Another newbie checking in

[Chopper Scott]

Just another new pest  on board! As an owner of a welding/fab business I had explored the possibilities of building a bus conversion but when the fuel prices peaked this summer I found a MCI 7 that was already converted and an aggressive seller. For various reasons it had seen very little use since it's conversion and we bought it. After laying out six $100 bills at the first fuel stop and getting a 20 back I was wondering what I had done!! Since then I have had to fix some minor issues and replace the generator with a 24 volt alternator. Plans are to also add a 12 volt charging system off the engine also, an air throttle and fix some neglected items.
I do have some questions that I could use some help with. One item I need is the gasket (donut ?) on the 8v71's drivers side exhaust manifold that goes to the ? mixing chamber. Also the air pop off valve that is attatched to the air resevoir behind the front axle leaks a lot. I believe it is a 65 lb unit from what the book says. Where is a good place to get items like this and even possibly the part numbers?
Thanks a lot and I hope you all have a great Thanksgiving.      Later Scott

[Slow Rider]

Scott,

Welcome to the board.  The MC7 is a nice solid coach and should give you years of service. If you have been lurking for a bit you realize there is a wealth of talent and BS available here  

I am using my mom's computer so I have no addresses saved but I am sure some others will chime in with the names and numbers for several sources.

As you read you will notice a lot of us have some information in our signatures.  Even if you just put what state and what kind of bus you have in yours it will be very helpful for recommending people and businesses that might be close to you.

I hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving and welcome to the insanity.

Frank

[busshawg]

Welcome aboard Scott. Looks like you have a great looking coach. Any more pics? Wish I could help you with part numbers but I'm sure someone will jump in a help you out. As Frank said , location in the profiles is very nice to have. Hope you enjoy our endless chatter, great bunch of guys over here with what seems to be an unlimited amout of knowledge.

Have Fun
Grant

[Melbo]

I am on the road and left my books at home but you don't need a part number just call Luke and he will ship it to you.

Go to the search box and type in Luke and his name will pop up he is at U S Coach in New Jersey.

Easiest way to get parts. I have done it many times -- He now has my name on file and gets them out quickly -- even overnight if necessary.

HTH YMMV

Melbo

[Tom Y]

Scott, Not sure there is a 65 lb popoff. Maybe a regulator? There should be drains on the tanks, is one of them leaking. I maybe wrong here, but it'll be the first time today.  Tom Y

[Sammy]

Scott, welcome to the board. 

[vaunter]

howdy
i to have a mc7
great ppl and info here to help and a fun chat room to

[jjrbus]

Welcome to the asylum!!!   Lots of good info here and some not so good, but all well intentioned.
The first tool you need is a service manual, try Ebay or amazon.  some others will speak up. 

If we are talking about the same thing behind the front axle there are two large tanks on each tank is a drain valve. These are available at any truck supply, NAPA also carries them. Take one out and with you as they may come in different sizes, but not pressures.  These are drain valves for the tanks. Most come with a cable to run to an accesable location to drain without getting under bus!!  Might as well replace both while under there.

If you are talking about in front of axle is different story.

DO NOT get under bus without blocking it up, air system can rupture and drop bus on you instantly!!

HTH Jim

[PP]

Chopper,
Welcome and Happy Thanksgiving! I know practically nothing about these beasts, but I'm still a Busnut  Sorry I can't help with this request, but I'm sure someone will be piping up sooner than later. You have stumbled onto the most experienced and knowledgeable people when it comes to buses as well as other unrelated topics and they're all eager to help out. Let us know where you're located, that always helps. Take care and good luck with your "Old #7"  Will & Wife

[Chopper Scott]

I guess I should have been a little bit more specific. I do have a parts and repair manual and the valve is called a pressure protection valve. It's rated at 65 lbs. I may tear it apart and see if it's just a common o ring gone bad or even just needs cleaned up. I know the bags leak down in short order and I hate the sound of air leaks regardless. As far as the exhaust gasket the parts manual doesn't show any illustration but I believe it would be part # 5100147 but I am uncertain about that. It calls for 2 and the left side exhaust that leaks appears to be a donut type gasket with a clamp around it while the right side looks more like just a square flat flange. That is what has me questioning if that is correct. I'm just trying to have the parts at hand before I tear stuff apart. Thanks for all your help and responses and advise. I have been lurking about for some time now and sure enjoy all the help this site has to offer. You can never beat experience. Thanks all        Scott

[Ed Hackenbruch]

Scott, as stated above call Luke at Us Coach.  He has your pressure regulating valve in stock....i just got one from him about 3 months ago.  Probably not worth trying to reuse the old one, if its leaking its probably worn out.(mine was)   The new ones aren't very expensive and should last for a long time.

[busshawg]

I'm with Ed, get a new one rather than trying to fix the old, and as Jim said, BLOCK YOUR BUS!!.

Have fun!!

[Chopper Scott]

Here is a better pic of the bus. It has chrome illusion striping that changes colors. Someone put a lot of work into it. Someday I wouldn't mind replacing the windows with an RV type. But it had things like a 24' awning, propane powered Honda gen with an 80 gallon tank, the usual 3 way fridge, 2 airs, king sized bed, oak cabinets, sink, shower, etc right down to the tile floored kitchen. I do need to tint the top of the front windshield. Driving into the sun requires sun block!!!

[RJ]

Scott -

I, too, would suggest that you give Luke @ US Coach a call - here's his number: 1-888-262-2434, between 9-5 M-F Eastern.

He'll have both the pressure protection valve, AND the proper gaskets for your exhaust system.  Fair prices, ships same day UPS.  Strong supporter of the busnut community, suggest you either memorize his number, or write it on the first page of the parts book.

FWIW & HTH. . .

[Melbo]

WOW SCOTT

that is one good looking 7
I like my 8 but I really like the look of your 7

Congratulations on the new toy

Melbo