Small Transit Vehicles: How to Buy, Operate, and Maintain Them

摘要

Maintenance and operating cost data for small buses are provided in this report. These data were obtained by analyzing the maintenance and fuel use records of 187 small buses from 16 transit properties located in different parts of the country. Specific cost data are provided for four types of small bus: vans and modified vans, body on van chassis, body on truck chassis, and purpose built. Both the labor hours required for maintenance and operation are provided on a per mile basis. The effects of climate and duty cycle on total maintenance cost are determined. Several qualitative aspects of small bus selection are also analyzed. These include the performance characteristics of the buses, their reliability, available options, and planning for maintenance.