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Bus Discussion => Bus Topics ( click here for quick start! ) => Topic started by: Ace on February 07, 2014, 06:45:10 PM

Title: New project
Post by: Ace on February 07, 2014, 06:45:10 PM
For those of you that have or haven't been following my thread on the BNO, Susan and I have decided to part ways with our H 3 model Prevost and tackle a new project.
We are trading our coach for a partially built unfinished truck conversion!
It's a 1999 a Freightliner FLD with a 28' box that houses a living area and a half garage! It suits our needs more than the bus now that our lives have taken a different path.
This took a lot of consideration mainly due to all the hard work we both and our friends have shared in building "FoolsGold" but because of the year, and the weather taking it's toll on the exterior, no dealer or private owner for that matter would allow what we thought was a fair asking price so we opted to trade it to a private owner of a truck that we feel we can finish to our liking!
No money involved except transfer fees. Am I getting the better end money wise? Probably not but I'm happy to finally have something that I can use for multiple things rather than JUST camping which we will still be able to do. We will also be able to venture further away from home with our Kettle Corn business and we can go racing in style. When camping, we can carry our Harley without a trailer or golf cart!
The truck is unfinished but the ground work has been professionally layed out. The owner living in Mn just doesn't have the time to finish it after already spending $95k and wants a motor coach to take his family on weekend excursions!
The timing just seemed right and figured it's now or never!
The plan is to meet on March 1st, hopefully at BK's if his offer is still open!


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: RJ on February 07, 2014, 09:12:21 PM
Ace -

It will be interesting to follow your progress with the truck conversion after you pick it up.  Seems to be a good solution to the changing interests you and Susan are pursuing.

Plus, just think - no more flak over stainless steel holding tanks hung from the roof of the baggage bay, either!  (Boy, wasn't that a hoot 'way back when!)

BK's should be a great place to spend a little time - especially if Uncle Ned shows up!

;)
Title: Re: New project
Post by: TomC on February 08, 2014, 06:47:53 AM
I know you'll love the convenience of working on a truck instead of the bus. I'm totally enjoying converting my '85 Kenworth. My goal now is to have the truck ready to go to Alaska by summer of 2015.  Good Luck, TomC
Title: Re: New project
Post by: luvrbus on February 08, 2014, 07:03:42 AM
Enjoy the new ride ACE, like they say some ride Harley some ride Goldwing me I like Harley,bus and truck conversions 

good luck
Title: Re: New project
Post by: travlinman on February 08, 2014, 07:31:51 AM
ACE

Sounds interesting, how about a few pics?

TM
Title: Re: New project
Post by: Ace on February 08, 2014, 08:27:21 AM
This is the truck
(https://busconversionmagazine.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1203.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fbb394%2FGoldbus%2F950AA3D6-2C98-44CC-A72A-DE9C80358E53.jpg&hash=a6b954d0667bc4a26906e28ed1e8f27c094f5b33) (http://s1203.photobucket.com/user/Goldbus/media/950AA3D6-2C98-44CC-A72A-DE9C80358E53.jpg.html)


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: Ace on February 08, 2014, 08:30:19 AM
The ceiling!
(https://busconversionmagazine.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1203.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fbb394%2FGoldbus%2F62EDBB5D-8082-4DE2-8CDA-001D4525C93A.jpg&hash=9a842245d1f26435d7a0791cddeeb8cb639302d8) (http://s1203.photobucket.com/user/Goldbus/media/62EDBB5D-8082-4DE2-8CDA-001D4525C93A.jpg.html)


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: Ace on February 08, 2014, 08:59:45 AM
The side garage
(https://busconversionmagazine.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1203.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fbb394%2FGoldbus%2FEEAB0970-A228-4CD3-ADAB-049917B648FB_2.jpg&hash=2e246b0cafd1db4b16bba5fdcbc35d7d2f189a2e) (http://s1203.photobucket.com/user/Goldbus/media/EEAB0970-A228-4CD3-ADAB-049917B648FB_2.jpg.html)


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: Ace on February 08, 2014, 09:00:45 AM
The cabinets in shop

(https://busconversionmagazine.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1203.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fbb394%2FGoldbus%2F9FFD39D7-D368-406B-A1B0-FA30A86AC4A7.jpg&hash=22c88e26e23af11a9691a0bf1a31ea59e5ee0b8b) (http://s1203.photobucket.com/user/Goldbus/media/9FFD39D7-D368-406B-A1B0-FA30A86AC4A7.jpg.html)


