Converting a heavy-duty bus/coach/truck into a motorhome

Hi everyone!

I'm here to share my experience: I'm lucky enough to live on a barge in a corner of paradise. But honestly, it has nothing to do with luck – it took a lot of determination and work. It's been going on for over ten years and the work is still far from finished! And I have a stable job and decent income, thankfully, to carry the project through. On the Aquaforum website, novices often show up who don't realize what problems await them. Before the Internet, us eccentric dreamers (and I say this fondly – I was one of them and still am in other areas) could easily crash and burn, ruined and/or desperate. Today there are "those who know" who sympathetically warn and inform the would-be converters – it's wonderful to have their knowledge shared by these kind forum posters. The authorities should thank them for it, and on this forum Patrick, gasmobil, GX407, and the others...

But for those deprived of their dream – don't forget it!

By successfully completing a more modest and accessible project (like a simple van), you also build yourself up. And then, if you haven't gotten too old in your head, you can move on to something bigger, more serious, or more crazy!

Thanks!!😉

Hey, malindodouce!

How are you?

I remember a discussion between us about meeting up... that still hasn't happened because of our schedules.

Did you see that I started a meet-up project? Donzère isn't far!

Maybe we'll manage to cross paths one day.

In any case, you're right, it's better to tackle a project suited to your abilities (and your means!) than to embark on an adventure you might not see through to the end.

Without being extreme, I wanted to be thoughtful. I was worried I might not be properly understood, but I'm happy to see that I was.... it makes me happy!

For now, for the meet-up on 16/17 September, 1 bus (mine), 3 cars, 7 adults and 5 kids.... Raise the stakes and take the opportunity so that "those who want to know" can ask all their questions face-to-face with "those who know" (quite a grand word!... let's say rather "those who know a bit more"), and see clear documents....

The idea is to be able to exchange tips and tricks more and better.

Alright, see you all and mark your calendars!

PATRICK26

HI FOLKS😉 here I am back from vacation😎 real ones for 9 years (more than 3 consecutive days) AND WITH THE "AutoCARàVannes" if you please !!!

So I see that since my silly request in my last post just 1H before we left, there's been tons of "keyboard tapping" and obviously our great guru jumped at the opportunity to plan everything🙂 and plus there's been interest😉 actually it was JUST FOR LAUGHS that I said that, but now, I'm into it! except I can't reply because I have 3 contract requests for Saturday and given the drive 😎 I've already checked the mileage (630km so about 10.5-11 hours plus breaks) I'll come alone (no family) In any case, if this happens, it'll be the first meet-up of this type in France.😛

Otherwise, if my experience interests you here it is, otherwise SKIP the rest:

So actually I wanted to use my "bus" as a car-based camper van (with the bikes in there too) I did part of the Brittany coast (North) from St Brieuc to Lannion via Perros-Guirec (town center at noon) DO NOT DO unless you know your bus to the millimeter and besides you annoy everyone and I only have an 8.63m one! I don't recommend Les Rosaires (very nice beach indicated from the St Brieuc dual carriageway) but it's a dead end and a no entry sign for vehicles over 3.5T and coaches only - and when you arrive there's no advance warning, plus the Municipal Police kick you out of the only "coach" parking - 4 spaces marked but three times the surface available plus empty all day - and no prohibition sign for the free surface (taken up by cars) They admit it's poorly marked but... anyway we managed to negotiate the night anyway.

I recommend Le Palus-Plage equipped with camper van facilities including an enclosed play area for kids, beach, pebbles, walking path, small boat launch, equipped with 3 coach spaces (empty) and a big car park where you can turn around if you arrive in the morning. BUT be careful it's a dead end and it drops steeply --> so you have to climb in 2nd gear with old fools in oversized car-based camper vans who don't know passing priorities (especially with HGVs)

Otherwise you can also sleep in the (paid daily) parking lot at Pointe de l'Arcouest (ferry terminal for the Îles de Bréhat) BUT YOU HAVE TO clear out by 8am (unless you want to visit the islands)

I went through PAIMPOL via the port and found where to park near a camper van supply spot but I doubt it's possible with an 11m one

Actually Brittany is full of small roads, I wanted to do the coast and I DID IT but at the cost of fatigue, small hassles (unmarked dead ends) (roads not really made for an HGV of 8.63m) and the traditional Breton stubbornness PLUS hello fuel consumption (24.85l/100km) it goes up and down all the time, you're at full throttle in 2nd, 3rd then the TELMA at 1, 2, 3 stages constantly (I'm exaggerating a bit...)

