StacieSkelley Report post Posted September 16, 2013 American Fork, UT: Recommendation http://tradenetrvs.com/classifieds/category/422/MCI/listings/10470/1981-MCI-MC9-Bus-Conversion-in-American-Fork,-UT.html I am new to this forum but have been "lurking" for the past year. I am now seriously considering this bus as a fulltime rig. It will be for me and my two cats. I love the open layout, quirky design, and ease in keeping it clean. And that all the window are still in - lots of light. However it will need some work for it to be useable in states with cold snaps. Your thoughts/opinions appreciated.I would be hugely grateful for a recommendation of a local shop/mechanic to check this bus out. How much should it cost for mechanical and house systems inspection? I am from NJ in the Navy Reserve on extended duty in South Carolina. Thanks!Stacie Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
dickandlois Report post Posted September 16, 2013 Hi Stacie ! Welcome to FMCA ! I have a feeling that there are some MCI Bus Nuts hanging around on the forum. The group does some amazing work. This Link might get you some good information. http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/mci-bus-nuts/info Thank you for your service. Rich. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
StacieSkelley Report post Posted September 16, 2013 Rich I've tried that link but it says I have to be a member so I tried finding the link to join that group and can't seem to find it. Much thanks! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
dickandlois Report post Posted September 16, 2013 Stacie, It Looks like there group page is currently lock due to spam problems. So just maybe one of there current members that also belongs to the FMCA group will contact you and offer a solution. Members of FMCA can post a PM (private message) that will go to your personal email account, so keep an eye on you account. lets hope you get a reply ! Rich. Joining a group Keep in mind: Some groups are private. In these groups, your request will be sent to the group's moderator for approval before you can participate. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
StacieSkelley Report post Posted September 16, 2013 Thanks Rich. I am a member of other groups so I thought maybe my yahoo app was going crazy. I will keep checking. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
kaypsmith Report post Posted September 17, 2013 I am an MCI owner, and I don't know about the link, but do know a little about MCI. Parts are much easier to find than Prevost. 8V92 is a super engine, the stated mileage if correct is reasonable for the engine. I did not see transmission type. If it is manual, you will get a little better fuel mileage. If it is an HT740 Allison, which is usually paired with 6v or 8v, question if transmission was also upgraded to accommodate 8v92 engine. The 8V71 was the most used engine in an 81 MC9. This engine was rated at 318 horsepower, 8V92 is rated at 445 horsepower, causing my concern for transmission upgrade. Most shops that can work on older 2 cycle engines, yes, these models are two stroke engines, should be able to verify if tranny is compatible. All of these Detroit engines of this vintage, have a tendency to leak oil, so I wouldn't recommend parking on concrete driveway without a spill receptacle. I am not knocking MCI, I love mine, and wouldn't trade for anything else. The pictures indicate that the unit is a homebrew, this isn't bad either, but a lot of attention to plumbing and electrical should be paid. If it is good, and you like the floor plan, and all the above requirements are met, also watch out for rust, some is normal, but a lot can be very expensive. Look closely at all detail before you buy, the end result should be rewarding. The price looks pretty good, and if all is OK, this should be a nice home. Good luck, Kay Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
aztec7fan Report post Posted September 17, 2013 Have you tried this website: http://rvservicereviews.com/ Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
StacieSkelley Report post Posted September 17, 2013 Kay - It is automatic but I will ask better Q's re: tranny. Thanks! Chris - Much thanks for the link. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
