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Driver Handbook - Central States Bus Sales, Inc.

1. the entire test cylinder in each REAR AXLE location e The driver must be able to see the entire top surface of cylin ders M and N The driver must have a view of at 6 FEET FROM OUTSIDE BODY 1 FOOT FROM OUTSIDE BODY 1 FOOT FROM OUTSIDE BODY 6 FEET FROM OUTSIDE BODY 12 FEET FROM OUTSIDE BODY least 200 feet from the surface of the mirror e The elliptical cross view mirrors should be adjusted so the seated driver has a complete view of all cylinders A through P when they are positioned as shown in the illustration and not directly visible e The view provided by the elliptical mirrors must overlap the view af forded by the rear view driving mirror system All mirrors must be cleaned and adjusted as necessary to provide a safe driving en vironment The use of a mild ammonia water solution is recommended to clean mir rors 68 Routine Operation In terms of vehicle controls driving a modern school bus like the vision is not radi cally different from driving a passenger car truck or van Features like power assist ed brakes and steering and modern suspensions and transmissions have removed much of the fatiguing aspects and big truck feeling of school buses in earlier de cades Therefore becoming comfortable with operating the vision will be easy However the differences whcih do exist are extremely important and the dil ligent pupil transportati
2. D BLUE BIRD IAK lt gt L A ___ 10004177 VISION cavers sannsoox 2006 2008 Blue Bird Corporation All rights reserved All Blue Bird products sold for use in the United States of America and its insular areas comply with all applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards FMVSS adn applicable Federal ADA requirements Many of the components of Blue Bird buses are obtained from outside suppliers Where maintenance and or service information conflicts with the component manufacturer s documentation the manufacturer s documentation prevails In the event of any conflict between the requirements of this publication an dany applicable legal requirement the legal require ment prevails Technical requirements that exceed the legal requirements are not considered to conflict Blue Bird Corporation continually endeavors to improve its products and reserves the right to change without notice Text illustra tions and specifications in this manual are based on information available at the time of printing Introduction 5 Blue Bird Authorized Distributors 6 Blue Bird School Bus Support 6 Blue Bird School Bus Training 6 Blue Bird Parts Sales 6 Blue Bird Technical Publications 6 Blue Bird Bus Warranty 7 Contacts and Regulatory Matter 7 Reporting Safety Defects 7 Driver Certification 7 About 2007 Emissions Standards 8 Regarding Modifications 9 Abou
3. CARRYING 6 4 Using a 3 4 hand wrench do not use an POCKET impact type wrench turn the release nut clockwise until the internal spring is fully caged Brass Drift SPRING CHAMBER 95 96 VISION cavers sannsoox 6 5 Repeat the procedure for the spring brake chamber on the oppo site side of the bus The spring brakes are now released having their Springs compressed by the release bolts 7 With the axle shafts removed and air spring brakes caged the bus is prepared for towing The Vision may be equipped with optional tow hooks located just inside the access openings of the front and or rear bumper Appendix 1 of the Front Axle amp Suspension chapter contains additional information about towing procedure Air Tank Schrader Valve The supply wet tank primary rear brake reservoir and secondary front brake res ervoir air tanks are mounted under the bus inboard of the chassis frame rails The supply tank is mounted toward the front of the bus on the left side The supply tankis fitted with a Schrader valve to allow manual pressurization of the system for service or testing purposes by using a common air hose without having to charge the system by running the engine and compressor If a service truck rendering asistance is equipped with compressed air the Scha rader valve can be used to pressurize the air brake system of an inoperative Vision so that its spring brakes can be released in order
4. 7 4 Asa primary method of determining when the tanks are full 80 ca pacity an 80 stop fill device will automatically stop the filling process when the liquid propane reaches an 80 liquid level capacity in the tanks 7 5 As a secondary method of determining when the tanks are full 80 Capacity an 80 fixed maximum liquid level outage valve Manual bleeder valve can be used A Open the 80 fixed liquid level valve located at the fill port B Vapor will be vented from the valve during the filling process C When liquid propane begins to vent the from the valve the tanks have filled to 80 capacity D Immediately close the 80 fixed liquid level valve 88 ROUTINE OPERATION E Immediately close the filling nozzle NOTE The 80 fixed liquid level valve can be used to verify the accuracy of the automatic stop fill device 8 Release or close the fueling nozzle 8 1 Turn off the fuel dispenser pump 8 2 Carefully and slowly unscrew the fueling nozzle unscrew counter clock wise A A minimum bleed nozzle should have released any pressure left in the space between the nozzle and the receptacle when closed and should not bleed any pressure when unscrewing the connection B Some nozzles will have more pressure trapped between the nozzle and the receptacle so it is necessary to slowly unscrew the connec tion to allow pressure to bleed off before removing the nozzle com pletely Some nozzles will be equipped with a
5. UE BIRD Maintenance Task Schedule Ensure that the Safety Information warnings and instructions are read and understood before operation or maintenance proce dures are performed Use whichever interval listed time mileage engine hours occurs first Engines operated in severe operating conditions may require more frequent maintenance See engine manufacturer s specifications for more information First Month Then Every 3 Months or 3000 Miles Cooling System Inspect amp Tighten Hose Clamps Tighten radiator hose clamps to 90 in Ib Tighten heater hose clamps to 45 in Ib First 100 Miles Then Every 10 000 Miles Tires amp Wheels Inspect amp Tighten Lug Nuts Torque to 450 500 _ ft Ib with calibrated torque wrench Do not over tighten Do not lubricate nuts or studs Operating conditions may require more frequent checks First 1000 Miles Then Every 3 Months or 6000 Miles _Frame OOOO Inspect amp Tighten Body Tie Downs Body Inspect for missing damaged rubber pads Tighten clamps Tie Down Clamps to 37 41 ft Ib Inspect amp Tighten Body Tie Downs Firewall Inspect rubber discs for cracking or damage Inspect spring Box Isolator Mounts amp fastener for damage Tighten to 52 56 ft Ib Inspect amp Tighten Body Tie Downs Front Inspect rubber blocks for cracking or damage Inspect Isolator Mounts spring amp fastener for damage Tighten to 52 56 ft Ib Inspect amp Tighten Body Tie Downs Rear
