MC-8 vs. MC-9

YmeHP · June 29, 2009, 07:45:40 AM

Hello, i'm wanting to know what bus is better suited for a conversion, which one is easier to find parts for and what parts are interchangeable. I've currently got my '79 MC-8 that needs an engine and some TLC inside. I've found a '80 MC-9 with a good motor but needs lots of TLC as it's an old tour bus conversion. Please, what are the pro's and con's of each.

Jerry32 · June 29, 2009, 11:29:47 AM

I would go with the 9 as it is more up to date and has mor availabillity of parts Jerry

gumpy · June 29, 2009, 12:00:36 PM

There's very little difference between the two as far as parts goes. The primary difference is the roofline and side framing/window placement.

Either make a fine conversion, and parts are readily available for both as most parts are the same. I'm sure some MC8 owners will post, but I can't think
of a single part that is different, except for maybe the steering assist system. Of course that's supposing that both of the buses you are talking about have the same
engine; either 8v71 or 6v92.

craig

Kwajdiver · June 29, 2009, 05:39:36 PM

Ymehp,

Are you looking for something to build yourself, or a conversion completed? What are you going to use it for? Full timing, summer vacations, weekend fun? All questions you need to ask yourself. What kind of money are you planning to put into a conversion or a bare bus?

Bill

TomC · July 01, 2009, 06:24:53 AM

If you're looking to graduate to a better bus, I highly recommend you look at the 102C3. It is a 102" wide-that extra 6" makes a BIG difference inside, have huge windows, and 6'10" headroom so a roof raise is not necessary (unless you're that tall). I've seen them for around the $20,000 mark, and MAK who owns this board sells them-look at the classified on this site for buses. Good Luck, TomC

Kwajdiver · July 05, 2009, 05:24:34 PM

Wonder what happen to Ymehp? He ask a question, then disappears... Not going to make a very good busnut, he must have run, before he got hooked.....LOL

Bill

YmeHP · July 05, 2009, 05:42:30 PM

It's a holiday weekend? Ever heard of spending time away from the bus and with the fam?

I currently own the mc-8 and am negotiating on the mc-9 entertainer. I think im going to take what I want out of the 9 and then sell that shell as mine is in way better condition on the exterior. thanks

MCI-RICK · July 05, 2009, 05:58:20 PM

YmeHP,

I thought the MC8 ended in 1978? Making the 1979 and up to 1987 an MC9? Maybe I'm misinformed?

Rick

johns4104s · July 05, 2009, 07:51:02 PM

YMHP,

I personally like the looks of the MCI 8 better than the 9. The 8 seems to have more character. I would do exactly what you are planning, keep working on the 8, if you have room keep the 9 for parts.

John