July 2016 $5.00 US BCM $6.00 CANADA Bus Conversion Magazine

What Is This Thing Called Workamping?

Our New Life

Hello Bus Nuts 2 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE July 2016 PUBLISHER´S BCM NOTE Gary Hatt Bus Conversion Magazine Our New Office May was a very busy month for BCM. The the two of us in the office, there is Phil Lyons, our Forum RV Park I used to live in, which is located Moderator, Jorge Escobar and Mike Sullivan, who lay out the about a half-mile as the crow flies from magazine and support the website, my sister Linda Sohn, who Disneyland has closed down and is takes care of all of our Subscriptions and Accounting, all of being redeveloped. It will be turned whom work from home in different states. Therefore, we don’t into a three story condo complex with need a large office but we do need to be comfortable. units selling for about $450,000 each. I can buy a nice used early model starter Prevost for that kind The other advantage is that we now have a home base so when of money. I start traveling full time in my bus, we will have a permanent headquarters with someone here to take care of business, The owner of the RV Park also owns another park just down the answer phones, to fill orders, and resolve issues as they arise. road and some of us longtime residents were offered a space With the extra space we will no longer feel so cramped and in there. It is not an RV park; it is a mobile home park. They will be able to process orders much more efficiently and do an pulled out some of the old mobile homes and installed power even better job of taking care of our great customers. pedestals, water, and sewer for RVs. We believe the owners’ long time goal is to tear out all of the mobile homes in the next We still plan to use our old address for now until we get fully few years and build something nicer in that area. Making RV settled, but if you are in the area and want to stop by, give us spaces are relatively easy and can be a good income producing a call and we will gladly provide you directions and give you a property until that time comes. tour of the office. The only problem is, unless you come to visit on a weekend, there is not enough room to park a 40’ bus in I ran this magazine for the past three years out of my MCI the parking lot, so you will have to park elsewhere and bring Log Cabin bus and a 20’ cargo trailer that I insulated, installed your Toad. plywood walls and ceiling, which I painted white and carpeted the floor. I installed LED lighting and also put in twelve 120V Opinions and techniques expressed herein are those of the outlets for power. The bad news is that the new park would authors and do not necessarily represent those endorsed by the not allow me to take my trailer with me so I had to put it into Publisher. Bus Conversion Magazine and the authors respectively storage. That forced me to rent office space, which luckily I accept no responsibility or liability for any errors, omissions, found only about a a half-hour drive from the RV park I am now alterations, or for any consequences ensuing upon the use of, or living in so it is very convenient. The office is about 500 sq. ft. reliance upon any information contained herein. Tasks performed with large windows in two office rooms. The environment is in maintaining, altering and using vehicles may require specialized much nicer and we were about ready to expand anyway due skills and involve inherent risks to the person doing the work or to to our growing business, so the timing worked out very well. the safe operation of the vehicle. It is the reader’s responsibility to assess their own skills to determine if they can perform any such task With only Stacy and myself in this office we now have more and to seek professionally trained assistance if needed. space so we can organize things a bit more efficiently. Besides Magazine Contacts Published By On The Cover Publisher Bus Conversion Magazine Gary Hatt 9852 Katella Ave STE 361 [email protected] Anaheim, CA 92804 (657) 221-0432 Editorial Mike Sullivan - Senior Editor Website [email protected] www.BusConversions.com Our New Life Jorge Escobar - Layout Editor Jim Bingham and Paula Giddings Accounting/Subscriptions Online Discussion Forum Linda Sohn www.BusConversions.com/bbs/ [email protected] Contributors Becky Lawry Webmaster Moderators Jim Bingham and Paula Giddings Mike Sullivan Roger Lehet [email protected] Nick Badame Jack Conrad Forum Admin K.J “Frank“ Franklin Visit us on our Facebook Page at: https://www.facebook.com/BCMagUSA/ Phil Lyons Paul Lawry “Like” our page and receive $1 off any item in our store. [email protected] Mike Sullivan July 2016 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE 3 In This Issue What Is This Thing Publisher´s Note 2 Called Workamping? (By Becky Lawry) Index of Advertisers 3 4 What Is This Thing Called Workamping? By Becky Lawry 4 Our New Life By Jim Bingham and Paula Giddings 10 Hello Bus Nuts By Roger Lehet 19 Our New Life Rally News 24 (By Jim Bingham and Paula Giddings) Service Directory 26 10 Sterling Classifieds 26 Standard Classifieds 30

Hello Bus Nuts Index of Advertisers (By Roger Lehet)

19 ABC Companies 31 Ardemco 23 Exclusively In This Issues´ Atlantic Custom Coach 22 Online Edition of BCM 18 Autex - More of Our New Life B & B Coachworks 5 - More of What Is This Thing Called Workamping BusForSale.com 21 - Western GM Rally - Branson Rally 2016 Byler Rivet 9 - BFTP - Trailways´Own Bus & Car Continues The Choo Choo Express Garage 20 Model 01 - BFTP - Road Fix - Three hours in First Gear Custom Instrument Panels 8 - BFTP - Installing My Detroit Series 60 Engine Heat Protection 19 - Humorous Bus Cartoon - One For The Road - Clever Paint Jobs 11 Engine Power Source - TireTraker Schedule Fastening Systems International 13 - Premier Services - Refurbish or Buy New? Ice Makers 18 - Bus Chat - Loosing Speed Uphill, 8V71 - Digital Classified Ads Lloyd DeGerald Services 12 - Assorted Bus Parts for Sale Mobile RV Glass 23 - SmartPlug Price Sheet Pacific RV Parts 7 Also additional bus related classifieds and potentially other late breaking info. Premiere Services 32 23 RV LED Lites Do you receive only a Print Edition subscription RV Makeovers 21 and would like to add access to the Online Digital 15 Edition? It is easy to upgrade your subscription RV Parts Center for absolutely FREE. SmartPlug 10 Sure Marine Service 6 Just go online to: TireTraker 6 www.BusConversions.com/UpgradeMe Tommy Kaylors Bus and Truck Service 9 Then click the online Add-On from the bottom of the list to add it on Transit Sales International 15 Thanks to our advertisers Unforgettable Fire 22 for supporting Wrico International 14 Bus Conversion Magazine www.BusConversions.com 4 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE July 2016 What Is This Thing Called Workamping?

By Becky Lawry

You may have heard the term, workamping, with no work for you. In no particular order: explanation of what it means. We were not too sure www.happyvagabonds.com/Jobs/New-Job-Listings.htm either when we decided we needed to find a way to www.americanll.com/ travel the way we wanted, and still have the funds to workampingjobs.com/workampingjobs.php eat and buy fuel. After much research, we learned www.work-for-rvers-and-campers.com/ many RV, county, state parks, individuals, and others www.swf-wc.usace.army.mil/lewisville/Volunteer/volops.asp utilize the services of workampers. An agreed upon www.facebook.com/groups/workcampingintheusa number of work hours per couple or individual is ex- changed for full hook-ups for their RV. Often it is 20 Be creative when you search – type in the state you hours a week (shared between a couple) or 20 hours a want and add “workamper”. You may be surprised week for an individual (or single). what all pops up. (Note: Some parks will spell it work- camper or work camper.) Some places pay an hourly amount for any hours over that set number of required hours per week. Assign- Typically, the ads request resumes, a photo of your ments can last a month, three months or six months. converted bus, a photo of you, as well as one of your This can all vary, depending on the agreement made. pet. We both had the usual resumes and we prepared We finally had an understanding of what workamp- a cover letter to go along with them. Everything is ing was. What next? submitted electronically – all we had to do was wait! Once an employer determines an interest in a couple The search: We knew what area we hoped to be in, or single, they will arrange a telephone interview. This so we began the search online, starting with simply is where the speaker on a cell phone comes in handy. Googling “Workamping Jobs”. This search lead us down many paths and we are happy to share some The offer follows and you are ready to hit the road links with you (below) to save you hours of research. to your new destination! We have all heard of parks As we searched, we found many of the job require- with age limits on RVs but don’t let that stop you from ments were very similar. Some are very specific, re- trying! No one has questioned our 1968 Silver Eagle quiring an “experienced horse trainer”, “RV must be conversion from the photos we submit. If your coach fully self-contained and able to boondock,” “RV must looks nice and clean, few will even ask. If they do, they be no longer than 35 feet, or “No pets allowed”. It is are amazed to learn your story, and age is no longer fairly easy to weed out which would and would not a concern. www.BusConversions.com July 2016 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE 5

Our first workamping job: Crater Lake RV Resort, in Prospect, OR, where we were hired as Camp Hosts. www.prospectrvpark.com/index.php Owners Pam and Jim greeted us with open arms, along with oth- er workampers who arrived before us. The area was gorgeous, the air was clean, people were warm and friendly (including the guests) and we were set for our three month summer assignment. The agreement we had was to work 20 hours a week, split between the two of us, in exchange for full hook-ups and free use of the laundry facilities. The owners scheduled us to work the same schedule, so our free time was truly ours to do as we pleased. I worked in the office, Wizard Island inside Crater Lake greeting visitors, scheduling reservations, answering questions from guests, giving directions, selling fire- We were able to meet people from all over the United wood, ice, and items from their small store. Paul led States as well as European travelers. What a surprise campers to their campsite in a golf cart, installed Di- to watch the huge orange Rotel Tour bus pull into the rect TV receiver if guest needed it, delivered firewood park full of German guests. Talk about a converted and fire pits, inspected sites when they were vacated bus! This one slept 30 passengers. and provided information on the local sights to see and how to get to them. The main focus at this park By now, you have a more clear idea of what workamp- is customer service and the guests love it. Every Sat- ing can involve, how to find jobs in your desired area urday night the owners hosted a campfire gathering and how to apply for them. From here on out I will complete with local musicians, hot dogs and s’mores. share other experiences we have had workamping The Camp Hosts helped Pam serve the guests and a and the things to go and see in those areas. great time was had by all. This beautiful park boasts the Rogue River running through the property. Paul learned how to fly fish B&B Coachworks and took great pleasure in his morning and evening walks down to the river to practice. The beauty is in- describable – you have to go and see it for yourself! Jim encouraged us to explore the area so we could share knowledge with guests and we certainly did see some beautiful sights. Crater Lake itself was about 30 miles from the park. Our first trip to Crater Lake was on Father’s Day and we were surprised to see so much snow the closer 15 years of COMPLETE custom fabrication we got. Upon arrival, we found everything covered in experience. Conversions on any make. snow, like a picture postcard. No one believes that Specializing In: is the true color of the water in Crater Lake, but I as- • Coach widening - 96” -> 102” sure you it is. Pictures don’t lie. Other attractions in- clude numerous waterfalls, lakes, river rafting and the • Slide Outs Rogue-Umpqua Byway. • Remodel & Repair on ANY motorhome or bus. We WILL SHIP: • Radiator spray systems • Engine door louvers • Air steps for entry door • And much more! 4350 S. Arville, Unit 6 Las Vegas, NV 89103 Call today for conversion specs and photos. Fly Fishing on the Rogue River (702) 873-4415 www.BusConversions.com 6 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE July 2016 We needed to get back to Texas for family reasons and I obtained a full time job. Buck Creek RV Park, Abilene, TX, www.campingfriend.com/BuckCreekRVPark/, is where Paul served as Camp Host sixteen hours a week in exchange for full hook-ups (FHU). We paid for our electricity here. Owners Zane and Brandon are the kind of folks you want for your next door neighbors – good ole Texans! This park is only a quarter mile off I-20 yet when you pull in you feel you are in the mid- dle of the country. There are no streetlights to come on at night, rather, those big and bright stars of West Texas light your way. If you are traveling down I-20, you don’t want to miss this stop!