6. Adjust linkage for firm closure and to ensure rear panel closes first Lubricate Outward Opening Door Pivots Adjust Outward Opening Door Roller Bracket Lubricate Wheelchair Lift Lube Points Lubricate pivot pins with LPS 1 Adjust for full and secure closure without binding See model specific literature provided with lift Emergency Exits Lubricate All Emergency Exits Hinges LPS 1 Lubricate Rear Emergency Door Hinges Lubricate at hinge grease fittings Lubricate Rear Emergency Door Hold Open Lubricate Roof Hatch Hatch Seal and Latch Floor Inspect Floor Drains Apply ASTM D4950 GC LB Grade 2 Silicone lubricant to prevent sticking of rubber seal Spray silicon lubricant into latch mechanism Check drawin hole in each body section under window for debris obstruction SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE Seats Lubricate Driver s Seat Lubricate per manufactuers recommendation Inspect amp Tighten Passenger Seats Use standard torque for bolt size tread type and grade Mountings Warning Devices amp Signs Lubricate Stop Arm Electric 4 Point Pivot Lubricate four hinge pivot ponts with Try Flow lubricant Inspect amp Tighten Stop Arm Electric Check interior and exterior fasteners for loosening Fasteners Windows Lubricate Passenger Windows Latches amp Use silicone lubricant Slides Electrical Inspect Battery Electrolyte Level Replenish with distilled water
7. Air Spring Anchor Bolts Inspect amp Tighten Comfort Air Suspension Air Spring Fasteners Inspect amp Tighten Comfort Air Suspension Leveling Valve Mount Bolt Inspect amp Tighten Comfort Air Suspension Lever Linkage Locknut Inspect amp Tighten Comfort Air Suspension Lower Shock Mount Inspect amp Tighten Comfort Air Suspension Quick Align Bolts Brakes Lubricate Air Brakes Cam Shaft Housing Tighten to 20 30 ft Ib Torque to 30 35 ft Ib Tighten to 60 85 in Ib Tighten to 100 150 in Ib Tighten to 260 320 ft Ib Tighten to 525 575 ft Ib NLGI 2 EP multipurpose grease rated GC LB or equivalent Use hand operated grease gun Lubricate Air Brakes Haldex Slack Adjusters See Haldex lubricant specs in Air Brakes chapter Lubricate Air Brakes Meritor Slack Adjusters See Meritor lubricant specs in Air Brakes chapter Engine Inspect Belt amp Tensioner Closely inspect Belt amp Tensioner Clean Crankcase Breather Test Engine Oil Clear breather hose of debris or obstruction Perform oil sample analysis per Caterpillar specifications Steering Lubricate Steering Column Vision manual says to lubricate steering column Where With what Check model applicability Every 12 Months Intake System Test Intake Tract Restriction Indicator Test indicator with vaccuum gauge and pump Every 12 Months or 12 000 Miles Heaters amp Defr
8. C 7 If the engine is operated at a light load and low speed it will reach normal operating temperature more quickly than if it idles at no load When idling in cold weather increase the engine idle speed to a maximum of 1200 revolutions per minute RPM this is the HIGH IDLE function Do not exceed the no load recommended RPM dur High Idle Switch ing the warm up process Limit unnecessary idle time to 10 minutes High Idle Function The high idle control positions the throttle at high idle This allows the engine to warm up faster than at the normal low idle position High idle is limited to 1000 to 1200 revolutions per minute RPM High idle can be activated by a switch in the driver s area With the transmission in the neutral position and the park brake set move the toggle switch to the HIGH IDLE position to maintain a constant engine RPM above the normal idle speed AUC D Do not move the toggle switch to the high idle position unless the transmission is in Neutral and the park brake is engaged 1 2 VISION cavers nannsoox Service Brakes Your Blue Bird vision may be fitted with hydraulic disc brakes or air powered drum type brakes depending on the options chosen at the time of manufacture Although they perform the same task hydraulic brakes and air brakes differ in feel Air brakes also may require additional wait time before driving the bus during warmup to allow air system pressure
9. CEN Ensure that the ignition switch of the disabled vehicle is in the OFF position Always connect the POS battery cable first Connect the NEG cable to the chassis away from the batteries The batteries produce a highly flammable gas Do not smoke while working near batteries Take all precautions to prevent sparks from any source in the proximity of the batter ies 1 Ensure the posts on the jumper and bus batteries are clean 2 Using the RED jumper cable connect the POS terminal of the bus battery to the POS terminal of the jumper battery 3 Using the BLACK jumper cable connect one end to the NEG terminal of the jumper battery 4 Connect the other end of the BLACK jumper cable to a solid chassis ground on the bus such as the engine Do not connect the black jumper cable to the NEG terminal of the bus battery ef NU ile Do not crank the engine for more than 30 seconds Allow the cranking motor to cool at least 2 minutes between attempts to start the engine 5 Allow time for the jumper battery to boost the bus battery before attempt ing to start the engine 6 After the engine starts remove the NEG BLACK booster cable from the ground on the bus 7 Remove the NEG BLACK booster cable from the terminal of the booster battery 8 Remove the POS RED booster cable from the POS terminal of the bus battery 9 Remove the RED booster cable from the POS terminal of the boost
10. Clean Air Brakes Relay Valves See Bendix Appendixes in Air Brakes Chapter Clean Air Brakes Spring Brake Valve See Bendix Appendixes in Air Brakes Chapter SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE Engine Cooling System In today s modern engine designs accurate maintenance of the cooling system is critically important to engine life Simply maintaining coolant level and performing occasional coolant changes does not adequately ensure that the cooling system is healthy The chemical balance of engine coolant must always be correct This re quires dilligent adherance to the engine manufacturer s coolant specifications main tenance schedules and procedures Accurate coolant system maintenance records should be kept The engine coolant level in the reservoir should be checked daily as a part of routine pre trip inspection But whenever the coolant level is low it must be replen ished with only pre mixed coolant of the same type and brand installed Never top off coolant with plain water Careful pre trip inspection and a program of routine maintenance checks of the condition of the cooling system by service technicians should ensure against enroute emergencies such as worn hoses or loose clamps resulting in coolant loss In the case of such an emergency however if anything other than original premixed coolant is added in order to allow the bus to proceed to a service facility the coolant system must be completely drained flushed and properly refil
11. Every Month or 6000 Miles Warning Devices amp Signs Adjust Stop Arm Air Air Pressure Adjust for full deployment and retraction Every Month or 10 000 Miles Axle amp Suspension Rear Inspect Rear Axle Lubricant Level If low refil to bottom of filler opening Use same lubricant type as already installed Inspect Spring Suspension Whole Visually inspect for damage Assembly Every Month or 300 000 Miles Brakes Inspect Hydraulic Brakes Fluid DOT 3 brake fluid Every 3 Months or 3000 Miles Cooling System Inspect Radiator Fins Clean debris from fins Inspect Water Pump Belt Inspect condition and tension of belt VISION cavers nannsoox Every 3 Months or 5000 Miles Brakes Lubricate Air Brakes S Cam Lubricate Hydraulic Brakes Calipers See Meritor Cam Brakes Appendix in Air Brakes Chapter for guidelines Lube per meritor specs Driveline Lubricate Driveshafts Slip J oint NLGI Grade 1 or 2 multipurpose grease Lubricate Driveshafts U oint Bolts NLGI Grade 1 or 2 multipurpose grease Inspect amp Tighten Driveshafts U J oint Bolts Electrical Inspect Alternator Connections Tighten to 45 50 ft Ib Inspect for loose wires damaged terminals damaged insulators Inspect Battery Ground Strap Check for solid connection tight fasteners and absense of corrosion Fuel System Inspect Fuel Lines Inspect for leaks or
