Custom Converted Skoolie Class A Diesel Bus!! | 2000 Gillig Phantom (Sold)

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Not gonna lie.. I had a ball going thru this thing! Certainly not for everybody, but if you're looking for a one-of-a-kind party bus... this one's the ticket!
That digital sign on the front is easily my favorite part of the RV -- I'd get in so much trouble with that thing LOL
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We are Haylett Auto & RV of Coldwater Michigan! Family Owned & Operated Since 1989 and Going Strong! | 800-256-5196 | www.haylettautoandrv.com/
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[@davidparadis490]

Sign: "if the bus is a rockin'...." lmao

[@imcrazy534]

I came here just to like this comment lmfaooo

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

It was worth the trip

[@lynnfiegl4953]

😂😂

[@Nonplused]

I worked with an older gentleman for a few months in construction. He worked a lot of remote locations. So he had a converted city bus. Problem was that it wasn't great on the highway, 50 mph was about max, but the company would often barge or trailer the bus to near the work site and he would show up later with his truck or by air. The beauty was that the living allowance for remote work was fixed and normally covered meals and a cheap hotel, but with his bus he pocketed most of that. Why he didn't just get a trailer I don't know, but the bus worked.

[@tracychaddon6460]

Someone needs to do the outside like the bus from Speed.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

oh. Yes. this needs to happen

[@shawnlshs]

When you honked the horn and yelled, I busted up!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

When I was putting this footage together I did too. Just people sitting in their sales offices when I bust out laughing from my little corner. I didn't realize quite the anger in my voice and that lower jaw sticking out while shouting it

[@kathleenjettlund7617]

@@JoshtheRVNerd Don't you make the sales people wonder about you on a daily basis?

[@tracychaddon6460]

I am fairly certain I will see that at the campground at Oshkosh this year. Speechless. The sign on the front seals the deal.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I'd look better in your driveway. Just saying lol

[@codyhawk5972]

We've now owned this bus for about 9 months and it was the best decision We've ever made. We've driven it across the country twice, and it hasn't failed us once!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Oh my gosh that’s so cool that you gave us an update like that

[@brianbrwa]

Check underneath the front steps. Some idiot ripped out the wheelchair lift. Make CERTAIN that they installed bracing to the front bulkhead to replace the lift-u

[@brianbrwa]

Also, when you pick up your next rig, don't fear the Voith DIWA. Woodpecker Truck can work on them.

[@wudchk]

you still going strong?

[@adventureswithgnomie6553]

I love Skoolie builds because they're so creative.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

is that the name for these?! Is this a whole thing I wasn't aware of?

[@andrewfidel2220]

@@JoshtheRVNerd yes, typically done on retired school buses, this is the first one I've seen on a metro style bus, though I doubt it's the only one out there =)

[@rabbi7933]

@@JoshtheRVNerd typically driven by guys named Rick or Dale. And they used to tour with Zappa.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

@@rabbi7933 far out

[@steamboatkid]

@@JoshtheRVNerd yes scoolie is it

[@JandAReview1]

My wife and I had an 83’ sliver eagle tour bus than we went camping in. Yep you sure get some looks when you back into a site.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I can only imagine

[@davidallen2211]

Josh, you had fun with this one :)

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Oh I sure did!! Brought out the kid in me.

[@PastorwithoutaPulpit]

Front sign for myself would be, "Yes the owner is as messed up as this thing looks"... LOL

[@wmschooley1234]

Josh: The converted bus is interesting. But I’m holding out for your 2021 video on a horse trailer with living quarters. (and I don’t mean living quarter horses unless they’re included in the equipment package) :) :) Quirky but respectfully, WS

[@tracychaddon6460]

I have a horse trailer with living quarters-A/C, furnace, shower, water heater, toilet, stove, fridge.

[@wmschooley1234]

@@tracychaddon6460 Ah Yes. But was it OEM and did it come from Haylet? With or withou the horses?? :) :) Respectfully, WS

[@tracychaddon6460]

@@wmschooley1234 It is all OEM from Sundowner trailers but not from Haylett's. It's a 3 horse trailer

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Here's a few: kzbin.info/www/bejne/enythI2qm9CEgbc and kzbin.info/www/bejne/iZa7cmVjhqaAiNk

[@wmschooley1234]

@@JoshtheRVNerd Thanks to both of you for the details. Guess I'm not holding out anymore. 😀😁😀😁. Camping, horse Bruin Lake campground and horse trails. SWEET!!!