You can explore Frontier Texas, Grace Museum down- town and the Abilene Zoo. Take a ride to historic Buf- falo Gap and step back in time. While there, be sure to fill your tummy up at Perini’s Steakhouse. (Award winning owner, Tom Perini, catered the Congressio- nal Picnic at the White House in 2002.) In May you can catch the Western Heritage Classic and in September attend the West Texas Fair at the Taylor County Expo Center. Abilene boasts Dyess Air Force Base and is the home of the B-1 Bomber. Lots of history here and Abilene is considered the gateway to West Texas. Bluebonnets – Texas state flower

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www.BusConversions.com July 2016 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE 7

sence. Paul was to work 15 hours a week in exchange for full hook-ups and again, we paid for our electrici- ty. Skills needed were carpentry, plumbing, electrical and general problem solving. Since I had just retired, it was so nice for me to be able to relax and enjoy the beauty of the ranch.

B-1 Bomber at annual Dyess Air Force Base air show When I retired in October 2015, we quickly hit the road for a workamping job in Southern CA. We took our time along the route and visited friends and fam- ily along the way. It was exciting to know we would be within an hour drive of our children and grandchil- dren for the next six months. This is one of those “oth- er” types of workamping jobs on a 21 acre ranch in Overlooking Murrieta Murrieta, CA, Riverside County. The owners needed someone with Paul’s skills to help out on the ranch. The obvious attraction in Southern CA is Disneyland, They own their business and participate in horse rid- of course, but there are so many others! Orange ing events, so they are not always home to keep the County offers something for everyone. We drove ranch up. We were considered Caretakers in their ab- from Murrieta through the coastal mountains to San

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www.BusConversions.com 8 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE July 2016 Juan Capistrano – beautiful drive! San Diego has the Also, while workamping in Murrieta we have been for- perfect year round temperatures in the low 70s. Old tunate enough to attend two bus rallies! We drove to Town San Diego was a great historic experience. We Quartzite, AZ in January and met up with many more ran out of time to explore the USS Midway Museum, bus nuts. In early March we went to San Dimas for the but be sure to put it on your bucket list. San Diego of- Southern CA Mini Rally at East Shore RV Park on the fers harbor tours and more than I can list. We stopped shores of Puddingstone Lake. www.eastshorervpark. in to see an RV park where wonderful staff welcomed com/home. This park needs to be a must on your list us and were happy to tell us all about the Chula Vis- – a hidden jewel near the Pomona Fairgrounds. Once ta RV Resort, San Diego’s bayside camping retreat. you are inside the park, you cannot believe you took www.chulavistarv.com/ freeways to get there. The peaceful, green, beautiful park is perfect. One weekend we drove to Santa Barbara to visit fam- ily and were blown away with its beauty. Mission San- Workamping enables us to go where we want to ta Barbara is one of 21 California missions founded by go and not break the bank. You may have heard, 18th century Franciscan Monks and worth the time to Social Security doesn’t pay all that well! Our plan visit. We went on the Santa Barbara Land Shark Tour for now is to spend fall/winter in Southern CA and had a blast. (Yes, the same vehicle drives through and spring/summer in Oregon. Neither of us is the city while a guide points out historic buildings and fond of really hot or cold weather, so this works later drives down a ramp into the ocean! So exciting for us. At this writing we completed our assign- for our grandsons and the tour guide was charming ment on the ranch in Murrieta and are workamp- and funny.) Be sure to visit the Santa Barbara County ing at Crane Prairie Resort just outside of Bend, OR. Courthouse downtown, built in 1929. The tower pro- www.crane-prairie-resort-guides.com/ vides a panoramic view of this Spanish city, including the ocean. The grounds alone are breathtaking. Paul grew up in Oregon so we will again be able to spend time with family in our down time. This re- sort and RV park is located on Crane Prairie Reser-

Santa Barbara Courthouse

Santa Barbara Land Shark Tour

www.BusConversions.com July 2016 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE 9

Now that you are armed with information, think about giving workamping a try. You will not regret it. There are lifetime friends out there to be made, outside your home town. Explore this wonderful country we live in, sleep in your own bed, cook in your own kitchen and relax in a lawn chair in front of your own, beautiful converted bus. There are so many bus nuts waiting to meet you! Becky and Paul Lawry Becky and Paul are retired full-timers and have lived in their 1968 Silver Eagle for voir where fishing and boating abounds. We split 25 seven years. They hours a week in exchange for full hook-ups. I work in built their bus the store mostly and Paul works in the store as well conversion to fit their as outdoors doing all kinds of things, including tree lifestyle. Inky, their trimming and cleaning rental boats. Drop in and see two year old Mini- -Schnoodle, is their us if you come to Bend this summer! furry companion. You can learn more in One final tip to share about workamping is that Paul's blogs; one is about the bus build and the we try to nail down our next assignment at least a other is about their travels. The photo was taken season ahead. We will workamp in Bend from April in front of Crater Lake, OR. through September, so we are actively looking for our fall/winter workamping job. Some workampers love one place so much they know they will be back dreamscapesilvereagle.wordpress.com there year after year. Right now, we enjoy different dreamscapetravels.wordpress.com experiences, so we hop around.

www.BusConversions.com 10 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE July 2016

By Jim Bingham and Paula Giddings

Our New Life

Jim and I met at a hospice group-counseling meeting. western states, been two miles into Mexico, and 200 We'd both lost our spouses to cancer. At the meet- miles into British Columbia. He had an Eagle bus and ings, Jim was the one who managed to get everyone an International Model M tractor; I had a Subaru and talking and laughing at a time in their lives when they a tiny Yanmar tractor. He was a machinist; I was a thought they would never want to laugh again. After graphic designer turned office manager. He barely a few months, he called and asked me to lunch. It had tolerates cold weather; I love snow. He spoke a com- been more than 53 years since he'd asked anyone pletely different dialect known only to bus nuts. If you out, and 50 years since anyone had asked me out. throw in Jim's Arkansas accent, we barely spoke the same language. However, it works for us. I agreed but added, this is not a "real date." He agreed neither of us were ready to date. That day we talked History - Early Days and Conversion of the Bus about everything; in the interest of full disclosure, Jim said, "I have a 1978 Silver Eagle Bus." Having no idea what that was, I said, "Oh? I have two cats and a horse." He said, "Oh...," he seemed dubious. As time went on, we realized we were made for each other, more or less. Jim was a seasoned traveler; been everywhere, seen everything, 40 states and five countries in Europe, Canada and Mexico. I had been to almost nowhere; I had either driven though or briefly visited the 11

Front of bus at Lyons Ferry

Jim always wanted a bus. In May 1993, Jim and his wife Jackie paid $25,000 for the 40-foot long, in- ter-city Silver Eagle bus. He had chosen it from 20 buses the US Government Hanford Nuclear Site had for sale. The government had used the buses for 15 years hauling workers from parking lots to work sites. His brother-in-law, Dick bought one at the same time. I know you want to ask, "Hanford? Does the bus glow in the dark?" He will answer, "No, not anymore." www.BusConversions.com July 2016 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE 11

The buses had been gently used, as buses go, no rust, have converted your own buses, know the process, everything worked. They convoyed them home to but I'm a newbie, so bear with me if you have "been Deer Park, WA. When they got home, Jim picked up there, done that." This bus conversion stuff is all still his family and friends and drove to the Clayton Drive- magic to me. In for ice cream cones. A week later, he unbolted the seats and wrestled them, one by one, down the stairs and out the door. As Jackie watched the process be- gin, she realized the overwhelming scope of the work ahead of them. She said what everyone who converts a bus says, "What have we done?" Jim had a schedule in mind. He gave himself six months to make the passenger bus into a livable and comfortable home for Jackie and himself. It had to Rough Floor Plan be ready to roll south so they could start the winter season in Blythe, California in October. He'd sold his He removed windows, heater vents, and inner and machine shop. He was still working three or four days outer walls. He left the aluminum skin below the win- a week as manufacturing engineer for an OEM man- dows and where the bays were. The real conversion ufacturer. They'd sold their house and were living in a process began when he raised the whole bus roof 36-foot 5th wheel Regal Prowler. seven inches. He did that without help by spot weld- ing bottle jacks to the window sills on each corner of Their plan was to do all the work themselves. They the bus, then tack welding a piece of tubing to the had no shop to work in, so he parked the bus on a top of each of the window frames and to the top of level concrete slab that his brother-in-law had built the bottle jack. He made two new jack handles about for his own bus conversion. He and Jackie embarked three feet Long, so that by standing in the middle of on their bus conversion as a hobby. Those of you who the back of the bus he could operate both jacks back

www.BusConversions.com 12 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE July 2016 there at the same time. He set up the front of the bus ing. Later when he installed the half-inch plywood the same way. He made angle fixtures and clamped walls wiring would be protected. them to the uprights to keep the bus frame tubing in line on the four corners. Now that the corners were Trial and error and hindsight are not the best ways to secure, he was able to cut the rest of the uprights. learn, but are no less effective. Replacing the sheath- ing he had removed when the roof was raised was He slightly loos- a battle from the beginning. He ordered rolled six- ened the two teenth of inch aluminum, four feet wide and long clamps on the enough to cover both sides of the bus. He had it flat- back, positioned tened, but when it arrived it had been flattened and himself between then re-rolled back into a tight roll again, defeating the jacks and the purpose of flattening. He installed it anyway. He with one hand tried heating it so it would expand and contract into on each jack han- a smooth surface. It was seamless but still wavy. He dle he raised the removed it and ordered flat sheets that were twelve back of the roof feet long. Those worked better, were easier to install, about an inch. but had seams. Not perfect, he decided, but accept- He re-tightened able. the clamps and repeated the Jim hates squeaks and rattles, so he had heavy felt Boars nest of wires process at the stripping made to glue to the metal frame inside front of the bus, the bus before the plywood was installed to stop jacking it up two inches. He alternated between front the squeaks and rattles and to stop condensation and back until the roof-raising was complete. Then in from seeping into the plywood. Word to the wise... the space he created in the uprights, he welded seven this worked, but avoid this tactic anyway. When you inch tubing extensions into each upright the length drill the holes for screwing the plywood to the met- of the bus. al frame, the felt fibers will wind around your drill bit There's a world of education in a moment of experi- ence. Right after Jim cut the upright tubing near the CHECK YOUR MAILING LABEL! driver's seat, he realized that was the location of the wiring trace. He spent at least one day berating him- self, while he re-matched and spliced wires. Your Print Subscription Expiration Date appears on When Jim raised the roof he raised the driver's area, and windshield and dash along with it, he extended your Mailing Label. Please the steering column. The brake mechanism, gas ped- review it frequently and al and gear shift moved up with the floor, then hose and wiring connections were lengthened. He rein- renew at least two months forced the front of the bus by welding a twelve gauge in advance to avoid missing steel plate from the bottom of the windows almost to the bumper. He installed the new fiberglass end caps. any issues. He installed new windows that he'd ordered from the Bus Conversion store. He also got marine stranded ro- mex, and foam spray insulation kits. The floor where the driver's seat was connected had to be rebuilt and the stairs leading to the door were changed. When it was finished, there was one step down from the living area to the driving area,July then 23 – 31 four steps to the door. They arranged the bus with just the driver's seat in the cab. Jackie's preferred place of travel was one of the recliners bolted down with installed seatbelts. Jim had to grind off every screw head in the original floor with the old seat channels and access panels and pry it up. He replaced that with 1-1/8" tongue and groove plywood cutting it just short of full width to leave a groove along the edge of the floor for wir- www.BusConversions.com July 2016 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE 13 and drive you nuts! Try foam instead. Or turn up the across the back big radio to mask the sound. Whatever you do, don't use enough for a queen felt. bed with about 15 inches of walk Putting up the vertical plywood sidewalls inside and around space. Jim the flat part of the ceiling was easy. The curved area built cabinets above where the vertical wall connects with the ceiling and the bed and a hinged the double curve where the sidewalls meet the front frame on the bed for wall were designed by a bus designer whose evil plan storage underneath. was to thwart bus converters everywhere. After some Toward the front from "finoopering around" (also known as experimenta- the bed he built an tion) Jim cut quarter-inch rabbets in the tops of the enclosed clothing sidewalls and the sides of the ceiling plywood. He closet and a full size used two layers of one eighth of an inch door skin shower. Across the that was flexible enough to bend into a curve. He Bedroom hall from the clothes slipped the top of the door skin into the rabbet at the closet and shower was ceiling and flexed it until he could snap the other end a linen closet above the installed washer/dryer, then into the rabbet, which was in the top of the wall. He a lavatory sink and an enclosed toilet area. A door painted that with wood glue, and added a second lay- across the hallway finished the back of the bus and er for strength. added privacy. Necessary utility tanks, water heater and house They purchased ready-made cabinets for the kitchen batteries were added inside the bays, leaving lots of in the middle on the driver's side of the bus with a room for storage. Jim installed solar panels on the sink and gas stove. They installed a large refrigerator, roof making the bus completely self-sufficient. a small table and chairs for meals which are across from the cabinets. The rest was living space, with large Jim and Jackie laid out the floor plan with masking cabinets at the front for their TV and more storage. tape and built cardboard mock-ups of cabinets and Jackie chose rose, soft blue and white for the walls, appliances to get a feel for convenience and space. linoleum, carpet and furniture went inside, and she They used a simple center aisle plan, with the room added dark green touches to set it all off. Their dream