12. Lumbar Support The knob located at mid height on the right side of the seat back tightens loosens a lumbar support built internally into the seat back Seat Bottom Fore Aft Slide A lever located under the front edge of the seat bottom releases the seat track allowing the seat to be adjusted fore or aft While seated pull the lever toward the left Slide the seat fore or aft to the desired position and release the lever Slide the seat slightly to ensure the lever latches into one of its locking notches Seat Bottom length Under the front edge of the seat bottom directly above the Slide release lever is a handle which allows the seat bottom to be pivoted forward effectively lengthening the seat bottom for Drivers with longer legs To move the seat base to the forward position stand beside the seat Grasp the front handle with your right hand and the side of the seat bottom with your left Lift the seat slightly and pivot it forward Then press it down firmly into position Pivoting the seat bottom forward in this way also clears the seat bottom from the seat back allowing the bottom to be hinged forward to gain service access to the seat pedestal mechanism Driver Lap amp Shoulder Belt To use the seat belt shoulder harness pull out an adequate amount of webbing and engage the buckle The retractors will pull the harness snugly into place You may ad just the height of the shoulder harness by positioning the bracket to the mo
13. 22 Driver Orientation This chapter is a brief tour of the vision s features and equipment locations Product Identification Information Federal Vehicle Certification Plate This decal certifies that the vehicle complies with all appli cable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards FMVSS in effect on the date of manufacture Do not remove deface or cover this decal Axle Record and Chassis Service Number Plate This plate is located inside the bus above the windshield toward the right side It contains the serial numbers of the bus chassis and several major chassis components These numbers are important references when ordering parts or seeking bus specific service information from your Blue Bird distributor Body Serial Number and Service Number Plate Also located above the windshield on the front upper panel This plate contains the Body Number and several specifications pertaining to the body configuration The Body Number is a very important reference whenever ordering parts or seeking ser vice information MANUFACTURED BY BLUE BIRD BODY COMPANY DATE OF MFR 017 04 INC VEH MFG BY DATE 03 02 SUITABLE TIRE RIM CHOICE GVWR 3503 ke 29760 LB GAWR FRONT 4537 KG 10000 8 WITH 10R22 5 TIRES 22 5X7 50 RIMS AT 758 KPA 110 PSI COLD SINGLE 8966 kG 19760 LB WITH 10R22 5 TIRES 22 5X7 5G RIMS at 723 KPA 105 PSI COLD DUAL DAWR REAR THIS VEHICLE CONFORMS TO ALL APPLICABLE U S FEDERAL
14. These switches control the fan gi speed of underseat heaters a E kara Heater High Off Low Perimeter Convection Heater Switch 2 position Heater Fan 5 aa 4 position Underseat Heaters On Off If the bus is equipped with optional Off Low Med High J Boston perimeter convection heaters in the passenger di Oft Low and or area a switch is provided to toggle these heaters Convection Heaters on and off This switch operates an electric valve Defrost Bus ha ae n which controls the flow of engine heated water 2 position Heater Pump This knob controls vents which Heater Pump direct the distribution of heated air between the 2 position Driver Passenger On Off Driver outlets and the windshield outlets 2 position 33 VISION cavers sannsoox Forward Console Switch Panel Warning Light Pilots The amber pilot illuminates and blinks when the amber lights of the Warning Light System operate The red pilot illuminates and blinks when the red lights of the Warning Light System operate Warning Light Master This switch is a two position on off switch which controls the Warning Light System This switch must be on whenever the Warning Light Sys tem system is required Specific requirements vary according to state specifications Generally the use of the Warning Light System is required whenever picking up and discharging students The Master switch enables you to disable the Warning Light System when stopping f
15. amp in good condition 59 VISION cavers nannsoox 6 Proceed around to the right side of the bus Approach the rear axle at the rear of the rear tire 6 1 Open the fuel filller door and ensure that the fuel cap is in place and securely tightened 6 2 Look under the bus behind the rear tires and view along the back of the axle all the way across to the opposite side Be watchful for any signs of oil leak age on the rear side of the axle missing bent mis aligned or broken axle suspension fasteners Look on the ground for any signs of leaking fuel broken glass or other debris 6 3 Inspect the right rear tires Check for correct inflation pressure in both the outer and inner tires Check the tread depth and look for any signs of physical damage Normal tread Y Fuel cap in place amp secure wear should be uniform across the width of the tread Inspect the v Rear axle undercarriage suspension normal rim for bends or other damage Check that all lug nuts are in place v Inner and outer tires pressure condition Look at the axle center caps for missing bolts or signs of axle lubricant Y Lug nuts axle cap nuts in place leakage v Free of leaks seepage debris Aili 7 6 4 At the front of the rear tires look under the bus and across to the Windows clean amp in good condition other side of the axle Visually inspect for any missing suspension bolts signs of cracks misalignment or other physical damage on the
16. Brakes Air Tanks Test all emergency exits for proper operation including warning buzzer Clean adjust mirrors Clean Windshield door glass driver s window rear vision windows rear door windows Inspect for leaks or physical damage Drain daily in cold weather weekly in warm weather Inspect Air Brakes Brake Chambers See Air Brakes Chapter for inspection criteria Inspect Air Brakes Brake Shoes Wear depends upon application environment See Meritor Cam Brakes Appendix in Air Brakes Chapter for guidelines Cooling System Inspect Coolant Level SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE UE BIRD Top off with premixed coolant of same type as installed Never mix coolants of different colors types or brands See engine Operator s Manual for details Inspect Entire Cooling System Visually inspect for any signs of leakage Electrical Inspect All Lights Check all running stop marker hazard and warning lights for proper operation Engine Inspect Oil Level See Engine operators manual for oil specifications Fuel System Inspect Fuel Cap Inspect Water Separator Petcock Drain Check for water contamination Intake System Inspect Intake Tract Duct amp Elbow Visually inspect for proper fit and sealing cuts abarsions signs of dirt contamination Inspect Intake Tract Restriction Indicator Replace filter element if indicator is red Steering Ins
