealed off either. We also live in coastal Texas so I'm going to have an awesome weekend or two of 12 hour days holding a metal brush grinding wheel on the frame not to mention the problems rust caused in the engine.
Should we finish closing it in and do everything except the engine first? Or do we go straight to the engine and try to make sure she still runs before putting another god knows how much time and energy into the cabin. I've been told that these Detroit diesels are unstoppable beasts and not to worry about it, but I'd just like some direct feedback from people that actually might have been there and seen it. We literally have a ton of the parts, it really just needs time and car.
As I've said I really hate to see all of our hard work and money and time go to waste not to mention someones dream die with it. So I really appreciate anything and everything you guys and gals can input as far as money savers(we're on a fairly tight budget), tips and really any positive input will be greatly appreciated! Especially info on what the hell to do with the engine at this point? Do i start it up and see what happens? or do I flush oil and coolant systems before turning it on? Thanks a lot in advance.
Trey
I would suggest giving a general city location allot of bus nuts in Texas that may be close and be able to help you get it started. If it runs then proceed. Best of luck with your adventure. Just Dallas Might be able to help you.
Not only look for some help, but before you continue with the conversion, take care of all the mechanical stuff, etc., and get it out and drive it. Nothing will get you as excited about getting the project going again, than driving it. And then keep driving it as you work on it, so the juices keep flowing.
As far as what the years have done or not, once again, getting it going will tell you. If your not so mechanical, have someone go through some of it for you.
Good luck.
My city location is 2 hours southwest of Houston. Any Diesel mechanics novice or pro want come help? I'll buy you some beer and dinner! or Tea...if you don't drink.
How far from Victoria are you located Jim lives there he is a good mechinic and knows 2 strokes and has a MCI
good luck
Quote from: artvonne on May 04, 2011, 06:34:02 PM
Not only look for some help, but before you continue with the conversion, take care of all the mechanical stuff, etc., and get it out and drive it. Nothing will get you as excited about getting the project going again, than driving it. And then keep driving it as you work on it, so the juices keep flowing.
As far as what the years have done or not, once again, getting it going will tell you. If your not so mechanical, have someone go through some of it for you.
Good luck.
Agreed, nothing will "recharge" everyones interest in seeing it run down the road if its finished or not.
If I was closer I would lend a hand but Im in IN.
Best of luck with what ever you do! Dont let it get scrapped!!
Quote from: luvrbus on May 04, 2011, 06:56:12 PM
How far from Victoria are you located Jim lives there he is a good mechinic and knows 2 strokes and has a MCI
good luck
I'm about an hour and half from Victoria, not a bad trip. Exact city is Bay City.
Wish I were closer. See if it will turn over with a socket and a breaker bar on the crank shaft bolt. just move. that would be start. Might start post Bus nut in Bay City Texas Area.
There are several busnuts in the Lake Jackson and West Columbia area and a Eagle owner in Sweeney
good luck
Quote from: robertglines1 on May 04, 2011, 07:06:14 PM
Wish I were closer. See if it will turn over with a socket and a breaker bar on the crank shaft bolt. just move. that would be start. Might start post Bus nut in Bay City Texas Area.
Make sure your bus is out of gear if it has a manual transmission.. ;)
Just to let ya know your not alone. I was Bus dreaming when I was a kid back around 1970. We used to sneak into this boneyard and pretend to drive old derilic greyhounds that had seen better days. You know you can cuss a blue streak at imaginary passengers and throw them off the Bus when your 12, lol. I bought an old GMC PD 3751 back in 1988, but didnt have the space or knowledge to make a go of it and it ended up scrapped. That still bums me out.
Once a Bus nut, always a Bus nut? I just drove an MC5 home about 200 miles, had a band bus conversion started. It was all 3/4 ply with formica, the stuff weighed a ton, was put together all Mickey Mouse (but looked okay!). Its all laying out on the trailer, probably close to 2 tons of material. Now I get to start with a clean slate.
I would suggest you sit down with Mom and Dad first, and find your place in this project. I understand your Dad started it, but if your going to see it completed, Mom and Dad need to hand over control making you the CEO of the project. Maybe its still his, maybe its his money, or some ratio between you two, but if the choice is you completing it or seeing it scrapped, they need to hand over authority and direction. Certainly bounce things off them, and certainly make intelligent and sound logical choices they can agree with, but take control.
