Proheat Diesel Coolant Heater Programming

The Proheat diesel engine coolant heater is 30,000 BTU and puts out a lot of heat for something the size of a bread box. The first thing that impressed me was the O2 sensor built in to control the fuel and air mixture. The exhaust is extremely clean compared to other manufacturer’s heaters I’ve experienced.… Continue reading Proheat Diesel Coolant Heater Programming

Mercedes MBE 900 Diesel Engine Replacement

This is a 2008 Mercedes MBE 900 Diesel Engine that has been sitting for over a year now. It had a major issue with losing engine coolant every time the bus (Thomas HDX Pusher Bus) climbed a grade under load. The coolant would blow out of the coolant fill tank (surge tank) a gallon at… Continue reading Mercedes MBE 900 Diesel Engine Replacement

IC School Bus Interior and Exterior Tour

This is a tour of the various parts and components you might not usually see on an IC (International Corporation) school bus. There are many lettered signs with instructions how to exit or open doors and windows somewhat familiar to travelling on an aircraft. The body side of International school buses are quite reliable and… Continue reading IC School Bus Interior and Exterior Tour

6 Reasons Why Diesel Engines Are Better for the Environment

When discussing the automotive industry, diesel has long had a negative image. Many people hear the words “diesel engine” and automatically have visions of loud clattering noises and belching clouds of blueish-black smoke depositing a layer of soot on everything nearby. Most of this is based on a consumer’s limited knowledge of the transport trucks… Continue reading 6 Reasons Why Diesel Engines Are Better for the Environment

Diesel Engine Cold Start in a School Bus

This diesel engine in this video started up quite nicely compared to other buses I’ve encountered during winter conditions. The batteries were in good shape and there were no mechanical issues with the fuel system. So what could cause a poor start on a diesel engine? First thing is block heaters or diesel coolant heaters.… Continue reading Diesel Engine Cold Start in a School Bus

Revolutionary Diesel Engines for the U.S. Military

The United States Armed Forces are constantly seeking to maintain their advantage over opposing armies by upgrading and improving their combat equipment, including the Bradley Family of Vehicles and the Next Generation Combat Vehicles. As part of the enhancement program, the National Advanced Mobility Consortium has awarded Cummins Inc. a $47.4 million contract for the… Continue reading Revolutionary Diesel Engines for the U.S. Military

Maintenance on Diesel Engines Vs Gas

Thinking about buying a new car? If so, you’re most likely going to see quite a few choices in both diesel engines and gasoline engines. While both engines can be found in some of the best vehicles in the world, choosing between the two really comes down to how easy each engine will be to maintain,… Continue reading Maintenance on Diesel Engines Vs Gas

School Bus Replacing Front Brakes

Front brakes on a school bus are significantly smaller than the rear drive axle mainly because there is much less weight to handle and you want a balanced stop while braking. Brakes are engineered to even out the stopping accuracy when the brake pedal is applied and give the operator the proper feel when driving… Continue reading School Bus Replacing Front Brakes

School Bus Garage Machining Brake Shoes

School buses are fussy sometimes so fine tuning is required once in a while. In this case the front brakes were grabbing and pulling the bus to one side at slow speeds. The best method to repair this problem is machining the brake shoes and brake drums. It’s not a unusual step to take in… Continue reading School Bus Garage Machining Brake Shoes

School Bus Electrical Troubleshooting

The First Step Troubleshooting Electrical Problems The last month has been unbelievable with waves of electrical problems. Several International and Thomas buses have been coding, not running and not starting on a steady basis. Corrosion is always the enemy and even though the bus manufacturers try their best to keep electrical harnesses and connections sealed… Continue reading School Bus Electrical Troubleshooting