17. Exhaust Brake 2 position on off Helps slow down during deceleration Diagnostic Switch Momentary Used by service technicians to cycle modes of diagnostic LEDs High Idle 2 position on off Raise engine idle RPM amp to increase alternator output 31 VISION cavers sannsoox 32 Side Console Switch Panels The exact arrangement of switches in the top switch panel of the side conslole may vary depending upon optional equipment Shown is the standard configuration Common options which may populate this panel include switches for mirror heaters auxilliary heaters or additional dome lights Side Console Upper Switch Panel Dome Lights 2 position switch Turns on off the overhead lights in the passenger area Some Vision buses have two of these switches one each for the dome lights in the front half and rear half of the bus Driver Dome Lights 2 position switch Turns on off the overhead light in the Driver area Noise Supression Momentary switch When pressed and held certain noisy devices such as auxilliary fans and heater blowers are momen tarily turned off to enable the Driver to better hear ambient sounds such as railroad signals and gate intercoms or personnel etc Center Fan 3 position High Off Low switch Controls the auxilliary fan mounted above the center of the windshield This fan is provided for general air circulation Driver comfort and or to help a
18. MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARDS IN EFFECT IN 03 702 VIN TYPE CLASSIFICATION SCHOOL BUS Axle Record amp Chassis Service Plate FIRST AID BLUE BIRD Body Serial amp Service Number Plate 23 VISION cavers nannsoox Data Plates Reference The illustrations below replicate the data fields on the Chassis and Body data plates To create a convenient reference fill in the data from the plates of the bus in which this manual is stored This information is essential when ordering parts or obtaining service information FURNISH INFORMATION BELOW WHEN ORDERING AXLE PARTS CHASSIS ENGINE SERIAL SERIAL NO amp DATEL FRONT BRAKE AXLE DRUM REAR BRAKE AXLE DRUM DIFFERENTIAL CHASSIS SERVICE NO BLUE BIRD FORT VALLEY FORT VALLEY GEORGIA BODY NO O MODEL YEAR O O o o MFG BODY DATE fk LT Vee eis BLUE BIRD EQUIPPED CAPACITY O OSPECIFICATION VEAR j MAX DESIGN CAPACITY M BODY SERVICE NO 24 DRIVER ORIENTATION Emergency Equipment Locations Some emergency equipment is optional and differs between states Generally all school buses have first aid kits fire estinguishers and trianguar roadside hazard re flector kits however the size of first aid kits and fire estinguishers vary The bus may also be equipped with a body fluid kit fire axe crowbar or flare kit All such devices are generally located in the Driver s area but specific locations are also subject to optional
19. Parking units with optional hydraulic brakes Internal expanding transmission mounted 9 diameter x 3 wide Mechanical cable operation with hand control lever at driver s left 11 12 VISION cavers nannsoox Bumpers Contoured front bumper die formed from 3 16 steel plate Rear bumper smooth profile 12 high with 90 flanges die formed from 3 16 steel plate with 14 wrap around at corners and double A frame bracing Controls Electronically operated throttle air brake treadle valve actuated parking brake air brakes or cable operated driveline shoe parking brake hydraulic brakes with warn ing light transmission selector dimmer switch instrument panel rheostat controlled lighting key type starter switch Electric dual horn DID Panel controls on right steer ing column stalk Cruise control on left steering column stalk Manual outward open ing door control Cooling System Charge air and down flow radiator mounted in tandem at vehicle front A 24 dia nylon cooling fan with nine blades equipped with a fully on or fully off electromag netic fan clutch driven by polyvee fan belt with spring loaded tensioner Fan con trolled by Engine ECM Dextron IIl Transmission fluid cooled by heat exchanger in lower radiator tank Gates Blue Stripe hose with constant torque clamps Drive Line Spicer SPL series 70 shafts with protective guards and lifetime lubrication Engines CAT C 7 7 2 L 190 HP 2
20. Spring Radius Fasteners Tighten locknuts to 100 125 ft Ib Cooling System Test Entire Cooling System Pressure Test Cooling system Steering Inspect Hydraulic Pump Body amp Seals Inspect for leaks Inspect Steering Gear Body amp Seals Inspect for leaks VISION cavers nannsoox Every 12 Months or 24 000 Miles Brakes OOO Clean Air Brakes Pop Off Valves Steering Replace Hydraulic Reservoir Filter Element Replace element and fluid Replace more frequently in severe operating conditions Dextron III Transmission Inspect Transmission Vent OE Re Clear vent hose of debris or obstruction Every 12 Months or 50 000 Miles _Axle amp Suspension Rear _ _ _ _ Z _ OOOO Replace Rear Axle Petroleum Based Hypoid Gear Oil Viscosity depends upon operating climate Lubricant See Viscosity Temperature chart Every 12 Months or 100 000 Miles _Axle amp Suspension Rear ___ Z ZOOO Replace Rear Axle Synthetic Lubricant Viscosity depends upon operating climate See Viscosity Temperature chart Every 18 Every 18 Months or 20 000 Miles or 20 000 Miles _Cooling System _ _ SOOO Lubricate Shutters Pivots Use Never Seize spray lubricant Every 24 Months or 24 000 Miles Brakes _ OOOO Clean Air Brakes Parking Brake Valve See Bendix Appendixes in Air Brakes Chapter Clean Air Brakes Quick Release Valves See Bendix Appendixes in Air Brakes Chapter
21. This three position switch turns headlights on top and off bottom or turns on Parking Lights middle Because day Headlights f f 3 position time running lights are required the headlights shine at a lower Headlights amperage during normal bus operation after the engine is running Park Lights even when this switch is in the bottom position o Instrument Dimmer 3 stop slider Instrument Dimmer This slider switch is continuous but has three Slide to dim brighten detents It adjusts the brightness of the instrument cluster and pannel some of the backlighted switches Hazard Switch 2 position on off Hazard Lights This two position switch turns on off the front and Turns on off rear turn signals as blinking hazard flashers exterior hazard blinkers DRIVER ORIENTATION Right Front Panel High Idle Increases engine idle speed from 800 to approximately 1200 RPM Place the transmission in Neutral and set the Parking Brake before switching the engine to High Idle This function is useful when the bus is parked and left running for long periods of time or when electrical system demands are high such as running the AC or operating a wheelchair lift Diagnostic Switch Provides diagnostic functions for the IO Control Multiplex system and the ABS system For use by qualified personnel for diagnostic purposes only Exhaust Brake Activates the exhaust brake to help slow the bus down during de celeration