www.BusConversions.com 14 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE July 2016 bus was more There never seemed to be a good time to stop and than comfortable; repaint it. it was home on wheels.There Around 2010 they headed for Arkansas to visit his were things that family, but in Montana the injectors started leaking needed finishing, and they had to turn back to Deer Park so Jim could but they could make repairs. That was the first winter they didn't go be finished assouth. Bear with me here. If you were impressed by they travelled. He how much I don't know about bus conversions, you didn't change the will be amazed at how much I don't know about driver's seat or bus engines. Nevertheless, not knowing something dash, because his hasn't stopped me from writing about it before. October deadline So...The following spring, Jim pulled the engine and front to back, kitchen was approaching. transmission out, bought and rebuilt some used Jake brakes, installed them, added bigger injectors, Sometime in October of 1993, they sold their fifth removed the blower and put in turbo seals, turned wheel, hitched their bright red 1970 Bronco to the the exhaust manifolds around, rebuilt a used turbo, back, and headed south. They had a flat tire on the tag fabricated a mount for low mounting the turbo, and axle somewhere in Oregon, but their newly converted then installed it. He pulled off the oil pan; installed a Eagle soared. They spent their winters living in various temperature gage sending unit, welded a fitting on places in the southwestern US, much of that time off the bottom side of the oil pan and another fitting near the grid, and returned north to Eastern Washington the top side of the pan, added a small gear pump, ran with their children and grandchildren each summer. it with a belt drive off the gearbox, installed an oil They traveled 50,000 miles over the next 18 years, cooler with a fan and an external oil filter. The oil was living in the bus year-round for nearly 12 years. True pumped from the bottom of the pan through the oil Nomads. The bus still has most of its original paint. cooler, filter, and back into the pan on the other side. He installed new rod and main bearings. He cleaned everything, painted the engine red and put it back in. Wrico International The Fall of 2011, was Jackie's last trip south. They spent that winter in Laughlin, Nevada. September of 2013, Jim made a trip alone to Arkansas to see his family a few months after she died; he visited friends W along the way. He extended the trip to Laughlin, NV, Blythe, Indio, and Los Angeles, CA to visit his brother- -in-law, and then came home to Deer Park. That day he parked the bus and didn't drive it again for more I than a year. The Generator man Recent History - Remodeling the Bus We carry a full line of Coach Conversion Jim showed up on his birthday last year at my house Parts & Accessories, to list a few: driving his bus. I met his children, grandchildren, and • Wrico Generators his bus that day. I loved his kids and was flabbergasted • Magnum Inverters with the mere size of that bus sitting in my driveway. I • Webasto Hot Water Heating Systems fell in love with it the first time we drove through the • Cooktops & Water Heaters countryside from my house to his daughter's house. • Automatic Transfer Switches The view from a bus is breathtaking! It opens vistas • Generator Autostart System you can't see from a car, or even from the cab of a Call the people with the Coach Conversion Kenworth truck. My husband and I had owned a small Experience and Know-how. construction company, so we had several "over the Made Speci cally For Bus Conversions road" trucks. Although I loved "truckin'" with him, that Kubota Powered • Water Cooled • 1800 RPM doesn't compare with the view from a swivel recliner Direct Drive • Easy To Service in a converted bus. Rugged and Trouble Free Buy direct and save. Call the Generator Man At first, we had no plans to actually remodel the bus; we were just going to do some dry camping with it (541) 744-4333 as it was. Ideas start small; we decided to replace the WRICO INTERNATIONAL worn Lazy Boy recliners and carpet in the living room PO Box 41555 • Eugene, Oregon 97404 and bedroom. Jim had driven thousands of miles www.BusConversions.com July 2016 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE 15

in the original Eagle and tires and a leveling system. A combo backup bus seat. It was time camera with GPS would be nice, and a multitude of for that to go. "We other things, too numerous to list. should replace the wall coverings while Specifications the chairs and carpet are out... The dash, • 1978 Silver Eagle, 40 ft. long console and cab has • About 400,000 miles when converted never been converted, • Naturally aspirated 8V71 Detroit engine, rebuilt at we should do that." Hanford at 190,000 mi. When we pulled off • A low mount turbo added around 2010 the wall coverings • 65 Brown tag injectors, with Jake brake under the windows • External engine oil cooler with fan Water damage there was some water • Two cooling fans on radiator with switch on dash damage and mold. • Allison HD740 transmission • Factory power steering (a special order by Han- The big cabinet at the ford) front over the driver's seat that had housed their big old TV was WeWe DeliverDeliver uncomfortably low for me, because I am pretty darned tall. So TheThe Best!Best! Jim designed and built 2002 Nabi 40 – Engine: LFW, Trans: ZF B400R, a new smaller cabinet 40ft, 43 passengers, Built-in Monitor, Refrigerator, and replaced the old USB Outlets, WiFi Capable, Custom Seating Configuration, One of a Kind Model, $59,900. TV with a flat screen on 2002 Nabi 40 http://transitsales.com/40ft-nabi-low-floor/ a swinging wall mount. 1995 Van Hool T800, Engine: 8.3 Mechanical, We bought a new Trans: B400RA, 35.5ft, 43 Passengers, Lavatory, "mattress in a box" at Very Nice Interior. $15,000 Costco that weighed 1995 Van Hool T800 http://transitsales.com/van-hool-t80035/ New driver Seat at least a ton. Jim also 1998 Thomas M98, Eng: Cummins 5.9, Trans: added a 6-quart oil Allison MT643, 40 Ft, 19 Passengers, 3 Built-in tank and a hydraulic gear pump to lubricate the low monitors, 6-Seated Couch, Independent Generator, mount turbo system. We worked on remodeling for Command Center Interior Configuration. $25,000 1998 Thomas M98 http://transitsales.com/40ft-thomas-m98/ about four months, and finally took on what we'll 1999 New Flyer D-45HF, Eng: Det. Diesel Series 60, call its Second Maiden Voyage; 22 years after Jim and Trans: ZF B500, 45Ft, 57 Passengers, ADA Compliant, Jackie made its first maiden voyage in 1993. Overhead Reading Light, Suburban Style Seating. $49,000 http://transitsales.com/45ft-new-flyer-d-45s/ The cat is out of the 1999 New Flyer D-45HF bag now...we can't 1997 MCI 102-DL3, Eng: Detroit Series 60, Trans: seem to stop the Allison B500, 45Ft, 55 Passengers, ADA Compliant. $20,000 forward momentum. http://transitsales.com/45ft-mci-102/ We want more! We 1997 MCI 102-DL3 haven't finished Contact Richard (909) 973-0248 the woodwork we www.TransitSales.com planned around the windows to protect the bottom and sides of the new shades. We're still waffling Front of bus inside with the design of the JOHN ZAHN molding around the windshield with its dang double curve. Soon we will Many new and used Eagle parts. take off the front door, rebuild the window frame with When you call, be sure to ask for the one glass instead of two. We will refinish the inside “Hatt” discount. of the door with fabric that matches the new driver's Phone: (714) 703-8200 Fax: (714) 259-7575 seat and recliners. We'd love an air conditioner, bigger E-mail: [email protected] generator, a bathroom re-do, and a new paint job. Oh, 1946 East Occidental Street and Jim, always the pragmatist, would like new wheels Santa Ana CA,92705 www.BusConversions.com BCM 1978 Silver Eagle Bus July 2016 18 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE July 2016 • Tag axle, mounted in front of the drive axle • Weight: 32,500 lb.’s • 100-gallon fresh water holding tank • 100-gallon grey water holding tank • 100-gallon black water holding tank

Valves installed between grey and black water tanks can be opened to connect both tanks together, in case one tank fills and there is no immediate dump- site. • 10-gallon propane and electric hot water heater. • 3-way Norco refrigerator, propane, 12 volt DC, and 120 AC electric • Washer dryer combo • Two 10-gallon propane tanks • Six golf cart batteries for house batteries • 2500 watt trace inverter with standby • Two ea. 8D start batteries • Five solar panels equaling 300 watts may be tilted or rotated for maximum power. • 32-inch shower stall • Propane furnace, currently not in use Jim Bingham and Paula Giddings

Jim Bingham is a bus nut who prefers to do it all himself. He will tackle anything. He started working as a machinist when he was 17, working half days while he was in high school. He worked in OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturing) shops. Later he supervised installing and repairing printing presses for major daily newspapers in the US and Canada. He owned a machine shop for six years. He was a drag racing enthusiast. He modified his own race car and raced as a young man at Lion's Drag Strip, near LA. He built several dune buggies for himself and friends. When he discovered bus conversions, his racing days were over; he became a hard core bus nut. After he bought his bus, many of his friends bought buses too. Since he had "been there, done that," he often helped them with their buses. For a friend, he installed a Series 60 Detroit engine with an Eaton 10 Speed Ultra Shift transmission in a 1966 Model 01 Eagle and replaced the front suspension with a Model 05 suspension. Paula Giddings was a graphic designer for about 20 years, designing grocery ads and other advertising. Later, as the Giddings family construction business grew and developed a need for a full time office manager, she gave up designing grocery ads and other advertising for bookkeeping.

