Tell me something I don't know about the MCI EL3

Scott & Heather · January 03, 2015, 06:58:57 PM

Pros and cons of late 90's vintage EL3?? Anything spermicide I should look for or avoid? Good coaches or bad coaches?

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Scott & Heather · January 03, 2015, 06:59:37 PM

FYI, spermicide should read "specific", I have no idea why my phone autocorrected that :-/

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luvrbus · January 03, 2015, 07:04:17 PM

Wiring and the tag axle were the main problems but you can't find a better looking bus if the electrical panel looks like a rats nest not good but you will love the ride

Scott & Heather · January 03, 2015, 07:25:09 PM

Thanks cliff. I was hoping you'd post. I had heard that the tag had issues but wasn't sure if they were insurmountable. Electrical sounds like drama...

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Scott & Heather · January 03, 2015, 07:25:40 PM

Anyone know the interior height? Exterior is 11' 9" but I can't find the interior headroom

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buswarrior · January 04, 2015, 07:34:52 AM

The steering tag suffered in the hands of techs who didn't know what to do, and owners who wouldn't spend the money keeping it up.

In the hands of a busnut, once returned to good condition, you will be VERY happy with the maneuverability.

I did not hesitate to dive into a shopping mall parking lot with an EL3. That is not the case with an H345 or a J model.

Happy coaching!
buswarrior

TomC · January 04, 2015, 07:41:49 AM

Most MCI's after 102C3's had 6'10" headroom. Good Luck, TomC

Zeroclearance · January 04, 2015, 06:51:35 PM

The can communication system has 5 ECU modules at $$$3K each..

I don't think that a nine to five working stiff can afford to keep one of these buses up and running.

Scott & Heather · January 04, 2015, 07:03:17 PM

Ok, so that being said, comparing a 1998 el3 to a 1998 102dl3, does the dl3 have less drama in terms of ecu and tag issues? Are the ecu issues really that bad?

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Nineforever · January 04, 2015, 08:49:06 PM

Take the DL have heard countless horror stories about the EL for maintenance

B_K · January 05, 2015, 03:38:19 AM

The DL is the "9" of the 90's it was/is the workhorse that the "9" was!
Yes the DL will be a much better and more reliable bus than the "E", but it doesn't have the "curb appeal" and not near as much luggage space!
But way less electronic bells & whistles which means way less problems and repair $!

BK

Scott & Heather · January 05, 2015, 05:15:04 AM

Ok. I've been reading about el nonstop for a few days now and I can't tell you how many forums, and websites, and even some discussions on here from last summer that have convinced me that the e isn't for me. Bummed. It's a pretty coach. Wish I could buy an e and just strip the electronic leveling, strip the electronic climate control, and just spend my dough keeping the tags working. It would be so nice.

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John316 · January 05, 2015, 06:35:50 AM

The DL3 can be a great coach. It ALL depends on how it was maintained. It is certainly not as pretty, but it get's better if you do the E front upgrade.

luvrbus · January 05, 2015, 06:41:39 AM

LOL I just happen to have a DL with E upgrade I am amazed how easy the DL is to park in a tight area thank you for having the tag repaired it is nice

Seangie · January 06, 2015, 05:06:49 AM

Quote from: Scott Bennett on January 03, 2015, 06:59:37 PM
FYI, spermicide should read "specific", I have no idea why my phone autocorrected that :-/

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Obviously cause its an iPhone. Also...EL3 is not a truck?