22. bushings Shock Absorbers Sachs direct acting 1 42 diameter bore double action piston type with long life bushings Axle amp Suspension Rear Axle Meritor RS21145 21 000 Ibs capacity single speed with 5 29 ratio Petroleum lubed bearings Shock Absorbers Sachs direct acting 1 42 diameter bore double action piston type with long life bushings Springs 4 x 52 semi elliptic progressive variable rate 15 leaf slipper springs 9 900 lbs capacity each at the ground Maintenance free rubber bushed radius leaf per mits axle adjustment for dog tracking Batteries Two Group 31 batteries with 1125 CCA 0 F 4 0 gauge battery cables Heavy duty slide out battery compartment tray Braking System Service Brakes Air Standard Meritor air powered cam operated 4 front 7 rear internal expanding single leading shoe drum brakes Meritor automatic slack adjust ers 4 channel Bendix ABS 3 tank air system with combined capacity of 5 280 cu in Moisture ejector on each tank Options available for Bendix AD 9 or AD IP air dryer Emergency Parking units with standard air brakes Captive spring actuators in corporated into rear air brake chambers Release valve operation with control knob at driver s right Service Brakes Hydraulic Optional Both front and rear systems have 15 diam eter x 1 438 thick rotors 64mm front 70mm rear 4 piston self adjusting Meritor Quadraulic calipers Meritor ABS Emergency
23. clear before moving the bus States and other regional school bus adminstration organizations sometimes conduct training or practice seminars such as school bus rodeos Blue Bird encour ages participation in any program designed to increase the skill and safety of our nation s school bus force 69 VISION cavers sannsoox Prior to Starting the Engine For the most complete engine starting details refer to the engine manufacturer s Operator s Manual A copy of this manual is provided in the material shipped with your new Blue Bird bus The information and or instructions in the manufacturer s manual takes precedence over the more limited information in this manual Your Blue Bird bus is equipped with an engine alarm system designed to help prevent major damage due to high coolant temperature and or low engine oil pres sure If so equipped when the engine coolant temperature exceeds 210 F 99 C and or the engine lubricating oil pressure falls below 6 psi an alarm will sound CTD The engine must be shut down immediately when the alarm sounds to avoid costly engine damage CEN Engine exhaust contains products of combustion that may be harmful to your health Always start and operate the bus in a well ventilated area If the engine must be operated in an enclosed area vent the exhaust to the outside Perform the required daily under the hood inspection and maintenance Also per form any other periodic maintenance prior
24. emission control and or Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards FMVSS are expressly not authorized by Blue Bird Corporation It is the responsibility of the entity undertaking the modification to ascertain compliance of the modified vehicle with any and all applicable regulations The en tity performing modification of this product must certify that all applicable regula tions are met In order to certify a modified vehicle the upfitter or other entity per forming the modification must be a licensed vehicle manufacturer or must objtain the services of a licensed vehicle manufacturer for that purpose Specifically Blue Bird Corporation does not authorize any modifications to or such as the following e Front or rear suspension e Wheelbase length e Body or chassis crossmembers e Frame rail flanges e Welding on the engine radiator fuel tank s transmission or any component of those items e Cooling system e Addition of any equipment or component nearer than 2 inches 51mm to the fuel tank s rotating components or jounce movement of driveline compo nents INTRODUCTION 10 VISION cavers sannsoox About This Driver s Handbook Blue Bird Technical Communications endeavors to continuously improve the value of its manuals Your comments and suggestions are welcome and we value the feed back we receive from our users Send your comments to Blue Bird Body Company Attn Technical Communications P O Box 937 Fort V
25. engine de rates available power and maxi mum vehicle speed when certain fluid parameters pass a limit threshold or a maxi mum coolant temperature of 225 F The engine s ECM keeps an electronic data log of time of occurrence elapsed times extreme pressures and extreme temperatures when the system detects an out of range condition The following sensors mounted on the engine provide input to the engine protection system oil pressure coolant level sensor Minimum pressure cap rating is 15 psi at sea level Thermostats opening temperature 190 F fully open 205 F Fan full on at engine coolant temperature of 210 F Fuel Water Seperator supplied with engine Blue Bird diesel fuel systems are not compatible with biodiesel Engine manufacturer s warranty regarding perfor mance emissions and durability can be affected by using biodiesel Cummins ISB 2007 Emission Standards Engines Some Blue Bird 2008 Visions are equipped with Cummins ISB engines which are specially designed to meet 2007 emission standards These engines incorporate a Cummins Particulate Filter Muf fler and use cooled Exhaust Gas Recirculation to reduce emissions During normal use the system automatically enters a particulate filter regeneration mode to oxidize soot collected in the particulate filter General Motors Vortec 8 1 Litre Engine If your 2009 model Vision is a propane fu eled unit it is equipped with the GM 8 1L Vortec engine This engine is designed for prop
26. fuel filter mounted on engine is supplied by engine manufacturer Propane units have an 81 U S gallon tank capacity and are equipped with two propane fuel filters Horn Electrical dual horns Backing safety horn variable db A Variable db backing safety horn activated when ever the bus is shifted into reverse Sounds between 87 and 112 db automatically adjusting itself depending on the ambient noise level in the proximity of the alarm Instruments Gauges Gauges Speedometer Odometer Oil Pressure Fuel Level Coolant Temperature Voltmeter Transmission Temperature Tachometer Front Air Pressure Rear Air Pres sure on units equipped with air brakes Driver Information Display LED Warnings Telltale Indicators Range Inhibit Engine Oil Temperature Brake Failure Wait To Start ABS Park Brake Applied Check Transmission Left Turn Signal High Beam Right Turn Signal Stop Communication Failure Check Coolant Level Transmission Oil Temperature Water In Fuel Stop Light Service Engine Cruise Con trol Coolant Temperature Low Fuel Low Secondary Brake PRessure Low Primary Brake Pressure High Voltmeter Driver Information Display Interactive LCD display provides system alerts such as battery voltage low air pressure engine maintenance J1939 communication failure vehicle speed service engine turn signal on and also displays service diagnostic features Steering Full power Ross TAS 55 integral unit with 20 4 to 1 r