IMHO, your first priority should be to get it running and determine what the Bus needs to be mechanically sound and road safe, and then assess the project from that point. If your going to bail out, youll do much better having a Bus someone can drive home. But lets be clear. MC9's are a dime a dozen right now and losing value. If the Bus will need significant monies invested to get it running and roadworthy, and your not commited to finish the project, bail out now. There wont be any sense throwing money at it if its all going down the drain anyway. IOW, no major repairs or engine overhauls or anything unless your keeping it.
You what? You want to do a bus conversion? An unfinished one at that? You must be a nut........ a bus nut......sigh, poor guy! Welcome! Soon you will look like the rest of us
(https://busconversionmagazine.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi26.tinypic.com%2Fw2fzpv.jpg&hash=d75c6a52100c2f369a6b8b4ff6bec04d3149a398)
QuoteDo i start it up and see what happens? or do I flush oil and coolant systems before turning it on?
First of all, I admire you for wanting to keep and finish the bus you and your dad started. There is more value in that than any bus you can buy.
Now to answer your question, I would first put a socket on the crankshaft and try and turn it over like was already mentioned. If all is good there, I would then drain the oil and install new oil and filter (Delo 100 40w or equivalent rated for 2stroke only) Then I would make sure your fuel system is clean and install a new fuel filter. Then I would crank the motor over from the rear of the bus with the fuel off until the oil pressure comes up. If all is good and the coolant is full, you are ready to start.
My guess is; after all that it will fire right up. ;D
Good luck
Gary
I would get it running, check fluids first. It will probally fire right up. I would wait to change fluids, till it is ready for the road for good. Good luck
I agree with Gary... The bus is already worth more than any other shell you could buy because your father started the conversion...and you would be helping him fullfill his dream.. Take the advice that has already been given and see if you can get it running like it should and then proceed from there with the conversion work. I wish you Good Luck!!
Jimmy
Your only an hour from me. I live do north on HWY 60 just north of East Bernard. I hunt and fish a WHOLE LOT down there. East Matti when the birds are working and WEst Matti when it gets too hot for the shallows. I hunt geese with Larry Robinson who owns Coastal Wings Outfitters. His lodge is at the dead end of Adam road. I have another busnut buddy just north of you in Wharton. We need to get together and have a convoy to somewhere, anywhere I don't care where. He is just about done with his conversion but got called to Alabama for the insurance claims. He did his from scratch as well. He also has it running on waste vegetable oil already. Just give me a bump if you run into any snags and I will do what I can to help.
Quote from: artvonne on May 04, 2011, 06:34:02 PMNot only look for some help, but before you continue with the conversion, take care of all the mechanical stuff, etc., and get it out and drive it. Nothing will get you as excited about getting the project going again, than driving it. And then keep driving it as you work on it, so the juices keep flowing.
Agreed. I drove mine for a few months sitting on a desk chair just to keep the "road time" going. You are *so* much further ahead than most of us so this is a really good way for you to convert a bus. And it will revitalize your Dad, too, no matter how limited he is in helping out.
Quote from: Oonrahnjay
Agreed. I drove mine for a few months sitting on a desk chair just to keep the "road time" going. You are *so* much further ahead than most of us so this is a really good way for you to convert a bus. And it will revitalize your Dad, too, no matter how limited he is in helping out.
That wouldn't work for me because my desk chair has wheels too! I can see taking off at a light or a hard corner and me & the desk chair go one way while the bus goes the other!
;D BK ;D
I have this picture of BK laying in the stair well of a bus with a tipped over office chair and a "what happened" look on his face.
Quote from: trucktramp on May 05, 2011, 07:45:51 AM
I have this picture of BK laying in the stair well of a bus with a tipped over office chair and a "what happened" look on his face.
;D
Quote from: wal1809 on May 05, 2011, 05:23:09 AM
Your only an hour from me. I live do north on HWY 60 just north of East Bernard. I hunt and fish a WHOLE LOT down there. East Matti when the birds are working and WEst Matti when it gets too hot for the shallows. I hunt geese with Larry Robinson who owns Coastal Wings Outfitters. His lodge is at the dead end of Adam road. I have another busnut buddy just north of you in Wharton. We need to get together and have a convoy to somewhere, anywhere I don't care where. He is just about done with his conversion but got called to Alabama for the insurance claims. He did his from scratch as well. He also has it running on waste vegetable oil already. Just give me a bump if you run into any snags and I will do what I can to help.