IN CONCLUSION:

Plan your route better than I did Bikes are MANDATORY (or a car), I ran into a Mega coach camper van with its car in tow (it's for sale on the net (white with angled cut side windows) it was parked in an industrial zone😕 If you're over 9m avoid the small coastal roads. Be diplomatic and smile. Avoid parking your exhaust too close to others (a bus has to warm up, plus mine is hybrid (air suspension at the back, so it needs to lift, pressurize the air tanks) and an HGV like mine SMOKES!🏴‍☠️ and when cold, it FILLS EVERYTHING WITH SMOKE🏴‍☠️🏴‍☠️ and it stinks Drive at night - well I love it and the road is yours. Avoid isolated spots - we cleared out quick at 4am after a detailed inspection of the bus by some guy in a van who positioned himself a bit further away and made 3 phone calls then waited in his van, I didn't take chances.

My bus I designed for work, not really for vacations, so the water tank isn't great, too much interior space (which was used by the kids one day out of two since we only had water 1 day out of 2) So seeing that work-wise it's no longer justified, the girls want to take their cars (faster) no summer tours this year and things are looking rough next year, I'm wondering if I shouldn't cut the back off to fit a Willys in there (seeing as I have authorization from Heuliez) but it bothers me, seeing as I already have a rear door of the tilting wing type (photos as soon as I get around to it) and considering that, it's a rare model. Otherwise I sell it and buy a shorter Heuliez (yes I quite like administrative ease I'm a bit lazy😉) but if I do that, my GX47 will be missed😕.

Anyway, I've lost count of the number of people I've run into who thought the thing was awesome. (in the land of camper vans what a satisfaction🙂 it gives off a certain appeal.

There you have it fresh off the press, back from vacation. GX47

Hey buddy😉

Well, I'm late to the party, but I still want to share my two cents—you got good advice. 😛 Personally, I outfitted a Heuliez GX47 for shows (hence my handle) because it has a rear door that opens like a hatch—perfect for gear. If I sell it in 3 years and you've got the budget to maintain it, I'll let you know. Truth is, a heavy-duty vehicle costs less upfront than a light vehicle BUT repair costs are way higher, insurance too, fuel costs too. I know my way around engines—I've restored tons of vehicles—but heavy trucks, I can't do; I'm not equipped for it. Though a 303 engine can be pulled by one person PLUS a pallet jack 😏—my GX's engine weighs 450kg.

Plus, if you want to upgrade your vehicle with AFDAS funding, you need at least 2 years in freelance work.

Originally I wanted a 609 or 709. Found a 711 online from a dealer, drove 1000 km and left empty-handed. It was pitted everywhere (not visible in the pics), damaged on the left from a load that supposedly fell inside (no photos sent from that angle), had 171,000 km on it, and the driver's seat was ground down to bare metal (even the foam) and so was the passenger bench edge. The thing is, Mercs are overpriced.

What I really had my eye on was the long 508 as a heavy-duty, but they're all beat up, and they weigh 2.5 to 2.9 tons empty! 😠 Plus they rust at an insane rate...

At one point I also wanted to pick up a moving van and convert it to an extended cab plus a bunk. Problem—no side door. Installation cost: 3,000 euros, because you have to go through a bodyshop (safety regulations require a specific door type), so check with DRIRE before you buy (ask about the motorhome file) and ask the engineer whether an emergency exit window might do.

I ended up with a Master Series 2, 2.8L DTi H2L3—the best. But steer clear of Series 1s, especially pre-'92 ones; the cylinder heads don't last 60,000 km. Same issue with Iveco light vehicles (they use the same engine). Boxers have solid engines, but the windscreen cracks lengthwise quickly (chassis flex problem). Check out the "Blue Beards"—they're sturdy, insulated polyester—but ask about the side door setup. For the Master "Gaby-chariots," the upside is seating capacity; you can register it as a 9-seater with DRIRE while keeping the original seats, but you'll probably need a different engine.

Alright, gotta crash—work coming up soon. GX47

Hi Gasmobil and GX47!

Actually, I think Patrick26 did the right thing being upfront—better a firm piece of advice than a HUGE disappointment later... I was actually waiting for someone to be honest! And I got discouraged... well, not too much in the end! But the Transeurope will keep falling apart (the S45 is a 'Transeurope'!) and everything else, I think I'll skip even the fitted S53s and SC10s, otherwise I'm looking at big problems if it stays parked the way I'm planning. Some contracts come with housing provided, so there's no need to move the truck for all that time...

