Rambling stuff…
A new YouTube video documents the steps I’ve been taking to understand the bus’s auxiliary heater. The video does not include the actual removal of the heater—that will be included in a future video. A big part of the bus adventure is learning new technologies and mechanical implementations.
We still have a fair amount of snow and ice around our property in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains of western Washington. While the frozen bits are slowly melting, the temperatures haven’t been favorable for bus de-construction.
The long-range weather forecasts are suggesting temperatures into the 40s within the next week. Even with rain, the warmer temperatures will be more tolerant for bus work.
Next up is the removal of the interior ceiling, then the floor.
Once the floor is removed, I can start working on building new infrastructure in the bus – including fancy new insulated floors.
Stay tuned!
The work on the bus is slower in the cold, winter weather but the work continues! Here’s a video to get you up to date. By the way, since I shot this video, I’ve managed to remove the remaining wall panels. The ceiling comes down next!
In this video, I attack more of the bus walls. I remove rivets, for the first time, to remove interior wall panels.
In this episode, I start removing the walls from the bus!
Things don’t always go quite to plan in the bus conversion – how about that cruise control installation?
The seat removal process is nearly complete! Starting the bolts moving takes muscles I haven’t used in years. I’m hoping to have them all stored outside of the bus before the end of the week.
I’ve been busy over the past week with updates to licensing, insurance, and more planning! I’m also trying out a new camera. A video about how I chose my bus will be uploaded soon.
The big next step for the bus will be gutting the interior. I’m double-checking my checklist to ensure I’m executing in a smart way. Additionally, we’re building a new financial rhythm as we engage with retirement – progress on the bus should move along more briskly soon.
I’m working on a new video that will provide more information on the process taken for selecting the bus. As you might guess, there are many choices available – why did I pick this bus?
Bus Audio Wiring
The stock Chevrolet audio wiring was “adjusted” during the original implementation to support an overhead public address (PA) system. The PA allowed the bus driver to tell the kids to get back in their seats. This configuration will require investigation to unwind the changes.
I’ll be removing the PA system and installing a Joying Android in-dash computer/radio. The new radio can run the same applications as an Android phone. I have a Joying radio in my pick-up truck; the capabilities have been very valuable.
Why implement a complicated radio? I will be able to run applications like OsmAnd Maps. OsmAnd provides off-line (non-Internet reliant) maps that include Forest Service roads and Forest Service trails. When I’m providing support at wilderness runs, this technology can be critical to navigating to runners needing support.
I also appreciate having a huge navigation map for Google Maps, when I have an Internet connection.
How do I get my Internet connection? I enable “tethering” from my Pixel (Android) phone – the phone will provide a 5G data connection via wifi. If there is a cell connection available, I’ll probably have a decent Internet connection for the bus.
I’ve created an introduction video for the bus with my cell phone. I’m planning on purchasing a better camera/microphone combination before any serious work begins on the bus. In the meantime, here’s a look at the bus before any conversion work has started.
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