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: Ace on February 08, 2014, 09:03:28 AM
Cabinets in living area are on both sides and BR
This is a TV cabinet
(https://busconversionmagazine.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1203.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fbb394%2FGoldbus%2F6A67E6CA-2FB0-44A3-B41E-171D5DEB2763.jpg&hash=a6f852769ce5858668e7b1c07c3a4c4f575f1b00) (http://s1203.photobucket.com/user/Goldbus/media/6A67E6CA-2FB0-44A3-B41E-171D5DEB2763.jpg.html)



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Title: Re: New project
Post by: Ace on February 08, 2014, 12:34:20 PM
Garage ramp doors
(https://busconversionmagazine.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1203.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fbb394%2FGoldbus%2F08070833-74CD-4AF0-B651-FB20AED61DA9.jpg&hash=aec65a80a2cf58eda837e9b16ff2d8d472d345aa) (http://s1203.photobucket.com/user/Goldbus/media/08070833-74CD-4AF0-B651-FB20AED61DA9.jpg.html)


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: Ace on February 08, 2014, 12:36:54 PM
Shower and toilet area (toilet not in yet)
(https://busconversionmagazine.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1203.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fbb394%2FGoldbus%2FAB40ED40-CB5D-4EDD-B078-F9D30A22681C.jpg&hash=44daa4180f6867886f323f1d1284b1c7b11acfaf) (http://s1203.photobucket.com/user/Goldbus/media/AB40ED40-CB5D-4EDD-B078-F9D30A22681C.jpg.html)


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: Ace on February 08, 2014, 12:38:57 PM
Passenger side
(https://busconversionmagazine.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1203.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fbb394%2FGoldbus%2FC1F87030-5195-4B96-A3FC-11E4BDC7D23F.jpg&hash=01421676069dd77a1343ec86554e0c9a43258265) (http://s1203.photobucket.com/user/Goldbus/media/C1F87030-5195-4B96-A3FC-11E4BDC7D23F.jpg.html)


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: B_K on February 08, 2014, 12:43:40 PM
Ace the offer is still open!

I haven't had internet for several days due to probelms with Bellsouth/AT&T!

But the tech just left here and I'm back up and running!
;D  BK  ;D
Title: Re: New project
Post by: Ace on February 08, 2014, 12:45:57 PM
Drivers side
(https://busconversionmagazine.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1203.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fbb394%2FGoldbus%2FMobile%2520Uploads%2FBBE7BA65-83D5-46E3-AA8B-E4C09D10BFB6.jpg&hash=6f5ad2ad98fb48241dc9eaa114116b7dcee6762a) (http://s1203.photobucket.com/user/Goldbus/media/Mobile%20Uploads/BBE7BA65-83D5-46E3-AA8B-E4C09D10BFB6.jpg.html)


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: Ace on February 08, 2014, 12:55:16 PM
Bryce were looking at the weekend of March 1 which is a Sunday and planning to be there on Saturday because I'm bringing a Harley with me that I'm selling to a guy in Illinois, that going to meet at your place as well to take delivery!
Gonna be a busy and nerve racking week for me!
I just hope it all goes smoothly!


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: Lin on February 08, 2014, 01:02:02 PM
Ace- Looks really very nice.  I do like the idea of truck conversions.  About 6 months ago, there was a guy selling a 40 footer on Craigslist not to far from here.  It was built on a cabover like Tom C's, but it did not have the walk through from the driver's area, was manual transmission, and did not have the garage.  I thought about it, but considering how minimal our usage is and how dangerous I am with my tiny 35 footer, we decided to stand pat.

Looks like you have made a good move.
Title: Re: New project
Post by: Ace on February 08, 2014, 01:46:49 PM
Looking back from unfinished sleeper

(https://busconversionmagazine.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1203.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fbb394%2FGoldbus%2F767DC779-9B8C-4072-B6E4-7C15646C2AFB.jpg&hash=208c3338ddb9cbd1eebd7bbf3644f7b11e4a0540) (http://s1203.photobucket.com/user/Goldbus/media/767DC779-9B8C-4072-B6E4-7C15646C2AFB.jpg.html)


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: Ace on February 08, 2014, 02:34:12 PM
Lin this truck is about as big as our present coach and might even be 2' longer according to seller. I won't know until I measure it myself.
I think it's a diamond in the rough so to speak. It's a project truck needing all plumbing lines, tanks an a/c unit and the sleeper area finished not to mention the exterior cosmetics! Yes it needs a lot of attention but Susan and I are willing to invest our time and money into finishing it and to be able to use it more ways than we use our bus! Some people will call me names for giving up my bus for a truck that needs so much more but it's our decision, not theirs! It's for our needs, again not theirs!
Like I said, the basic foundation for a very nice conversion is already layed out. I'm sure Tom or Robert would agree that it makes no difference if it's a bus or a truck, as long as your enjoying it! I know there are class C campers that are owned by some here and they use them and they aren't buses but the main thing is, they are enjoying the use of them! That's what we intend to do!


