We receive a lot of requests to update older buses, RVs, and trailers. Restoration for older motor coaches and busses often entails upgrades or replacements related to the 5 RV Systems – Electrical, HVAC, Propane, Refrigeration, and Plumbing. Another common issue is leakage to the vehicle roof after being stored uncovered for a long time. Many interiors would be damaged by the moisture inside, rendering the inside permeated with must and mold.
For this particular project, One Community Health, a Hood River, Oregon, Medical Group had received a grant to upgrade a bus to become a mobile medical vehicle to remotely serve customers.
They purchased a 1996 Mosaic Bounder F53 intending to give the bus new life and curb appeal. To accomplish this, it required upgrades to be compliant with current RV standards. The result improved functionality and design.
This particular project required $80,000 of work, top to bottom. If however, they would have purchased the bus new, they could have expected to pay between $300,000 – $600,000. Therefore, restoring an older vehicle proved to be a wise investment.
The requirements provided by OCH included completely updating the interior including new floors, walls, electrical wiring, and plumbing, as well as all new appliances, A/C, water heater, refrigerator, medical-grade freezers, and more.
While we were in agreement about these improvements, we didn’t know if there were other imperative repairs until we were able to dig in and begin the work. For a vehicle that’s over 25 years old, dozens of issues could arise.
We take great care of every vehicle, but a medical vehicle has to perform in ways that standard RVs and motor coaches are not required. Space is segmented for both patients and staff, and equipment is expected to perform seamlessly. This was no small endeavor.
Making certain there will be no failures on the road is critical, especially for mobile patient care.
From a design perspective, the new flooring and lighting in each of the sections improved the look significantly. Now the floors are easy to clean and sterilize which is essential for a medical unit.
Some other upgrades included a new electrical system with an inverter, electrical bypass, and a 6V Battery Bank was installed. A second generator, new awnings, steps, and exterior electric mirrors were added. Mechanically, we replaced all hydraulic hoses, fuel lines for generators, and the main engine.
After the interior work was completed, the bus was sent out for a full wrap to give it a new, modern look. While we have a full body and paint shop and update designs on motor coaches daily, this was not a simple design. A wrap was a more cost-effective solution given the complex design.
Now, the bus is road-ready and patient-friendly. What a great service to the community! The client was ecstatic to see the final result, and we appreciate them entrusting this important project to Pro RV Repair.
