Bus Construction Metals and Materials
Many different kinds of metals are used in the manufacture of a bus, each for its unique strengths.
Here’s a brief overview of the various components of the classic MCI structural framework.
Note that later in the design and manufacturing process, MCI changed some of the mild steel to stainless for longer-lasting structural integrity…
- Entire lower half, (everything below the floor) including belt-line and all around the four sides
- Front windshield framework
- Engine rail bottom bridge frame
- All mid-structure between front & rear chassis
- All wheel-opening inter framing
- Passenger seat mounting floor rails
- Entrance door
- Rear engine & blower’s opening frame
- All lower half doors, skins and blower covers
Steel:
- Upper half around all four sides
- Main suspension structure
- Upper floor support structure
- Main tunnel between front & rear chassis
- Dashboard
- All roof framing
Aluminum:
- Ribbed baggage floors
- Baggage door framework
- Roof skin
- Side wall skin
Fiberglass:
- Front & rear roof cap
- Front windshield frame
- Both “D” side window frames
[Thanks to Sojourner on the BNO Forum]