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: travlinman on February 08, 2014, 02:50:19 PM
Ace

Very cool thanks for sharing the photos!

A couple of questions - Two drive axels or a tag?

- What type of driveline? - Engine, trans etc..

Enjoy

TM
Title: Re: New project
Post by: Ace on February 08, 2014, 03:37:06 PM
Thanks!
The truck has two drive axles, no tag but you only use one drive axle locked while driving! The other is used if you get stuck!
It has a DD series 60 with a 10 speed eaton


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: TomC on February 08, 2014, 04:10:02 PM
On a tandem drive all 4 sets of wheels are equally powering. When one looses grip, it spins. Then you engage the lockout. But if one tire on the right and the other on the other axle on the left is spinning, your stuck. Some axles also have traction control that locks up all 4 sets of wheels-but makes it hard to turn-like a bull dozer. Now with ABS braking, also have electronic traction control that will apply the brakes to the spinning wheel to get the power to the other wheels. Good Luck, TomC
Title: Re: New project
Post by: Ace on February 08, 2014, 04:14:44 PM
Yea what Tom said was a better explanation!


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: lostagain on February 08, 2014, 04:34:26 PM
I have seen logging trucks with lockers on tandem axles put one chain on one wheel to get out of a slippery spot, because they can be all locked together.

Ace, it doesn't look like anybody here or BNO is bothered by you turning from buses to trucks. I myself would love to get a truck too. I have no experience with them at all, but I am a closet trucker... As much as I love buses, being a bus nut since I started driving them at 20 years old, I can see how a truck would be more practical in a lot of ways. For example for all these trips I made with the bus and trailer up dusty or muddy dirt roads to dirt bike races. Or towing my wife's horses to horse shows. But for me, it probably will have to wait until my next life: can't do it all the first go around... And I still love my bus.

Enjoy your truck.

JC
Title: Re: New project
Post by: Ace on February 08, 2014, 05:04:38 PM
JC it doesn't matter if anyone here or there cares. It matters to me and Susan. It's still a conversion whether a truck, bus, van or car!


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: Lin on February 08, 2014, 06:45:12 PM
Even though this is primarily a bus bulletin board and a lot of the expertise will be specific, I really look at it primarily as a conversion site with much of the info being generic to different platforms.  However, aside from the help that you can pick up here, using some truck or truck conversion sites (toterhomes?) might be very useful too.
Title: Re: New project
Post by: AndyG on February 08, 2014, 07:06:01 PM
Dad was telling me about your truck.  Like him, I'm a big fan a busses but there are certain things which they can't do.  Dad's big hobby is playing with bus conversions.  I like antique farm equipment and I've been in the steam traction engine game for about 5 years.  If I could figure out how to pull the steamer with an MCI I would probably do it.  I found a 1989 FLD120 with a 12' living quarters and it works great for hauling my old junk.  The only thing that it lacks is the turning capability of a bus.  I would have to back up to get around turn 3 at Daytona.  There is a forum for truck conversions  http://www.truckconversion.net/forums/ (http://www.truckconversion.net/forums/)  but it does not have nearly as much traffic as this board so I come here a lot for info about my truck.
Title: Re: Re: New project
Post by: Seangie on February 09, 2014, 05:47:30 AM
Ace - Nice! Thanks for the pictures!  I think you just ran out of stuff to do on the bus and needed something a bit more challenging!  I hope we get to see this beast at Arcadia next year!

-Sean

Fulltiming somewhere in the USA
1984 Eagle 10S
www.herdofturtles.org (http://www.herdofturtles.org)
Title: New project
Post by: Ace on February 09, 2014, 06:38:02 AM
Andy yea I've been to that site but not a lot going on!
I get more info from escapees.
Sean not really bored. More like hurt that nobody would pay any fair price for what I think is a decent home conversion! Nobody including banks are willing to spend or loan on a 92 home conversion without a name other than mine and we all know what kind of name I have.
The timing is just right to move into something different and a little newer that will hopefully serve our needs in more ways than one.
As for Arcadia? That's still up for vote!
Now that I think about it, that's a bus rally! Trucks might be frowned upon just like these bus sites! :)


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: gumpy on February 10, 2014, 02:37:14 PM
I think you may be making a very wise move. I've seen your bus, and have no doubt you can do wonders with this truck, too. You've put enough thought into it to
know what will work for your lifestyle, and I think you are probably correct. Sometimes I wish I had looked at the truck conversion option before starting out on
my MCI. But that was years ago...

