Looking at the options for changing the seating in my RTS. The big option is do I go with RV seating or do I get luxury motorcoach seating. I'm leaning toward motorcoach/luxury shuttle seating because the seats will only be used when the bus is in motion. When parked we will be in a hotel or other destination. It seems that RV seating is primarily used when the vehicle is parked rather than in motion.
The other issue is mounting: the RTS uses side mounts, and almost every seat I have looked at uses floor mount. Is it somewhat easy to remove the leg section from floor mount seats to build an adapter to use the side mount arm original to the bus? I really want to stay away from putting holes in my floor if possible.
Ron, the RTS was designed to have its seats cantilevered from the sidewall. The purpose was to aid in cleaning (sweeping, vacuum, mopping). As an old bus cleaner, it was a good idea. I do not know of any coaches with similar mounting concept.
So, it seems like your option is to design a seat frame that cantilevers from the sidewall, or use a conventional seat mount for either coach seats or some other option. First class airplane seats come to mind, that's what we installed in our 4107 (after cutting a pair apart into single units). I used standard iron pipe and floor flanges for the aisle-side support, screwed through the floor into the plywood.
A major concern is securement in case of a very sudden stop (also known as a crash). For that, I also anchored the aisle-side support from the rear.
In any event, I'd suggest that whatever mounting you decide on anticipate sudden deceleration. Even if a passenger uses a seatbelt (I kept the belts in our airline seats but didn't anticipate using them), they do no good if the entire seat launches toward the windshield. When the driver is the first person at the scene of the crash, you don't want a passenger joining you.
Arthur
If you are still looking I am leaving tomorrow to purchase 2006 Setra S 417 with a beautiful set of seats. I plan to keep 30% to half Rest will available. in great shape. Best of luck!