www.BusConversions.com July 2016 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE 19

By Roger Lehet Hello Bus Nuts

As the manufacturer of a new breed of wood stoves I often am asked to share information about what folks in other wheeled communities are doing that might cross over into the Bus Conversion Community. This new movement in America is actually an old move- ment for people in Europe, where the term Caravan is used for the mobile lifestyle many Americans are now just discovering. Many are discovering it out of ne- cessity as the “American Dream” seems highly threat- ened. Fewer and fewer families can afford the “white picket fence on Lullaby Lane”, and downsizing simply makes sense. I recently chatted with a pediatric neu- rosurgeon who was buying one of our wood stoves because he could not afford his heat and mortgage bills. He needed to offset the utility enough to ensure the house payment stayed timely. Along with this movement many new technologies are emerging as being untied from the grid becomes a necessity. We are a community learning that we can power up our homes by integrating thermal electric generation (converting heat energy to electric ener- gy) with solar power. Solar panels are on the roof tops for both electricity and hot water production during the day and an integrated Thermo-Electric Generator accessory on your wood stove when the sun is down. You now have two sources of hot water and electricity, and this energy can be stored for use. This manner of living has many ramifications in today’s world. For too long we have ignored our planet and enslaved our- selves to huge houses, maintenance, power bill and all that comes with it. The degradation of our environ- www.BusConversions.com 20 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE July 2016 ment is serious and Composting toilets have also become more main- the Tiny House and stream in the On Wheels community. RV/Bus Conversion communities are a big part of this. When I think about just how much energy it takes to keep even an av- erage home heat- ed to 70 degrees compared to the smaller domiciles I realize how waste- ful large homes are. These commu- Kimberly wood burning stoves nities (RV/bus/tiny) for small spaces have chosen to be more responsible of our resources and many find a real peace in minimal living. I can say from experience that it takes just 20 minutes to clean my entire 18 foot travel camper from top to bottom. Getting off the grid has numerous “levels” to consid- er. One of the first I consider is “how much power can I produce with the Composting Toilet space I have”? The next is “how much I was lucky enough to attend the 33rd RV and Sports power do I need”? Show in Quartzsite Arizona this year where I saw some Then considering things I really liked. Being an environmentally con- what sources are at cerned individual, I know that one of our most pre- your disposal, for cious commodities, especially in the South Western 12 volt refrigerator example, what all states, is water. I got an opportunity to meet a couple can I accomplish who live full time in an awesome truck conversion. with a wood stove and solar panels? And how much One thing I liked was the little amount of water usage if they work together. Another piece of equipment to that they reported using. Since they often boon dock consider is high efficiency 12 volt refrigeration, LED in the Arizona desert, water is more precious than lighting systems, and as many 12 volt options as pos- gold. They have their equipment set up and tuned sible from television to computer. The less energy we for maximum water savings. They have a single wash/ need the easier the job of producing power enough dry unit that uses hardly any water (powered by the to sustain us. The next level to consider once we un- solar panels). This is with them eating three meals a derstand the “load” to run our home and how to bal- day, washing their dishes and showering daily on 150 ance that with power production, which will likely be gallons per week. This impressed me greatly knowing less than needed for demand, is constant production and storage during off peak hours. One needs a good enough battery bank to store power to cover peak us- age or low production periods. Defining our largest energy consumption by appliance has merit as well. An example would be the clothes dryer which can be replaced by an outside clothesline in the summer Parts, Parts, Parts. All kind of new and used parts for all kinds of buses. and indoors by the wood stove in the winter. Summer Call us for all of your bus parts needs. cooking can be more fun outdoors in warmer weath- Ask for the “Hatt” discount. er. I even remember an old off grid community in the Located in Rossville, GA, just two miles from the junction of mountains of Eastern Washington some years ago. As 1-24 & 1-75 and Chattanooga, TN. the high school girls walked in the snow to the bus 147 Prater Road, Rossville, GA they used their butane powered hair curlers. www.ChooChooGarage.com www.BusConversions.com July 2016 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE 21

is that the laws of con- vection do not work as well in small spaces; air- flow is very important. I once owned a really nice motor home, 27 foot Pace Arrow. The walls peeled both inside and out from de-lamination caused by moisture. It sat vacant with little to Eco Fan no airflow for some time and I lost my coach The use of propane cooking and heating appliances (unless very well ventilated) can be a huge source of more moisture. This is where we advocate the use of a wood stove to protect your investment and most of all your health. Keeping a thermo- elec- tric powered fan on the stove will spread out the dry heat, reducing the Stove Light At Home ability of mold and dry rot to grow. We also now that the average washing machine uses approximate- have a thermo-electric generator lantern that charges ly 40 gallons of water per load. On my extensive trav- it’s battery from the heat of the stove for up to eight els of the U.S. (63,000 + by car in 18 months) I saw and hours portable operation and can be used to charge learned many things. Water reservoirs I saw as a kid in cell phones and tablets. California are now dry and dusty, billions of gallons of water simply gone in our food producing states leav- I have been trying to demonstrate here that there are ing 100 foot tall bridges spanning dry sand. ways to be more kind to our planet. The Bus Conver- sions, Tiny House, RV and boating communities often lead the way in new technology. In fact people want- ing to outfit their life for off grid living should look at the boating community (in my mind) for much of the information needed as they are often highly knowl- edgeable in these areas... has something to do with living on the water... which is where my journey be- gan.

Combo washer dryer Solar panel system

I would like to address something that is a big con- cern for all tiny domicile dwellers, which would be mold. Many people know that black mold can be deadly, as my wife found out from being exposed to it. When we lived on board a boat it became clear that with three people and a big damn dog exhaling up to 2.5 quarts of moisture a day in a restricted space, con- densation can be a killer. Not only can it cause mold but dry rot in your coach’s walls. The biggest reason www.BusConversions.com 22 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE July 2016

I highly encourage anyone living the bus nut, tiny, RV Atlantic Custom Coach or boat dream (and many other alternative housing methods) to attend this year’s Tiny House Jamboree as well as the Mother Earth News Fairs of which there are six around the country. Another good event is the Quartzsite RV show in February. These shows are where the cutting edge equipment shows up first. Unforgettable Fire and Backwoods We Can Help You With: Solar will be presenting this very information with equipment to view at a workshop during the event. » Aluminum Race Decks & Stair systems My good friend Gary Hatt and his crew will be there » Coach Chassis & House Systems to share the awesome BCM magazine and both pro- » Custom Stainless & Aluminum Metal Work mote as well as help us provide more articles like this » Electrical Systems directly from the event. » Lateral Arm Awning Installation & Repair » Heating & Cooling Systems In close (thank you for reading this whole story) there » KVH Satellite Systems is something on my mind that is dear to me. I men- » Audio & Video Systems tioned earlier that the white picket American dream is » Bodywork & Graphics not so easy to attain today. I also mentioned that nu- merous people are enjoying the minimalist lifestyle. Your satisfaction is our highest priority! There is however a flip side to that and it requires forward thinking, building community and working 609-465-3285 together. There has recently been news that the Dept. 1505 Route 9 North, Cape May Court House, N.J. 08210 Of Housing and Urban Development has announced moves that could include making it illegal to live in a “non-standard” house. This could include millions of retirees living in 5th wheels in RV parks... most on a fixed income. It would force all of the people who

have made moves to protect our environment from more burden (fracking, drilling, spilling, explosions) back into energy consuming homes or on the streets.

This gas line explosion is a great example of how we are taxing our environment. It is my “observation” that the powers that be do not like the movement at hand. Everyone from bankers making big money on housing loans to tax depart- ments and energy barons are threatened by this movement, one that is long overdue. I once visited an 18,000 square foot home housing three people, I was www.BusConversions.com July 2016 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE 23

to be in a position to see so many people coming to- gether in the spirit of exactly that.

Roger Lehet

Inventor Roger Lehet, founder and owner of Unforgettable Fire is a nut about mechanics for wood stoves, buses, boats and cars. Through Unforgettable Fire, he is devoting his passions to developing new, sustainable energy solutions that empower all Americans with the energy solutions that empower all Americans with the energy needed to survive, thrive and take care of the environment. Read more about roger att: www.unforgettablefirellc.com/roger-lehet/ sickened by the cost to the environment. That house also represented to me the addiction we face to con- sumerism, we are enslaved and the masters do not like our awakening. It is my belief that there is both safety and power in numbers. Therefore I believe that all of the “tiny/alternative” housing dwellers and enthusiasts should become a friendly community. I have found many of the coolest and most intelligent people in these communities. There may be a day we need to band together, and certainly help educate others immediately to the concept of all that I have mentioned in this article. Lastly I am thrilled to have the opportunity to share my story with people. It is my goal to share what I have learned through a life of service. I have many people to thank. To nutshell all of this... we can live cleaner, we can break the chains of servitude, and we can all work together. It is a thrill

www.BusConversions.com 24 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE July 2016

Flxible Bus Rally 2016 WGM Fourth of July Rally July 14-17, 2016 Mohican Adventures Campground Thursday, June 30, 2016 8:00 AM Loudonville, Ohio to Tuesday, July 05, 2016 8:30 AM Ocean Park, WA Registration form and info www.FlxibleOwners.org The Rally Info with Registration form can be downloaded here or found on page 40 in the Online Edition of this issue.” Open to all Flxible owners, bus owners, and those with interest in vintage buses. Fourth of July Rally 2016 pdf Contact John Maryo Contact Trail Bosses; David Allen, Debbie Thompson Phone # (530) 300-2173 for further information [email protected] Cell (513) 290-1052

2016 Columbia River Gorge Rally Sponsored by “NW Bus Nuts” September 8-11, 2016 Texas Road Runners and Skamania County Fairgrounds Converted Bus Roundup Stevenson, Washington About 50 miles East of Portland on the Washington side of the September 14 -18 Columbia River Open to all factory and converted Buses Hosted Choctaw Casino KOA by Doug High & Tom Goldsby Durant, OK Contact: Doug High Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Cell: (360) 487-9147

Branson 7-Day Eagle Rally California RV Show October 5-11, 2016 Branson Lakeside RV Park Lake October 7-16th, 2016 300 S Boxcar Willie Drive Pomona, CA Branson, Missouri 65616 Contact Tom Gaither Trail Boss Byron Pigg 875 Pedelo Rogersville, MO 65742 Email: [email protected] Home Phone: (417) 753-2285 www.TheBestRVShow.com Cell: (417) 840-9343 Email: [email protected] $1 off Show Admission with this ad!