[@Vlogsoup]

Not to insult anybody but I would actually trust a custom build like this more than an RV because when people build their buses they spend time learning about how to do it right and they use quality materials. The skoolie community is huge. This won’t last long. There are people that want a skoolie that don’t have the time or resources to actually build one themselves. I love that they kept the original bus touches like the standing grab bars

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Not sure why anyone would be insulted. I welcome all sorts of input and opinions here. TY for sharing :)

[@brendan555]

This bus camper is so creative

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

It's like a van camper on steroids

[@markstench4470]

So cool if they kept the cord to alert the driver to stop so you can get off. That's a sweet thing. Too big for me , but very cool non the less.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

hahaha that'd be great

[@theeaselrider4032]

That's actually really well-done inside. I, like you would probably love that thing. My wife, I'm sure the same as yours - probably would want nothing to do with it. You could make money by just driving around around regular bus routes, picking up the public. Imagine the people's reaction when they step on board? " This doesn't look like the number 9 bus?"

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

HAHAHAHA You complete me man

[@badgerpa9]

The jobbox is outstanding. Neat conversion, someone will find this perfect for the summer trips, I would enjoy this for this summer trips. Love the childish enthusiasm, I always hit the horn for kids when I drove I remember how fun as a kid it was to get a driver to hit the airhorn.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad you like it!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

#armpumpthing

[@wrodney5]

That is too funny. There used to be two bus manufacturers here in California. Crown in Los Angeles and Gillig in the Bay Area. Crown only built school busses and went away in the 1990s. Gillig built both school and transit busses. They actually built a school and transit version of that model. But also stopped building school busses in the 1990s.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Wow! Thx for the history! Crazy somebody knew all that here!

[@dianedenham5259]

Very well done conversion. I like how there's still remnants of its past life. When I was working I rode the metro bus daily, always imagined it as an rv, especially the double deckers.🚌 🇨🇦🙋

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

a double decker conversion would easily be THE ULTIMATE Nascar Machine... SOMEONE CALL TIM ALLEN! SOMEBODY NEEDS TO BUILD THIS

[@alankawaratani1677]

I see a youtubes from UK and RV from newer double deckers bus it was well done

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

@@alankawaratani1677 oh that'd be crazy!

[@kenhagerman1301]

Looks like a lot of fun! What RV nerd hasn’t wanted to a conversion like this? Very creative. Love it, but my wife would run screaming. 100% about wanting to jump into the driver seat as a kid...guess I haven’t grown up yet, still want to! Honking the horn on purpose this time🤪

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Checked that one off my bucket list I didn't want to drive the bus JUST ... the honk

[@dougspencer6954]

Great review love your enthusiasm on it

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Thanks so much!

[@chuckbessels6084]

I love this!!! And I would get in a LOT of trouble with that programmable sign also!!!!

[@godsunra9]

Well this was a great video and thank you for posting it. This conversion has all the necessary needs of a camper/RV. I picked up a 2005 Gillig Phantom and will be using some of the snippets from this build as inspiration. Thanks for sharing, happy holidays!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Awesome! Maybe share some pics on our facebook page or something when done

[@nigalreinbachs7130]

This is totally 1 heck of an R V trailer!💖💖💖💖🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇱🇻🇱🇻☕️☕️☕️🧊🧊🥩🥩🥩🏌️‍♀️🏌️‍♀️

[@davidaukofer]

This is the coolest thing ever. I wouldn't buy it for myself. I'd buy it just to drive it. Is that practical, no, but wouldn't be fun? I quote my favorite wrestler, "if you think this is the coolest thing, give me a 'hell yeah'"

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Hell Yeah!

[@cindyandrewkidd9894]

So awesome!!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Thanks!!

[@machfive916]

unique as all heck.

[@robertaviles8451]

Had a bus conversion once - 1988 International Carpenter school bus before I got the camper! Was nice, I miss it, but my health issues kinda made driving a motorhome rather dangerous 😢

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

We are glad you are staying safe!

