| Author | Message | ||
| macgyver (91flyer)
Registered Member Username: 91flyer Post Number: 465 Registered: 11-2004 Posted From: 74.193.175.110  Rating: N/A |
Ok... I've located a couple of different choices for the bus I'll get to replace my poor burned out hulk... 1) Another 4905. I've found two or three that look pretty good, and I really liked my 4905 more than any of the other buses I've had... But.... 2) A 1965 Eagle 01 has also come up into the mix for the pricerange I can afford at the moment. It looks pretty good as well... Now, I know that Eagles are prone to rusting... All buses are, really, it just seems that the Eagles get nailed for this the hardest... So... My question is... All things being equal, assuming the 4905 and the Eagle are on equal footing... Which is better? The Eagle, or the 4905? I've never driven an Eagle, but I love them nonetheless... Just as much as the 4905's. What would be the pro's and con's of each? A side note... The prices between the buses I'm considering are within $500 of one another, one of the 4905's has quite a bit of stuff that comes with it, like air conditioners and such, it's partially converted. The Eagle and other 4905's I'm looking at are pretty much just the shells, but again... Around the same price. I liked the way my 4905 handled. It was smooth, albeit very far from quiet (the door was bent out of shape when I obtained her)... But I've heard that Eagles are the ultimate for smoothness while under-way. Is this true? My 4905 was nice, but you could certainly tell you were in a BIG vehicle. It rolled and swayed like a boat... Are the Eagles any better at smoothing out the ride? Thoughts? Opinions? -Mac | ||
| David Evans (Dmd)
Registered Member Username: Dmd Post Number: 372 Registered: 10-2004 Posted From: 96.232.132.245  Rating: N/A |
Mac, i would vote for the 4905 since you have a parts bus and you like what you have. The air bag buses always scared the crap out of me on curves but they dont have too. I love the look of Eagles they are one of my favorite, but if the GM also comes with parts to boot.... With the 2 you should be able to make a great bus. We dont have the torsalatic ride in our older GM's just leaf spring and they ride great. Good luck and glad your still busing. | ||
| Len Silva (Lsilva)
Registered Member Username: Lsilva Post Number: 294 Registered: 12-2000 Posted From: 72.187.35.208  Rating: N/A |
David's point about having a parts bus is a big one, could save you lots of money down the road, assuming you could keep two buses for a while. The Eagle is a great driver and handles sweetly when it is in good shape. If the torsilastics are in good condition, the will outlive you, if they are not, they can cost as much as the bus to replace. If the eagle is a shell, it should be pretty easy to scope out the rust issues, find an Eagle guy to help you. The rest is engine, transmission, brakes, etc. The stock Eagle, 8V-71 and four speed stick is a pretty fuel efficient bus, some liars claiming 10 MPG. I don't have more than 500 seat miles in an Eagle but I worked on entertainers for a while and the drivers loved them | ||
| Glenn Williams (Glenn)
Registered Member Username: Glenn Post Number: 235 Registered: 6-2006 Posted From: 216.163.57.91  Rating: N/A |
I agree with David as well. GMC's are great buses. I had a 4905 at one time. Mine was junk, but that does not reflect on the line. If you knew that your existing mechanical systems were good, then look for another and have at it! Glenn | ||
| RJ Long (Rjlong)
Registered Member Username: Rjlong Post Number: 1621 Registered: 12-2000 Posted From: 67.182.53.218  Rating: N/A |
Mac - Perhaps putting it this way will help: T-drive Eagle vs V-drive GMC Engine accessibility (alternator, air compressor, running the rack, etc.) = GMC Powertrain swaps (8V92, Cummins, etc.) = Eagle Transmission options = Eagle Fuel mileage = Tie Power Steering = GMC (Sheppard, stock) That vintage Eagle will be manual, unless changed by PO. Suspension Replacement parts cost = GMC Work required to replace parts = GMC Ride & Handling (The debate that never ends!) Eagles tend to porpoise, air suspension sways. Good shocks are a MUST on an Eagle, or they can buck you out of the driver's seat. GMs tend to lean on corners, but it's well-controlled on the 4905 with anti-sway bars front & rear. Wheelbase = GMC (318") Turning Circle = Eagle Body Integrity A '65 Eagle will have lots of rust issues, unless it is a SW USA coach. Even then, there will be lots of hidden rust. That vintage Eagle will also have been built in Belgium. . . The 4905s have rust issues also, primarily from the steel used around the upper deck windshields and front cap, plus the rear cap area. Below the windows is mostly aluminum, so less prone. Front door noise = GMC (if not bent, LOL!) Part availability = GMC Flat floor for conversion = Eagle (altho lots of folk extend the GMC) Hope the above helps. Some other tidbits: The 40' Eagle, with properly adjusted torsilastics and good shocks, has a wonderful, smooth ride, with virtually no side-to-side sway. They were a favorite entertainer coach, because the folk could get a good nite's sleep while traveling between gigs. Eagles also have independent