Advice needed re:this vehicle (potentially a Baja version of Das Bus)

[Waltzing Matilda]

Inspired.... or insane?
Not sure if various postings, photos and upgrades on this site have made me inspired- or insane- but I just put a deposit on this vehicle and will pick it up Tuesday, assuming no red flags appear as I continue doing some research.

Any words of wisdom/caution/advice are welcome before I sign the final paperwork.



I offered a little less than the asking price... it has a ton of miles (290k!), but seems a pretty bomb-proof platform, a professionally maintained 7.3 Powerstroke turbo diesel (it was fleet vehicle for a transit system), solid transmission, and the all-fiberglass body means no worries about rust up top. Tires look decent, tho the front pair are worn unevenly suggesting some shock/alignment issues. Heavy duty power-assist brakes, and a wheelchair hydraulic lift in the rear side door to load, well, who knows what. 60 gallon diesel fuel tank.

So.... lots of potential for transporting friends, kayaks, bikes, camp gear, etc. Professional heavy duty tow package in rear. And being a '97, no smog required in CA (at least for now- hoping laws don't change again)

Initial goal: a trip with friends/family to Baja, to see whales in 1 month. We will do a week of travel/camping with about 8 or 9 people- the amount I can legally carry in this current set up, without needing a commercial drivers license. I figure it will be easier than herding cats, I mean, caravaning down with 3 or 4 cars, esp with drivers who have never driven in Baja before.

Then, I'm looking at doing a basic RV set up, but not the 4WD lift kit (at least- not right away). Apparently that is an option with this platform. I'll need to start saving my pennies.

It may stay parked for a while in northern Baja, about 100 miles south of my San Diego home, and serve as temporary lodging while I do some work on a lot I own near San Miguel surfing beach.

So.... inspired? Insane? A little of both?

If anyone who has purchased/owns a similar rig knows something I should have a pro mechanic check out before sealing the deal, please advise!

 

[peneumbra]

The only thing I'd really be worried about (other than the amount of money one could put in a project like this) is the low clearance of the front door. You're going to want to lift it if going offroad, and if you do that, you might as well do the 4x4 conversion also...

 

[Waltzing Matilda]

Thanks Peneumbra- good point. Most of my driving in Baja next month would be on highway, with a few miles of graded dirt/gravel to get to final camping areas, so clearance is not an immediate concern.

I've been reading about the 4WD conversion on Das Bus, described here, which would be a long-term option. He estimated putting $50-60K into his rig over time: http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/threads/128196-Das-Bus/page1

Not sure what a lift, without 4WD, would require/cost...

 

[Rovertrader]

I can see the rose colored glasses view as well!!
Rig: is there an hour meter as these types spend lots of time idling?
Cost: you will be shocked as there is no end to what 'could' be spent. If you are handy and creative, this can conversely be kept to a minimum.
Fun factor: unlimited as long as you enjoy the company of those going. Sometimes limited room is an asset, but the group adventure will definitely provide tons of memories. I will mention an extended family trip when we all- like 22 out of 24 got food poisoning, and it certainly provided many memories....

In the end, good platform, easily serviceable, so why not?? Enjoy.

 

[Waltzing Matilda]

Thank you Rovertrader- yes, lots of potential. Not sure re hours/idling. I realize that's common with diesels.

When you write "good platform, easily serviceable" does that also include "reliable" platform? Is this engine choice a good one? (I've heard the 7.3s will run forever with proper maintenance, which I'm lead to believe this one has received during its life as a public transit bus.)

I'm also considering biodiesel. Anyone have experience using that in these engines?

Finally, As for upgrades/spending...yes, unlimited. Generally I'd prefer to spend money on experiences vs accessories, so I've already started looking for craigslist notices for parting out trailers & RVs for used internal cabinets, bathroom fixtures etc.

This could be a long term DIY project with potential of taking people on day trips into, say, Baja wine country, and serving as base camp for longer outings further south.

 

[blupaddler]

Insane, nah. Cool idea. The idea is kinda cool. And since you've got land around San Miguel, very cool btw I'm admittedly jealous, you're well aware how little you actually need to get around Baja. If you keep it simple you might be able to use the rig for a while and then sell it for what you paid for it or even more!

I know that the 7.3's properly maintained can go upwards 400-500K miles. Hopefully this one had everything done properly. I had a good local diesel mech but he's gone elsewhere, but it sounds like you've got one already...

Only thing I'd look into would be the tranny, which is typically the weak point on the 7.3's. Mine went pretty much without notice. That and add gauges tranny, EGT, pyro.

 

[TheSweatyButcher]

I was eyeing this one http://www.propertyroom.com/l/2006-ford-e350-hartford-ct-06114/9967772

I think they are great platforms. There is a youtube video of a guys setup to load motorcycles with the ramp.

 

[Waltzing Matilda]

I saw lots of these ads for newer ones on east coast for under $10K. Drawbacks: transit back to Cali, possible rust. Mine looks pretty solid after a life in SoCal.

Yes- "mine"... I purchased the bus today. It is now out in front of my house- even got the DMV transfer/sticker process done after work in record time! Insurance will run about $400/yr. MX insurance next... onward!

Will post more in separate thread...

I was eyeing this one http://www.propertyroom.com/l/2006-ford-e350-hartford-ct-06114/9967772

I think they are great platforms. There is a youtube video of a guys setup to load motorcycles with the ramp.

I may have seen that... I have no motos, but kayaks and plenty of camping gear. The hydraulic wheelchair lift will make loading heavy camp items much easier...

 

[TheSweatyButcher]

Can you post your build link here?

 

[Waltzing Matilda]

Can you post your build link here?

Will do... when I actually start building!

Currently just measuring/troubleshooting/un-building: removing wheelchair attachment system, cleaning debris, getting quotes for new tires (ouch), installing lock to external battery storage door etc.

Since 1st trip is only 3 weeks away, I will just do the basics for safety (tires, brake inspection, fluids) and install a simple storage bench/sleeping platform. Will use existing camping gear that can be set up inside or out, depending on where we camp & weather conditions.

Thanks for the interest!

PS- What I've learned from past builds: take an easy shakedown trip with the basics, before committing to permanent/expensive modifications. Take notes on the road about what's needed based on activities, and build accordingly. Let form follow function.

 

[Ozrockrat]

Before heading to Baja I would suggest:

1- Ensuring you have a way to air up your tires reasonably quickly. These duallies tend to bury the front fairly easily and with all the people you have in there air and shovels will be your friend. Also test how hard it is to air down/up. I got caught having to dig around inside the inner dual to get the air out of a set because there was no extensions on the valve stems.

2- Take a spare fuel filter or 2 and know how to change them.

3- Only get fuel where the bigger rigs do. Don't be tempted to get fuel at the gas stations in town.

4- Take it really easy on Mex 1. With a vehicle that wide and the way the roads are very narrow and roll from side to side you get to see the trucks very closely.

 

[Abitibi]

Here's another one if you're still looking.

http://m.ebay.ca/itm/261809468550?nav=SEARCH