Opinions on Prevost's IFS (Independant Front Suspension)

OneLapper · May 12, 2016, 06:29:52 PM

Quote from: luvrbus on May 12, 2016, 06:21:09 PM
You will probably end up replacing all the tie rod ends it's just a high $$$ maintenance item on a Prevost there is no way around it.Just in case you don't know Mark be sure the weight is off the wheels before checking

good luck on your new purchase

Thanks Cliff! I'll have a chance to put it up on a lift for a few hours so I'l check it all out thoroughly. I'll keep you all posted, I've been looking (and saving) for nearly a year, with some luck this will work.

luvrbus · May 12, 2016, 06:38:05 PM

Is it a 11.1 or 12.7 series 60 ?

OneLapper · May 12, 2016, 06:45:09 PM

12.7 and Allison B500.

luvrbus · May 12, 2016, 06:49:44 PM

Ask for all the paper work you can squeeze from him and run the serial by DD for work done on the engine as far as the upgrades

OneLapper · May 12, 2016, 06:57:00 PM

I'll have to call Prevost for the engine number. I didn't see the serial number on the valve cover data labels so I wasn't able to get it when I looked at the coach. I have a good contact at the local DD dealer, I'll get him the sn as soon as I can get my hands on it.

What update should I be looking for?

Jon · May 13, 2016, 03:57:02 AM

The engine number and build date should be on the rear electric box cover, and if there were any campaigns a label with the campaign number should have been applied next to that data plate.

As to the front end, as Clifford suggested check for loose tie rod ends. It may take two people to check the drag link because one person cannot see each end at the same time. Prevost may have originally selected lower quality parts because I have replaced a drag link and a complete tie rod assembly at around 120,000 miles. That is unacceptable. They could not sell just the tie rod ends because they must have changed suppliers so they only sell the entire assembly. It is almost a given that if you replace any of the tie rods or drag link you also are going to have to schedule a 3 axle alignment so the costs associated ramp up pretty quick.

luvrbus · May 13, 2016, 06:37:12 AM

Mark,Prevosts are a damn good bus they were just over engineered in a few places,the biggest fear with a high mileage series 60 of that vintage is what maintenance has been done.
The bull gear and the counter bore are the weak links,the bull gear needs replacing at 700,000 miles or sooner, then if one has excessive blow by from the breather tube it is going to need attention and the injectors are a problem.
Have someone do you a scan on the transmission and engine it's well worth the price.If any work was ever done at DD it will be in their system.I am not trying to scare you but do the home work it saves some big bucks BTDT