
School buses are being converted into recreational vehicles (RVs) or campers, popularly known as skoolies, by adventure-seekers. This trend is gaining traction as it offers a cost-effective way to own a fully customised home on wheels. Skoolies are rising in popularity due to their sturdy construction, heavy-duty engines, and spacious interiors. They are also relatively affordable, with prices ranging from $2,500 to $7,500 for a used bus, and they offer more room for customisation than traditional RVs.
Converting a school bus into a camper involves several steps, including tearing out the seats, removing wiring and wall components, and addressing any damage or rust issues. It is crucial to conduct thorough research and plan the layout according to one's needs and preferences. Additionally, factors such as engine type, transmission, and length of the bus should be considered when choosing the right bus for conversion.
While converting a school bus into a camper can be challenging, it is an exciting project for those seeking a unique and customised mobile living space.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Reasons to convert a school bus into a camper | Customizable, spacious, durable, cheaper than buying a new RV, safer than traditional RVs |
Where to find a school bus for conversion | Facebook Marketplace, local school districts, online retailers (e.g. Midwest Transit Equipment), auctions, social media, school districts' fleet yards, new/used school bus dealers |
Cost of a used school bus | $2,500 to $7,500 USD, with prices varying based on condition, specifications, and seller |
Factors to consider when buying a used school bus | Mileage, maintenance records, rust, engine and transmission, roof height, tires, batteries, exhaust, title, and overall condition |
School bus engine and transmission options | Cummins (5.9L, 6.7L, and 8.3L), International Navistar MaxxForce DT (DT466), Allison automatic transmission |
School bus conversion process | Buy, tear out components, deal with seats, wiring, walls, ceilings, floors, heating, plumbing, remodelling, licensing and registration |
What You'll Learn
- Buy a school bus for $3,000-$6,000 at auction or from a local school district
- Remove seats, wiring, walls, ceilings, floors, and heating
- Prepare for remodelling by addressing any issues such as rust and corrosion
- Install new flooring and insulation
- Design the layout of your school bus, considering factors such as bed size, kitchen space, and storage
Buy a school bus for $3,000-$6,000 at auction or from a local school district
School buses are often sold at public auctions and through school districts as fleets sell off their older buses to make room for newer models. You can also find school buses for sale online through classified sites, social media, new and used school bus dealers, and auction sites such as Public Surplus and GovPlanet.
When buying a school bus, it is important to consider its condition and whether it has any rust or corrosion. Buses with minimal rust and corrosion will be easier and less costly to convert. It is also a good idea to look for a bus with no or minimal rusting. While you can expect to pay between $3,000 and $6,000 for a school bus, prices can vary depending on the age, condition, and specifications of the bus. For example, a 2005 Thomas Saf-T-Liner 4x2 44-Seat School Bus was listed for auction with a starting bid of $5,000, while a 2009 Thomas.Freightliner (route runner) with 14 passenger seats was listed for $3,500.
School buses are a popular choice for conversion into recreational vehicles (RVs) or "skoolies" due to their sturdy construction, heavy-duty materials, and reliable commercial-grade engines. They offer ample space for creating different rooms and installing appliances, plumbing, and entertainment systems. With a school bus conversion, you can design your own layout and make it into whatever you want, whether it's a mobile home, an adventure vehicle, or both!
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Remove seats, wiring, walls, ceilings, floors, and heating
Removing Seats, Wiring, Walls, Ceilings, Floors, and Heating
Seats
School buses have many seats, and removing them is a necessary first step to create more space for your camper. The bolts on the seats can be cut with an angle grinder, especially if they are rusty. You can also use a wrench or socket set to loosen the nuts under the seats.
Wiring
Tinkering with wiring can be daunting, but taking your time and being methodical will help. School buses have wired components such as lights and speakers, which can be removed and their wires capped with wire nuts. Be mindful that some wires may be connected to the starting system. In some states, you are required to remove or disable flashers and other safety features like stop signs.
Walls
Removing walls can be tricky as different school buses are constructed differently. You may need to use screwdrivers, drills, or other tools. Always remove the metal interior sliding and ensure it is in good condition for better insulation.
Ceilings
Ceilings can often be removed in a similar way to walls. It is crucial to inspect the insulation and replace it if necessary to avoid temperature problems and other damage.
Floors
The original floor in a school bus is typically not suitable for living. School bus floors usually have a layer of rubber atop a layer of plywood, both of which need to be removed. The rubber can be peeled up by hand, while the plywood may require a pry bar to be removed.
Heating
The heating system in a school bus is complex, taking coolant from the diesel engine and distributing it throughout the passenger area. To deactivate the system, join the coolant input and output with a hose barb fitting using clamps and a flat-head screwdriver. Be cautious, as coolant can spill out during this process.
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Prepare for remodelling by addressing any issues such as rust and corrosion
Before remodelling your school bus, it is important to address any issues that could compromise the integrity of the vehicle and your future home. Rust and corrosion are common problems, especially in buses from colder regions where roads are heavily salted in winter. While some rust is inevitable, it is important to ensure that it is minimal and easy to remove.