[@davidaukofer]

Put a stacker trailer behind it and all your toys in the stacker....

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

No idea what this can tow, but man I bet it's close to 10k

[@greghomestead8366]

I'd get tired of having people at the bus stop yelling and shaking their fist at me for not stopping. Also....... No dinofa😁 Greg in Michigan

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Dinofa CAPABLE though.. ANYTHING is capable in this thing I think!

[@SEEKenDESTROY]

Ingenious there😎

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I could literally play with the entry door button for hours

[@heidipalmer8363]

Yep Josh nerding out. It is easy cool

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

wygd?

[@DavidHBurkart]

😂😂😂 I needed this!!!

[@pugmalley]

If I was gonna use a transit bus for a conversion I would look for one with a second door in the middle and then close up the front one for seating in front.

[@salanicus]

I love this and want it but my wife's freaking out saying no:(

[@rabbi7933]

Listen to her.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Rabbi beat me to it lol

[@muzerhythm2242]

FREAKIN' COOL! 😎 My type of rig! 😁

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Load this thing up with an epic sound system and CRANK IT UP TO 11

[@MrNickb-s500]

Really nice bus Conversion!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I think so too!

[@leoncronk1903]

That’s a real cool bus it would be fun to drive

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I didn't drive it.. but it was fun to honk it! lol

[@lisamarie8696]

Very interesting. I like it.

[@kcoble70]

My husband is a public transit bus driver. He said they're incredibly easy to drive, no special training other than learning to line up the wheels before a turn, since you sit in front of the wheels.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Awesome! It's always treat when a big unit is easy to drive!

[@dannyhyde7014]

Thats too fun. I bet that sells fast.

[@tammyholmes5649]

So cool!!!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

This one took me by surprise

[@pault1964]

Love the site box on the front

[@pault1964]

It’s a knackers site box we get them onsite in the uk

[@michaelsullivan1262]

Cool beans. Box up front is beyond ridiculous.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Redic good/bad?

[@kirkmeador5770]

Ha, it’s a Votran! That bus is from Daytona Beach

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I'm not sure where this one was used originally. Just know it's ready for the open road now :)

[@christopherhodson4049]

Different, but still was fine to me. Could get the job done, I bet. And then some. Good job, thanks.

[@arthurleslie9669]

Oh ... If I was only 40 years younger this baby would be perfect. LOL However, it would make a nice guest house or overnight rental due to being unique. Hmmm 🤔

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

That's a great idea!

[@HarryHawk]

Wow. I want it... Reminds me of when I drove a school bus.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

My grandmother was a driver. She likely wouldn't approve of my side saddle stance lol

[@cmcconn100]

What's the overall length, not counting the construction job site box up front?

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Since it's totally custom I didn't have a MFG's site to get specs looked up. Our team at Advantage 1 517-924-1850 can measure it out for you of course

[@davek9384]

Hi Just came across this video, had missed it first time around. Question - at around the 5:55 some old lettering is visible, looks like the original transit system logo. Does that say Votran? Reason I ask, late in my career I spent a couple years with Volusia Transit based in South Daytona FL, operating as Votran. Curious if this is one of "our" old rigs.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I’m not sure where it came from originally and was unable to get any confirmation

[@angusmaciver4242]

Was that an “owners manual” on the dinette?

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Yes! I can't believe I didn't mention. ALL of the books on this thing are cataloged there. Crazy good sign of quality ownership

[@lynnfiegl4953]

Awesome-sauce!! 😂😂😂

[@markgrehlinger7117]

I reckon Josh has had one cup too much caffeine today, hasn't he?

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

It's possible! HAHA

[@chlebowg]

Used to have a bus drivers license :)

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Guess it's time for a renewal! :D

[@melissaweyrick5311]

I assure you Josh, it is not only you that gets behind the Wheel of a Large Vehicle and lets Loose. At least you kept it G Rated. LOL

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Yeah, but it took me 37 tries

[@flyermarkbig465]

Well that is unique.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Broke the mold lol

[@stever6986]

I guess, eventually, you do see everything! Would you need a CDL to drive that?

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

According to Google. A CDL is not required to drive a converted school bus. However a certain license may be required per weight and brake type.

