STRENGTH - Bluebird buses are one of the few that must withstand roll-overs (DOT requirement).  Anytime you think a bus isn't durable, consider this.  A bus is designed to run 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  Another thing to think about, this bus is now 35 years old!  Have you ever seen a 35 year old motor home? (still in one piece I mean).

ENGINE - My Bluebird came with a GMC 401 V6 gas engine.  At the time, I thought it made more sense to get something I could work on myself.  After getting 4-5 mpg and having a top speed of 60 mph, I've decided I needed more power!  Stay tuned for updates when I install a Cat 3208 with an Allison 643 tranny!

 

The conversions are actually a lot of fun and It's a great, challenging hobby.  Sometimes I would lay on the ground under the bus and just look at the bottom for an hour.  I'd keep thinking of all the different ways to populate the undercarriage with needed equipment.  You'll learn a lot about woodworking, electricity, plumbing, mechanics, HVAC, and designing! Now there are plenty of resources available too.  Bus Conversion magazine at www.busconversions.com has been my prime source of information for the last few years.  I wish they were around when I had started this project in 1986.  Anyway, Thanx for stopping by.  Next I'm getting ready for a front roof cap, paint job, a Cat engine, and Allison tranny.  I'll update the web as progress occurs.  Also there are other "in-progress" photos on the next page along with other interesting bus sites.