Bus Batteries

[Glennman]

I am looking at a '61 Eagle with a Cummins NTC 380 engine. It has been sitting for about 6 years. I will need to purchase some batteries to get it running (to see if it does run). There are 2 D series 12 volt batteries serving the bus, but they are no good. I don't want to purchase 2 of these batteries just to see if it runs, because if it doesn't, I'm out about $400+. What minimum battery size would I be able to get by with just to get it started (assuming it won't need to crank for an hour, of course!).

Any advice would be appreciated. Thank you.

[chessie4905]

1961? You better do a serious inspection for rust issues and condition of torsilastics before you even consider batteries.

[Geoff]

Walmart has Group 29's for $89 ea.  Two should start the engine.

[luvrbus]

Sams has batteries for $20 off 2 G 31 will start it but buy used for a test go to  truck wrecking yard they sell those for 20 bucks ea,those old 855 CUmmins can set for 25 years and fire off,there should be a compression release on the front of the engine pull it spin it and it will go when released , I have started many with just 1 small battery using the compression release and the Eagle is a 12 volt system fwiw   

[chessie4905]

Try a socket and breaker bar on front crankshaft bolt to see if engine will turn.

[Glennman]

Thanks everyone for the great advice. I will probably try the Walmart specials, unless I can find something used. As far as the torsilastics are concerned, they appear to be in pretty good shape, but... you know how that is. I'll look for a thread on that subject.

Thanks all. I haven't posted on this forum since my last bus project, about 15+ years ago.

Glennman

[6805eagleguy]

Have you seen Joe Laird's list on inspecting an eagle?

http://eagles-international.net/forums/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=4343

[Glennman]

The purchase of the Eagle didn't work out. Too many issues. Thank you everyone.