Lake Mead RV Village Twin Oaks Music Park November 11, 12, 13, 2016 www.twinoakspark.com 268 Lakeshore Rd. Boulder City, NV 89005 October 27-30, 2016 (702) 293-2540 Hoboken, GA We will park on the fence Hosted by Mike Abby line around spaces 10/12 [email protected] A short distance away there are less expensive spaces More Details Coming Next Month with no power or water hookups. Located near Waycross in S.E. Georgia Contact Tom: [email protected]

Having a rally? Let us know! We will help you spread the word. If you or someone you know is hosting a bus rally, we invite you to send us the information so that we can announce it here in THE magazine for bus nuts. Please send it to us up to nine months before the rally date so that we have time to get news of your rally out there. Then after the rally, send us photos and a story about the rally; we’ll make your rally famous. Email your info to [email protected]

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www.BusConversions.com 26 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE July 2016 To advertise in the Classified Ads: Please call (657) 221-0432 or [email protected]

Bus Conversion Service Directory

BusesOnline Happy Camper Largest Online Marketplace Mobile Bus Repair Buses/Parts/Collectibles POB 502 Corvallis, MT 59828 BusesOnline.com (406) 220-2996

Mobile Internet Information Mobile Bus Conversion for RVers by RVers Help and Tech Support RVMobileInternet.com (877) 755-1936 RvingOffGrid.com

Sandblasting and Rustproofing Cox Woodworking No Job Too Big or Too Small Custom Cabinetry for 35 Years (773) 858-3473 (603) 399-7704 MenAtWorkSCS.com CoxWoodWorkingInc.com

For information about placing your ad in our Service Directory either email [email protected] or call the office at (657) 221-0432. Ads start as little as $25/month. When you contact our advertisers, please let them know you saw their ad in Bus Conversion Magazine. We want to hear from you! Write to us. Email us, call us. Tell us what you like and don’t like. What types of information would you like to see in the magazine? Send us a story! Do you have Before and After photos of your conversion project? During? Maybe a story about adventures while traveling, or a wonderful place to camp that you found.

STERLING CLASSIFIEDS 1962 GM 1982 MODEL 10 EAGLE BUS CONVERSION WITH SLIDE OUT 425 CAT (mechanical), Allison 740 AT, 22KW BUS CONVERSION Onan generator 1200 hours, over $500,000 Beautifully converted was spent on this high end conversion. 1962 Greyhound Bus. The roof has been raised 7” and the sides 4 speed transmission, widened to 8-1/2’. People who are familiar power steering, 2 with Eagle bus conversions say that this is top mounted air one of (if not the best) conversion they have conditioners, twin ever seen. The man who did this conversion beds, toilet and had very deep pockets. This coach has shower, refrigerator, been driven less than 52,000 miles since microwave, mini being converted. Following is a partial lights throughout the interior, entrance lights list of equipment and accessories: 425HP CAT mechanical, Allison 740 Auto Transmission, Onan at the door, new outside mirrors closet, ladies 22KW Generator, 14’ X 36’ Slide Out, Corian Counter Tops throughout, Corian Dash, Color Back makeup area. This bus gets 11 miles per gallon. up Camera, Bose Stereo, Leather Sofa with Queen Bed, Washer/Dryer, Slide out Pantry, Amana The 318 Detroit 8v71 engine in it has a blown Side by Side Refrigerator-Freezer, Sharp Convection Microwave, Creda Convention/Convection head gasket. I have another 318 Detroit 8v71 Oven, Gaggenau Stove Top, Trash Compactor, 2-Central A/C, Dash A/C, Leather Pilot/Copilot Seats, engine recently rebuilt at a cost of $9,600 that Central Vacuum, Awnings, Select Comfort Mattress in Master, Beautiful Woodwork throughout, goes with this bus; it has about Recent Paint on roof, This Eagle is not perfect but it is very nice. It is a pleasure to drive and you will 500 miles on it. This engine is be proud to own it. Would take a Bus conversion of lesser value on trade. attached to a transmission and whole rear-end. I also have a whole front end both complete with bumpers; this also goes with this bus. I have a total of $75,000 in this project. I’m a 75 year old Santa Claus.

Needs$17,995 Engine Work Call Santa Bo at (804) 512-4840 Located in Chester, VA $89,500 Call Ruby at (309) 224-8998 To see more info and photos of this bus, Or Email at [email protected] click here. Located in: Peoria, IL goo.gl/RweCIe

www.BusConversions.com July 2016 Sterling Classifieds BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE 27

To advertise in the Classified Ads: Please call (657) 221-0432 or [email protected] 1983 MC-9 LOG CABIN CONVERSION Log Cabin Bus owned by BCM Publisher for 5 years. This bus was converted to be a demo model in 2002. The extra attention to detail and all of the optional features offered at the time. This is an MCI MC-9 with solid Knotty Pine interior, so it is very easy to keep clean. The features are very simple so the kids can run around without having to worry about anything getting broken. Headroom is 6’ 6”. Front cargo bay contains a carpeted sleeping area for kids to ride in and they love it down there. It can also be used for visitors to stay with small windows on each side on the bay doors, or a place to just take a nap on a hot summer day. Access is available via a porthole under the dining table which has been closed off, but can easily be re-opened to be used. 5000 miles on rebuilt 6V92 turbo coupled with an Allison HT-740 Automatic Transmission. 7.5KW Onan Genset. Two Coleman 15,000 BTU Roof Airs, Over- the-road air, 26” flat screen TV. Bath/Shower, 3-Burner Propane Stove w/Oven, 2-7.5 Gallon Removable Propane Tanks. Two Refrigerators, one 2-Way, 2-Door Fridge/Freezer, and one small 110V Supplemental Fridge. 30,000 BTU Propane Furnace, Four 12V Deep-Cycle House Batteries, 2500W Prosine Inverter. Propane/110V 10 Gallon Water Heater. 50A shore power connection. Recently driven from Anaheim to Quartzsite to attend the bus rally. Read two different articles about this bus from previous BCM issues at http://www.BusConversions.com/Gary/GHMC9.pdf

$27,000 Call Gary at (714) 614-0373 [email protected] Located in Anaheim, CA

1972 GMC 4905 (40ft) 1995 DINA CONVERTED TO AN RV IN 1996-2004 1984 EAGLE 10 8” ROOF RAISE

1972 GMC 4905 (40 ft) fully converted to an RV 1996-2004. 8V71 Diesel, 28,000 miles on total overhaul, power steering, 8KW 43’X102”, 11.1 60 series 375hp, Allison B500, All Electric Coach, Webasto Heating System, Generator, two 15,000 BTU Roof A/C units, 10mpg at 65mph, new 22.5’s on Alcoa’s, Diesel Generator, 6V92 Detroit Diesel, Allison Commercially finished in whitewashed Oak. new brakes, electronic jake and cruise, 7.5 Transmission, Professional Conversion, Garage Comfortable, easy to drive, very safe to water cooled Generac diesel generator, 200 Kept, Painted by Star Jet. Must See!!! Illness operate. Contact me for more pictures and gal fresh and waste water, 20 gal hot water is reason for sale. E-mail for more info and details. heater, 40k BTU A/C and heat pump, 100k BTU pictures!! Webasto and bus A/C, 8 new shocks, flexible suspension IFS, solid hickory and leather, A4 in motion satellite with Bose surround sound, original 12v bus lights and 120v track lights with dimmers, 3k watt inverter, 100amp and $59,995 $27,450 50amp Vanner’s, new 10 group 31 batteries. Call Becky at (937) 548-0686 Call Tom at (619) 421-2308 Read about this bus in the Jul and Aug 2013 issues in BCM. E-mail: [email protected] [email protected] Located in Greenville, OH Located in Chula Vista, CA $75,000 To see more info and photos of this bus, To see more info and photos of this bus, Text Wulf at (773) 858-3473 click here. click here. Or [email protected] https://goo.gl/b3pGct Located in Chicago, IL https://goo.gl/QX3F3d

www.BusConversions.com 28 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE Sterling Classifieds July 2016 To advertise in the Classified Ads: Please call (657) 221-0432 or [email protected] FABULOUS 1990 LIBERTY 35´- 1966 PREVOST BUS CONVERSION! MCI MC-5A CONVERSION

8V71 with Out-of-frame rebuild with approx. 40K miles. New brakes approx 6K miles, new rims and tires, approx. 150 miles. New tie rod ends and drag link. 10KW diesel generator, 2,500W Heart Interface inverter, 100-Gal. fresh tank, 110-Gal. waste tank, electric/ gas water heater, 3-way refer, Flexsteel 120,000 miles, 3 Roof Air Conditioning Units, Built on a furniture, cabinets w/stained glass doors, 2 factory-made bus conversion chassis, 8V-92 Detroit Diesel, large propane tanks, 2 roof A/C, hardwood floor and wine colored carpet, Corian Allison 5-Speed Automatic Transmission, 40’ x 102” wide, counter tops, full stove w/oven, microwave, 12KW diesel generator on slide-out, 225 gallon fuel tank, washer/dryer, full size walk thru bath, full Aluminum wheels, 10,000 lb. capacity tow hitch, New size neo-angle shower, center queen bed w/ brake pads and drums all the way around, New turbo and storage underneath, Prevost mirrors, Zip Dee air compressor on Detroit Diesel, Queen Bed, Spray foam awnings w/screens. insulation throughout entire coach, New power steering unit, Silver-gray and blue. $22,500Call Roger at (231) O.B.O. 838-8628 or email [email protected] Located in Charlevoix, MI $64,900 To see more info and photos of this bus, Call Jeff at (512) 468-3850 click here. or email at [email protected] https://goo.gl/z5hPY3

1990 – 45 FOOT EAGLE BUS – 1964 - SILVER EAGLE CUSTOM UNFINISHED COACH PLACE YOUR BUS ADVERTISEMENT HERE

435 horse 92 series Detroit turns the 750 When you place a Allison transmission in this coach. Two roof top air conditioners. Three catalytic heaters. Sterling Classified The bus has always been stored indoors. Series 60 – 550 The fridge is 110 volt only and the stove is HP Detroit engine advertisement in a four burner with an oven which has never with World 6 Bus Conversion been used. The stack washer and dryer is speed automatic new. Jacuzzi tub with built in shower. All transmission. Magazine, We will systems work and this is a nice bus to travel 14 foot slide, Air Step, Custom Windows in. Read more about this bus at http:// still in the crates ($7,000 Value). Coach is also place your ad on BusConversions.com/bcmclassifieds/ professionally skinned with window holes index.php already cut in. New radiator, re-conditioned our website free of differential. This coach has too many parts charge at: to list and would be an excellent project for someone looking to build their dream home on wheels! Close to $100,000 invested. Must BusConversions.com/ sell, owner has passed away. bcmclassifieds $35,000 $25,000.00 Canadian dollars Call Dan at (308) 765-1020 As soon as we receive payment Email [email protected] or $19,500 US dollars OBO for your ad, we will put your Call Ken or Sonya at (604) 746-5544 Located in Gering, NE or (403) 993-1846 ad with up to 10 photos on our To see more info and photos of this bus, or email [email protected] website as well click here. Located in Abbotsford, BC https://goo.gl/51YWha

www.BusConversions.com in dash, New windshields, and backup camera to be installed, Training Manuals (parts and trouble shooting), Spare furnace, Oak cabinets, Tires in good shape, and much more. July 2016 Sterling Classifieds BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE 29

To advertise in the Classified Ads: Please call (657) 221-0432 or [email protected] 1970 EAGLE – A DREAM CUT SHORT This bus was recently gone through and everything checked out and replaced if necessary to travel and live in full time just before my husband passed away. So this bus is ready to go. Bus has new Start Batteries

My husband is no longer with us and I must sell this bus quickly. I will take asking price O.B.O. Engine 8V71 rebuilt in 1996, Transmission rebuilt by Haygood in 1996. Model 10 caps, New: clutch pack, air compressor, brakes, shocks, all brake chambers, all belts & hoses, alternator and bracket, air dryer, converter, charger, house and coach batteries, generator. Electric driver’s seat, Auxiliary heat and air

$38,500 Call Marilyn at (469) 486-1045 or email: [email protected] Located in The Colony, TX

To see more info and photos of this bus, click here. https://goo.gl/whrDR6

1962 GM PD 4106, 35’ BUS CONVERSION

Bus converted in 1999, DD8V71 with V730 auto trans, 140 gal fuel cap, 7.0 KW Onan gas generator with 20 gal gas tank, air throttle, King cruise control, Jake brake, Shepard power steering, Coach Services Air Leveling System, electric wipers, RMC fiberglass caps on front and rear of bus, RMC headlight update kit, RMC fiberglass tailgate, LED tail lights, rear camera, Aluminum wheels, Peninsula double pane RV windows with screens, air ride driver seat. Roof AC, bath with shower, Norcold gas or electric refrigerator, four burner propane stove with oven, microwave, tile counters, 20 gallon propane tank, 100 gal fresh water, 100 gal combined black/grey water tank with electric waste valve, new start batteries (April 2016), two AGM house batteries with 50 amp smart converter, Queen bed. Bus runs good, approx. 25,000 miles on rebuilt transmission. Bus located near Sacramento, CA.

