I have a 1991 rear engine Thomas SAF-T-LINER school bus conversion with
- engine - CAT 3116 (MUI, turbocharged w/ unknown torque (between 495 and 735ft lbs))
- transmission - MT643 - (~70K lbs weight limit I believe)
- 40 ft body with frame access at the rear for a welded hitch (not installed)
- GVWR 36,200
- Approximately 9 ft between the rear axle and the rear of the bus.
- The four rear tires have a weight rating of 6005 lbs each (24,020 lb rear axle)
- GAWR Rear 23,000 lbs (likely limited by the factory tires, which have been changed)
- GAWR Front 13,200 lbs
- I don't know how much weight is on the rear axle currently. (will def check before doing anything). However, I've removed all the seats (~40lbs each) and left it pretty light inside.
- Air brakes
Thomas obviously doesn't say anything about towing with their buses (not a common occurrence I imagine). However, I have seen this being done before and would like to know what to consider when determining the safe towing capacity of this vehicle. If necessary, I can purchase a very old work truck, but I would prefer to avoid this as it is rather pricey for only occasional towing. I need to tow upto 15,000 lbs.
Update:
- I took the bus to a weigh station and the weight on the axles is 23480lbs. The rear axle is 14,940 lbs and the drive axle in 8540 lbs