[@mgkleym]

It depends. It's most likely had its title modified from a commercial vehicle to an rv in which case it is the same as any rv of the same weight. If not the process for doing that varies greatly by state in terms of difficulty. For instance in oklahoma my state it is as simple as filling out an affidavit that you have permanently equipped it for human habitation which the state defines as having a kitchen, bed and bath with water and sewer tanks. They don't even inspect anything. Where as some other states have very specific things they require done and will inspect the vehicle and may have other hoops to jump through.

[@marablack1233]

You are Hilarious!!👍🏻🤣🤣🥰

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Ty :)

[@thesurvivalist.]

What license do you need to drive it? I am going to buy an old transit bus 19,500 GVWR, to convert it into a RV.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

That may vary by location. For private use I don't believe you require specific licensing in many areas

[@thesurvivalist.]

@@JoshtheRVNerd Thank you.

[@glnset-apart]

@@JoshtheRVNerd correct

[@CC-fx4nn]

Normally you would need a commercial drivers license to drive one of these buses, but since this has been converted I would be curious if that would still be the case. I drive a couple of these Gillig Phantoms at the transit agency where I work, and you are right, the steering on this model bus is very nimble for it's size. You do have to watch the tail-wag though as there is considerable length behind the rear axle. The Phantoms that I have driven were geared for city use and would only go about 54 miles per hour top speed, not so good for highway use. Perhaps this bus is geared differently? There is also the fun fact that Gillig buses usually do not come with a fuel level gauge as the buses are usually fueled daily at the end of the days service. It was fun to watch this video and see how they converted the bus! Someone should have a blast with this one.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I'm not sure... I hadn't considered licensing. That's an interesting though.

[@matthewhannahcrockett372]

Lol so funny!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

*honk*

[@rachelhaase6553]

Being a daughter of a bus driver that's funny 🤣 stuff 🤣

[@nz0z134]

My giddyap is working fine but I could still find a use for the grab handles in the bedroom

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Debating on how to answer this without losing my job lol

[@robertdragoff6909]

I like what I see! Neat set up. I'd leave everything the way it is, except for the lights,...... The original lights aren't cutting it. Other than that, it looks amazing!

[@TheBandit7613]

You could take on advertising for extra money.

[@robertdragoff6909]

@@TheBandit7613 I was just thinking the same thing! LOL!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Some bulbs need replaced. I'm not super familiar with the bus's systems. There may be a bright/dim mode (common on people movers)

[@robertdragoff6909]

@@JoshtheRVNerd I just remembered something...... I’ve ridden busses at night, when they’re moving half of the interior lights are on. When they stop, the thing lights up like Times Square! Also, just wondering, does it still have features for handicapped passengers? I.E. a retractable lift or ramp and a crouching lift? It probably doesn’t but I wanted to ask anyway.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

@@robertdragoff6909 I did not see anything that looked to be suited for enhanced accessibility in this one

[@chrismansbarger4324]

You like a kid in a candy 🍬 store.. lol very interesting!!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

😁

[@SamuelJMartinIII]

1:52 🚎 Speed 3 🎬🎥🎞📽🍿 I was wondering where the footage for that Instagram story came from, as that’s not a Travel Trailer/5th Wheel 😉

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

ahahha

[@radioace318la]

I'm pretty sure its sold by now, but may i ask? how much? I ask because a lady posted one just like this (before the DIY). just over 600k miles on it. I drove it, sounds flawless with the Allison auto trans (Six Speed). Body and tires in great condition. Oh and that same sign and onboard cameras out the wazoo. Pretty sure I will use the sign inappropriately should I buy it. It's still in a city bus configuration. She's asking 4k. What did this one go for? Thanks & Cheers from Louisiana.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Apologies Rick I don’t have historical sales data available

[@tremjar1305]

i love it, even if not toy hauler, that is what trailers are for, now if could just make it 4wd hehe. .... but i would buy it regardless if had the cash.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

When you said 4WD I had a brief mental flash of like Grave Digger monster truck tires...

[@adamelkhouly9500]

Is it still available and what are they asking for

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

At the time of this reply it looks like it is! Pricing and more info here: www.advantage1rv.com/inv/2000-Gillig-Phantom-Advantage-1-RV-A12920/ Team at that location can assist with add'l specifics as you need!