front suspension, which adds to the nice ride, but also allows a tighter turning circle. The 4905, OTOH, has the longest wheelbase of any 40 foot bus ever built, and it's actually longer than many of the current production 45-footers! As you know, a longer wheelbase gives a better ride than a shorter one, with the disadvantage of a larger turning circle. However, the Sheppard-equipped 4905s turn surprisingly tight - you've gotta watch the rear wheel tracking or you'll run over Grandma's toes on the sidewalk! Because the GM is air-suspended, it will sway side-to-side & rock-n-roll more than the Eagle, but GM controlled that pretty well with the anti-sway bars. I like the Eagle ride, but IMHO, the 4905 has the sweetest ride of any air-suspension coaches of that era. Of the three, the partially-converted 4905 may be the best bang for the buck, especially when you include the extras. Get the VIN to help trace it's history. So, clear as mud for you? FWIW & HTH. . .  | ||
| Jim Wilke (Jim Bob) (Pd41044039)
Registered Member Username: Pd41044039 Post Number: 406 Registered: 2-2001 Posted From: 69.77.144.102 Rating: N/A |
I have an 87 Eagle, a 4104 and I had a 4905. There is no question that the GM is a better engineered bus and Eagles rust while sitting in a garage. My Eagle is from TX but it had more rust on it when I got it than my '59 4104 from New Jersey! The 4905 shouldn't roll too much like the '04 being that later GMs have huge sway bars. If you build your conversioon, you can help stability a lot by using light materials in the upper half. No 3/4 plywood walls! Build an airplane interior, not a house. GM books are WAY superior to Eagle. The only drawback I can see to a GM is the reverse turning Vee drive that limits you to a Detroit 2 stroke. Of course, no 4 stroke runs/idles as smooth as a 2 stroke Detroit. | ||
| marvin pack (Gomer)
Registered Member Username: Gomer Post Number: 612 Registered: 3-2007 Posted From: 71.53.155.14  Rating: N/A |
Mac; congrats of your finds. I have had eagles,gm,mci's. My point here is since you have the 4905 with the running gear in good shape,I would stay with the 4905. You can always re-skin the sides. I took mine off [the steel] and replaced with aluminum and it turned out great. I love the ride of it better than an 4104,Mci. The eagle with no power steering has an excellant ride on the road but when in town takes muscle to turn around. My vote goes for;; 4905 GMC Gomer | ||
| macgyver (91flyer)
Registered Member Username: 91flyer Post Number: 466 Registered: 11-2004 Posted From: 74.193.175.110 Rating: N/A |
Well, that pretty much answers that... Honestly, I'm drawn more to the Eagle than any other bus... But, at the same time, I really enjoyed driving my 4905. It was pretty smooth going down the road... And yes, it does sway, but it's not enough to put me off on the 4905. I personally prefer air suspension. The main reason I am considering the Eagle is... of course, its looks. I LOVE how Eagles look. I don't know if it's all the stainless, or just the fact that the front end looks more like a freight train than any other bus.. I can't say. I just like them... The bus I have now (the one that's burned) will be pretty useless as a parts bus. If I get a replacement bus instead of repairing.. I will have to basically strip the burned 4905 to the bone and scrap it as quickly as possible to keep the city and neighbors off my ass. Which means... I'll be parting it out or selling it as a parts bus once I remove what I need off it. This will have to happen within 30 days of driving the new bus home, which doesn't give a lot of time. The engine in the burned bus is a damn good running engine... Light smoke on startup. Once it's warm, no smoke and plenty of power. So, someone's going to end up with a nice engine pretty cheap. I'll give the guy with the 4905 a call I guess and tell him I'll take it, depending on what issues I find that he didn't tell me about before I arrive... But I gotta admit, I'm pretty tempted to go with that Eagle. At least I have the choice at this point! -Mac | ||
| macgyver (91flyer)
Registered Member Username: 91flyer Post Number: 467 Registered: 11-2004 Posted From: 74.193.175.110 Rating: N/A |
Also, just got the coach numbers for the 4905... History lookup anyone? 1975 GMC 4905a SN 1299 P8M4905A-1299 -Mac | ||
| Ian Giffin (Admin)
Board Administrator Username: Admin Post Number: 1295 Registered: 7-1997 Posted From: 24.239.15.161  Rating: N/A |
Mac, I found... serial #'s 1298-1303 with unit #'s M750 - M755 (which might make yours unit #M751), Missouri, Kansas & Oklahoma Coach Lines, Tulsa, OK... at the following URL: http://www.geocities.com/MotorCity/Downs/9036/GM_Buf_Del/P8M4905A_2.html Hope that helps. Ian www.busnut.com | ||
| macgyver (91flyer)
Registered Member Username: 91flyer Post Number: 468 Registered: 11-2004 Posted From: 74.193.175.110 Rating: N/A |