Good for you. I hope it's all that it appears to be and more.
Title: Re: New project
Post by: dukegrad98 on February 10, 2014, 03:08:36 PM
Quote from: gumpy on February 10, 2014, 02:37:14 PM
Sometimes I wish I had looked at the truck conversion option before starting out...

Ditto!  I've learned a few things (mostly expensive lessons) along the way, and my current view is that a four-seat / crew-cab truck conversion with no slides is something I'd be enjoying a whole lot right now.

Cheers, John
Title: Re: New project
Post by: Lin on February 10, 2014, 03:51:53 PM
Ace-- Now look what you started; everyone's wishing they had a truck instead of a bus!  Well, I guess it's that old saying about the conversion being greener on the other side.
Title: Re: New project
Post by: Ace on February 10, 2014, 05:41:38 PM
Didn't realize others felt that good about trucks conversions ! Wasn't trying to start anything. Just sharing my opinions and possible future project!  ;)


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Title: Re: Re: New project
Post by: Seangie on February 10, 2014, 07:58:37 PM
Soon it will be Bus N Truck conversions.com

-Sean

Fulltiming somewhere in the USA
1984 Eagle 10S
www.herdofturtles.org (http://www.herdofturtles.org)
Title: Re: New project
Post by: Dave5Cs on February 10, 2014, 08:14:09 PM
FMCA mag this month even has a new one that is built from factory with a dog nose truck pulling it.
Title: Re: New project
Post by: luvrbus on February 11, 2014, 05:27:12 AM
Truck conversions are gaining in popularity everyday,I like the way they are classified in the RV industry lol a Super C why not just a coach.

Our friends just gave up their Prevost for a 45 ft 2009 Show Hauler built on the Columbia truck a beautiful rig,I expected a lot of engine noise  that didn't happen it was super quite you couldn't even hear the Cat engine purring from the inside    
Title: Re: New project
Post by: trucktramp on February 11, 2014, 08:16:10 AM
What's not to like?  I've put many miles on a FLD and have no complaints  They're driver friendly, easy to work on, and parts/service are everywhere  Hope you enjoy it
Title: Re: New project
Post by: Scott & Heather on February 11, 2014, 11:10:07 AM
Heather and I have already been putting plans together for a future truck conversion built on a FL Columbia chassis. Already done over a year of research on frame stretching, box-building, cab rigid mounting, etc. Definitely in our future. Love love love our bus, but for practical reasons, a truck conversion is going to be a better fit for us. Is your truck lowered on air bags in those photos? That's nearly zero ground clearance...also, what is inside the truck conversion above the garage area?
Title: New project
Post by: Ace on February 11, 2014, 11:28:11 AM
Scott yes it is lowered because there's no air in the suspension in the pictures. Over the garage is a queen size bed. granted you cannot stand up in the bedroom but what else do you do in the bedroom besides lay down and sleep anyway!
When I was at the RV show in Tampa a few of the travel trailers and toy haulers and the truck conversions that I looked that had beds that were situated as a loft which is very similar to the way that's when it's set up. According to the owner of the truck you can sit comfortably on the bed but you cannot stand up.

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Title: Re: New project
Post by: dukegrad98 on February 11, 2014, 12:38:28 PM
Quote from: Ace on February 11, 2014, 11:28:11 AM
...but what else do you do in the bedroom besides lay down and sleep anyway!

Hmmm.........  ;)

Cheers, John
Title: Re: New project
Post by: Scott & Heather on February 13, 2014, 04:00:47 AM
Ok. That's what I thought. I've seen several set up like that. So it's literally a loft bed. So where would you change clothes, etc in practicality? Is there a room to do this within the bedroom space? I really would love to do a loft bed like this but want to know the practicality of it.


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: Ace on February 13, 2014, 04:17:04 AM
Scott, there is a separate room that has shower and designated spot for a toilet but across from it is a vanity/dressing area which all of this is on the same level as the bedroom. You can take one step down into the kitchen/dinette area as you walk forward into the living area! It's kind of hard to explain but the shower/toilet which is on the curb side can be closed off via a sliding pocket door. The vanity is on the drivers side. The bedroom which is in the rear and over the garage can be closed off via a door as well. The fridge, kitchen counter etc is on drivers side and dinette in on curb side next to entry door. Living area consist of a couch and love seat both that convert to beds, subject to change. Going forward you have a king sleeper that has been gutted and needs finishing to our liking!