$15,250 FIRM Call Ernest at (707) 738-6566 [email protected]

www.BusConversions.com 30 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE Sterling Classifieds July 2016 To advertise in the Classified Ads: Please call (657) 221-0432 or [email protected]

This 2009 Blue Bird Wanderlodge is a fully air-conditioned and 2009 BLUE BIRD heated 45ft home on wheels! The Wanderlodge is in excellent condition with top-of-the-line features in luxury, mechanics, and safety. Some of its great luxury features include: stone tiled flooring, 40” Sony HD LCD, 700 watts 7.1 digital surround system, 3 additional slide out rooms, cruise control, 10 disc CD changer, built in lavatory and shower, high end textile decor, exotic wood cabinetry, and stone tiled floor. This spacious and beautifully designed motorcoach was not only built for comfort but also with your safety in mind. The Wanderlodge is equipped with CO detectors, smoke detectors, 2 fire extinguishers, a drop safe, a security system with key fob, 6 channel antilock brakes, air leveling system, electric front windshield visors, and a rear vision system with a 10” monitor. You will also experience great power and smooth ride in the Wanderlodge with its Cummins ISX 600 horse power engine and Allison MH 4000 6 speed transmission. The Wanderlodge is also equipped with a 200-gallon fuel tank, which makes this motorcoach ready for the road! To get the full list of impressive features or a price inquiry please contact us at $229,000 Call Brad at: (951) 836-6528 [email protected] Located in Riverside, CA To see more info and photos of this bus, click here. https://goo.gl/EiASgY

1970 GMC 4905 40ft 1993 Guaranteed Classified Ads! 1972 MCI MC-7 Do you have a bus conversion, bus shell, tour CHALLENGER bus, almost finished bus, or any other kind of bus to sell? We can help you sell your bus, bus supplies, and parts or services. Advertise for three months and at the end of that time, if your item(s) have not sold, we will run your ad again for up to three months for free in our Digital Edition. Standard Classified Ads Up to 50 words with no photo $35 for three months. Photo is an additional $10.. Sterling Classified Ads Regular (1/6 page) Up to 100 words and two photos $70 for three months. Recent conversion. 8v71 Detroit. v730. 74,000 miles on rebuilt motor. Sam Caylor supply Sterling Classified Ads Large (1/3 page) Up conversion. New tires. 15KW 4 Cycle Kubota to 200 words and three photos. $120 for three generator. Freedom 2500 inverter. 50A hookup. months. For Sale: 1972 Webasto diesel furnace. Body needs TLC. Full Sterling Classified Ads Extra Large (1/2 page) MCI 7, Challenger, size bed. Ceiling fan. Shower Porcelain toilet. Up to 300 words and four photos. $180 for three converted in 2002 Washer hookups, Central vacuum. Walnut months. from Air Force cabinets. Newmar electric panel. All LED lights. Matching furniture . New cook top Sterling Classified Ads are for Bus, Bus Parts or Satellite Tracking RV Lots only and must be prepaid. There are bus by using 1999 and fridge. Ice maker. Convection oven. New no refunds for early withdrawal. All ads and Airstream trailer cabinets and appliances. 8V71 dash with Isspro gages. Center console. cancellations must be received by the 15th, two Detroit Diesel with retarder, Allison 6 speed Air suspension. Electric wipers, 2 drivers fans, months prior to publication. automatic transmission. Alcoa aluminum LED dash lights, 2 fuel gages. Ramco mirrors. As an ADDED bonus, when you place a Sterling wheels. Trailer hitch. Propane furnace, stove Brand new sinks, battery’s, power steering. Classified Ad in our magazine, we will also top, refrigerator (also electric). Microwave/ place your ad on our website that gets over to 1 convection oven. 10KW generator. Million page views per month. $27,000 O.B.O. MOVE THAT BUS! Call John at (603) 327-6931 Email your ad and photos to Gary@BusConver- $12,500 [email protected] sions.com. Or mail your completed ad and pho- Call Rick at (505) 379-7796 tos to Bus Conversion Magazine, Attn: Classified Located in Brentwood, NH Ads, 661 E Main St # 200-3131, Midlothian TX Located in Bosque Farms, New Mexico 76065. You can also call us at (657) 221-0432.

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(800) 479-9945 July 2016 Digital Edition Bonus Content Exclusively Available In The BCM Digital Edition (800) 479-9945 BusBCM Conversion Magazine 34 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE July 2016

Bonus Photos! Our New Life

Stripped walls ready for new covering. We removed the old TV cabinet that housed the bulky, heavy, old-style TV. The new cabinet was about half as big, but still had room for the electronics needed for the new TV that hangs on a wall mount above the driver’s side window and below the new cabinet. We are going to remove the door with its two windows and rebuild it with just one larger window.

By the time Jim and I decided to rescue our bus, it was somewhat mildewed, especially where the window condensation soaked the plywood, under-covering and wallpaper beneath the windows. We removed the wallpaper, scraped off the under layer, sanded and The original bus seat from the Hanford bus was replaced with a prepared the walls for new coating. We bought a dehumidifier after Flexsteel Captain’s chair after 37 years of service. we started stripping the walls and ran it almost continually during late winter and spring to keep ahead of the moisture problem.

www.BusConversions.com July 2016 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE 35

Bonus Photos! Our New Life

TV in travel position. When we are at park, we swing it out above the driver’s seat. I made the privacy drapes out of insulated drapery lining. Jim built 1/4 inch x 1 inch rods that curve around the front 6 volt golf cart batteries work beautifully for house batteries. They are windshield. The driver’s side window and door window are covered wired in series and parallel for our 12 volt system. These are new this with shorter curtains on shorter rods. They fasten back at the sides of spring. The life span of these batteries is about 5 years. They should be the windshield when not in use. replaced as a set. They are powered by solar panels on the roof.

Finished turbo set-up, with oil pressure gauge and engine oil temperature gauge above on/off power switch for the batteries.

We opted to have four recliners instead of a couch and two chairs in the living area. So far we have not regretted it. The two dark ones are Lazy Boy wall huggers. The swivel recliners are Flexsteel. All are bolted to Breaker box for the 120 volt AC electrical system. the floor. The two swivel recliners have seat belts that move with them, making sight-seeing on the road a pleasure.

www.BusConversions.com 36 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE July 2016

Bonus Photos! Our New Life

Grey and black water tank valves. This is set up to use the grey water to flush the black water tank.

We bought this 2002 Honda CRV to use as a tow car. We like the Honda CRV because it is designed so it can be towed without alteration or an extra pump. It’s as simple as putting the transmission in drive then into neutral and you’re on your way.

This is our new bus barn, taken before it was finished last fall. It has enough space for Jim to have a shop, where he can build, repair, restore, tinker, polish and entertain like-minded friends. The bus has never been stored inside and we are hoping the shop will help resolve the condensation problem and other weather damage.

www.BusConversions.com July 2016 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE 37

Bonus Photos! What Is This Thing Called Workamping

Crater Lake RV Park Office

On the way to Crater Lake

Rogue River

Barr Falls Rogue River

www.BusConversions.com 38 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE July 2016

Bonus Photos! What Is This Thing Called Workamping

Rotel Tours bus Leaving Buck Creek RV Park for California

Frontier Texas Stuffed Buffalo inside Frontier Texas

Bus nut friends, Karen and Tom, with bronze statue in front of Frontier Texas Horse on the ranch

www.BusConversions.com July 2016 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE 39

Bonus Photos! What Is This Thing Called Workamping

Historic Landmark, Joseph Sexton House, built in 1850, Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara Mission Old Town San Diego

Shops in Old Town San Diego

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BRANSON 7 DAY EAGLE RALLY October 5-11, 2016

BRANSON LAKESIDE RV PARK LAKE TANEYCOMO IN BRANSON, MO 300 S Boxcar Wilie Drive | Branson, Missouri 65616 The park is next to Branson Landing which features a water show every evening, one mile of shops including Belks department Store, Bass Pro Shops, several restaurants, and several small shops - all within walking distance! RALLY FEE $225 FOR TWO PEOPLE AND ONE COACH INCLUDES FULL HOOK UP FOR 7 NIGHTS FOR THE FIRST 35 COACHES Note: if you want to stay longer, visit www.cityofbranson.org for more information.

TRAIL BOSS BYRON PIGG Home Phone: (417) 753-2285 Cell: (417) 840-9343 E-mail: [email protected]

PLEASE MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE AND MAIL TO: BYRON PIGG 875 PEDELO RD ROGERSVILLE, MISSOURI 65742

REGISTRATION DEADLINE AUGUST 30, 2016 ______NAME(S)______PHONE______ADRESS______E-MAIL ______CITY ______STATE______ZIP ______42 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE Blast From The Past July 2016

Part 7 of a 12 part series of articles about the Eagle from a 1982 www.BusConversions.comBus World magazine July 2016 Blast From The Past BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE 43

Reproduced copies of the entire issue with all of the series in it are available for $20 in either printed or PDF format by contacting the Publisher at [email protected] or by calling the office at (657) 221-0432. www.BusConversions.com 44 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE BFTP Road Fix July 2016

Bus Conversions

All readers are invited to submit an article about a ROAD FIX that they or someone else have experienced. If we use your article you will receive a one year Online subscription to Bus Conversions Magazine absolutely FREE. Send your article to: Bus Conversion Magazine C/O "One For The Road" 9852 Katella Ave STE 361, Anaheim, CA 92804 or email them to [email protected]. Be sure to include your name, address, and phone number. ROAD FIX BY MALI FISHER

out the engine and transmission. to first hear and not able to shift We recently had trouble with or again is the gear in the transmis­ VS-2 transmission so that was our sion governor. Loren did ask if, Our trip to Quartzsite, Arizona first concern. Everything seemed "thelittleplasticpartwasbroken?" had been planned for a year. Just fine, we were off again. Our 4905 is We didn't see any plastic so we before we left, we discovered a always slow getting out of the hole, couldn't answer that question. Western GM rally was happening but, when she seemed to stay in Rather than opening up the gover­ as well. Our plan was to meet up first gear to long I got concerned. nor there in the rest stop we de­ with our friends, Walt and Sandy Willy told me to settle down, give cided to go on into Quartszite. Quigley on Sunday after we went it some time. But she didn't shift. Once there, which by the way, in to the last minutes of the rally, (our After a short discussion we de­ first gear took every bit of three main goal was to talk buses with cided to cruise about three miles, hours. I was happy we made it at anyone left and hopefully join the (in first gear) into the next rest stop all!!! Western GM association). and call Loren. Willy was into the governor and On Sunday, hubby and I rolled Loren is the owner and opera­ in fifteen minutes he had the gear out onto 1-10 in our 4905. Just out­ tor of Dreamliner Bus Leasing, in out. Yah! it looked warn. We called side of North Palm Springs we Perris, California. He sold us our Loren on Monday and he agreed fueled up. At that time I estimated 1972 GM 4905 last year. He's al­ to send a new/used gear out to us our arrival to meet our friends ways there to help with questions by way of U.P.S. Meantime we would be two hours. Suddenly a about repairs and maintenance, had four days to see Quartszite! bump type motion within our with our coach. So as I explained That's a story in itself. Thursday, coach happened. It felt more like a what had happened, Loren con­ we were disappointed when U.P.S. heart skip. Willy (my hubby and firmed Willy's diagnosis. The didn't have our part. Oh well, an­ the driver of the coach) was cause of our automatic transmis­ other day to shop. puzzled. We pulled over to check sion slipping from high gear down Friday, the part arrived, Willy

