| Author |
Message |
john (192.9.25.11)
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, September 19, 2001 - 3:00 pm: | |
I am closing in on an MC 9 to purchase. I would like to take the bus to a qualified mechanic before finalizing the deal. I was going to call the local DD shop today to discuss an inspection with them, when I realized I don't really know what I'm asking them to check out, other than "is this coach in good running condition"?
Can you guys help me narrow down my list of questions and things to be inspected? I'd like to discuss it with them in advance to make sure I find a good mechanic (one who's willing to explain things to me during/after the inspection), and get some idea of how long it will take and how much it will cost me.
Thanks in advance for all suggestions.
john |
Jim Ashworth (Jimnh) (205.188.197.13)
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, September 19, 2001 - 5:15 pm: | |
If you find a COMPETENT mechanic/inspector, he will know what to check out. Check him out first as to experience and knowledge concerning the MC-9 and then trust the bus to him. If there is any doubt as to his ability, move on to the next mechanic. You will want him to check everything from body rust to engine condition and everything in between. If he is worth his salt, he will probably tell you that the tag axle bushings are worn. I have rarely seen a 7, 8 or 9 that is being sold by a bus company that has good tag bushings!
He will also tell you a ball park figure to repair the things he finds wrong and then it's up to you to weigh the price and repair cost and make a decision.
Jim |
Finish this Bus or Bust. (Coachconversion) (65.2.65.246)
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, September 19, 2001 - 7:40 pm: | |
John:
I don't pretend to be any "expert" on the subject, although I do own a '78 MCI MC-8. Aside from the mechanical issues, I'd look to make sure the unit is straight, by sighting it front to back and visa-versa on both sides. Look in the upper back corner of the rear baggage bays for cracking, rust, rot, etc. I have seen some seriously sagging tail ends of MCI's. Although I wouldn't say I have the talent for it, I've been told you can "thump" areas of the bus to listen for [possible] rusted sections, the front being one of them (maybe someone else can expand on this). I am not sure where you're from, but I have full confidence in Bernie who specializes in buses and is from PA (http://www.bernhardbus.com/). I've found rust and surprises in mine. I think the amount of surprises you are willing to find, accept and are able to afford will be hinged on how much you spent on the bus. Some say if the price is good to believe, it probably is. However, you can spend the upper end of the value range and still have the same problems as the lower priced bus. Maybe call a few local coach operators and ask if they can recommend a really good servicer -- hopefully you'll come up with one common name.
Good Luck! |
FAST FRED (63.215.236.43)
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Thursday, September 20, 2001 - 5:21 am: | |
Your local DD shop is only qualified to check the engine , and Allison auto tranny (if installed)
They will hook a set of gages to the tranny and engine , and then run the coach on a chasis dynomometer.
Then you will get a report of how far from normal everything is.
The service guy will take 5 and explain it to you.
The chasis needs to go to a BUS place , they will have a pit and do a visual check, and take it for a ride.
This is more experience than the gages of the DD dealer , but should be able to figgure if you should NOT by the coach. {a major flaw}
The DD should run $150 or so , the coach guy an hour or two of labor.
Nothings perfect , but you should be able to screen out a DOG this way.
IF everything checks out , it would be good to have the bus guy show you how to adjust the slack adjusters , and lubricate the chasis.
Hopefully they have Da Book , or service them very often.
FAST FRED |
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