Ok Bus Nuts time to weigh in on this one!

gus · January 11, 2009, 02:48:29 PM

Steve,

I couldn't see the raise at first either.

After comparing it to photos of my 4104 I decided that he cut all around below the side windows and above the windshield, rear windows and front side windows, raised the side windows with the top, inserted side strips from another 4104 into the gap and then added a piece above the windshield between the chrome strips and above the rear windows.

I feel much better now. At first I thought he had cut the top off where it starts to curve!

I didn't see how he could have done that without destroying the strength of the monocoque. cutting the sides kept everything strong.

It is a beautiful job and I don't think anyone will notice, even other 4104 drivers. I never would have noticed it unless I happened to go inside.

The only 2-speed I know about is a 2-sp clutch with the Spicer 4-sp trans. Never heard of a 2-sp rear. Since it is an AT my guess is that the rear end is not the original because the gear ratio would need to be different than for the manual. It certainly should fly with an 8V71!

Curious, how tall are you? I'm 6'1" and have no problem in my 4104.

DSweet · January 11, 2009, 07:13:07 PM

That is an amazing piece of work. My only concern is the structural
integrity of coach in that the engine hangs on the roof ribs, it would be interesting
to know how it was accomplished.
Blessings,
David
PD4104-2977
In Los Angeles, waiting for the Santa Ana Winds to go away.

superpickle · January 11, 2009, 07:29:20 PM

Very nice coach.. do you have Links to the Others you found..
:-))

Barn Owl · January 11, 2009, 08:46:39 PM

QuoteThe only 2-speed I know about is a 2-sp clutch with the Spicer 4-sp trans. Never heard of a 2-sp rear. Since it is an AT my guess is that the rear end is not the original because the gear ratio would need to be different than for the manual. It certainly should fly with an 8V71!

Apparently someone named Bill Teal has done an overdrive for the v730 using VS2 donor parts. Not a 2 speed rear, but could that be what they are talking about?

Linky: v730 O/D post on BNO

gus · January 11, 2009, 09:06:32 PM

DS,

I think he removed the roof in one piece so it retained its strength. Probably all he had to do for the engine was lengthen the stanchions that hang from the roof bottom.

Len Silva · January 12, 2009, 05:16:10 AM

Steve asked me offline about the two speed axle for the 4104. Everything I know about it is here:

http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/gmc-busnuts/files/GM%20Two%20Speed/

Len

TomC · January 12, 2009, 09:43:01 AM

4104's are good coaches-and this one with the roof raise is really nice. I have a 102" wide and it makes a big difference from the 96". Also- I would question the 2 spd rear end-so far with my research, I haven't found a V drive 2 spd rear end. Now if he installed a VS2 overdrive on the transmission, that I'd believe. If you don't mind the 96", this really looks like a nice one. Good Luck, TomC

uncle ned · January 12, 2009, 11:23:18 AM

For me the 4104 is perfect. I love to camp on the Blue Ridge and the national forests. A 40 ft . bus has trouble going to most of these places.

In traffic i am also glad that i don't to have to worry about the extra length.

Also the bathroom is just one step from the bedroom. and coffee is three steps away. Nice for us old people.

uncle ned

usbusin · January 12, 2009, 11:33:41 AM

Ok, Uncle Ned I give up. What does "SWWWND" stand for?

PADoug · January 12, 2009, 12:33:00 PM

>>SWWWND<<

SHE Who Will NOT Be Disobeyed!!

<--going back to the singles side of the room now..near the exit door!

travlinman · January 14, 2009, 06:04:24 PM

Wow,

Thanks for all the great replies, it always helps to have another set of eyes on any vehicle purchase. That plus the accumulated knowledge of this board is amazing. I will learn more about the two speed rear end when I go to see it. We are planning on the weekend of Jan 24-25. It is located outside of Sacramento Ca. Any busnuts in that neck of the woods?

zubzub · January 15, 2009, 06:08:47 AM

re the 2 speed rear end. i have seen info on this online somewhere. I think I even had schematics at one point. Not really a big deal as with that engine a one speed rear should do fine. Lokks like a really nice tight rig. If it's as good as the pics and the work is solid I have trouble imagining a better bus...but then I'm partial to 04s

BG6 · January 15, 2009, 06:25:30 AM

Quote from: travlinman on January 10, 2009, 07:22:44 PM
This is a GM 4104 with some interesting features. The PO cut a hole in the roof and attached another 4104 upper section to it, magic, roof raise!

It looks nice, but I would want PROOF of how many miles it has done since the roof raise, then I would give it a VERY CAREFUL inspection, looking for any signs of deformation due to the cutting of the structural members.

Any sign of this, or less than 10,000 miles since modification, and I would pass it by. Too much risk for too little gain.

norcal_kyle · January 15, 2009, 08:31:55 PM

I live in Sacramento and can go take a look at it for you if you would like. shoot me an email and we can work something out. I'd like to see this bus closeup.

kylepesely AT tmail DOT com

kyle in norcal