I wouldn't do that again!
 

I wouldn't do that again!

Started by PRZNBUS, September 11, 2015, 07:42:37 AM

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PRZNBUS

Many here are in the "process" of converting our buses. I'm asking those of you who have converted yours to fess up and enlighten me of some things you did which didn't work out the way you intended. Or if you did something you don't like, tell me how you would do it different. I've already done some dumb things and caught myself several times before I've done something else stupid.

Bruce
Bruce
Rapid City, SD

1986 MCI MC9 Retired Prison Bus

scanzel

I would probably have gone with the MCI 102 A,B or C three. I like the looks of my Prevost XL but with no roof raise and the curved windows it has been a real challange to build out. If buying now I would go with the D, series 60 and B500, flat windows and high internal ceiling.
Steve Canzellarini
Myrtle Beach, SC
1989 Prevost XL

Cary and Don

Install large conduit down both sides and down the center of the ceiling for future wiring. Have access spots along the conduit. Install at least one bundle of spare wires in each. It is amazing how much stuff you want to add later. Have a conduit from the roof to the bays for future wiring. Use the area under the bed for storage, not water. Front entry not side entry. Ice maker for sure. Not a RV fridge. LED lights. Bed on a flat surface instead of having a lip around it. Velcro it down so it will not slide. The lip is a pain to get around. literally. Start with the engine and transmission you want.

Don and Cary

1973 05 Eagle
Neoplan AN340

blue_goose

Buy one that is finished, you will end up spending less money.  I did enjoy building my first bus, but over the years getting it the way I wanted cost lots more than I paid for the second one.
If you are going to do one your self, get a bus with everything you want to start with.
Jack

lvmci

Hi Bruce, I would have learned more in advance of shopping for the bus, about how to detect brake issues, might still have bought this bus, but would have offered even less, lvmci...
MCI 102C3 8V92, Allison HT740
Formally MCI5A 8V71 Allison MT643
Brandon has really got it going!

PRZNBUS

I hear you on inspecting the bus. Fortunately, I was very familiar with my '86 MC9 as I drove it for about a year and a half several years ago. The $2500 price wasn't bad either!

What I'm mostly interested in are modifications people made or ones that were on their bus that they would change or don't like.

Bruce
Bruce
Rapid City, SD

1986 MCI MC9 Retired Prison Bus