To prepare for remodelling, start by inspecting the bus for any trouble spots that might need to be resealed or replaced, paying close attention to rust and corrosion. Use a wire brush to clean any rusted areas, especially on the metal floor. You can also use a wire brush attached to a drill or angle grinder for larger areas or a hard-to-reach spot. After cleaning, apply a rust-stopping base paint to prevent further issues.
If you discover more extensive rust, you may need to use a rust converter, such as Ospho, to treat the affected areas before painting. For hard-to-reach spots, consider using a small compressor or a pressure washer to blast off loose flakes of rust. Just be cautious not to damage other parts of the bus.
In some cases, you may need to patch holes caused by rust. If you can poke through a rust spot with a flat-head screwdriver, it's best to patch it up with new metal. You can use metal salvaged from the walls you removed during the demolition process. Be sure to lay down plenty of caulk to fill any gaps and small openings, and let the caulk and new metal sit for a day or so before painting.
By addressing any rust and corrosion issues before remodelling, you can help ensure the longevity of your school bus conversion and prevent leaks and other problems down the road.
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Install new flooring and insulation
Install the Floor and Insulation
While replacing all of the insulation may be time-consuming, it is worth it in the long run. You want to replace older insulation prior to reinstalling the walls, the floor, and the ceiling. In general, your best bet is probably rigid foam insulation board. This is mainly beneficial when it comes to the floors, because your wooden floor can be installed directly atop it in contrast to some other insulation materials. As with most insulation jobs, you will want to cut pieces of the insulation and fit them within the wall cavities of your skoolie before using expanding foam to spread it out within the cavities. Different buses will differ in wall cavity thickness, but 1.5-inch insulation board should work fine.
The floor might be a little trickier, as you’ll need to run insulation board perpendicular to the sides of the bus. Finding how to cut and fit the insulation boards might require some math, but nonetheless, they should fully cover the floor and be glued down with industrial-strength construction adhesive. It is recommended you weigh the insulation boards down while the glue is drying.
While it might not be the cheapest option, sanded plywood is often your best option for the subfloor. More thickness is better, but of course, it will be pricier. Getting tongue-and-groove plywood can also make your life easier, as you can simply snap the pieces together instead of risking shifting parts. Of course, your subflooring will need some cutting and trimming to get the fit right, but once you have the proper pieces and sizes, you just have to secure it down with something sturdy like wood-to-metal screws. Finally, you just have to put the final layer of flooring, which could be vinyl, carpet, wood, or laminate.
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Design the layout of your school bus, considering factors such as bed size, kitchen space, and storage
Designing the layout of your school bus is an exciting part of the conversion process. There are no set standards for the layout or design, so you can get creative and make it your own. Here are some factors and ideas to consider when designing the layout of your school bus conversion:
Sketching and Planning
Before diving into the build, it's a good idea to sketch out your floor plan and take precise measurements of your bus. Consider the available space and the placement of essential features such as the bed, kitchen, and storage areas. Tools like graph paper, 3D modelling software, or iPad apps can assist in creating a visual representation of your layout. Remember that your plan may change as you start building and getting a feel for the space.
Bed Size and Placement
The bed will be one of the largest pieces of furniture in your school bus conversion, so it's important to plan for it accordingly. Consider the size of the bed and the amount of privacy you desire. You may opt for a fixed bed or a convertible dinette that can be turned into a bed when needed. If you're tall, you might also need to consider raising the roof to accommodate your height.
Kitchen Space
The kitchen is another crucial area in your school bus layout. Think about the amount of counter space you'll need and the placement of appliances such as a stove, sink, and refrigerator. Stacking appliances or installing high cabinets can help save space and provide additional storage for utensils and dishware.
Storage Solutions
Storage is essential in a small space. Utilise under-bed storage and build cabinets in clever areas. Consider building storage in the underbody of the bus for items typically stored in a shed or utility closet, freeing up space in the main living area.
Weight Limitations
When designing your layout, keep in mind the weight limitations of the chassis. The addition of appliances, furniture, and personal belongings can add significant weight to the bus. Exceeding the weight limit can cause damaging wear and tear on the engine, transmission, suspension, and brake system.
Plumbing and Propane
Plan for your plumbing and propane needs by considering the placement of your freshwater tank, greywater tank, and propane tank. These systems should be installed in a way that doesn't interfere with the existing mechanics of the bus.
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Frequently asked questions
School buses are built to last, with heavy-duty construction and commercial-grade engines. They are also spacious and highly customizable, making them ideal for conversion into a camper.
School buses can be found at auctions, online classified sites, social media marketplaces, school districts' fleet yards, new and used school bus dealers, and through websites such as skoolielivin.com.
It is crucial to do thorough research and inspect the bus for any issues, such as rust, mechanical problems, and maintenance records. It is also important to test drive the bus and get it inspected by a reputable mechanic before making a purchase.
The process involves tearing out the existing components, addressing any damage or issues, remodelling the interior to suit your needs, and installing necessary systems such as plumbing and electrical. It is essential to plan the layout carefully and ensure proper insulation, flooring, and wall construction.