27. iil h x E NN y As N PARKING Pull to apply parking brakes Push to release The parking brake valve does not apply air brakes It applies air to release the mechanical spring brakes The park brake valve cannot release the spring brakes until sufficent air is in the system for normal service air brakes opeartion If it is pushed in before system pressure is present it will automatically pop out ROUTINE OPERATION Transmission Control The Vision is equipped with an Allison PTS 2500 5 speed automatic transmission which uses Allison s Gen 4 shifter mechanism The T lever shifter is located immedi ately to the right of the instrument cluster R Reverse Used to back the vehicle Completely stop the vehicle and let the engine return to idle before shifting from a forward range to a reverse or from reverse to a forward range N Neutral Note that there is no park position on the shifter When parking the bus place the transmission in Neutral and apply the parking brake The transmission must be in Neutral in order to start the engine OD OverDrive Provides automatic upshifting and downshifting through all of the transmission s ranges Use as the normal forward driving position D Drive Limits the automatic upshifting to the first four ranges May be used as the normal driving position when it is desired to prevent shifting to the highest gear as when not driving on highways or when wishi
28. it fails to come on when the key is turned to the ON position before the engine starts do not operate the bus Seek immediate professional assistance CEN Inspect the level of the brake fluid in the reservoir on a regular ba sis Too little fluid in the system will cause a malfunction Be careful to put only brake fluid in the brake system and power steering fluid in the steering system If the brake pedal depresses more than normal or feels mushy check the reservoir level If you need to add fluid DOT 3 frequently have the system checked out by a professional mechanic ROUTINE OPERATION Parking Brake With Hydraulic Brakes A Blue Bird vision equipped with hydraulic brakes employs a hand operated parking brake lever located to the Driver s left When the driver pulls this lever into the en gaged position a mechanical linkage causes a brake shoe assembly to close around a brake drum attached to the driveshaft preventing the bus from moving It should be noted that this type parking brake becomes inoperative if the driveshaft is discon nected as when the bus is being prepared for towing The mechanical parking brake must be kept adjusted properly for maximum holding power When the parking brake is properly adjusted the lever will snap firmly into place and lever effort will be 90 100 pounds If the Driver finds that the lever force required to apply the parking brake has lessened he should notify service person
29. lines and Blue Bird Engineering Additional manuals are available for purchase through your Blue Bird Authorized Distributor Blue Bird Bus Warranty For your convenience and efficiency warranty claims are handled at the local Distributor level as are all other Customer Services Be assured that your Blue Bird is backed by one of the strongest factory warranties in the industry and that factory based Bus Warranty representatives are in constant contact with your local distributor about your warranty issues Contacts and Regulatory Matter Reporting Safety Defects If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death you should immediately informthe National Highway Traffic Safety Administration NHTSA in addition to notifying Blue Bird If NHTSA receives similar complaints it may open an investigation and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles it may order a recall and remedy campaign However NHTSA cannot become involved in individual problems be tween you your dealer or Blue Bird Corporation To contact NHTSA you may call the Vehicle Safety Hotline toll free at 1 888 327 4236 TTY 1 800 424 9153 or go to http www safercar gov or write to Administrator NHTSA 400 Seventh Street SW Washington DC 20590 You can also obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from http www safercar gov Driver Certification US Federal regulatio
30. of the shoulder harness is adjustable for proper position across the Drivers chest Press down on the release button and slide the strap mount to the desired height Release the button and ensure that the slide latches into the nearest preset notch my vel Lumbar amp Height Adjustments DRIVER ORIENTATION Air Ride Driver Seat Fore Aft Slide Release 43 44 VISION cavers sannsoox Interior Compartments Several interior compartments provide convenient access to service related compo nents These are not storage compartments and should only be opened for service purposes Of these compartments the one most applicable to the Driver is the PDU which contains the main fuse panel of NUa ike The compartments described in this section are not storage compartments Do not place loose items in any of these compartments Power Distribution Unit PDU The large black cover below the center of the dash is the main electrical panel for the Vision and is an area of primary importance to service technicians troubleshooting electrical and device communications systems The PDU is also referred to as Zone A of the Multiplex electrical system because it contains the Main Bus Controller module The PDU also contains the J 1939 data link interface plug a diagnostic interface connection used by service technicians The PDU contains all the fuses used in the Vision except one which is located on a stud in the Zone B compartme
31. on both sides Houses the trunks of all body harnesses and other optional component wiring such as radio PA speakers if so equipped Emergency Doors Rear center door with 37 7 wide x 52 5 high opening Single point bar lock latch with inside handle and guard 6 chrome plated recessed exterior handle Upper and lower clear tempered 5 black upholstered header pad Buzzers Two buzzers one located in the Driver s area and one near the rear emer gency door sound when any emergency exit is engaged Entrance Doors Standard Blue Bird two panel Outward Opening door with manual door control Optional Bode electically operated two panel outward opening door Permanently lubricated bearings and bushings Mechanical clutching system in the gear case disengages the worm drive to allow emergency manual opening of the door Clear standard or tinted optional glass 5 black upholstered header pad 15 16 VISION cavers sannsoox Electrical Multiplex system incorporating chassis circuits Power Distribution Unit under wind shield near floor Fans optional One 6 fan mounted left of the Driver seat with or without a second 6 fan mounted right of the Driver at body centerline Controled by single switch Floor Covering 3 16 thick ribbed black rubber in aisles and at entrance aisle area Alu minum aisle trim over join in floor covering full lenght of body 1 8 smooth black rubber under seats Molded
32. on the painted surfaces and frequent washing will help ensure the longevity of the bus body When cleaning inspect the underside of the body skirts for collected de bris Tree sap pollution from industrial discharge and bird droppings can damage au tomotive paint and a school bus presents large areas for such airborne contaminates to collect Remember to include the roof in your vehicle cleaning regimen Paint removal in localized areas due to stone impact deep scratches or abrasive chemicals should be repaired as soon as possible to prevent their developing into more major corrosion problems and affecting the exterior finish warranty Remember that a school bus interior is much like a high traffic area in a public building Tracked in petroleum products and road salts can damage the floor and interior surfaces The Vision s floor covering is a dense thick approximately half inch and resilient material and will help minimize maintainence chores Clean the floor with a damp mop However never flood the floor or use a hose to wash the interior Water can ac cumulate between the floor covering and the steel floor underneath Such trapped moisture will lead to corrosion problems hidden from eyesight Hinges Window Slides Latches Light household or automotive spray lubricants such as WD 40 or silocone based lubricants may be applied as needed Household glass cleaners may be applied to window glass Seats and Upholstery Mild s
