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You didn't mention if your bus is a rear engine or front engine bus. You also didn't mention what sort of use you will doing with your RV. Both can make a big difference in your choices.
The big block GM V-6 engines were a complete family of engines, from the little 305 used in GMC pick-ups through the 351, 401, and the 478. All were gas hogs, low on power, bad for running unbalanced, and death on things like intake manifolds and carbs. They were also the platform upon which GM built the Toro-flow/Turbium diesel which later evolved into the 350 diesel and later the 6.2L diesel.
The easiest swap would be to change out the V-6 for a GM big block truck engine. The 366 would be very similar in power and torque as any of the V-6's. The 427 would be a step up.
The Cat 3208 will fit and the swap wouldn't be that difficult. The only problem is the cost will be much greater and the noise level will be considerably higher. Another couple of diesel choices would be the DD 2-cycle 6V-53 or the DD 4-cycle 8.2L. Stay away from the Cummins 555.
If your bus is a front engine, you can just about forget normal conversations or listening to tunes while you going down the road if you choose to go with the Cat. If your bus is a rear engine, you can just about forget normal conversations or listening to tunes while you are going down the road if you choose the 6V-53.
Unless you are going to be driving in excess of 10K miles every year for the next 20 years I would seriously think about staying with gas power. The big block gas engines are not that thirsty, about 3-6 MPG. The Cat is going to get about 5-8 MPG. You can travel a lot of miles for the $$$ more it is going to cost to swap in the diesels.
Good luck and happy trails.
Mark O. |
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