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Geos

Oct 11, 2009, 7:58 PM

Post #1 of 8 (1611 views)

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Doing a bus RV conversion in MX

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I'm having second thoughts about spending big bucks for a fancy shmancy RV. My inner cheapskate rebels against spending that kind of loot. I'm wondering about buying a bus shell here in the US, getting a conversion done in Mexico and saving my pesos for more worthwhile pursuits, like food. I'm sure there are many skilled plumbers, carpenters, mechanics & electricians who could do the job at 1/4 the price of US. After all an RV is just a small house on wheels. On the other hand I also know there are lots of crooks and incompetents as my friend who tried to build a house in Tulum discovered. Anyway just wanted to get some feedback on this hair brained scheme. Thanks.

homeless_vagabond

Oct 16, 2009, 6:14 PM

Post #2 of 8 (1532 views)

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Re: [Geos] Doing a bus RV conversion in MX

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Given the current collapse of the US economy, such toys are pretty cheap. Find a used one and look into having the engine, drivetrain and suspension rebuilt by a reputable mechanic in MX.

The problem is that people can claim to be "skilled plumbers, carpenters, mechanics & electricians" but they may also be legends in their own minds as well. If you know such people beforehand, then it might be a good idea.

tepetapan

Oct 17, 2009, 6:17 AM

Post #3 of 8 (1485 views)

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Re: [Geos] Doing a bus RV conversion in MX

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The first thing to consider is the importation of a bus. It would likely need to be nationalized and at what cost?

Carron

Oct 17, 2009, 9:01 AM

Post #4 of 8 (1472 views)

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Re: [homeless_vagabond] Doing a bus RV conversion in MX

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In our many experiences with Mexican mechanics who have worked on our two elderly pick-ups over the years, there are simply none better or cheaper. If you can get the bus shell across the border, you will be amazed at what these shade-tree mechanics can do for you. I cannot recommend them highly enough.

yucatandreamer

Oct 17, 2009, 10:48 AM

Post #5 of 8 (1447 views)

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Re: [Carron] Doing a bus RV conversion in MX

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Personally I cannot imagine living in a bus in the Yucatan. Have you considered the sun and 100 degree plus temperatures for the majority of the year? I can hardly stand to ride in a bus without air conditioning much less be stationary in one. I would think you would need a lot more than a good mechanic in order to create something that was possible to live in.

Carron

Oct 17, 2009, 1:20 PM

Post #6 of 8 (1430 views)

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Re: [yucatandreamer] Doing a bus RV conversion in MX

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Having grown up in New Orleans and now living for many years on the edge of the Chihuahuan Desert I should have been alert to the comfort factor of 100 plus heat. I just get so excited about the ability and affordability of Mexico's mechanics I tend to forget other issues while I sing their praises.

sparks

Oct 17, 2009, 3:59 PM

Post #7 of 8 (1408 views)

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Re: [yucatandreamer] Doing a bus RV conversion in MX

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Palapa top ... probably not while mobile

Sparks Mexico - Sparks Costalegre

Geos

Oct 18, 2009, 6:01 PM

Post #8 of 8 (1333 views)

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Re: [sparks] Doing a bus RV conversion in MX

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Palapa plus A/C should do the trick: http://crowncoach.bravehost.com/downsouth.htm

(This post was edited by Geos on Oct 18, 2009, 6:06 PM)