Thanks, Ian. Cool, it's not a New England bus... The pix of the 4905's look damn good.. But, so does the Eagle. I'm still tossing the Eagle around in my head... It look damn good despite its age. The rust SEEMS minimal. About like the 4905's... Here one of the 4905's...  Here's the Eagle...  Both are partial conversions... The 4905 pictured has 3 rooftop airs... The Eagle has none. None will have a generator (I'm reusing the one from my burned 4905)... All seem to be in excellent shape for their age. I'm still waiting on additional pictures for some of the known trouble spots... The Eagle is actually a little less pricewise than the 4905 above. I'm still in the air on which one to purchase though... It's a good fit no matter which I choose... However, with the 4905's, as was said... I have a parts bus which I can pull parts off of for as long as I have it... I also have _ALL_ the manuals for the 4905's... And NONE for the Eagle... But that can be fixed, I can obtain the manuals... Not really THAT big a deal... So... Assuming the Eagle really is in as good of shape as it appears to be, and likewise for the 4905's... I'm still leaning towards the Eagle, but will still likely end up with a 4905... As I said, I liked mine... It handled nice, it rode nice and it was comfortable to drive. I've never driven an Eagle... So I have no basis for comparison between the two on that aspect... I can say that the additional interior height in the Eagle sure seems nice (I'm 6'0" tall)... At least, from what I've read and heard, the Eagle has more headroom... Am I mistaken? But, at the same time... I really like the massive bays for storage that are on the 4905... Storage is one thing that is always in short supply on a rolling or floating home... So... Imagine yourselves with this decision... No preconceptions... What you see is what ya get and they're of equal price (within $500 of one another, might as well be equal)... Which would YOU get? Why? -Mac (Message edited by 91flyer on October 10, 2009) | ||
| John MC9 (John_mc9)
Registered Member Username: John_mc9 Post Number: 994 Registered: 7-2006 Posted From: 74.162.95.29  Rating: |
Mac... I drove damned near all all of 'em, back when they were new... (long frikkin' time ago) I absolutely love an Eagle. The ride is so good, it brings tears to my eyes just thinking about it. Thanks to the torsion bars, the stability on the road is better than all others (with the exception of a 4104, and then it's about even). Yeah, standard steering, big deal. You would hardly know the difference after a few hours driving it; standard steering is easy, as long as you know enough to keep the bus in motion when you crank the wheel. Rust tho.... Man, that's a tough one! I would check in the electrical panel aside the driver's seat, and see what the rust looks like. Check the wheel wells also, up and around the compartments, and under the windows, at the floor... If your heart's set on an Eagle, settling for anything else will always have you wondering about the Eagle. Having a "parts bus" is fine, but you didn't have one prior to the calamity, right? Good luck! | ||
| macgyver (91flyer)
Registered Member Username: 91flyer Post Number: 469 Registered: 11-2004 Posted From: 74.193.175.110 Rating: N/A |
John... Yeah, I'm having them send me pics of those areas... I'm getting a LOT more pics from the Eagle's current owner because of the rust issues known to be present on them... He SAYS the rust that's there is "just surface rust"... But I don't know... I'm waiting on the pics of the electrical boxes, wheel wells, etc... On all the buses I'm considering. I've really always liked the Eagle.. The 4905 that burned was kindof special to me though, it was rare. I have a "thing" for rare items I guess you could say... None of the 4905's I've found are of the same year. I don't expect to find another... But, that's besides the point really.. I like both. I like that there are fewer tires on the 4905, and I like the longer wheel base and the handling... But, like I said, I really have no way to compare the two since I've never driven an Eagle... I just really like how the Eagle looks for some reason... But, at the same time, I like how the 4905's look as well... That's why I'm so undecided. I really like both pretty much equally as far as aesthetics go. I have to decide by tomorrow night, because I have to begin preparations for the trip Sunday and be on the road Monday for the trip. That's why I posed the question the way I did... All things being equal, what would you guys do? A bit of a dilemma for me since I can only get one of them, and the one I end up with is the one I'll be keeping for a LONG time (barring anymore disasters)... It's just really hard for me to decide.  But, on the plus side... I'm moving forward in this endeavor. I'm getting a bus... I can get it ready, get it livable, stock it up and hit the road in search of work. I'll be able to "get my life back on track" after being derailed more than once this past couple of years.... So... That's my story, and I'm stickin' to it! -Mac | ||
| macgyver (91flyer)
Registered Member Username: 91flyer Post Number: 470 Registered: 11-2004 Posted From: 74.193.175.110 Rating: N/A |
OH! One more thing about the Eagle... It has a wheelchair lift on it... Considering that my mother is disabled, and uses a wheelchair... it would sure be nice to be able to load her in the bus comfortably without her having to risk falling down the steps... But... She'll only ride in it very rarely... But, it's a consideration of mine. It'd be nice to be able to come home for a visit and her be able to get into the bus comfortably for a ride up to her doctors or just around town... It's a minor consideration, but it's there. -Mac | ||