33. opposite side View the shock absorber for signs of oil seepage 6 5 Step back for an overall view of the right side Check that all markings are legible and in good condition including emergency exit signs and reflective tapes Check for broken windows and any other signs of vandalism Check that all windows are clean Entrance Area Inspection 7 Approach the entrance door Visually inspect the entrance door glass for cracks the frame for structural damage and the closure seals for wear or damage 7 1 Open the door and inspect the stepwell for ice or debris that may be hazardous to passengers Ensure that the entire entrance area is free of obstructions such as loose tools or cleaning equipment Y Door clean and in good condition 7 v l ti 7 2 Grasp the entrance handrail and check it for secure mounting as v Free of ice oil loose items v Handrail secure 60 PRETRIP INSPECTTION Engine Compartment Inspection 8 Step to the right side of the bus just forward of the entrance door Unlatch the hood latch Walk to the opposite side and release the other hood latch Step to the front of the hood grasp the hood handhold and pull back to raise the hood completely Step to the left side Driver s side front wheel to proceed with the under hood inspection sii Y Inner side of left front wheel 8 1 Visually inspect the inner side of the wheel If equipped with hydrau Y Steering gear lic brakes inspect the cal
34. small bleeder valve to release this trapped pressure before disconnecting the nozzle 9 Replace the nozzle and fuel transfer hose on the dispenser 10 Verify there are no leaks at the tank filling receptacle and replace the protec tive cap 11 Document the amount of fuel received 12 The fueling process is complete During a propane vehicle fueling process fuel may be emitted to the immediate area There could be a combustible fuel mixture around this immediate area The person performing the re fueling process has total responsibility for safety in the immediate area NOTES e It is unlawful to fill a non compliant tank or a tank that posses a safety viola tion e Any person performing the re fueling process must be trained and certified in the procedures of filling propane tanks and in the procedures of safe han dling 89 90 ENROUTE EMERGENCI Enroute Emergencies In the case of any enroute emergency the Driver must ensure the safety of the pas sengers before performing any procedure on the bus Safely maneuver the bus to the nearest safe location a parking lot or emergency lane if possible and take ap propriate measures to arrange for pick up of the passengers and notify public safety officials CEN No one should attempt to transport passengers without thor ough knowledge of the controls and safety equipment See the Driver Orienta tion and Pretrip Inspection sections of this manual and thoroughly famil
35. specifications Upon taking delivery of the bus the Driver must locate all the emergency equip ment purchased with the bus and become fully acquainted with its mountings able to quickly remove the equipment in an emergency situtation and replace it securely Emergency equipment must never be left loose in the bus but must always be se curely stored in its factory installed mountings during bus operation As part of a daily pre trip inspection the Driver must verify that all emergency equipment is in place fully stocked First Aid Kit up to date Fire Extinguisher and in proper working condition First Aid Kit The first aid kit on most VISION buses is located over the windshield toward the curb side of the bus Each state has a specific location and contents guide that must be followed Body Fluids Clean up Kit The body fluids clean up kit is located in the general area of the first aid kit However each state has specific requirements for the location and labeling of this equipment Know your state s requirements and maintain the kit accordingly Fire Extinguisher The fire extinguisher on most VISION buses is located near the floor forward of the entrance door stepwell or mounted to the floor near the Driver s seat States require ments vary for the type and size of the fire extinguisher for school buses The fire extinguisher must be monitored to ensure the charge level is within the acceptable range and the expiration date
36. the hatch and pull firmly downward os Push the hatch all the way open lurn the red knob to the positon labled LATCHED 51 52 VISION cavers sannsoox Entrance Door Emergency Release Depending upon purchase options the entrance door may be manually operated electrically operated or air operated Manually operated doors employ a door control rod connected to a handle mounted on the dash panel near the Driver An over center cam latching mechanism is released by the driver s thumb or palm when the handle is opened and snaps back into latched position when closed Electric or air operated doors are equipped with emergency release levers so that passengers can open the door even if the power is off or disabled The optional electrically contolled entrance door is driven by a motor and gear mechanism in the door header panel A lever protruding from the header panel serves to disengage the drive gear mechanism so that the door can be manually pushed open or shut This serves a dual purpose To allow the driver to close the door after parking and leaving the vehicle and to serve as a quick door release in the case of emergency To release the door push the lever upward to rotate it 90 counterclockwise The door can then be pushed open or closed manually To re engage the door drive mechanism rotate the lever 90 clockwise Air operated doors use system air pressure to open the door Air operated doors are also eq
37. the overheating condition investigated by a service technician The engine should never be operated for more than 30 seconds at full throttle with the transmission in gear and the vehicle not moving Prolonged operation of this type will cause the transmission oil temperature to become excessively high and will result in damage to the transmission ROUTINE OPERATION Exhaust System New federally mandated emission standards affect all buses equipped with 2007 or newer diesel engines The exhaust systems of both Caterpillar and Cummins engines in Blue Bird buses are aftertreatment systems which incorporate Diesel Particulate Fil ters DPF instead of ordinary mufflers These sophisticated exhaust systems reduce emissions by trapping exhaust borne particulates soot in a filter built into the DPF Over time soot accumulates in the DPF and must be removed by a process re ferred to as regeneration Regeneration is conceptually similar to the cleaning mode of a self cleaning oven in that heat is required to remove the soot The rate at which soot accumulates is dependent upon multiple conditions in cluding the quality of the diesel fuel type of engine oil and ambient temperature engine load and other factors Regeneration occurs in three ways e Some regeneration occurs naturally whenever operating conditions speed engine load etc result in exhaust system temperatures high enough to oxi dize accumulated soot This unassisted rege