Do you know anything about diesels?? I may need a day or so with someone who knows something about them. I'm new to hunting though, I just went on my first dove hunt last year and fell in love with it. Never hunted geese though
I know enough about diesels to get us both in trouble ;D. I don't think we are headed anywhere this weekend. Are you going to be around? Does your bus run and is it legal to operate it at he moment? By legal I mean up to date registration, lights working ect. Let me know what your working with.
Quote from: wal1809 on May 05, 2011, 02:42:20 PM
I know enough about diesels to get us both in trouble ;D. I don't think we are headed anywhere this weekend. Are you going to be around? Does your bus run and is it legal to operate it at he moment? By legal I mean up to date registration, lights working ect. Let me know what your working with.
Oh no I have a few months worth of work to do before it's road worthy. Sections of it still have no skin on it. I'm going to have to charge/buy new batteries just to get her to start and rewire the control panel. So I have a ton of things to do. I'm stuck doing family stuff this weekend 8(
I don't know much but I can add this. I think it might be important to be sure the fuel rack is moving freely before you crank it to start. I had an 80 GMC 4905 that has sat too long, and one of the injectors was stuck... I didn't know it. Started it up from the front and the rack was hung in full throttle position... scared the crap out of me. Besides being really hard on any engine to go from sitting for over a year to full throttle in a couple of seconds. I liked to have never got it to settle down enough to get the rack shut off. I never did that again. Even on my MCI that I have now, if it's been sitting for longer than a few weeks before being run, I start from the rear and move the fuel lever first to be sure all is freely moving.
Just my one cent worth.
Russell
how about some pictures......
You need not worry about the rack stuck on a 6V92 they are spring loaded to prevent what Russell is saying,but I would change the oil the mighty Delo 100 oil (if that is what it has ) will separate when sitting for a very long periods
Chevron puts a use by date on the drums or mix it again just thought I would throw the info out for you guys bet you you didn't know that lol
good luck
I did, not only that, I have drained oil in a big engine that sat for many years like his that had a bunch of water in it when the plug first came out. But that was in Alaska where we go from freeze to thaw many times a year. Could you imagine 8 years?
Gary
Hang tight Gary we will both get flamed for this one lol he is in a very high humidity area like 100% in the summer 50% is low for that area
good luck
Quote from: robertglines1 on May 05, 2011, 04:40:22 PM
how about some pictures......
I'm going there this weekend to do some cleanup on the site and I'll get a bunch of them and share the progress so far. After discussing at length the engine with my dad the route we're taking first will be to modify the frame a bit to hold the side mounted radiator he purchased so he could make the back bedroom a little bigger. Yes apparently in the midst of him telling me to weld this and cut that 8 years ago, we extended the bedroom in the back as well. Not to mention the old radiator was crap. Along with the old batteries that came with it. After we get the radiator put on we are going to drop the oil pan and clean the sludge out, change the fuel filter, change the fluids and oil filter and air filter, then go out and get a new set of batteries, crank her up and see what happens. Minimal expense to see if she's still running. Wheres the go to place online you guys purchase oil and filters and all the maintainance items for these things? I'm assuming you can't run down to autozone and pick these up??
Quote from: luvrbus on May 05, 2011, 04:55:38 PM
You need not worry about the rack stuck on a 6V92 they are spring loaded to prevent what Russell is saying,but I would change the oil the mighty Delo 100 oil (if that is what it has ) will separate when sitting for a very long periods
Chevron puts a use by date on the drums or mix it again just thought I would throw the info out for you guys bet you you didn't know that lol
good luck
You are correct that's something I didn't know lol. Then again about 95% of this is all news to me, really digging all the helpful tips I'm getting on here guys.
Quote from: luvrbus on May 05, 2011, 04:55:38 PM
You need not worry about the rack stuck on a 6V92 they are spring loaded to prevent what Russell is saying,but I would change the oil the mighty Delo 100 oil (if that is what it has ) will separate when sitting for a very long periods
Chevron puts a use by date on the drums or mix it again just thought I would throw the info out for you guys bet you you didn't know that lol
good luck
I wouldn't challenge you for luv nor money. Just curious though....what are the phases that separate out made of? One of them can't be ash. Water would spin m head and dampen my day LOL
But there is some ash and there is some sulfur and what?
So far the advice to use Delo 40 weight specifically rated for TWO STROKE has been under-emphasized. Some shops that don't stock Delo 2 stroke will make every effort to sell him Delo 20W 40 or another multi-grade....none of which are suitable. Stick to your guns. Lots of jerks set you up to "do what I tell ya or your calling me a liar".
