Newbie

digesterman · September 22, 2014, 02:53:10 PM

As long as you understand that this challenge is going to cost you many many tens of thousands of dollars (did I say MANY) then go for it. This is not a cheap hobby.

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luvrbus · September 22, 2014, 03:19:32 PM

The Eagle 05 without a automatic and it more than likely won't have power steering that will cost you, being glutton for punishment may not be the correct term.I love my Eagles, power steering and a automatic in a MCI 9 doesn't sound that bad. The Eagle is still a better bus IMO buy you 10 it will have a auto and power steering unless you just like the classic look of a 05

shelled · September 22, 2014, 03:51:42 PM

Jim - 2 things...

First, you said nothing about your diesel engine rebuilding skills. Professional rebuilds cost upwards of $10,000, well upwards. You need to take engine oil, radiator water and transmission oil samples and have them analyzed before you commit to purchase. You should closely inspect air and electrical systems, but the drivetrain is the biggie for most folks.

Second, every year you spend converting the bus is a year you don't get to use it. There are a number of people on this forum who have spent over a decade and still do not have a roadable conversion. Most take a few years starting from scratch. So, what is your real goal -- travel or twiddle ? ?

edward

digesterman · September 22, 2014, 06:04:27 PM

LOL that's funny, travel or twiddle, but that is really true.

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eagle19952 · September 22, 2014, 06:27:23 PM

this one looks straight, clean but expensive <a little to me>...

Geoff · September 22, 2014, 07:05:43 PM

Converting a bus is not a part-time, weekends only job. I know I worked on my conversion for 10 years and alot of that time was a regular 8 hour a day JOB. I would not do it again. I am perfectlly happy with my conversion because I did it right the first time. I would not do it again because I no longer have the income, and the time.

In other words, taking in what has already been posted, look for a bus that has already been converted and that someone else spent years converting instead of you. Just change what you don't like. And I would stay completely away from "professional conversions" with all the crap electronic controls.

--Geoff

rusty · September 23, 2014, 06:27:42 AM

All know I am Eagle all the way,but I would look for a newer one. They are out there just need to look. As far as converting it your self do what you want. I find it relaxing to work on my conversion. It took me about 7 years to do the first one with some help with the engine and the skinning. I am 6 or 7 years in the second one and I am doing everything this time. When we get back from Branson and hunting I will start the engine for the first time. That means I still have a few years to skin it and do the inside. ( that is the most fun part for me) The only problem is when I built the first one I was younger and could work more hours then I can now. If I had to do it over again the only thing I would change is I would have started earlier in my life with this bus madness.

Wayne

Dawgs · September 23, 2014, 12:50:45 PM

Eagle, that is one of the buses that I am interested in. I've talked with the owner already.

Jim

eagle19952 · September 23, 2014, 02:11:06 PM

the primary thing to check on that eagle is the remaining suspension adjustment.
My second concern would be why he starts it from the rear...an easy fix but still u should be able to start it from the seat.
The eagle would be my choice a. because it doesn't have air suspension and b. cuz I have one.
Any serious seller will take less...