This Thomas School Bus had a leaking radiator that required removal and repair. All the body panels must be removed to gain access to the radiator. The air charge cooler must be removed as well, it cools the turbocharged intake air to create more density/volume.
Fortunately this radiator core was repairable being a 1999 model, This is the best way when running a fleet of 70 School buses. The Thomas Pushers have transversely mounted radiators since they have rear drive engines and transmissions.
Thomas School Bus Diesel Engine Installation: This engine was rebuilt in our shop because of a wayward exhaust valve seat that didn't want to stay in one piece. So consequently everything from the head down had to be rebuilt.
Step one: Tow in dead School Bus. We will utilize our shop made tow bar that has been around for a couple of decades, but still does the job.
It may still make it to the "Smithsonian Institute"
The Bus made it into the shop and is now waiting for some Diesel Power to give it life once again.
Mounting "Allison New World" Transmission to engine flywheel housing and flexplate [much easier on the floor!]
Engine and transmission are together now [the transmission is supported by the trans. jack] The entire assembly will be installed together.
The bumper and frame support were removed previously which makes the installation job much easier! The complete engine and trans. assembly slid into place nicely.
The engine is resting on the front and rear engine mounts. Now comes the fussy part connecting wiring, hoses and accessories.
Tow bar installer obviously having a good time!
Once the bus to be towed is aired up it's easily manuevered into the shop with two operators.
Having lots of space to work is always a bonus! I will post more pictures as the job progresses. The final picture will be smoke coming out the tailpipe....
That's basically all there is to it when installing a diesel engine/transmission into a Thomas School Bus.
Watch This Project On Video Put Together With Still Pictures