Just asking, now
John
Buried in the "talk" is the implied message that engine work can escalate to tens of thousands in short order. It will take a stout heart and deep pockets, not to mention a firm commitment to throwing good money after bad to stick with a bad deal out of nostalgia. You could easily get into a dollar level where you could buy a finished bus in good condition for a more reasonable price. But, I would do what you are doing and stick with Daddy's project till the dust settles and you can make an informed decision. It's all fun anyway.
John
Quote from: luvrbus on May 05, 2011, 05:32:14 PM
Hang tight Gary we will both get flamed for this one lol he is in a very high humidity area like 100% in the summer 50% is low for that area
good luck
Yea it's kinda like living in a sauna about 75% of the year and a walk in freezer the other small portion. As I've said I have a few weekends worth of 12 hour grindfest sessions to buff the rust off of all the framing we put up before so pray for my back and hands. Good thing Schlumberger purchases expensive anti fatigue and vibration gloves for me. I'll get some good use of them on those 2 weeks ends.
You have wal in your back yard he has the sources in your area. for the rite oil and filters etc forgot he trains dogs to leave snakes alone. so must be a intresting guy.
Quote from: JohnEd on May 05, 2011, 06:03:08 PM
Buried in the "talk" is the implied message that engine work can escalate to tens of thousands in short order. It will take a stout heart and deep pockets, not to mention a firm commitment to throwing good money after bad to stick with a bad deal out of nostalgia. You could easily get into a dollar level where you could buy a finished bus in good condition for a more reasonable price. But, I would do what you are doing and stick with Daddy's project till the dust settles and you can make an informed decision. It's all fun anyway.
John
we're putting a pretty small amount of cash down and saying heres what we have to go on. Lets make her run then we'll decide whether or not it's worth doing anything else. I don't plan on making my shallow pockets or my fathers much shallower, this is more of a finish it just to say we did, with minimal expenses. What it looks like afterwards, we really couldn't care much about. And as I've said about 90% of the parts that we need we already have sitting in the garage sooooo...it's a do or die thing.
Quote from: robertglines1 on May 05, 2011, 06:05:43 PM
You have wal in your back yard he has the sources in your area.
Indeed I'll need to have a bar b que and invite everybody around over! 8)
Tery, the O'Rilley auto parts in Bay City can get what ever you need filters, oil and they had Delo 100 40w in stock the last time I was in there when I needed fuel filter they had those also.
Check the wholesale bulk stations in you area I like Exxon/Mobil oil myself just remember you are not married to Delo there are a 100 different brands of 40w out there you can use I am not a Delo fan could you guess that lol
good luck
J my boys are in their early 30's now and helped on last two coaches and we share the pride of our accomplishment. When I'm out I take great pride in bragging on the fact that the coach is a family project. A proud PaPa Bob
Quote from: jemamus on May 05, 2011, 06:10:31 PM
Quote from: robertglines1 on May 05, 2011, 06:05:43 PM
You have wal in your back yard he has the sources in your area.
Indeed I'll need to have a bar b que and invite everybody around over! 8)
I say for grits and shins, change the oil filter-air filter and fuel filters, pop in some batteries and fire that baby up. She might surprise you.
I have to laugh at the post "1/2 way finished bus"!! The only finished busses I know of are in the scrap yard!!! There isn't a bus that is finished around here! Ok... maybe a few that claim to be 75 or 80 % but those are rare. :D :D
For safety and piece of mind, do not change the fuel filters until you have at least tried starting the engine. Thae reasoning is that the filter probably has enough fuel to make the engine fire, and probably take off. Filters seldom plug completely, they just pass lees and less and less fuel. Even at idle, a plugged filter will pass enough fuel to start and run.
Quote from: wal1809 on May 06, 2011, 11:52:16 AM
Quote from: jemamus on May 05, 2011, 06:10:31 PM
Quote from: robertglines1 on May 05, 2011, 06:05:43 PM
You have wal in your back yard he has the sources in your area.
Indeed I'll need to have a bar b que and invite everybody around over! 8)
I say for grits and shins, change the oil filter-air filter and fuel filters, pop in some batteries and fire that baby up. She might surprise you.
Quote from: luvrbus on May 05, 2011, 04:55:38 PM
You need not worry about the rack stuck on a 6V92 they are spring loaded to prevent what Russell is saying.
good luck
Ive heard you talk about this before, even on 8V71s as I recall. What year did they start doing them that way??