When one decides that he is going to convert a coach, he should take time to look at the various major types of units: MCIs, GMCs, Prevosts, Eagles, City Transit units and let's not forget the School Bus. There are likely more models but these are the more common units that are found.
Before deciding on a particular coach, one should look at where one can get body parts - particularly side panels, baggage doors, window glass and anything else that may be unique to that unit model. Another aspect to consider are the availability of running gear parts - suspension air bags, radius rods and bushings that keep the axles in alignment.
As in the case of anything mechanical, proper maintence and repair is critical. You should develop a list of individuals or establishments that specialize in this type of work. For example, check with your local bus company. They may be able to service all your needs. You may develop a friendship with a mechanic who is familiar with what you have, with the idea of developing a working relationship when you desire to repair or upgrade a portion of you unit. Most of us have financial constraints, and this is one way to stretch the dollar. For those of us who aren't plagued with this problem, search out the firm that you feel gives you the best "bang for your buck".
Let us now take a look at some of the various types of coaches.
Motor Coach Industries, Highway Coach.
MCI is co-manufactured in Winnipeg, MB and Pembina, ND. In the past, they have been responsible for Courier 95, 96, MC-1, MC-2, MC-3, MC-4 and MC-5. The basic length of these are 35 feet and are a 40 passenger unit. They are equipped with 4 baggage doors; 2 on each side.
Depending on the age and the company that bought the coaches, they were equipped with 4-71, 6-71, and 8-71 Detroit Diesel engines, coupled to a 4-speed transmission. Reverse gear was reached by activation of a seleniod switch and placing the transmission into the first gear slot. They have a 140 gallon fuel capacity, and if driven sensibly, (eg: 50 - 60 mph) one could expect to acheive 8 - 10 miles per gallon. The biggest downfall with the 4-speed transmission was the first gear ratio was to fast and if you got into a soft spot you could smoke (burn out) the clutch.
They are a good riding unit, however, they had a tendency to wander and as an operator you had to be "on" the steering wheel constantly. There is a change of steering boxes available that takes a lot of the play out of the steering.
The skeletal framework was constructed from mild steel and had a tendency to suffer rust damage from the floor line down. This is why you should check for straightness from end to end.