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: Ace on February 13, 2014, 04:23:03 AM
Here is looking back from gutted sleeper to give you an idea!
(https://busconversionmagazine.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1203.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fbb394%2FGoldbus%2F767DC779-9B8C-4072-B6E4-7C15646C2AFB.jpg&hash=208c3338ddb9cbd1eebd7bbf3644f7b11e4a0540) (http://s1203.photobucket.com/user/Goldbus/media/767DC779-9B8C-4072-B6E4-7C15646C2AFB.jpg.html)


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: chessie4905 on February 13, 2014, 05:07:01 AM
   Truck conversions seem to be one of the new interest items, along with slide in campers, solar panels, pergo copies, funkie looking vehicles, ceramic flooring, granite counter tops, stainless steel appliances, metal house roofs, and on and on.....whatever is different. Remember when conversion vans, bass boats, Harleys, and CB's were hot? Go for it.
Title: Re: New project
Post by: luvrbus on February 13, 2014, 05:19:56 AM
Bass boats and Harleys are still hot  ::)
Title: Re: New project
Post by: chessie4905 on February 13, 2014, 08:00:37 AM
   Not around here on bass boats; they peaked about fifteen to twenty years ago. Harleys peaked here about 5 years ago; now on a moderately slow decline. Interest on trikes is climbing, due to older riders having issues with the weight and strength to control when stopped or maneuvering with engine off. Also, it looks like interest in automatic transmissions is starting to increase. I have and ride a 650 Burgman, btw.
Title: Re: New project
Post by: Lin on February 13, 2014, 08:24:45 AM
I have heard that the large motorcycle rallys are the same as they used to be in that people talk about and take drugs a lot.  The only difference is that now it's their prescription meds.
Title: Re: New project
Post by: Ace on February 24, 2014, 04:57:32 AM
Does anyone have an idea as to what an approximate cost would be to paint this truck and box using one color? I know they make paint now that have the clearcoat already in the car so not sure if that would be a cheaper way to go or not but I would want clearcoat although I have seen some pretty nice straight enamel jobs. Very minor body prep and does anyone know of a source in Central Florida or nearby that would want to tackle this?


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: Dreamscape on February 24, 2014, 05:35:47 PM
Ace,

You are talking about single stage, shoot it and go. If you do the work, materials cost will be around $800. Then you figure in wax and grease remover, sanding, and a lot of other materials, etc..... It's a lot of work, I know. If you have someone do it, expect 3k-5k or more.
Title: Re: New project
Post by: Ace on February 24, 2014, 06:10:56 PM
That's not so bad but I think it might be more than 5k. They get twice that for a bus down here and if you want plain white and no body work, it's 2500.
I think the box alone would take almost product as a bus!


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: Dreamscape on February 25, 2014, 04:13:25 AM
I was giving you prices on the materials that I got quoted to do mine. Remember there is no clear so the cost is much less. Labor is where it adds up. It's all about the time to do the prep, and that is the most important step.
Title: Re: New project
Post by: luvrbus on February 25, 2014, 05:09:02 AM
Base,clear coat is a lot easier to manage than the 1 step if you do it yourself
Title: Re: New project
Post by: bobofthenorth on February 25, 2014, 06:40:50 AM
I spent about $3500 just on materials (base + clear, 3 colours) for my DIY paint job.  I've got significant "inventory" left over so if you are a better estimator than I was you might pare that back to $2500 but its not realistic to think your inventory will be zero at the end of the job.  I did my window trim with single stage and the bus with base plus clear.  Based on that limited experience I would stick to the base plus clear for a first time DIY job.  I found it almost impossible to get runs/sags in the base + clear and almost impossible to avoid them in the single stage.  YMMV

Title: Re: New project
Post by: lvmci on February 25, 2014, 07:03:13 AM
Hi All, in Pheonix there is a former mobile medical office, a 40' International with a navistar diesel, looks awful tempting, lvmci...
Title: Re: New project
Post by: lostagain on February 25, 2014, 07:59:14 AM
A link to it Tom?
Title: Re: New project
Post by: lvmci on February 25, 2014, 02:47:07 PM
Hi, JC, wasnt a deere engine was an international/navistar, pheonix craigslist, rv, type bus in search, blue and white mobile medical office, if you can make this work, vjhm_4342014245.html  Larry 4809935513
or try this 4346387190 on craigslist.  Lvmci...
Title: Re: New project
Post by: Ace on March 21, 2014, 08:47:39 AM
Well I'm a bit disappointed to say the least! After contacting the owner of the truck to set up a meeting date in late April, he  ow informs me he just too busy to get away and it won't be until after summer and beginning of next winter before he can do anything or any travel although he did use the truck this past week to go to Kansas and will be going again next week for a rain date makeup at the races he attended. He said the truck ran fine!
This has really taken the wind out if my sail but they always say, things happen for a reason! Just don't know what that is right now! :(


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: B_K on March 21, 2014, 11:09:59 AM
Ace that is a bummer!   Sorry to hear this!

