Do I pull the trigger?

[ktmossman]

It looks like I have the opportunity to pick up a 2005 MCI J4500 (Series 60/B500) for under $35K.  It was recently in service (in the southeast), and the engine and transmission were recently overhauled. All of the mechanicals seem to be fine.  It actually has newer leather/cloth seats that I may be able to sell.  From all the research I've been able to do, this seems to be a pretty solid deal.

Thoughts?

Bonus question: Where would I list the seats to get the right eyes on them?

[Gary Hatt - Publisher BCM]

Offer them to a local coach operator if they will remove them for you.

[6805eagleguy]

You won't regret a s60.
But an 2005 may have egr, not sure...

[Jim Blackwood]

If they're in good shape those seats are probably worth upwards of $50 each, maybe double or even triple that. There is a site that lists bus seats for sale. I don't remember the name but if you search you should be able to find it. On that site you will see many listings and get a good idea of what they are going for, provided you can find it. Probably you will have to price them low to move them quickly.

A J4500 should be quite the jewel but for $35K it sure ought to be. A DDEC III DL3 is often seen as the optimum choice as it has the same engine/trans for under $10K. I bought mine ('95) for $5250 and it also had alcoa wheels, aux heater, and r134 refrigerant. All in good shape and delivered for $1300 from Connecticut. But, I spent nearly a year looking.

Jim

[chessie4905]

Just remember, just like used cars, the price keeps dropping over time. With patience and research, you can find a newer one for same or less. Don't be afraid to travel to find the right one. Don't forget about insurance and a place to store and work on it before purchase.

[buswarrior]

Just so long as you know what "multi-plex wiring system"means, and are keen to manage that.

Buy what will make you happy.

You will enjoy a longer period of parts availability from original sources.

Nobody keeps old stuff on the shelves anymore like they used to. If it isn't in service somewhere, the parts will dry up faster in the future, than they did in the past.

Happy coaching!
Buswarrior