| John MC9 (John_mc9)
Registered Member Username: John_mc9 Post Number: 995 Registered: 7-2006 Posted From: 74.162.95.29 Rating: N/A |
Mac - Pictures of rust just won't hack it. You have to take an ice pick with you, and poke into the rust areas, just as you would looking for rot in a wood-frame house .. What might look like surface rust, could be clean through. I got 9 mpg with the 01 Eagle I drove. With the gov adjusted, it would cruise at 86 mph. The stability in the wind, and on icy roads, was something any bus driver should experience at least once in their life. Air bags give a smooth ride, but torsion bar suspension can't be beat. And it's a lot less air problems to have to deal with! I had the "johnson brake" on the 01 I drove, and having a skinner valve freeze mid-trip was less of a problem, since that hand brake would do well, once the bus was almost stopped using the trans. I would hate to talk you into a rust-bucket, so please beware? I looked at a few Eagles before buying the MC9, and although I had always wished I bought an Eagle instead, I can appreciate the rust problems of the Eagles, and the lack of the same with an MCI. Again, good luck! | ||
| macgyver (91flyer)
Registered Member Username: 91flyer Post Number: 471 Registered: 11-2004 Posted From: 74.193.175.110 Rating: N/A |
Oh, I fully intend on checking everything myself once I'm on-site... However, right now, I can only go by the pics... If it turns out that my choice is ultimately a bust and a bad buy, I'll turn around and return home empty handed, but... I need to decide which single one I'm going to attempt to get... And since they're all spread out around the country, just going on a road trip to go see them THEN make the decision is out of the question... I simply don't have the $$ to do that with. I have one shot at this point, one shot only. So, I need to make it count... But, I'm not going to get it just because it's the one I chose... It will have to pass scrutiny before I'll fork over the $$$ once I'm able to look at it myself. The guy describes the Eagle as relatively rust free, with no thru-hole rot anywhere... If I decide to go for the Eagle over the 4905, I'll be playing Russian Roulette, but.. It might just pay off... The 4905's are less risk for the rust problem though, and I may ultimately go the 4905 route just because of that alone... I just have to wait for the pics before I can even begin to make a guess at whether it'll be worth the trip to go look at it or not, or whether I should just stick with the 4905's I have in mind and single one of those out. I just don't know yet... -Mac | ||
| Paul Lawry (Dreamscape)
Registered Member Username: Dreamscape Post Number: 584 Registered: 5-2007 Posted From: 64.40.215.195  Rating: N/A |
Get me the VIN # on the Eagle and I can tell you where it started it's life. As far as rust on an Eagle, anything with steel will rust in time. Take your fist and knock on the side of the aluminum siding between the drive axle and the tag, that is the worst area to be concerned with. Look under the bays and check the tube framing. Check the rear axle torsalastic adjusting rod, if you have anywhere between 1/2" to 2" of rod sticking out past the lock nut you are in great shape. You can do the same for the front axle, check both sides. Check the ride height all the way around, if you are at about 13-14" from the ground to the bottom of the bays it's good. It looks like it has newer polished aluminum siding, that could be a good sign. If that is so they probably have already fixed any rust issues behind it. As for the ride, it's considered one of the best. Porpoising can be caused by worn out shocks, get dual action for about 50 bucks each. The 01 has a lot of room in the engine compartment, you can actually crawl in on the A/C side and work on the starter, that is if it doesn't have the A/C. Parts for Eagles are available with the exception of the drive axle torsalastic tube, and Craig at Silver Eagle is working on that. All other parts are easy to find. It's your call, it's all good. Just be careful and get the bus you like, period. Where is the Eagle located? We have a 1968 Eagle 01 and love it. If you need any advice email me at paul_lawry at yahoo.com or call at 325...660....4635. (Message edited by dreamscape on October 10, 2009) | ||
| Patrick levenson (Zubzub)
Registered Member Username: Zubzub Post Number: 110 Registered: 5-2007 Posted From: 70.52.28.153  Rating: |
why not tell us where the buses are and a busnut in the area can check them out. Maybe a little agreement not to buy a deal out from under you, a little trust goes a long way. Also if the '05 is not good can't you just head north and check out the eagle. Also as a final note (if you have forgotten) ask the owner not to start the bus before you get there. (Message edited by zubzub on October 10, 2009) | ||
| john w. roan (Chessie4905)
Registered Member Username: Chessie4905 Post Number: 1688 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 71.58.71.157  Rating: N/A |
