Hi Walter,
I have only driven the bus briefly many years ago. My big considerations were of course getting new wheels, disc brakes seemed pretty appealing, automatic transmission is also nice to have and power steering. The van was not in working order, so didn't have a chance to experience that. However, I had driven one of these and traveled a bit in one that was converted to a camper 35-40 yrs ago, and remember no drawbacks. The bus is not so large, 1 1/2 ton vehicle, Viking 40. It has been sitting around for so long, I had to do something with it before the end of my days.... Having the 79 frame and parts availability was also a consideration. I remember when I was working on the bus 30 yrs ago, even then had problems getting basic parts for the '58 bus.