But as said things happen for a reason!
One thing that is for sure you sure didn't want to meet up at my place the end of February as planned as we were hit hard by an unusual ice storm that lasted close to a week around here! (we got an inch of ice covered by 2-3" of snow and another 1/2" of ice on top of that!)
Let's just say it SUCKED to be here then!
;D  BK  ;D
Title: Re: New project
Post by: Eagle Andy on March 21, 2014, 11:22:10 AM
Might be time just to walk away, Doesn't sound like he is ready ? Juat a thought.
Title: Re: New project
Post by: Lin on March 21, 2014, 11:37:57 AM
I suppose that you are continuing to look for another deal.  The trade angle makes it more difficult though.  If you could just sell yours, you would have more range with cash in hand.  This deal may still work, but my experience is that deals that get put off and complicated often fall through.
Title: Re: New project
Post by: Ace on March 21, 2014, 12:00:01 PM
I don't know! What do y'all think? Here's his email...

Trip went fine and yes I took the truck. Unfortunately the second day of our
2 day race was rained out and we ended up driving home in a snow storm.
Heading back down next week for one more little vacation before our season
cranks up!
As I mentioned to you before when we were discussing a meeting date, I have
no time after March. I just will not have time to meet at this time. If we
elect to trade it is going to have to be at the end of the summer as I am
working 2 jobs starting April. I know a lot of people think they are busy
and I don't want to come off like a jerk, but I am for real busy! I work
night and day from April through Sept and the only day I have off is Sunday
which is committed to my family since I am not around the rest of the week.
If you know anyone that knows me personally they will tell you what my
summers are like.

Bob


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: wildbob24 on March 21, 2014, 12:00:32 PM
Ace,

If you really want it, why not drive up there and get it. Ask the truck's owner if he'll cover half of the round trip fuel expense and if he agrees, go for it.

That truck is unusual enough that I don't think you'll find another one that so closely fits your needs. A little extra driving may be all it takes to make the deal happen. If he says no, then maybe he isn't ready.

Bob
Title: Re: New project
Post by: Ace on March 21, 2014, 01:55:02 PM
Ok Bob that was a good idea and yes I really would like to have it so I sent him an email with that option and his reply was/is, he will let me know!
We wait!


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: Timkar on March 21, 2014, 02:16:12 PM
I agree with Bob....If you really want it just go and get it. Forget trying to get him to pay for part of the fuel bill.
Just depends how badly you want it. We have all done it before for something we wanted.... :)
Title: Re: New project
Post by: bobofthenorth on March 21, 2014, 04:03:17 PM
What Lin said.  Whatever you do, don't fall so desperately in love with the deal that you start chasing it.  That never ends well.
Title: Re: New project
Post by: gumpy on March 21, 2014, 05:20:35 PM
Understand that in his email, he is not committed to the trade, so the risk is that you drive your bus all the way to MN and he backs out. Then all  you can do
is hang out with the likes of me and Fred and a few other elite busnuts.
Title: Re: New project
Post by: Oonrahnjay on March 21, 2014, 05:20:59 PM
Quote from: Ace on March 21, 2014, 08:47:39 AM
Well I'm a bit disappointed to say the least!

    Ace, I"m disappointed for you.  I've always enjoyed seeing your work and I have been looking forward to see what you do with this project.  Best wishes for getting it going OK and soon.
Title: New project
Post by: Ace on March 21, 2014, 06:12:03 PM
Gumpy back when we were supposed to meet, he was 100% for it. He told me then he was making a very quick overnight trip to BK's, do the trade and back home. Too quick for my liking and as it turned out, my job kept me from going. He told me he would be very busy if we didn't do the deal at that time but possibly later on. I opted for late April which would give him plenty of time to make plans and you see what his reply was.
After offering to make the trip to his home because I really didn't want to waste all summer without working on the project truck, his latest reply was, "I understand and will let you know"!
That's where we stand.


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: gumpy on March 21, 2014, 09:55:51 PM
Point taken, but unless he's had an opportunity to inspect your bus, and you his truck, how could either of you consider making a quick turnaround trip anyway? Maybe
I'm just too practical, but I couldn't do it that way.

Well, he says he's in a business that keeps him busy in the summer months, so is seems if you want the truck, it's going to be up to you to make the trip. It wouldn't surprise
me, though, if he said he doesn't want to do it right now. I hope I'm wrong for your sake.