Man, spend the time to check out that Eagle for superstructure rot issues. Ask yourself, can you deal with these kind of repairs if they are needed? 44 year old Eagle without rust issues and never ran on salted roads? Good luck. It sure looks good from the pictures. Could be sorta like the mistress in Fatal Attraction OR like the governess in The Sound of Music. As I live in the road salt state of Penna, I have a lot of understanding on what salt does to steel, especially the stuff they use here now. Look up rust jacking to see what I'm talking about. | ||
| Ed Mikesell (Rustytoy)
Registered Member Username: Rustytoy Post Number: 7 Registered: 2-2009 Posted From: 162.40.172.228 Rating: N/A |
Mac, I don't know just how convinced you are that you want one of these two particular busses. I was plowing through the 'local' Craigslist last night and stumbled on this. Thought I would pass it along just in case you might be interested. I don't have any affiliation with it, don't know anything other than what the listing says. I'm just passing along information. http://springfield.craigslist.org/cto/1410732116.html Ed PD4106-2903 | ||
| Rob Norgren (Robsedona)
Registered Member Username: Robsedona Post Number: 158 Registered: 11-2007 Posted From: 75.211.125.140  Rating: N/A |
Hay all things eq. Wheelchair and mother is disabled sounds good to me and also I have heard the drive on the eagle's 2nd to none. Money being the issue the 4905 you have parts for. But for Mother I'd do the Eagle and have faith that all you need will come to you and sell parts to others that need them for the 4905! Just what I think Hope all works out Great for you in this new Busing endeavorer I'm sure a lot of US are still sending good will to you and yours. Rob | ||
| Alex (Doctor_al)
Registered Member Username: Doctor_al Post Number: 8 Registered: 8-2006 Posted From: 75.121.55.39 Rating: N/A |
I looked at both,had my choice. went with the 4905. never looked back. smooth ride, big bays, long wheelbase. and of course, the vista cruiser widows:-) | ||
| macgyver (91flyer)
Registered Member Username: 91flyer Post Number: 472 Registered: 11-2004 Posted From: 74.193.175.110 Rating: N/A |
Paul, I'll see what I can do about getting the VIN for the Eagle for ya. The Eagle is located in PA, but was driven there last year from NC. The 4905 is actually in NC. Kinda funny how that worked out I think. I'll definitely check those things out... Thanks! --- Patrick, If someone's around in PA or NC, I'd be happy to have someone check them out for me... Just not sure how practical it might be. o.O --- John, Yeah, that's kindof how I feel about it... The Eagle sure looks good from the pics, but what's under the skin? I worry about that, but... At the same time, I don't have a lot of time TO worry about it. I need to get back on the road. heh... --- Ed, Unfortunately, that one's beyond my budget range. I have no more than $7000 to work with. That includes purchase price and whatever it takes to get it back. The less it costs, the better... Cadillac tastes on a Chevy Geo budget, so to say. But, I will say that I'm set on either a 4905, or an Eagle. I've looked at MCI's, and while I like them, they just don't impress me much. Don't get me wrong, there's nothing wrong with them... I just need something with a little more... flare. The 4905's and Eagles... not everyone has. MCI's are pretty common... Well done MCI's, not so common... But I don't have enough money to make one "well done"... Just "livable". --- Rob... Faith is something that's come into short supply lately... But, I have to believe that "things will work out" the way they're meant to eventually.. Balance is just upset at the moment and needs to recalibrate itself. I'm looking at the 4905's as if I DON'T have a parts bus, because... Realistically... I don't have much for usable parts on the burned out bus... Anything that would have been useful off the front end is gone. The only thing left is the undercarriage, bay doors and mechanical components... Everything else is pretty much toast. Now, I do have a brand new set of windshields and seals for the 4905... Which may ultimately influence the decision... Those buggers weren't cheap, but they also didn't break the bank getting them. ----- -Mac | ||
| macgyver (91flyer)
Registered Member Username: 91flyer Post Number: 473 Registered: 11-2004 Posted From: 74.193.175.110 Rating: N/A |
A couple pics from the Eagle... Still waiting on others...   | ||
| macgyver (91flyer)
Registered Member Username: 91flyer Post Number: 474 Registered: 11-2004 Posted From: 74.193.175.110 Rating: N/A |
Paul, He states the Eagle S/N for this bus is 6683, though I'm not sure he's looking at the right number... -Mac | ||
| Ed Mikesell (Rustytoy)
Registered Member Username: Rustytoy Post Number: 8 Registered: 2-2009 Posted From: 162.40.172.228 Rating: N/A |
Mac, I understand about the budget thing all too well. I didn't know what your budget was. Saw the MCI locally and thought "what the hey....I'll throw it out there." I'm kinda partial to the GMs myself. I love the lines of the 4905. There's been some very valid arguments thrown in the mix here to make an educated decision. Sounds to me like you've got the makings of an adventure on your hands choosing your next bus. I always thought the hunt was almost as much fun as catching what you were hunting. Regardless of what it may be. Good luck! Ed PD4106-2903 | ||