Anyway, what does a GX47 look like? I know the GX107 but that's a city bus (nice-looking one too)... 303 engine—those Mercedes from my scout days? It's funny they're dumping one too but what a state! (going for €6,000!)

I don't know the 609 709 711 508 Barbe Bleus either... etc... Mercedes?

Bad news about the Master box truck; the guy backed out (we can't bid anymore!). But I'll find something else; I'll call Gaby next week to check with him!

Have a great weekend!

AND A HAPPY VACATIONER!

for the 16/17 date, I'm just reminding you it's just a suggestion!

for now, I'm at the number of participants mentioned above.

among those participants, aside from 2 who are on their way back at that date, for the others there wouldn't be a problem with another date (at first glance). I'm also in contact with 2 or 3 people who can't make the 16/17 weekend. the date might not be well chosen...

gx47, gasmobil, etc., submit your availability dates for September...

would the following weekend be easier?

we'll get in touch via private messages to exchange phone numbers and talk about it.

I have a buddy who has a bus converted into a computer classroom (for lessons with students in schools that aren't equipped) who could join us. it'd be fun to connect live during our weekend discussions and transcribe them as we go...

PATRICK26

Check out these links and you'll find ads for equipped vans converted to camper vans:

http://merco.aceboard.fr/...camping+car&go=1 http://www.annonces-camping-car.com/cgi-bin/d.cgi?sid=aeb0326079d7e450&M=2

Also, I found two threads about buses converted to camper vans with lots of photos:

http://merco.aceboard.fr/...-6603-0-roulotte.htm (two different buses) http://merco.aceboard.fr/...e-transformation.htm

Thanks for your contribution! Honestly, I'd already read those latest posts—maybe that's even how I found this forum in the first place, I can't quite remember.

I'm searching for a motorhome, but in my neighboring regions they're asking ridiculously high prices. I'll search more thoroughly tomorrow :) .

😏😏😏 Finally got it, guys! I managed to set my GX as my avatar. To be honest, aside from not having ADSL (welcome to the countryside), I was dealing with a photo that was too large. All that's left is to get the attached photos sorted...😏

Last night I was wondering: how's the sound insulation on your buses? (especially for sleeping at night) (I'm guessing it shouldn't be worse than a caravan or RV, actually, depending on the insulation quality)

and what about PTAC and PTRA on your registration documents?

Well, right now I'm not really insulated so I can't say it's great, but my Master is completely insulated on all 6 sides... well no, not the windshield and soundwise, it's the same then...? (tri-iso-super9 insulation)

For the weight specs, my GX47 has a PTAC of: 9T750 (9T500+250kg of TELMA) PTRA: 13T250 (same, 13T+250kg of TELMA) normally a GX with mixed air/mechanical suspension comes in at 10T250

as has already been mentioned, if there's no PTRA listed (and unfortunately that's often the case for pre-1990 buses) no towing is possible, not even a 300kg load or your grandpa's bike trailer 😕

if it's your military license restriction that worries you, normally you're capped at 12T, or even 19T for some, so if a bus appeals to you, go for a 9m one (DRIRE doesn't lower the weight limits anymore)

We just saw your message today. We'd taken it off the market for a summer trip, but it's available again now because it's too big for us ( now that the kids are grown up ...). Please send us your email for the photos. Talk soon!

I've been following your discussions for a few months and I'm thinking about buying a bus. In my case, I think it's preferable to get one with registration papers because that means fewer risks. Exterior painting and interior fittings don't scare me too much, because I've already renovated quite a few vintage vehicles. However, I have no ideas for a practical layout, arrangement and sizing of the compartments. I've checked out a lot of websites but haven't found what I'm looking for. If you had tips and photos, that would be really nice of you. fatipic@cegetel.net Oh by the way, I forgot the basics: a Scania 53 or Renault PR. One more question: why do you talk about 30-seaters so rarely, and what do they really consume? Do you have photos of the rear opening, the so-called garage, because I haven't seen one yet?

PS: I'm a few km from Toulouse, and if someone was from the area, maybe we could meet up to exchange ideas and knowledge.

Warmly, Fab

Here are 2 photos of my bus, with the back open in the garage.

For the meet-up, come join us for the one in September in Valence!

