1972 MCI MC-7 Bus Conversion: The Gypsy Ep 1
It’s always fun to get a new project in the shop, especially one as big as a bus conversion. And this one is going to be a doozy! The Leisure Coachworks team will be working on a 1972 MCI M-7 bus.
A lot of RV remodels and bus conversions start out as DIY projects. Eventually, life gets in the way or people realize that they don’t have the time or skills necessary to complete the job. This customer did a lot of great work before bringing the bus to us.
They worked on the drive train, researched and sourced original and replacement parts, and completely emptied the inside of the Gypsy Bus. They saved us a lot of time and you can see the blank slate the team is starting with.
The first item on the list is the front panel. Removed for the engine work, it needs to be completely remade. The first thing the team will tackle is the rot caused by water damage. Once it’s all cleaned out, they’ll frame it, build the new pieces, and create the proper contour to support the windshield and other components.
The back of this MCI bus has some similar damage and exterior panels that need replacing.
We’ll clean it up and put it all back together with a lot of hard work and some design magic.
As we look at the exterior storage compartments you’ll see the tanks and generator that will be replaced. There are parts stored here that need to be inventoried so the team knows what they have before they begin work.
Unlike the front, the sides of the MCI bus are intact. There are some original panels here that can’t be replaced, so the team will be careful to keep them in pristine condition.
You’ll see that the customer has already removed the windows. They have also ordered new ones! Again, this saves the team time and energy.
Inside, the MCI bus is gutted. It had been converted from a city bus to an RV in the past but all of that came out for this new build. As we walk in the space looks enormous! It has been very carefully and thoroughly cleaned out.
This demo may be what convinced the customer that they needed a team to complete the conversion. This is a huge job for even the most dedicated and skilled DIYer, one that is far better suited to a team and a full-service shop like Leisure Coachworks.
As we look around, Jon shows us where things were located in the previous conversion. There are vent holes and skylights that will be patched and closed. There is some talk in these early stages of a hot water heating system for the floors.
That’s the beauty of the beginning of a bus conversion.
There are so many different ways to make this empty shell into a beautiful, functional, comfortable home on wheels.
There are a lot of decisions ahead as the team puts their skills to the test.
Like any extensive remodel, turning a 1972 MCI M-7 bus into a drivable work of art will not be easy. Leisure Coachworks has the experience, training, equipment, and skilled craftsmanship to bring the customer’s vision to life.
This bus conversion is an exciting new project. Word of mouth brought this vintage bus into the shop and the team is ready to put in the work necessary to bring it back to life.
Be sure to join us as we tour each stage of the 1972 MCI M-7 bus conversion. You can look forward to seeing how that rotting front panel is turned into a shining showpiece. We’ll watch as the team mocks up ideas for the interior design and decides how to configure the plumbing, electrical, batteries, and other essential elements.
There will not be an inch of wasted space on or in this bus once it’s a fully converted motorhome. The Leisure Coachworks team is dedicated to the highest quality craftsmanship in the industry and creating bus conversions that are seamless in their form and function.
If you’re interested in a bus conversion, RV remodel, or custom RV design or upgrade, contact us today. We’re a full-service RV repair, maintenance, and custom design shop in Fontana, California. If you’re in the neighborhood, stop on by!
Stay tuned for the next installment of converting this 1972 MCI M-7 Gypsy Bus, coming soon.
