I've got a misting question

[Devin & Amy]

What is the reason that buses need misters?
I replaced my radiators this spring with pretty much exact original equipment. I had the radiators recored to the orig. 5 row instead of the new and improved 7-8 core. JD said it would not make much difference.
I had the seals and squirrel cage box redone to orig. specs. i.e. all rubber replaced.

The reason I am asking this question now is that we went from MN to CA this summer and I think I had more of an issue with the engine being too cool rather than hot. (160-170 degrees on the mech. gauge at motor)

I don't drive the bus with any other style than a cautious and safe speed determined by the conditions etc.
I try like hell to get him up the hills and try not to fly down the other side.
All of the bus folks I spoke with pre-trip said I would have to have a mister system to get to the top of the Rockies, Bighorns, and the Cascades.  But I didn't. Lucky I guess?

Why and what for?
Devin

P.S.
Bus has:
   8v-71, 4-spd Spicer, no OTR a/c, no towed veh., very safety aware co-pilot

[paulcjhastings]

I'm with you Devin, buses were designed to drive all over the country in varying conditions. In my opinion if you are overheating, chances are that misting is a band-aid to correct for other issues, problems, etc.

[buswarrior]

I agree.

Misters are a crutch.

for tired radiators
re-powers with more heat rejection
adding auto tranny coolers where there was none
other cooling system maintenance issues, fans, seals, cowls, thermostats
heavy conversions

Don't worry, many are envious of your lack of adventure in these matters!!

happy coaching!
buswarrior

[JohnEd]

Devin,

Thank you for sharing that and it is nice to hear you are not alone.  I didn't think I would ever read a post like yours.  Nice to hear it is a 71 series, also.

John

[TomC]

At least on my transit, I initially went from 55 injectors to 65 injectors on my 8V-71.  That wasn't a problem.  I then had the engine turboe'd installed an air to air intercooler in front of the radiator, with 75 injectors.  In over 90 degree weather I was not keeping up with cooling.  I had the radiator recored, installed an auxiliary auto trans cooler with a fan, cut two vents in the rear door, and eventually installed misters.  Mainly since it is a transit, the radiator is smaller since it usually is in stop and go.  So now with the higher heat output, I needed the misters to keep things below 200-like recently in the desert at 107 degrees.  I do more traveling during the off season, and don't anticipate having to use them at all. 
On a stock setup, the factory designed radiators should keep the engine cool.  If you have to install misters for a stock system, then yes it is a band-aid.  Good Luck, TomC