PATRICK26

Thanks for your reply, I'll know better once I retake my license (lost it)... Wasn't the Telma original equipment? why was it added? How long is your bus? it seems a bit shorter than standard TCP buses. Nice ramp at the back, are you going to keep it or expand it?



Anyone else want to share their GVWR (and GTWR if applicable) along with their bus's exterior dimensions? Do you have ABS on your buses???

How'd you manage to get a photo of my coach and post it online?

It's exactly 8.63m.

No, I haven't made a decision yet. I'd prefer to find another one to convert, but I won't find one with so few kilometers (230,000km) and so much refurbishment—new brakes, new air tanks, new air suspension, tie-rods, clutch drums redone, etc. (the government was subsidizing repairs and maintenance)😎 Well, the sills aren't great, but that's nothing—the tires can still do tens of thousands more kilometers.

The Telma is mandatory on coaches—it came with it but wasn't originally fitted, because it's a Renault truck base (JNIE24) like the S130 and Midliner that came later. I have the installation sheet provided by Renault. After that, the whole thing went to Heuliez (chassis/engine) to be fitted out as a coach—that's why the chassis is from 1985 (type approval) and the finished coach has a red bar for approval in 1986 on the registration—the first registration date is 1986.

What explains the extra 250kg in PTAC and PTRA is the law—the Telma's weight is added to encourage buyers to invest in this safety feature.

If you add up the maximum weight authorized by the manufacturer front axle + rear axle, you get 9.5 tons on my coach, and I'm legally overloaded by 250kg since the DRIRE approved it at 9.75 tons😏

My Telma was changed in '95 or 2003?—I don't remember anymore, I need to check the maintenance log.

In any case, it's an ESSENTIAL accessory for heavy vehicle driving—I use it constantly and barely use the brakes. If I remember right, I think Telmas are only mandatory on heavy vehicles from 12 tons PTAC onwards. GX47

CUNNI, I'd also like to know how you managed to put GX47's avatar (or another photo) in a post? I'm not all thumbs, but I haven't figured it out yet.

In any case, GX47, your enlarged photo really shows your dog much better!

Maybe it's because I use OPERA as my browser and I can't switch to advanced editor mode.

Anyway, CUNNI, you've got to explain it.... we're happy to share info about buses, but everyone should share their knowledge....

As for bus specifications:

Mine is 11.95m long, 2.50m wide exterior and 2.36m interior width, 3.08m tall exterior and 2.04m interior height with a flat floor (except for wheel housings).

As for weight, 10,800 kg empty, 17,500 kg PTAC and 21,000 kg PTRA (which means I can tow 3,500 kg). That's what's on the registration papers before modifications.

Unfortunately, I don't have ABS (so 90 km/h and not 100 for a bus, but I don't care because once I convert it to a truck it'll be 90 anyway!)

As for Telmas (or electric retarders), they're indeed mandatory in public transport, as GX47 told you. On the other hand, a truck can get by with an exhaust brake. I'm saying this for those who want to import and pass the roadworthiness test after modifications. If they find an exotic bus without a Telma but with an exhaust brake, it'll be fine for VASP or RV homologation, because those are "truck" homologations if under 9 seats.

(The Telma is the lever under the steering wheel, the exhaust brake is the mushroom button to the left of the clutch—though on newer trucks it can also be a lever under the steering wheel (but with only 1 or 2 positions), or an automatic system that engages as soon as you press the brake pedal and before it actually brakes). Some heavy vehicles have both, which is my bus's case, and it's fantastic for smooth handling because the Telma is perfect for approach control (roundabouts, traffic lights, turns, etc.), and the exhaust brake is great for long downhills and longer approach distances, etc. A Telma heats up to glowing if used too long without enough ventilation, but it works even at low engine RPM. With an exhaust brake, no overheating issues, but you need to be above 1,500 RPM for it to work and above 2,000 RPM for it to brake effectively.

The important thing is to have one and use it. Indeed, for example, if you're going down a hill at 800 RPM (without engine braking, I know it's crazy, but it's just an example!), and you hit the brakes, at a rate of 1.5 liters expelled with each brake release (that "pshhhhh!" sound), and a 20-liter air tank, that's 10 brake applications (after which there's not enough pressure in the tank because the compressor didn't recharge fast enough) before the driver says "this damn truck won't brake anymore!" and slams on the emergency brake (if they remember!) which acts as the backup brake. And there, "boom!" Locked wheels—time to replace the mirror (because it'll be under the rolled-over truck!), or off a cliff (too bad for the driver, rest in peace...), or worse, Mister Anybody's car coming the other way and a kid crying for their mom, dad, brother, and sister (because in those situations there's always a survivor). An emergency brake should be pulled gently, but in a panic....