May 1994 - 45

www.BusConversions.com July 2016 BFTP Road Fix BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE 45

www.BusConversions.com 46 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE BFTP One for The Road July 2016

All readers are invited to submit their favorite humorous, offbeat or engaging photos for possible inclusion in this magazine. If we use your photo you will receive a one year Online subscription to Bus Conversions Magazine absolutely FREE. Send photos to: Bus Conversion Magazine C/O "One For The Road" 9852 Katella Ave STE 361, Anaheim, CA 92804 or email them to [email protected]. Be sure to include your name, address, and phone number with photos. July 2016 Blast From The Past BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE 47

www.BusConversions.com 48 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE Blast From The Past July 2016

www.BusConversions.com July 2016 Blast From The Past BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE 49

www.BusConversions.com (866) 200-9773 [email protected] / www.tiretraker.com July 2016 Product Announcement BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE 51

www.BusConversions.com 52 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE Bus Chat July 2016 Loosing Speed Uphill, 8v71

Photo: Phil Lyons Bus

Post by: jasong71 You recently can also install larger fuel injectors to put more fuel in the system, but that will also lower your I’m a complete and utter newbie here. Recently fuel mileage. Some folks think the trade-off is worth bought a 1982 MC9 w/ an 8v71 I believe (so I was it for close to $1000. told). It is an auto (not sure which, used to be a man- ual). I am losing power going up small hills. I have it Post by: luvrbus floored and I slow right down. I was given two recom- mendations: Down shift to a lower gear - a 8v71 faints if it see a small hill. Seriously, get a run at or down shift. Don't 1. Change Fuel Filters wait for the transmission to shift down, do it manual- 2. Check Throttle Linkage. ly. Changing the filters and being sure the governor is opening is a good start but a 8v71 is not much in Figured the fuel filter part out, have not changed them the hills. yet. How do I go about checking, fixing the throttle linkage? Any other opinions on possible causes? Post by: Gary Hatt Thanks, What are you talking about Cliff? My 8V71 can top 85 Jason MPH easily going down the Grapevine. ;D Post by: Gary Hatt Post by: luvrbus Jason, Gary he is probably set on around 260 hp and 775 ft All 8v71 engines lose power going up hills. As they lbs of torque to keep the heat down for a MCI lol. An get old they, just like us, they lose power for several 8v71 does like down hill. reasons. It all depends how you define "small hills". A hill with a 4% grade if it is long, can cause my bus with Post by: dtcerrato the same engine to drop down to 35 MPH. The key to it is to be sure to shift down so you keep the rev's up Heck, Inline 6-71 loves down hills! an keep the temp under 180. Otherwise keep down- shifting until the temp gets down below 180. Post by: DoubleEagle A plugged Air Filter will cause a loss of power too. It All of the advice about the air cleaner and fuel filters can be cleaned and blown out but if it is really bad, it is quite true, particularly the fuel filters. One bad load is better to install a new one. of fuel, or old fuel with contamination can really put a crimp on power fast in any diesel. The engine might Or you could have a leak in your fuel line or a fitting also need a tune (running the rack). Assuming the en- could be sucking air, or the fuel line could be plugged. gine is as good as it will be, you then have to not be afraid to take command of the engine and downshift If the bus hasn't run for a while, it is a good idea to when necessary and run it up to the governor limit. pour some fuel stabilizer in the fuel tank and that may Then sit back and wait while watching the tempera- break up some of the crud and water if there is any. ture gauge while everybody else goes shooting by. Appreciate the sound of the 2 cycle while it is spin- www.BusConversions.com July 2016 Bus Chat BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE 53 ning its heart out for you, because it will get you to Simple check for the throttle, see if all the parts in the the top. back on the top of the engine move their full travel when someone pushes the pedal to the floor. You can Post by: jasong71 do this with engine off. Take pictures and post them here. I am downshifting. A small hill is a few hundred feet at a 5% grade. Flats I am doing 55 (if I am lucky) and After that, it gets complicated. floored. Post by: jackhanow Post by: jasong71 Shop vac primes them right up. Vinyl tubing. Jug of Quote from: DoubleEagle some sorts. Make sure it didn't have volatile liquid in “The engine might also need a tune (running the it. Set it up vac to jug, jug with vinyl hose to the fuel rack).” line coming from the filter to the pump. Turn it on and wait til there is about a quart or so of fuel in the jug. Will that include fuel filters, or is it separate? Hook the line back up and start it. I've done this a lot. Works great. Post by: luvrbus Post by: Tony LEE Quote from: jasong71 “I am downshifting. A small hill is a few hundred feet Quote from: Gary Hatt at a 5% grade. Flats I am doing 55 (if I am lucky) and “What are you talking about Cliff. My 8V71 can top 85 floored.” MPH easily going down the Grapevine. ;D”

It should do better than that are you getting - any Yes, no point burning those crappy old drum brakes black smoke? Change the filter then check the shut- up unnecessarily. down cylinder on top of the governor housing and be sure it is retracting all the way and you have a small Post by: TomC gap between the lever and cylinder rod I can remember when I was in 9th grade (1971) the Post by: DoubleEagle school ski club chartered a Continental Trailways bus for the trip from L.A. to Mammoth Lakes and back. It That is substandard; an 8V71 will do better than that. was an Eagle 1. Course just a 8V-71 and 4spd manual. Change both fuel filters (they need to be filled with The bus was full, and the under cargo compartments fuel to the top). Running the rack is done by a me- were full too. I'm guessing grossing around 45,000lbs. chanic with skill. It is adjusting the timing of the fuel What I remember most is pulling the long hill on high- injectors and involves taking the valve covers off. You way 395 going north out of Bishop, Ca and doing it in can do the filters yourself. The old ones should have 2nd gear against the governor for a speed of around numbers on them, and NAPA, at least, can get you the 25mph. I knew the driver was a good one since on the right ones. You might have to crank the engine for a way back down, before the downhill, he slowed down while to re-prime the system. If you are lucky, the fil- to 25mph again and down shifted to 2nd and went ters will make a big difference. down the hill at that same speed since the bus didn't have a Jake brake. Post by: luvrbus My bus with 8V-71 and V730 pulls the same hill in 1st Where are you located? gear (converter locked up) at 32mph. After turboing the engine I pull that hill in 2nd at 45 mph. Post by: buswarrior Post by: Seangie Hello, and welcome to the madness! Curious as to what transmission was put into your Please, do not touch your fuel filters unless you KNOW bus. If it was swapped out to an automatic from a how to do it without losing prime. And have the tools transit bus that would keep you from going over 55. necessary to RE-PRIME on hand. You have a coach The guys here would know better. that will run right now. Lose prime, and you have a coach that will not start, and you will kill the batteries 2nd - Is it going into 4th gear on the flats? (Assuming trying fruitlessly. a 4 speed auto) Check your transmission fluid. If it’s short it may not be shifting into 4th gear. Do not use starting fluid as any part of this process; do it properly. 3rd - My bus with a 6v92 and Allison 740, I’ll notice www.BusConversions.com 54 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE Bus Chat July 2016 that I start losing power/speed on very small grades/ ok, 8 more people can ignore me now. ;D hills when in 4th gear unless I have pretty good mo- PS... there is no way you can remove the filters with- mentum. So if I’m driving over a bridge or overpass in out losing prime. 4th and I’m only doing 60 I won’t be able to accelerate and if the grades long enough will have to drop to 3rd Post by: luvrbus to keep it above 55 on those small hills. If I’m barrel- ing at 70 mph I’ll cruise over those hills and my speed Quote from: eagle19952 will only drop to 68 - 65 mph. “There is no fluffy way to say this... priming a Detroit is not that hard...anyone who says it is would last about Like the guys said - watch your tach and temp. Let us an hour working for a dealer... know what your tach is at when you start to lose pow- And it seems like 86% of the people think that it re- er. If the tach is full on and you are losing power it will quires way to much extra stuff to accomplish.Priming be torque/tranny. If you are not getting full tach then a Detroit is a pretty basic beginner deal. its power/fuel from the engine. ok, 8 more people can ignore me now. ;D Let us know what happens. These guys are a great PS... there is no way you can remove the filters with- resource and you won’t find a better collection of hu- out losing prime.” mans more willing to help then on this website. (Al- though they will dish out the trash talk from time to Lol they are fairly easy to prime (I cheat), I recall Sean's time, which makes for good entertainment). ordeal at a dealer in MT it took them 2 days to prime his 6v92 wonder if those guys still work for Interstate. Post by: DoubleEagle ;D Quote from: buswarrior Post by: eagle19952 “Hello, and welcome to the madness! Please, do not touch your fuel filters unless you KNOW how to do it Quote from: luvrbus without losing prime. And have the tools necessary “Lol they are fairly easy to prime ( I cheat), I recall Se- to RE-PRIME on hand. You have a coach that will run an's ordeal at a dealer in MT it took them 2 days to right now. Lose prime, and you have a coach that will prime his 6v92 wonder if those guys still work for In- not start, and you will kill the batteries trying fruitless- terstate ;D” ly.” Let's put it this way... they'd have a lot of explaining to Do not use starting fluid as any part of this process; do... if they worked for me. do it properly. Were I in Sean's shoes and he was me... me and the Simple check for the throttle, see if all the parts in the service manager would have had a long talk too. back on the top of the engine move their full travel There should have been a bill with a 0 and a line thru when someone pushes the pedal to the floor. You can it. do this with engine off. Take pictures and post them here. Post by: luvrbus After that, it gets complicated.” Donald, all kidding aside, some of these old buses like a MCI with the fuel tank up front can be bitch to prime I think we scared off the Newbie with all the possi- using only the filters and fuel. bilities. Yes, it would be wise to be ready to re-prime if necessary, but I have successfully changed both Post by: eagle19952 filters by filling completely with fuel without any big problem. Maybe I was lucky, but after the hassles of Quote from: luvrbus the old filters (not knowing what was going on with “Donald all kidding aside some of these old buses like them), I switched to the single fuel processor back in a MCI with the fuel tank up front can be bitch to prime the nineties, and that has never been a prime prob- using only the filters and fuel” lem. Post by: eagle19952 I know this but it's kinda like being a KungFu'y... you gotta wanna be one with your motor... so, take your There is no fluffy way to say this... priming a Detroit is filters off 4 times in one day and deal with it. You will not that hard... anyone who says it is would last about then be one with the agony and the ecstasy, grass- an hour working for a dealer... hoppers. Or lower your filters :) And it seems like 86% of the people think that it re- quires way to much extra stuff to accomplish. Prim- ing a Detroit is a pretty basic beginner deal. www.BusConversions.com July 2016 Bus Chat BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE 55 Post by: TomC Post by: luvrbus When changing the fuel filters, warm up the engine Now guys DD has always offered the electric prim- first. Then change the filters filling the new filters with ing pump or the mechanical hand type ever since I fuel before putting them back on. I’ve never have can remember. The OEM just never installed one till had a priming problem. The engine will stumble a bit MCI did with the C. I have owned my electric priming but if you raise the rpm up right away (the main rea- pump from DD since the 70's and a hand type made son for warming the engine first) then you shouldn't in the 50's. loose prime. Post by: eagle19952 My Cat 3406B is extremely easy to prime. Take off the fuel line and return line from the tank. Attach a 5psi Quote from: luvrbus fuel pump to the feed line with the pumps pickup in “Now guys DD has always offered the electric prim- the fuel tank. Run the fuel pump till you see fuel come ing pump or the mechanical hand type ever since I out of the return line. Reattach the fuel lines to the can remember. The OEM just never installed one till tank and start the engine. Can do the same thing with MCI did with the C. I have owned my electric priming a Detroit with a fuel pump T'd into the feed fuel line. pump from DD since the 70's and a hand type made in the 50's.” Post by: Nel Worked on Detroits for Uncle Sam in 1970.. spent 3 I used one of those cheap harbor freight orange col- years doing that.. ored hand oil/fuel pumps and a 2 liter bottle and I started working at a TEREX/DD dealer in 1973... never tapped into an access hole on the fuel pump on my saw an electric pump on anything. 671, piece of cake to prime. We started swiping/finding/getting Cummins/KW primer pumps soon after. That little pencil pump is all Post by: DoubleEagle we ever used... that and a pour can. Quote from: eagle19952 Post by: bevans6 “There is no fluffy way to say this... priming a Detroit is not that hard...anyone who says it is would last about Has anyone suggested the OP pull a valve cover and an hour working for a dealer... have a look inside? See if the rack goes to full fuel And it seems like 86% of the people think that it re- on both sides, see what injectors are in it? Could be quires way to much extra stuff to accomplish. Prim- as easy as a tune up and new injectors and off to the ing a Detroit is a pretty basic beginner deal. races. ok, 8 more people can ignore me now. ;D Post by: eagle19952 PS... there is no way you can remove the filters with- out losing prime.” Back on track... I seriously doubt this will be solved with filters alone. My bet goes to a linkage or tune Nope, you will not be ignored (I think they should do solution. Probably linkage. away with that button). I submit the following freak of nature: Back in the nineties, I was on the New York State Thruway headed toward Buffalo in my Model Discussions like this take place on a daily basis in the Bus 05 Eagle (8V71) when I began losing power and the Conversion Magazine Online Discussion Forum. To read engine was running rough, and I dropped below 40 them go to: mph, so I pulled over and shut down. I suspected bad fuel as I had put in some Thruway fuel stop fuel about www.BusConversions.com/bbs two hundred miles earlier. I noticed that the truckers Anyone can read the main discussion board. But to get the were not fueling there, but I was low. I had both fil- most out of it you need to join by clicking the “register” link ters on hand and a can of diesel and a few tools, but above the login box in the upper left section of the Forum no pumps or hoses. I filled the filters to overflowing, page. put them on quickly, cranked the engine a little bit, it caught, ran rough for a little while, but kept going Registration is free and once registered you will be able and got smooth. I technically might have lost prime, to view all the available discussion boards, view images, but because it was warm, it was not incapacitating. I lookup and contact other members, and most importantly, post your own questions, reply to other members, and also did this at home when doing maintenance with share your own experiences for others to learn from. the same results, but after I switched to the fuel pro- cessor, I never had any close calls with losing prime See you on the Forum! again.