Keep in mind my offer on FB. I'm currently not working.

craig
Title: Re: New project
Post by: Ace on March 22, 2014, 06:52:44 AM
Yea that was the stipulation. From pics and thorough descriptions from the both of us for about 2 months back and forth we both were in agreement for a trade and we both were in agreement that after personal inspection on both sides that if either one wanted to back out, that would not be a problem. My biggest problem was the quickness in which he wanted to do the deal. It was, show up hand the keys over and see ya! A little fast for what I had in mind and thankfully the weather and my job cancelled that plan.
Now it's like he's way too busy to be bothered but the window is still open if I go after it or he can find time away from his busy schedule!



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Title: Re: New project
Post by: dukegrad98 on March 22, 2014, 12:38:12 PM
Sure seems obvious to me from his e-mail that he has lost interest and any sense of urgency.  I'd go looking for something else if I were in your boots.

Cheers, John
Title: Re: New project
Post by: Dave5Cs on March 22, 2014, 04:28:44 PM
I agree with John.
Sounds to me like he is backing out. Or if he can get you to drive up there he saves what $600.00 in fuel and if a tire pops on the way another 700.00.

Maybe the quick trade was because there is a problem with it, that he was afraid you would notice if it was a long time to really check it out properly. The wife always says everything happens for a reason and this sounds like more than a few times the universe is pushing you elsewhere. Just saying!...

In High school I bought a 57 chevy cause i was a dumb kid and liked the small steering wheel. Motor blew 2weeks after I got it..........

Dave5Cs
Title: Re: New project
Post by: Ace on March 22, 2014, 05:21:59 PM
Yea not sure if there's anything wrong with it or not. I DO know he just used the truck to travel to Kansas and he said it ran fine and will be returning to Kansas again this week.
I know he told me he runs and owns a very busy machine shop business and he recently purchased a big car race track which is what's keeping him so busy thru the summer!
Personally I think from what he's told me, he and his wife really like my bus and they do want to do the trade but the biggest factor is time. When I originally found it, it was for sale OR trade and even at that time he wasn't really pushing to get rid of it. As he states, he just put it out there to see what if anything would happen.


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: Lin on March 22, 2014, 06:30:45 PM
I would agree with you, Ace, that the guy is probably on the level and is really entering a very busy season, but there's only so much you can do to make it work.  You've offered to go to his place, and that's about it. Otherwise, you can reconnect with him after the summer to see if he is still interested and in the meantime look for something else while you "suffer" with your Prevost.

I've recently noticed an RV category called "super C's" that looks interesting.  They appear to be the class C style built on real truck chassis.
Title: Re: New project
Post by: Ace on March 23, 2014, 08:50:09 AM
Thanks Lin! Waiting patiently to hear back from him regarding whether he can find a window of opportunity to do this deal. I even offered to make the trip to his house although I really didn't want to due to work schedule but something tells me, this truck will really work for me in my needs. To build one like it would take more $$$ and time, plus I'm not wanting to start over from the ground again! This project is 75% complete and that I can handle!
If I have to wait until September, so be it. Just gonna be a long summer wishing I had it to work on and use! If something else comes along as good then we'll see but right now, I'm willing to wait!


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: Ace on April 30, 2014, 04:04:04 AM
Well I've been keeping in touch with the truck owner since Feb and kept him informed of what I've been doing and after asking him exactly what it would take to do this deal, he finally told me that he got cold feet! Apparently his buddies dropped from a truck to a class A motor home and has convinced him that they are not very stable in windy conditions nor do they have the power. I agreed but I also told him that a motorhome was nothing compared to a bus let alone a Prevost. There's no changing his mind although he did agree to sell me his truck at a starting price of 60k.
I told him I thought that was a bit steep considering the age (99), mileage (700k), and not finished. He agreed and said he had room to deal!
I'm thinking in the neighborhood of 50k since after researching what it cost to start from scratch including the purchase price of a used truck and then to have it stretched then having a box fabricated. I'm almost at 30-35k and still have just a shell not to mention the time that it's not being able to be used!
Sooo anyone want to buy a nice H3 that runs and looks good? New tires and all!


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: scanzel on April 30, 2014, 04:14:49 AM
What the price for your H3 and is it a side aisle or middle isle ?
Title: Re: New project
Post by: Ace on April 30, 2014, 04:19:11 AM
I'd like to get 75 for it and I don't think it's either a side isle or a middle isle. It's our own design that keeps the bedroom private from the living room by means of a Z shaped bathroom in between.