As for weight, GX47 is right—the Telma's weight doesn't count toward the tonnage limits. It's added to the empty weight and increases the loaded weight accordingly, because it's a safety component that weighs heavy (200 to 400 kg!) and they didn't want to penalize people for installing one.

But all that's covered when you get your license. It's unfortunate that the military is so negligent with the heavy-truck training it provides (a drive around the block, 300 km on the highway in convoy, and boom, license in your pocket. Unacceptable!). Especially when you know that FIMO/FCOS was introduced to fill the gap left by inadequate driver training, based on an analysis of accident files from REAGIR (prefectural commissions for major heavy-truck accidents). Yep, back then, 1 driver in 7 had a military license and didn't even know there was an emergency brake (or a retarder or an aligner brake for semis!).

I had a buddy with a military license. A few years back, he was laid off. He walks into a temp agency, and because he had a heavy-truck license, they offer him a job driving a truck supplying an asphalt paver (the machine that spreads the asphalt). The first night, he couldn't stop the truck because he didn't know you had to pull the choke. The next day, he blocked the job site because he couldn't manage to back up 1 km on the highway emergency lane with asphalt in his trailer. The third day, he lost the trailer and left it on the raised stands because he hadn't pushed the kingpin in far enough and the pin wasn't locked! That ended his trucking career! When we talked about it, he told me: "Yeah, but I got my license in a command car!"....

All this to say I've nothing against military licenses, but when I hear a soldier grumble about FIMO/FCOS.... Avoiding the cost of a license is fine. Refusing training when you don't know what you're doing, ....

CUNNI, I really don't want you to take what I just wrote personally. We don't know each other and THANKFULLY most people on this earth are sensible! It was just a rant about your questions, which I find very relevant when you have a military license. Unfortunately, others in your situation only ask them after an accident!

That's it for tonight.

All the best to everyone (and CUNNI, don't be bothered by what I just wrote, I'M REMINDING YOU THAT *I* DON'T KNOW HOW TO PUT A PHOTO IN A POST, AND I'M COUNTING ON YOU TO EXPLAIN TO GX47 AND ME HOW TO DO IT, JUST AS WELL AS WE'VE EXPLAINED THINGS. COME ON NOW..... (just kidding!) There are no dumb questions, silly questions, etc. The only silly questions are the ones you should have asked.... So let's go, that's what a forum is for!).

PATRICK26

Thanks Patrick for the 2 photos. It looks like you've adapted a door-window shade, blind-type, right? Is the lowering electric or manual? The angle doesn't let me see the details. Thanks to you. Fab.

Exactly!

adjustable aluminum blind with polyurethane foam insulation and 220V motorization.

bought on sale at Bricodepot for less than 350 euros!

I had also checked with FIT (who makes truck doors), but they were 1280 euros before tax and shipping....

If I were any good at blogging, I'd post online the best of the 400 photos I have of the bodywork and the plans!

The other solution would be to put the clearest ones in posts on this discussion topic... but we're still waiting on CUNNI! (humor!)

PATRICK26

I'm reminding everyone about the meetup proposal for our converted buses and trucks. Doesn't seem to interest many people! I'm still surprised, given all the views and posts on this topic!

If something doesn't sit right with you about my proposal, let me know. And if you want to suggest something else, go for it!

Don't be shy! A keyboard and screen are fine, but talking face-to-face around a campfire with a drink in hand and sausages to munch on—that's way better!

LINK TO THE MEETUP THREAD: http://voyageforum.com/v.f?post=677677;#677677

a quick hello from this evening... I see I'm discovering this forum pretty late... but the internet too.. I see we have the same passion, that's really cool after 3 years without being able to drive a truck (steering + sleeping = accident + alcohol = busted truck + license suspension + insurance not being cooperative) I'm back in action. if by any chance you spot a little 8m truck, a Merco-Setra flatbed, or a 911, ..... blablablabla I get all pumped up (if anyone's looking for a little bus as a leisure vehicle, I have a friend selling a Renault Master with inspection OK 4000 euros 0611733631) I'd like to show you a 911 bus from the Argentine army... awesome, but I don't know how to send photos... if you can help me!

yo

AH!!! magic? whoever finds me the same one, I'll buy it otherwise it's cool to plan meet-ups. But for me, I do winter tours in Paris, and car rides get me too down...