| macgyver (91flyer)
Registered Member Username: 91flyer Post Number: 475 Registered: 11-2004 Posted From: 74.193.175.110 Rating: N/A |
Yes... The hunt is pretty fun, but can be aggravating as well when you can't find anything at all. heh... I'm still in the air about which one to go with... A 4905, or an Eagle... The Eagle looks pretty nice, but it's not as "done" inside as the 4905, and with only $500 difference... I just might stick with one of the 4905's when it's said and done... Reason and logic tell me to go with a 4905.. Since I have the manuals and some experience with them now... I know nothing about Eagles, but then... I knew nothing about 4905's before I bought the one I had and did just fine too... (with the help of several people here, that is. I've gotten more pics of the Eagle... The front end looks pretty rotted with some thru-holes in some of the support framing... So I'm not sure if it's going to be worth pursuing... The rest of the pictures look good, though... No major rust on anything else that I can see from the photos... It doesn't look TOO bad considering its age... But, I can also look at this as a temporary stop-gap between what I can get now, and what I may ultimately end up with a few years from now... I'd rather buy for the long-haul though if I can find one that's good enough in the price range I'm limited to, that is.... Plus, I have to look at what it's going to take to make the thing livable... The 4905's are a little further ahead in this department than the Eagle is I think... And overall price difference (accounting for fuel, the trip there and the trip back), the Eagle comes out to only about $100 less than the 4905's I'm looking at (taking the same considerations for them as well)... So, we'll see I guess. -Mac | ||
| macgyver (91flyer)
Registered Member Username: 91flyer Post Number: 476 Registered: 11-2004 Posted From: 74.193.175.110 Rating: N/A |
Paul, Is this the rod/nut you were talking about?  | ||
| macgyver (91flyer)
Registered Member Username: 91flyer Post Number: 477 Registered: 11-2004 Posted From: 74.193.175.110 Rating: N/A |
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| John MC9 (John_mc9)
Registered Member Username: John_mc9 Post Number: 997 Registered: 7-2006 Posted From: 74.162.73.188 Rating: N/A |
Mac - Don't be too hasty, there's plenty for sale all over the place! http://jacksonville.craigslist.org/search/rvs?query=bus&catAbbreviation=rvs&minAsk=min&max Ask=max http://spacecoast.craigslist.org/search/rvs?query=bus&catAbbreviation=rvs&minAsk=min&maxAs k=max http://miami.craigslist.org/search/rvs?query=bus&catAbbreviation=rvs&minAsk=min&maxAsk=max | ||
| macgyver (91flyer)
Registered Member Username: 91flyer Post Number: 478 Registered: 11-2004 Posted From: 74.193.175.110 Rating: N/A |
John, I've seen the ones in those location ads... I actually did a nation wide search for 4905's and Eagles.. I narrowed the list down to about 4 or 5 buses total... One is the Eagle, the others are 4905's. Two of the 4905's were disqualified pretty early because of work needing to be done to them that I just don't have money or time for... There are two 4905's left and the Eagle... I had looked at a couple of MCI's... One was a "Super 8", another was a 9, and the last one was a 5 I think... All disqualified due to work needed and cost to perform that work... So... Two 4905's and an Eagle remain in my list. I'm not being hasty, but I do have to move on one quickly because money will get spent on other things and deplete what I can use very quickly if I don't make a purchase... I like the Eagle... but right now, the 4905 in the picture is in the lead... Supposedly, it has only about 30k miles on a rebuilt engine... It has the most equipment for the conversion already in place... And, I just like 4905's. The Eagle is still there as a close 2nd place, however. I'm showing pics of the Eagle now, because that's what I've gotten the detailed pictures for at the moment... Still waiting on the pics for the 4905... Those should come in tonight or tomorrow and I can make a more informed decision. It just might turn out, ultimately, that I go look at the Eagle first and if it doesn't pass the ice pick test, then I'd just head south and look over the 4905... But, that would add additional cost if the Eagle didn't pass the tests... Unfortunately, I just don't have a lot to work with... Time nor money... So I'm going to just have to get whichever fits the best and move on from there. I still need to recover the tools I have left, clean them up, pack 'em and whatever I'll bring with me and hit the road... Just gotta know what direction I'm heading first! -Mac | ||
| Laryn Christley (Barn_owl)
Registered Member Username: Barn_owl Post Number: 626 Registered: 10-2006 Posted From: 151.199.118.239  Rating: N/A |
Only one thing I can add: Adding a leveling system (easy with the airbags) = GMC | ||
| ED Hackenbruch (Shadowman)
Registered Member Username: Shadowman Post Number: 176 Registered: 11-2003 Posted From: 75.216.213.79 Rating: N/A |
