Thanks for the compliment, Peg. Coming from the " queen of cool old vehicle images" that really means something! Batman- This was a rehab project for me after I recieved a kidney transplant from my sister-in-law back in '99. I needed something to do and when I saw this old girl in the local nickel want ads for 1800 bucks I knew I'd found it. She had been converted originally back in 1960 and in later years the drivetrain from a 64 Chev had been put in with larger brakes and a 4 speed with a 2 speed rear end. Also a 430 Buick out of a '69 Wildcat was installed. So it had some nice basics, including partitioned off bulkheads and appliances. Over the next 15 months I went clear through it, took out the pink toilet(!) and gutted it down to the basic walls. Then painted everything with Kilz white primer, then white latex. Resurfaced doors and walls with T and G knotty pine, reworked the wiring, carpeted floor ( put in oak hardwood 2 years ago), and my lovely wife did the upholstery. Took it to my mexican friend who painted it 1978 Ford Emerald Green ( I remember seeing this on a LTD and liked it) and cream for the top. Had a shop rebuild the engine about 4 years ago now. We have alot of fun with the old girl and she doesn't know a stranger when we travel with her. Me and my kids are old time music players and Emerald Gypsy has been to many a bluegrass and folk festival. My wife has made me agree that she has to be out of her pajamas before we start giving bus tours. Rambling here, I'm sure I've told you more than you ever wanted to know. I love to see what others do with their old buses. Got some pics of yours in the rough, Batman?
Cap'n Mark and Crew of the Emerald Gypsy