You need to copy the image link into the insert image window.

Right-click on the photo and a menu will drop down. Click on Properties at the bottom. Highlight the photo's address: http//...etc. Copy it using ctrl+c or right-click on the highlighted part and copy. When you make the post, click on the insert image icon (the little frame) and delete what's inside, then paste the photo's link in its place. Click insert and it should normally work.

Try it and let me know if it works please.

Good luck.

First of all, thanks for your detailed replies

lol... I was sure you'd ask about the photos...

To display GX47's bus, I hacked his computer... 😎

More seriously, the command to display an image is described here: http://voyageforum.com/...aide;;#image_attache or here (at the bottom of the page): http://voyageforum.com/v.f?do=markup_help;

The system with tags works with the basic or advanced editor. Note that there are also tags to display an interactive Internet link (you click on it, it launches the link)

Be careful not to use images that are too large, otherwise they don't fit on the screen and then you have to drag the image from left to right (it's annoying).

For large images there's http://www.imageshack.us/, which allows you to display small thumbnails and see the image full-size when you click on the thumbnail. See the tutorials found on Google: http://www.google.fr/...meta=lr%3Dlang_fr http://forum.telecharger.01net.com/...um-2/messages-1.html

For images used as avatars, you generally need to respect a maximum size, otherwise the image is reduced. This is the case with our forum: Note: The maximum size your personal photo/image can have is 120 pixels by 120 pixels. If your personal photo/image is larger than this size, it will be reduced to the permitted dimensions. If it is smaller, it will not be enlarged. (read in "my profile")

But curiously, the reduction only happens on display—the image saved on the site remains at its original size. In fact, the image that GX47 used for his avatar originally measured 540x307 (verifiable by right-clicking on his avatar -> display image -> right-click -> properties). Patrick26's is 267x125.

So to display GX47's image, I right-clicked on his avatar -> display image -> right-click -> copy the image address. Then I posted my message by including the image address between two "image" tags. That's all, no hacking involved.

Patrick, I absolutely did not take what you wrote as a personal attack. On the contrary, I agree with you. Besides, I have a buddy who's a bus driver who'd be happy to give me some lessons if I ever get a bus... I've been thinking about it for a while, which is why I found this forum by doing a Google search.

edit : arf... by 9 minutes... hi gasmobil, you beat me to it... For info, could you give me the GVWR and GTWR of your bus, as well as its dimensions? Thanks in advance.

Well, apparently the tag doesn't work on this forum so with imageshack you have to make a small modification:

Once the image is uploaded to imageshack, you need to double-click on the URL named "Thumbnail for forums (1)" to highlight it then right-click on the URL and click copy

Then you paste it in your message, you replace http://img95.imageshack.us/my.php?image=dsc00599jl9.jpg

OK, this is doing my head in, I keep forgetting—you can click on my photo

So my project is slowly taking shape and I'd like to know what type of bus would be best suited for my needs.

I've been looking at: Renault FR1, S53 Vanhool

Ideally, I'm looking for a vehicle that would have a living area with large storage compartments underneath and a workshop at the back with a door to fit motorcycles (so preferably mid-engine). I saw a Vanhool T818 and I'm looking for a bus like that.

Searching online, I've found lots of bus sales websites with prices all over the place.

Do you have a sales website to recommend with vehicles in good condition and not too expensive (which is what everyone wants)?

If you have any sites for the Paris region that I can start looking through and see what I can get for a reasonable budget.

I'll share the diagrams (electrical, layout, gas...) and the sponsorship proposal I'm putting together.

I've also ordered the AFNOR guide "Converting an RV/Motorhome"

Thanks for your replies!

P.S. I'd really like to meet up with Patrick so we can chat about buses of course and I can see yours

FIRST OF ALL, THANKS CUNNI FOR MAKING ME UNDERSTAND THAT I'M BETTER OFF TINKERING WITH BUSES THAN WITH COMPUTERS!

Joking aside, I get it!

The only way to put a photo in a VoyageForum post is if it's on the internet! (That's right, CUNNI, yeah?) And me, my photos are on my PC, which goes on the internet, but they're not actually on the internet.... so, screwed! If you want to see my whole folder and the transformation photos, you just have to come to the meet-up I proposed! (Seriously, grrrrr, I'm not going to get a degree in computer science and learn CUNNI's language—because it's definitely a foreign language, right?—just to put photos online!)

