IC School Bus Automatic Light Check

With both of our Thomas and International school buses having an automatic external light check drivers can check lights without assistance while walking around performing a pre-trip. With the ignition key on accessory and the push of a button anyone can do it. The software engineers were thinking when they developed this system. The drawbacks… Continue reading IC School Bus Automatic Light Check

School Bus J1939 Electrical Fault

We happened to have an electrical fault in one of our International buses. The dash registered a large yellow triangle which is supposed to get the driver’s attention and also a message on the dash panel which said “electrical fault”. If you get lucky like we did it was something to do with the ABS… Continue reading School Bus J1939 Electrical Fault

Cummins ISC Running Check

The ever important running check on our fleet of buses is never compromised after a repair or checking out a complaint. This means a basic visual and listening session. The road test might tell the story under certain conditions if there is a noise or power complaint. It will also show fluid leaks if any.… Continue reading Cummins ISC Running Check

DT Diesel Engine Rear Seal

As I start this post I can’t help thinking of all the experienced mechanics around the world who don’t share their mechanical fixes and failures. If 1% of mechanics around the world turned into bloggers the internet would be totally packed with great content. The ‘how to’ information online is the biggest draw to the… Continue reading DT Diesel Engine Rear Seal

School Bus Engine Overheating Solution

I’ve been asked several times over the last 20 years if we get the Summer off. I said no you’re thinking of the teachers and bus drivers. The Summer is like a breath of fresh air for us with 2 months to get caught up and have some time to find ways to prevent regular… Continue reading School Bus Engine Overheating Solution

School Bus Fleet Summer Maintenance

July is here and it’s time once again to get the bulk of the work done over July and August. Our shop tries it’s best to get most of the major work done before Summer because of holidays the amount of work required and believe me 2 months just flies by. There are around 18… Continue reading School Bus Fleet Summer Maintenance

School Bus LED Lights

LED or the long meaning ‘light emitting diodes’ is by far the most economical way to go especially with a fleet. At first (as usual) the price was the biggest objection which of course is a common response when a product has not been properly tested over time. Incandescent lights from the good old days… Continue reading School Bus LED Lights

School Bus Makeover

This school bus looked pretty bad a few weeks ago. It got into a fender bender in one of the bus yards up north. Purely an accident that could have been avoided but it was humans at work and we weren’t born with eyes on the back of our heads. The lesson learned is always… Continue reading School Bus Makeover

School Bus Servicing

Before starting with the school district 20 years ago all of the servicing I performed was on a floor creeper. Lying on my back sliding over a 35 foot span of a vehicle to do a visual and carry out maintenance and repairs was tedious at times. Having a vehicle hoist to work on a… Continue reading School Bus Servicing

School Bus Steering Repair

Every time we do a service within our bus fleet it always goes on the hoist and is checked thoroughly front to back. The average time for a service varies with which interval we’re doing from a 5,000 to a 15,000 kilometer service. The hoist gives us a chance to check the wheels, bearings, brakes… Continue reading School Bus Steering Repair