What does it cost to "zero"/refresh a recently certified 1M mile J4500 ?

[someguy]

I'm kicking tires again.

What does it cost to "go through" a recently certified J4500 with 1M miles on it ?

Tires and batteries are good.  The windshield is good.  The bus has drum brakes and they are in decent shape.   The S60 got a new ECM and injectors recently but hasn't been touched otherwise, though I suspect it got new bearings at some point.  The transmission is rebuilt and in good condition.  The over the road AC worked well for the summer of 2023.  Cosmetically the bus looks good.

What will I need to do to it ?  What would you fix on it before taking it on a long trip ?

- airbags, shocks, bushings
- belts
- pull the engine - replace liners, pistons, rings, bearings, gaskets, turbo, rebuild the head
- starter ?
- fan angle drive ?
- fan clutch ?
- hub seals ?
- radiator ?
- intercooler ?
- steering box ?
- U joints ?
- rad hoses ?

I plan to convert it and use it for the next 20+ years.  I'm mostly worried about the air system - valves and hoses.

How much extra should one pay for a lower mileage bus versus getting a deal on a higher mileage bus and spending more going through everything ?

What should I carry for spares on the bus ?  FWIW, I've worked on heavy equipment.  I have a lot of tools.  I don't have a shop but I plan on setting up a space to work on it.

Thanks

[windtrader]

wow, lots of great thought and great questions. Way too much ti hit each topic, it's really too much to even suggestion reading past forums although you still scan and read bigger topics.
I'm no expert in heavy duty vehicles including buses nor am I a seasoned RVer. I share my thoughts as if I were looking to buy again.
More or less in line of importance.
1) Engine - This is the heart of the bus and also the most expensive component to replace. Series 60 start a line of engines that use electronic modules. DDEC has been through many improvement cycles so the stored information can vary. Someone else needs to chime in on what specific data points are most revealing.
2) Transmission - They seem quite durable and far fewer posts for them vs engines, air suspension, brake system, cooling system, etc.
3) Body condition - Your goal would be a rust free and accident free bus. Seek knowledge and expertise from someone that knows that  specific bus.
4) Air suspension and brake systems. Make sure no major or extensive leaking.

5) Interior conversion. If you are DIY converting than finding one that is stripped inside is great. If you are keeping some seats not so good. Conversion if done, what is the condition and working order of systems.

6) Tires - often times, aged out. Needing 8 tires (tags) can easily exceed several thousand dollars. During my bus negotiation, that was a juicy concession won.
Good luck. Just coming to the table with this much thought sets you up for good outcomes.

[luvrbus]

 you say certified you mean a DOT inspection ?