There is a guy in Biloxi that has a 5A for sale. don't know what he wants for it or if he still has it. His name is Carl Bahrs, you might try to find him and see what he's got. | ||
| Paul Lawry (Dreamscape)
Registered Member Username: Dreamscape Post Number: 585 Registered: 5-2007 Posted From: 64.40.215.155 Rating: N/A |
If the coach is indeed 6683, it started it's life in 1965 as an 01, with Continental Bus System, #11738, then to DC Transit System, #6569 in DC. Yes those are the adjusting rods I was talking about. It looks it is the front axle, is this correct? You have lots of adjustment left, will last your lifetime for sure. | ||
| macgyver (91flyer)
Registered Member Username: 91flyer Post Number: 480 Registered: 11-2004 Posted From: 74.193.175.110 Rating: N/A |
Alrighty! Pics of the 4905 have arrived... After looking at the Eagle pics and the 4905 pics... I've decided on the 4905. I'm making arrangements to hopefully pick up the ol' gal this coming weekend or early next week... I just wish the current owners hadn't painted over all that nice aluminum... I'll have to eventually strip and repaint it again with something more.... pleasing... And the white painted dash has GOT to go... It'll be the first thing I redo (I'm highly photo sensitive... white dash + sunlight = bad, especially when snow is added later on!)... Also have some access covers and hatches that will need to be liberated from their coverings, but... all minor stuff. So, here she is...              | ||
| macgyver (91flyer)
Registered Member Username: 91flyer Post Number: 481 Registered: 11-2004 Posted From: 74.193.175.110 Rating: N/A |
Also, The front cap on the burned out 4905 didn't survive, but the rear cap did... As did the nice fiberglass engine door. I'm probably going to go ahead and swipe those two from the burned 4905 and swap 'em over. I just like how they look... I'm thinking about just leaving the front end just the way it is though. But, if I do anything to it... it'll be a long time from now. If I ever do a roof raise, I'll address it then.. I'm not going to bother with a cap for the front. Only the rear for the time being... I'm also considering removing the skirt from the back end after recent discussions about heat buildup issues due to them being in place... So... There's the bus I intend to get. Hopefully this one won't end with disaster as the previous two did. x.x Overall, I think this bus will do me just fine. She seems to be in excellent shape, the tires are good, she runs and moves nicely (according to current owner, I'll know soon enough myself)... The skin/doors aren't too banged up, at least not beyond my repair capabilities, and it seems like everything's in one piece and mostly original equipment. I don't think she's a bad find... The Eagle is nice too, but for the end price difference (after fuel and cost of trip) of only $150... I think the 4905 is just the better buy for my needs. Maybe, eventually, someday... I'll get the Eagle I want... But for now... This ol' 4905 should fly just as good! Anyone along the route from NC to LA? I'd be happy to stop in and shoot the breeze for a bit if anyone's up for some company sometime next week. -Mac | ||
| RJ Long (Rjlong)
Registered Member Username: Rjlong Post Number: 1624 Registered: 12-2000 Posted From: 67.182.53.218 Rating: N/A |
Mac - Can you send me a pm? My email addy is in my profile. Thanks, | ||
| John and Barb Tesser (Bigrigger)
Registered Member Username: Bigrigger Post Number: 264 Registered: 9-2007 Posted From: 96.42.4.250  Rating: N/A |
Looks good Mac, I wouldnt worry about the painted dash. The PO of mine covered the entire thing with blue shag carpet. Now that will have to go! Also if there is any way you can save the burned one, I am betting over the next few months there will be a lot of parts you could use on the new one. Even using one "brake can" or an alternator would make up for the cost of the storage you would pay to have it sit in someones vacant lot. Good luck to you. John | ||
| Ian Giffin (Admin)
Board Administrator Username: Admin Post Number: 1299 Registered: 7-1997 Posted From: 24.239.15.161 Rating: |
Just my opinion Mac, but like John's 4107, I like the look of the hump, as it retains the original character, so good move to keep that. I also agree with John with his opinion about the parts/storage idea. Congrats on the new purchase! A fresh new start for you means you don't have to look back at that burned out chassis and the bad memories it represents. There are new and pleasant memories to make, ahead :-) Just curious, who's web site is on the back of the "new" bus? Ian www.busnut.com | ||
| macgyver (91flyer)
Registered Member Username: 91flyer Post Number: 482 Registered: 11-2004 Posted From: 74.193.175.110 Rating: N/A |