[@chriss2050]

How much did it sell for? I’ve come to an opportunity to buy one!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Apologies I don't have historical sales data available :(

[@jeremiahmorrell5622]

Tailgating party bus for football or races!

[@tracychaddon6460]

Yessss!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Literally my first thought

[@rabbi7933]

Need to hire David Lee Roth in a sleeveless captains uniform as a driver.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

You know he's actually a licensed paramedic?!

[@rabbi7933]

@@JoshtheRVNerd he probably walks around with a defibrillator attached to his chest.

[@grannygoes]

Does it still kneel?

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I think so, but I won't lie -- this is so far outside of my wheelhouse that I do not have a good bead on that for you. Our team at that facility at 517-924-1850 can get you more info as needed

[@TheBandit7613]

With that big metal thing in front, people will think twice before pulling out...

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

At least you'd hope so right!?!

[@adventureoflinkmk2]

What exactly does it mean by a class A bus? Like you need a class A CDL? EDIT: I always thought at best buses were class B

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Class ABC of motorhome refers to the style - not licensing A = bus style B = Van conversion C = cab with RV body mounted on a modified chassis

[@timf6916]

The front box looks like a garbage bin that you see at camp grounds. But also very Cool looking.

[@codeman99-dev]

That's a "worksite toolbox" - you can find them at Home Depot and Lowe's.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I almost had the same thought -- "Garbage Truck" kind of look. But since this has no outside storage otherwise It's kinda smart and keeps the tail open for towing

[@TheForbiddenTimelord]

Ok. Now I want an RV dealership that specifically sells custom RV conversions.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Companies exist, but man they’re spendy

[@kathleenjettlund7617]

You could have been mixing drinks at the very end.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Mt Dew + Monster... I call this one MONDEWSTER

[@drooskeedoo3388]

Did the previous owners set the electric signage? That kind of set up AND message makes me want to take a shower just thinking about what could have possibly gone on in there.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Yeah this is how it was when we got here. And I think it's perfect

[@jameskennedy673]

My wife drove a school bus for ten years, she said no way in bleep would she want to ride in it or have it in the driveway. Lol

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

😂 makes sense

[@bryancurtis304]

That will NOT be in your lot come this August. It will be in a campground somewhere on the West Coast

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I wouldn’t bet against it

[@saltysteveandmisfitmichele]

If a school bus is called a skoolie, what is this called??

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Bustastic

[@operationhotshotinc.6887]

“Move... Brakes don’t work good!”

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

hahaha

[@jrambo7495]

That conversion is pretty bad; They did the bare minimum to both the outside and inside. The 90's called and they'd like their furniture back😋. I think it has great potential, however!!But if ANYONE can sell this, it would totally be Josh!!! Either way,that was a fun tour!!! 👍🏼👍🏼

[@denise8242]

LOL!

[@dcjgt2]

So going to clone this design.

[@lindaboggess7634]

Hahahaha!

[@lonnymossey525]

👍👍👍👍😂😂😂😂

[@musicalatv]

My husband is a school bus driver...

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Show him the honking demonstration to make sure he's doing it right *cough*

[@danieljackson4738]

It’s Gillig phantom

[@lisabevans8107]

Your wife is going to be you Josh and I may help herYour wife is going to be you Josh and I may help her. Crazy.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I *think* you meant to say "beat me," which... I mean... sure. Maybe. But I definitely deserve it

[@lisabevans8107]

@@JoshtheRVNerd i hate my phone.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

@@lisabevans8107 It's like autocorrect. I hate it, but man it saves the day too however... it was never "ducking angry" *cough*

[@Wingnut_Stickman]

Domestic violence is never funny. Except for that one "she just won't listen" joke, where the kid hits its palm with its fist while it explains to the teacher why Mommy has the black eye. Other than that, never funny.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

For a second I was like "oh crap... I did it this time" Then I kept reading

[@Wingnut_Stickman]

@@JoshtheRVNerd Almost got ya!!!

[@nagunaks2222]

Black tank 🤮

[@herbieberieherb]

you did a good job with this Video your pleasant and funny in a new subscriber bruh !

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

TY!! Welcome aboard :)