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: Ace on April 30, 2014, 04:25:03 AM
(https://busconversionmagazine.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1203.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fbb394%2FGoldbus%2F65D10302-4418-41A4-80DB-89C8251D495F.jpg&hash=3b50e50124326b2022c8e5a294f5ec0e34eeea34) (http://s1203.photobucket.com/user/Goldbus/media/65D10302-4418-41A4-80DB-89C8251D495F.jpg.html)


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: Ace on April 30, 2014, 04:26:18 AM
It's not really Z shaped but the door to the bedroom is not directly in line with the door to the living room


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: Ace on April 30, 2014, 02:38:52 PM
This is probably a better view to give you a better idea as to what it is or isn't!
(https://busconversionmagazine.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1203.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fbb394%2FGoldbus%2FFC49087D-B201-4A0A-B5E9-843C9839DEF3.jpg&hash=86016bb8aa92ea7afa62d0062c330b15199769ad) (http://s1203.photobucket.com/user/Goldbus/media/FC49087D-B201-4A0A-B5E9-843C9839DEF3.jpg.html)


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: Ace on May 06, 2014, 12:14:37 PM
Good news today!
The truck owner is now pursuing me about the trade deal!
Seems all along he thought my 8v-92 was only rated at 350 hp where it actually is at 450 and can be bumped to 500.
After videoing my pro-link showing him the actual rating at 450, he's not as busy as he lead me to believe!   
He's now asking if I will throw in the pro-link with the deal!
My response was, "anythings possible" and left him hanging!
I like the way this is heading this go around! He just might have to come further than half way! :)


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: Ace on May 06, 2014, 01:54:20 PM
Ahh the plot thickens!
Talk about getting pushy! The owner now wants to meet me ASAP to do the trade IF I throw in my pro-link.
He must be a gadget guy cause he never saw one before!


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: luvrbus on May 06, 2014, 02:37:35 PM
Lol that guy owns and drives a series 60 without a Pro/Link that is leaving home without the American Express ? I knew you had one already but didn't you buy the one from Pete also when he sold it so cheap a few years ago 
Title: New project
Post by: Ace on May 06, 2014, 06:29:29 PM
No I bought mine (ddec2) cartridge NEW and the reader USED off eBay. I wouldn't go anywhere without it or one!
His truck is a ddec4 and after I sent him a video of mine hooked up and reading the ECM, it was like somebody flipped a switch on him and he was blowing my phone up with questions. Now he's in a hurry to do the deal and I told him "not so fast" and like him were busy too and we just got back from a trip so this time we will be playing by my terms, not his!
He wants my bus pretty bad now for whatever reason. It can't be JUST the HP rating, can it?
I know from the research I've done I'd never be able to duplicate what he has for what I'm giving up which is my bus and we all know what buses are worth when you try and resale them! You never get what you got in them OR in this day and age what they're worth!


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: Ace on May 09, 2014, 06:30:54 PM
I've sent him (truck owner) a couple different meeting options. The ball is in his court and we shall see what he decides!
Our coach goes in the shop next week to have radiator rodded out.


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: Ace on May 12, 2014, 03:06:25 PM
Well were getting close. The owner may have accepted my offer and will be bringing the truck to Lakeland! No time away from work for us!
Looking at weekend of June 6th but still not solid. Should know more in a day or so!


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: eagle19952 on May 12, 2014, 05:59:33 PM
good luck...
for a few hundred dollars I would think one of you would fly...pictures always show the best angles...
no way I would drive my rig anywhere based on pictures. JMW...
Title: Re: New project
Post by: Ace on May 12, 2014, 06:06:43 PM
I don't fly period! That's the reason for having a bus in the first place! Now our lives ventures call for different needs so were moving upward and onward!


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Title: Re: New project
Post by: Oonrahnjay on May 13, 2014, 04:17:48 AM
Quote from: Ace on May 12, 2014, 03:06:25 PMWell were getting close. The owner may have accepted my offer ...   

    Oh, yeah -- I'm pulling for you on this one.  I really want to see what you do with this.

Bruce H   S/eastern NC
Title: Re: New project
Post by: Jon on May 13, 2014, 07:24:22 AM
Is it possible making your thoughts on the negotiations public via this forum might bite you in the butt? Does he read this forum?
Title: Re: New project
Post by: Ace on May 13, 2014, 05:58:07 PM
What's to bite? When he receives my coach, it will be in top notch condition!
In fact,  it's in the shop as of this afternoon getting ready for the t-stat removals to be checked and an inspection of the radiator to see if it needs rodded out or not.
I have nothing to hide one way or the other and we have talked openly since the beginning!
Our BIGGEST problem was finding time on BOTH sides to do the trade. When his kids are out of school, he has made plans to just bring it to me all the way. Of course it was my prompting to pay the fuel bill but I would have to spend that either way, if he brought it or if I met him someplace. Only advantage now is we (Susan & I) won't miss any work or income. That's a plus!


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