The bus currently (until I go pay for and pick it up, at least!) belongs to a small singing group that traveled around... All Gospel stuff. Not my cup 'o tea personally, but they seem to have enjoyed it... I haven't looked to see if the site is still in operation or not, but the group has retired from their tours because they just don't have the time to do it anymore. The bus has been sitting for a while (a year or so I think he said) and they just don't use it anymore, thus no longer need it and just want to be rid of the expenses the bus generates even when not in use... And yeah, I'm looking forward to a "fresh start"... The bus is nearly ready for live-aboard, I'll only have a few things to do before I can hit the road and get back to work, but it's going to take time because I have to wait for $ from the insurance (the bus is taking up the bulk of my "share" of the disaster funds) and I'll need to get at least a part-time local job to finish the project out and save up enough for fuel and expenses to get to Cali, but I've decided to move up towards Lake Tahoe... Should be an interesting adventure. If that doesn't work out, I'll try something else. But, at least I'll be trying! -Mac | ||
| marvin pack (Gomer)
Registered Member Username: Gomer Post Number: 618 Registered: 3-2007 Posted From: 71.53.155.14 Rating: N/A |
Mac; I believe that you made the right choice. At least you can do something instead of just working on the coach all the time and have a GOOD FRESH START.. gomer | ||
| macgyver (91flyer)
Registered Member Username: 91flyer Post Number: 483 Registered: 11-2004 Posted From: 74.193.175.110 Rating: N/A |
Time will tell my friend... Time will tell. -Mac (Message edited by 91flyer on October 12, 2009) | ||
| RJ Long (Rjlong)
Registered Member Username: Rjlong Post Number: 1626 Registered: 12-2000 Posted From: 67.182.53.218 Rating: N/A |
Mac - Please, please, please don't go and spoil the great looks of the 4905 by putting a stick 'n staple cap & tailgate on the back end! It's one thing if the back glass is FUBAR, but if it's in good shape, my vote is to leave it and use it for natural lighting & to help keep the interior from looking like a 40 foot tunnel. FWIW & HTH. . . | ||
| Paul Lawry (Dreamscape)
Registered Member Username: Dreamscape Post Number: 588 Registered: 5-2007 Posted From: 64.40.215.155 Rating: N/A |
The Hump gives it personality, doesn't look like every other 4905, I like it. I think you made a wise choice for many reasons already stated. Good Luck on you new adventure and keep smiling. Paul | ||
| macgyver (91flyer)
Registered Member Username: 91flyer Post Number: 485 Registered: 11-2004 Posted From: 74.193.175.110 Rating: N/A |
RJ, They've already covered most of the windows... They actually took the time and expense to skin over all the rear windows and black out the rear window somehow... Not sure what they did just yet, but I'll know when I get there... And yeah, the more I thought about it and looked at the pix, the more I like the rear end just the way it is too.... It'll depend on how the rear end REALLY is when I get there what I'll end up doing.... But yeah, I think I'm going to leave the stock look, it just seems cleaner somehow. I do eventually plan on putting skylite domes in to help with natural lighting eventually... That's a ways off yet. I saw some RV specialty supply place on the web that produces some really nice bubble dome skylite windows... I liked them... I'll have to locate the site again. Paul, thanks. The capped look most 4905 owners go with is fine, it looks good... But it does make the 4905 less distinctive overall it seems... makes 'em look like every other bus on the road. So yeah, I've decided to keep the front end cap-free. Doesn't mean I won't do something special later on though that _nobody_ has. ;) I've got something in my head that would look really nice and sharpen the stock lines I think. Once I get the bus here and can model it in Photoshop properly, I'll make my changes virtually and let ya'll see what it is. -Mac | ||
| Glenn F Campbell (Gfcgfc1)
Registered Member Username: Gfcgfc1 Post Number: 28 Registered: 12-2008 Posted From: 69.171.176.225  Rating: N/A |
Hello Mac, 1965 is my birth year and I was born in Washington,D.C. So when you have the 4905 can you tell me the details on the Eagle 01? Congrats on the big step forward! Thanks,GFC | ||
| macgyver (91flyer)
Registered Member Username: 91flyer Post Number: 490 Registered: 11-2004 Posted From: 74.193.175.110 Rating: N/A |
Glenn, The ad for the Eagle is here... http://allentown.craigslist.org/cto/1408523586.html The seller is pretty nice and pretty open for questions... He's a military kid and seems pretty cool... -Mac | ||
| macgyver (91flyer)
Registered Member Username: 91flyer Post Number: 492 Registered: 11-2004 Posted From: 74.193.175.110 Rating: N/A |
Well, it was inevitable I suppose. A delay has come up and I can't go get the bus for another two damn weeks. Ran out of cash for gas money. x.x I'll be sending certified checks to the seller for the purchase price and just go pick it up in about two weeks. No idea when we'll be getting more $ from the insurance company, I'm having to borrow the money from my parents just to go get the damn thing. I have nothing left to sell aside from the burned out bus... I think I'm going to start stripping what I can use off the coach in the next couple of weeks and putting the rest up for sale as a parts bus. It's the only way I'm going to be able to move forward with getting the bus ready to live in and getting back on the road for work... So... I'm now hurrying up so I can wait longer! x.x Ah well... -Mac |