Aside from that, bastosyzf450, vanhool = good base.

FR1, it's getting worse and worse! I was at Bieron's yesterday, and his mechanic told me that even RVI garages come to him looking for parts that Irisbus (which now belongs 100% to Iveco!) no longer stocks!

That doesn't make me want to drive an FR1!

And the S53 and similar models, we've already discussed those. They're really only for tight budgets and young people. Me, almost 40 with 3 kids, I'm looking for a bit more comfort. But at 20, I had a raised Estafette camper van... no money, no kids, and with lots of friends and good times, it was the best!

And now it's gasmobil's turn.... We understood that you had a wedding, just the weekend of the meet-up.... What an excuse!

Enough joking around—for the meet-up, if it's all just to get together with a handful of us, it's a shame!

By mid-September, I'll have done most of the interior work, I'll just have some tinkering and final touches left.

For now, I'm stopping because I'm taking the kids to eat at an American gastronomic restaurant (McDonald's!).

PATRICK26

FOR YOUR OLD MERCEDES:

http://www.maggie-deutz.com/iv/index.php?pg=bezug

and dig through the links. you'll find suppliers of German equipment there.

good luck with your search....

PATRICK26

you totally nailed that German site........... damn, my head's killing me can you confirm what I think—to register a truck or a bus, does it need to have been sold in France? how can you find that out? from the type number? lots of Merco buses weren't sold in France, I think (305, 309, 307) does anyone have the Mercedes-Daimler company number? I really don't feel like dealing with an isolated vehicle passage, and then you need the motivation to move on to the campervan anyway.... thanks, I'm really exhausted, you guys are great advisors!!

😏Organizing a meet-up isn't easy, as you can see. I'm from Toulouse and I'd love to swing by, but 800km is a lot—especially with the family... not easy.

Has anyone on the forum already converted a 30-seater bus? What kind of fuel consumption are we looking at roughly?

IF YOU'RE LOOKING FOR A BUS, I spotted one this week on eBay. It's a Renault and is being renovated, priced at €4,500. For my part, I'm a bit discouraged by what people on the forum say about its poor reliability. Plus, the seller doesn't have all the paperwork in order yet. It seems like if everything were fine, the price would be reasonable compared to other listings currently online. One of them was asking €20,000 for a 53, not even in great condition either...!!!!!

My ideal would be to find an old Magirus—one that doesn't need to prove its reliability anymore, with proper campervan papers, just needing some renovation work. Its retro look, its size, its curves... I dream about it, but you gotta keep your feet on the ground. I've always found its rounded, cuddly shapes charming—proof is my first campervan was a 23-window Volkswagen. If anyone knows of one, well... I'm not holding my breath. Better to aim for something more realistic, like an S 53.

OK, I finally figured out how to post a clickable image on this forum that launches a link! Phew! 😛

Click on the images 😏

Never mind my last post - with the quotes it was really confusing. Anyway, I found an easier way. I'm starting a tutorial, and as soon as it's done (this weekend), I'll post the link... (with the thing I'm putting together, even Patrick will be able to post tons of photos on the forum) In the meantime, I've started gathering some photos from the thread here: http://profile.imageshack.us/user/cunni

AND I'VE GOT PLENTY OF GEMS LIKE THIS ONE!

I've already shared a few, but there are still some left. (I've got a Russian one too! but that's even more of a headache!

For your info, Mercedes provides the procedures to certify their vehicles worldwide. Get in touch with the nearest heavy-vehicle dealer with copies of the German (or other) documents, and within a week they'll tell you whether it's importable to France, what modifications might be needed, etc....

PATRICK26

Yeah, to certify a used foreign vehicle in France you need to get it approved here. If you do a technical inspection you're required to meet current standards—unlike a vehicle already approved in France when new, which only needs to meet the standards of its approval year. In short, it's not possible: emissions, seat belts, brakes, engine (DCi mandatory now I think), lighting, etc., etc.

BRAVO, BRAVO!

So we're waiting for the tutorial then....

Like a real pro, you even masked the faces.....

But who are you, what do you do, what region are you from? Your profile's not filled in—I'm left wondering if you're a 'young' tech genius or a seasoned pro...

