Power Steering Repair

On the School Bus Mechanic Blog, John takes a look at a Haldex Two Stage Power Steering Pump from a 1998 Pusher School Buses. Take a look and let us know what you think. Document your on repairs and discoveries to share on this blog and email Ryan@stnonline.com

What to do when diesel engine cranks but does not start

This week, John Whelan posts on what to do when your bus cranks, but does not start.

...the first thing you want to look at is the power feed to the engine controls. In this case it's a Mercedes mbe 900 diesel engine in a Thomas C2 school bus. The first check is the fuse block since this powers up the ignition relays that operate the engine control modules.

Follow the link for a full description and photos. As always, thanks, John.

How a Turbo Charger Works

Very cool...



Thanks, John

Sharp Eye? Help a Fellow School Bus Mechanic/Blogger

School mechanic and blogger John Wheelan turns to readers this week for advice. He's just removed the front end of a Thomas HDX Pusher because the bus wanders when the brakes are applied. But he can't figure out what's going on. Check out his blog for more details and see if you can offer some advice. FYI: It's not the brakes. He already tested that.

School Bus Mechanic on the Benefits of Diesel Mechanic Colleges

John Wheelan is one of the most fascinating school transportation bloggers on the web. His blog, logically titled School Bus Mechanic, offers the insights from his 32 years in heavy-duty automotive industry. In his most recent post he highlights the benefits of diesel mechanic colleges:

Back in 1977 I entered Diesel Mechanic School at the local college. This was the start of my 4 year apprenticeship as a Heavy Duty Mechanic. This first step was called a pre-apprenticeship which would last 6 months. I had never touched a diesel engine before and had some automotive/small engine experience from high school.

...if you're interested in getting into this trade I would go down to the nearest diesel mechanic college or technical school and ask some questions about the curriculum and cost ... I'm content now after working in this trade for 32 years and find myself telling a lot of stories about experiences and aha moments & wouldn't trade it for the world!

Well worth reading the whole story at his blog.