Pre purchase inspection '73 MC 7

[peenhead]

After much searching we have found a bus that has potential. The bus is located NW of Houston. Can anyone recommend a mechanic that could perform an inspection on the engine/transmission/clutch prior to purchase.
Thanks,
Dennis

[Emcemv]

wish i could help, we have a 73 MC-7 Combo, which has dual wheels on the trailing axle and used a lot of scenicrusier running gear.  where are you located? Not too many MC-7 owners around.  Does it have the 8V71 and manual trans? I'm in CT.  If it has a 8V71NA motor, your going to wish for more power!

[eagle19952]

after a certain point more power drinks more diesel ... 

[Emcemv]

Yes it does Don, I'm getting a little over 6MPG and it's fun passing the trucks! I'm happy with it.

[eagle19952]

Yes it does Don, I'm getting a little over 6MPG and it's fun passing the trucks! I'm happy with it.

i might be to, but factoring in the repower cost scares me, until i am forced to look into it,
then Katy bar the door...as of now my existing is running fine, we'll see when it's not 
my time spent pulling tioga pass from Lee Vining was not enough to make me wish for more power, nor jakes for the return...

[Emcemv]

Ok Don, I see what you are getting at now, you are right, I would not have been able to afford my re power I bought it that way. The way prices are right now you can buy a complete bus for the price of a re power.

We kinda hijacked this thread, sorry to peenhead!

[wg4t50]

Ran the MC7 over 20 yrs, using the various DDC engines, the 12V-71 was the most fun and the 8V-92 @ 600 + hp was nearly enough all with the RTO-910 & 3.73 std rear 11R 24.5tire setup.  Have to say the 8V-71 with A timing & 70 injectors did ok, just not enough for me.  Why the 12V experience, saying it was fun, does not come close to describing it.
DAVE M

[peenhead]

Thanks for the feedback guys. We are located in Austin, the bus is NW of Houston, makes it a lot easier to go look at the bus. The power issue is a concern but I am more concerned with the overall condition. This bus has very little rust and that is limited to the engine compartment. Because we are a family of 5 the interior will be redone. There is a lot of oil leaked out around the power steering up front, a concern. Where could I find some history on this coach? VIN is S10061.
Thanks,
Dennis

[wg4t50]

Dennis,
Would be looking real close at the rear structure ahead of the engine slide area around the tag air bag mounts etc.    I felt like I needed to add some plating in that area to make me feel good as I also wanted to add the heavy 12V-71, it is about 1300 lb heavier than the 8V.  Never any issues since.
Am told the MC7 is capable of the added weight and torque where the newer 8 & 9 series have less structure. Do not forget the MC6 had the 12V as standard, after installing the 12V it looked like it belonged there with the main problem was the cooling, solved that with rear mounted large radiator.
Cheers
Dave M

[ol713]

Hi;
   I also have a MC-7.  I would say one thing to check is the throw out bearing. It is often
   over looked since the grease fitting is located under the alternator. (It depends on the
   grease and grime)  The throw out bearing can cost around $1500 or so. Just something
   to consider.    I think that power will not be a problem with all the flat land in Texas.
   Also have a close look at the radiators.  They are margional and you have to keep one eye
   on the temp gauge and the other  eye on the road.
   Keep us posted.
                              Merle.

[peenhead]

Thanks for the info Merle, the radiators both look to be in good shape. An area of concern is the steering box. Seems to be a lot of fluid leaking in that area. When I have a second look I will check the throw out bearing to see if it has been recently lubed. Again, thanks for the advice.
Dennis

[peenhead]

Merle, I can't load any pics here, I would be happy to forward some  thru email. Respond to danddworkshop@gmail.com and I will forward some.
Thanks,
Dennis

[eagle19952]

Merle, I can't load any pics here, I would be happy to forward some  thru email. Respond to danddworkshop@gmail.com and I will forward some.
Thanks,
Dennis

you need to host your pics on photobucket of facebook or.... and post a non resident url here
open fb in a new window copy and paste.

[peenhead]

OK, photobucket!
http://s1295.photobucket.com/user/danddworkshop/library/73%20MCI%20MC%207?sort=3&page=1

[luvrbus]

That is power assist steering it leaks  the V71 shows it been on the idling clock for long periods