PATRICK26

Hi again, So the FR1 is a bad option then? On the other hand, what about Vanhool — do they easily grant authorizations (for adding seats with seatbelts, that's important to me) on 20-year-old buses? I was also wondering about Bova, a smaller manufacturer — might it be easier to get paperwork or approvals? My requirements: a bus with large cargo holds, capable of covering long distances, 12 meters long (for under €20,000), and ideally a MAN or Mercedes engine (with after-sales service available everywhere) Patrick, if you want to upload all your photos without any hassle, I can set up something really simple for you, with automatic resizing and all the features you could want (it's what I do), and I can give you a hand by phone if needed... I would've liked to come to the meet-up, but from Rennes it's quite far 😕

OK, while I was trying to post an image, patrick26 had already replied, but it's not the same answer... I'm confirming what I said because I've already tried it with a Trabant (it's not possible to register it in RTI because of the pollution WITH 2 L, unlike my previous message (where 1 L is missing but that's normal—my job is magician, making things disappear I know) BUT I can't manage to make a photo APPEAR M.... I'm hopeless at computers!!! thus ends my international career in my neighborhood😕😏

OK I also confirm what Patrick26 said about Mercedes, I've already heard about it (plus I imported one (but it was already registered in France 300 Break TD Turbo) )

OK I'll wait for cunni's post for the photos I think😐

A really practical tool would be great...

while waiting for the tutorial, the command to display an image with a link is:



for images to be side by side, all the brackets need to be together (no space) otherwise they'll stack one on top of the other.

To display an image simply: (works if the image is stored on a website!)

Alright, I'm off to bed, I wake up at 4:30

Patrick, I've started filling out my profile... 😛 GX47 soon a tutorial that should be clear for everyone...

Well, to try CUNNI's magic formula, I'm jumping in

Here's a photo of a friend's bus converted into a computer room

Wow.... it's so obvious!!! I was overthinking it... THANKS CUNNI!!! Actually, it's like with some jobs—sometimes the more you search for complex solutions the less you find them, and so the more you search the less you find... 😊uh, never mind😇 I'm outta here

😏I think I'm going to retake IQ tests, I feel like mine melted tonight😄

Ha! I'm happy I can get to bed early (it's not even midnight!) I've even got time to do a couple little tasks for work that's awesome!

GX47 😎😎😎

Alright, before I head to work, here's one more quick thing:

My first motorhome



😏actually it's not mine, but it reminds me I have the same one rotting away🤪 (the back's not the same of course) but it would fit in the GX47 without modifying the door😄

alright, that's it, it's past midnight, alright I'm gonna stop fooling around and go to work! seriously😐

GX47

Cool Vespa camper van!

Complete opposite of our buses!

Yeah, I thought that was a funny extreme reference, and next to it even my little GX looks HUGE! 😉

Alright, I'm out, gotta work🤪

Hi, I'm new to the site and I've read almost everything. At the beginning of this thread, I thought the Saviem S53 was a good base for a motorhome conversion project, but seeing this recent message, I now think Renault no longer takes care of these old buses? (following an Iveco takeover) so all my hopes are dashed! What do you think is the best base at an accessible price for a young person like me? Knowing I plan to take all the time I need to complete this project, but the initial budget (buying the bus) can't exceed €4,000–5,000 thanks in advance for your expert answers!

Don't mix it all up!

An S53 is an old bus and Irisbus doesn't matter! Don't count on new parts. On the other hand, there are tons of used parts out there, and that's what makes it such an accessible bus.

But a recent FR1, that's a pain - you struggle to find certain used parts and risk not finding them at all. And that's pretty catastrophic for a bus less than 10 years old (for certain models).

If your budget is 5000 euros, you're a bit short, but others have pulled it off with S45/S53 or even PR14 or the squared Magirus (the experts will know what I mean). Avoid complicated buses, even if they're cheap.

PATRICK26

Hotware,

if I can get away and go, I'll take you. I live in Sarthe, Rennes to my place is 160km, I made that drive last week with the coach.😉 that just leaves 630 kms😎

GX47

PS heads up everyone, we can team up😉 if someone has an old school bus still in good shape, should we do a road trip?😏

😊Ha yeah that's right, I'm not around anymore, I went to work (I'd forgotten)😏

Heuliez Heuliez Heuliez.

No, no, I'm out of here, whoosh, vanished

OK, thanks—I feel reassured now. I can stay motivated for my project!

In your opinion, can those 4 bus models you mentioned be converted to VASP motorhome specs with enough courage and patience?

Anyway, thanks for your quick response and all the advice you've given over 33 pages! I'll definitely need more specific guidance in a few months, but now I know where to turn!