www.BusConversions.com 56 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE Digital Classified Ads July 2016

GM PD41XX SERIES BUSES 1978 35 FOOT TWO AXLE MCI MC-5C Use your credit card to place a classified ad, start or renew a

subscription, or Never a passenger bus. Detroit 6V71, Jake I am putting together a list of surviving GM Brakes - Aluminum Wheels, Allison Automatic 41 series buses left in the world. Coaches are 6-speed. Kohler genset 12.5KW, Air suspension to send a gift being tracked by serial number and location, Leveling. Webasto hot water, factory A/C and city and state. Any status: conversion, a roof A/C. Refrigerator, Freezer, Ice Maker, subscription. seated bus or scrapped. To date I can account Microwave, Electric stove/oven, Beautiful oak for 450+ of 5,065 PD 4104’s. Contact me to kitchen, big pantry. Twin beds, Large closet in share your info and I will share mine with bathroom. Two flat screen TV’s 104k original Just call Bus you. miles, 100 gal fresh, 100 gal gray, 140 gal fuel. All original records. See more photos in our Conversion Classified Ad section on our website.. Magazine at Contact Jon Usle $39,995 O.B.O [email protected] Call Myron at (619) 445-4815 Or Email [email protected] (760) 272-4081 (657) 221-0432 Located in San Diego, CA

two one acre lots in HEREFORD, AZ

1972 40ft Silver Eagle Both lots at 5000 ft. elevation and WITH 18FT MATCHING TRAILER temperature never exceeds 90 degrees. Ground-up restoration adding 10” cap, converted to RV 1995. New 2000 thru 2004: 6V92 Noted in a magazine, Sierra Vista, AZ, located Silver Detroit, HTB748HD Allison Automatic Transmission, Power Tech 20KW Generator, 12 miles north of Herford, was rated as most and complete front suspension redo. Interior removed and replaced with insulated ceiling, desirable weather year round. (Lot 1) - One walls, carpet, and kitchen/dining area Parquet flooring. Bus now has 29,900 miles since lot has RV pad with 50A hookups including redo. Matching 18ft 2001 Trailer has storage cabinets, rear legs, 2 flood lights, power water, electric, phone, septic and a 10’ x tongue lift and reinforced rooftop for viewing with ladder and safety rail. 16’ storage building with electric and deep freeze. (Lot 2) - Other lot has septic only. Allowed to have one house or mobile home on each lot. Horses and other animals are allowed. 315 feet adobe wall with three 16’ wide gates, one walk thru 3’ x 8’ gate along roadside. Both lots have 9,600’ high Mountain view. Stream runs through both lots. Plenty of room to build other structures on both lots. Located in very nice neighborhood, average house $85,000 $300,000 and up. Call John or Roy at (850) 233-6444 Located in Panama City, FL $129,000 for both Lots Call Cliff at (520) 559-3178 [email protected]

www.BusConversions.com July 2016 Digital Classified Ads BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE 57

EAGLE 10-40’ entire coach totally rewired new style headlights, new style turn signal & parking lights, Rosen sun visors, electrically heated pressure tank on water system, remote control mirrors.

2014 Rebuilt 6v92ta engine 1,000 miles, 2008 Rebuilt Automatic transmission 4000 miles, Jake brakes, 8kw diesel generator, 2500 watt trace Inverter Raised Roof, 160 gal fresh water, 160 gal holding tank, holding tank washout, 2-12 gal propane tanks, rebuilt radiator, misting system on radiator, high volume water pump, power steering, telescoping tilt wheel, new dash, new compressor, new $50,000 headlights and driving lights engine heater, blower by pass on engine, new steering box, 2011 new tires, 3000 miles Alcoa wheels, 6 house batteries, fully insulated walls, Call John 2 roof air, 2 vented cat heater back up cameras wired for towing heavy duty hitch, at (928) 242-1308 or email 2 fantastic vents, Corian counter tops, flex steel furniture sleeps 6, rear bedroom w/ queen bed, walk through bath with Full size shower, color TV, VCR, 5 CD changer, Sony [email protected] radio-Cassette CB Radio, wired for cable TV, monitor panel, Norcold 2 way refrigerator, Located in Lakeside, AZ microwave, gas stove, oak interior, 4x8 slide out storage tray, front bay new paint, mural of eagle on back , lights in bays, stainless catch tank on engine to prevent dripping,

A RARE OPPORTUNITY MADDEN’S CRUISER II IS AVAILABLE FOR SALE Converted by Custom Coach for John Madden, the famous football coach and broadcaster, this deluxe 45 foot MCI 1994 DL 3 coach has been immaculately maintained. The comfortable interior living quarters have been carefully upgraded with every convenience for relaxing, working or pursuing your hobbies while on the road. Special interior features include two baths (mid and rear) with granite floors, brass fixtures, granite shower (mid bath), china air operated toilets; Corian countertops throughout; a walk around queen bed; a rear desk with storage & flip up table; beautiful pecan woodwork with plentiful storage, including two full length & four mid length closets; insulated and sound dampened rosewood Traffic Master Allure Vinyl flooring; new GE 14 Cubic Foot refrigerator; Sharp Carousel II Microwave/convection oven; Splendide washer/dryer; built-in clothes hamper; central vacuum; ceiling & indirect lighting throughout; lined draperies. Exterior upgrades include Peninsula sliding windows throughout; Zip Dee Window Awnings; window screens; Alcoa wheels; new Michelin tires; an Intec Military Spec Backup camera &monitor; a Garmin 7 inch GPS; DDEC engine monitor; a Cobra 40 channel CB radio; joey beds; 20KW generator. The cruiser is wired for towing. There is no LP gas to worry about with this all electric Coach. In addition to bus air, it has four CruiseAir AC units and five 110 VAC heaters to keep you warm in winter and cool in the summer. Click this link to read the article and view the photos: www.BusConversions.com/madden.pdf

$125,000 Call Laird at (251) 979-9430 or email [email protected] Pensacola, Florida area

www.BusConversions.com 58 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE Digital Classified Ads July 2016

Assorted Bus Parts For Sale

Buy It Here Item Description List Price For Only

Manuals for 4905, 4108 & P8M $50

Onan RV Gen Set DKD 7.5 KW 1333 hrs $2,000

Aqua Hot Model 431/12 $4,416 $2,000

Inverter/Charger Freedom 25 Mod 8102250 $1,300 $600

Remote Panel for Freedom Inverter/Charger $69 $30

Dometic A/C 14,000 BTU $716 each 2 @ $250 ea.

Vanner 50A Equalizer $430 $200

Sure Power Battery Isolator $149 $70 Tires – 2 Ohtsu 16PR Radial All Steel 12R 22.5 (D-25) with 1000 miles, siped, On New Steel 10 Stud Wheels $500

Two Water Pumps From 8V71 (Walking & Standing Man) 2 @ $25 ea.

Two Starters From 8V71 - one each 12V and 24V 2 @ $50 ea.

Two Generators From 8V71 - one each 12V and 24V 2 @ $50 ea.

Over-Sized Radiator From GMC 4905, 2000 miles $3,000 $1,500

Bus Conversion Magazine 53 Copies Apr 92 – Jun 96 $200

Air Compressor From 8V71 $50 Call Richard at (208) 281-4596 or (208) 585-2282 [email protected] Located in Middleton, ID

www.BusConversions.com July 2016 BCM BUS CONVERSION MAGAZINE 59

2500 Westlake Ave N. Suit G Seattle WA. 98109 Phone (206) 285-2990 / www.SmartPlug.com

www.BusConversions.com