38. the wiped area of the windshield Left rearview mirrors are located so as to be viewed through the Driver s window Both right and left rearview mirrors feature a breakaway indexed pivot and are adjustable without tools Interior Rearview 6 x 30 with 3 16 clear safety glass laminated to steel backing plate 1 3 4 radius rounded corners Perimiter of mirror edged with 5 8 diameter rubber padding Interior rearview mirror is installed above the seated Driver on the front upper inner panel and provides a clear view of the vehicle interior and roadway to the rear through the windows of the rear emergency door Paint Exterior Heat cured polyurethane National school bus yellow with black rub rails bumpers and around Warning Lights Interior Astro White hot sprayed on baked enamel except aluminized inner side panels Seat frames heaters and trim are black Switch console and dash medium gray Rust Proofing Body parts thoroughly rust proofed after fabrication and before as sembly Undercoat Underside of body floor skirt and wheelhousings thoroughly undercoat ed prior to body mount on chassis to ensure best coverage and maximum corrosion resistance 17 18 VISION cavers sannsoox Panels Exterior 16 1 4 skirt Outside side panels are constructed of 20 gauge form fluted steel Side panels extend from below the side windows to a distance of 16 1 4 below the floor 16 1 4 skirt Rear corner panels are const
39. to build to normal operation levels The type of brakes installed also determines the type of parking brake installed CEN The parking brakes are designed to hold a parked bus onan incline not exceeding a 20 grade If ever the bus must be parked on steeper grades use properly placed wheel chocks to ensure the bus does not move About Hydraulic Brakes CZES Hydraulic brakes are power assisted The brakes will be notice ably less effective when the engine is not running The bus should not be moved without the engine running The hydraulic brakes are arranged in a dual system whereby the front brakes and the rear brakes operate independently of each other The braking function is significantly diminished by the loss of either the front or the rear brakes however it will be pos sible to stop the bus CEN Do not continue to operate the bus with the loss of either the front or the rear portion of the system Stop the vehicle and obtain profes sional assistance immediately The hydraulic brake system includes an auxiliary electric pump which serves as a backup for the hydraulic pressure supplied by the power steering pump With the engine not running and the key switch in the ON position the electric pump will come on This will provide some assistance in the brake system but it will be much less effective than the power assist provided by the power steering pump CEN Check the operation of this auxiliary pump before each trip If
40. to confirm that no tools rags grease debris or any other objects are on or near the exhaust system e Start the engine e Operate the Regeneration Switch to begin the regeneration process e Monitor the process If any unsafe condition occurs shut off the engine imme diately During the regeneration process the engine may change speed and the turbocharger may whistle When the process is complete the engine will return to normal idle speed Exhaust gas and exhaust surface temperatures will remain elevated until they have had time to cool to normal levels 85 VISION cavers sannsoox 86 General Propane Tank Filling Procedures The most important procedure of filling any propane tank is safety Understanding the properties amp characteristics and safe handling practices of the fuel is required before conducting any propane tank filling efforts A propane powered vehicle is equipped with a propane tank built to and cer tified to the regulations of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers ASME These tanks have a data plate with pertinent information including the ASME stamp and the plate must be securely attached and legible or the tank should be taken out of service and replaced There are no requirements for re certifying ASME tanks however inspection is required and maintenance is recommended if there are signs of corrosion Propane tanks are filled to 80 capacity to allow for the liquid fuel to expand and contract depe
41. to starting the engine This routine can help avoid costly major repairs later Starting the Engine CEN Never use ether as an aid in trying to start the engine To start the engine normally 1 Engage the parking brake and place the transmission in neutral 2 Turn the keyed ignition switch to the ON position 3 Once the Wait to Start light is no longer illuminated turn the key to START to crank the engine e On diesel powered units the air inlet heater will turn on if the sum of the coolant temperature and the air inlet temperature is less than 109 F 25 C The Wait to Start indicator time may vary somewhat depending upon the temperature Colder temperatures may increase the time the Wait to Start indicator illuminates Once the engine is started the Wait to Start indicator may cycle on off as the engine warms It is okay to operate the bus after the first time the Wait to Start indicator has gone off e On propane powered units there is a preset time of 20 seconds for the Wait to Start indicator This time is alotted for a purge cycle of the liquid propane fuel system Do not try to start the bus until the Wait to Start indicator cyles off When the light cycles off start 0 ROUTINE OPERATION the engine If the light starts flashing switch the ignition key off and restart the process Wait until the Wait to Start light is no longer illuminated before turning the ignitio
42. 200 RPM 520 ft Ib 1440 RPM 800 RPM Idle DSL EPA Cer tified Electronically controlled with an electronic throttle turbo charged charge air cooled in line six cylinder engine Air intake equipped with intake manifold grid heater Thermostats begin opening at 190F full open at 208F Battery capacity 1800 CCA min temperatures below 0 F Blue Bird diesel fuel systems are not compatible with biodiesel Engine manufacturer s warranty regarding performance emissions and durability can be affected by using biodiesel CAT C 7 2007 Emission Standards Engines Some Blue Bird 2008 Visions are equipped with Caterpillar C7 engines which are specially designed to meet 2007 emission standards These engines incorporate a CAT Diesel Particulate Filter Muf fler and use Clean Gas Induction in the CAT Regeneration System to reduce emis sions During normal use the system automatically enters a particulate filter regen eration mode to oxidize soot collected in the particulate filter Cummins ISB 02 200 HP 2300 RPM 520 ft Ib torque 1600 RPM Governed speed 2500 RPM Certified for EPA and CARB at 2 5 grams of NOX and NMHC for 2004 EPA standards High pressure common rail fuel system 15 2 CFM single cylinder air com pressor SAE 3 Flywheel housing Holset turbochargers Wastegated turbocharger The ISB 02 monitors key engine parameters and logs diagnostic faults when an ab GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS normal operating condition occurs The
43. 25 Fire Extinguisher 25 Triangular Roadside Hazard Reflector Kit 25 Flare Kit 26 Fire Axe and Crowbar 26 Driver s Area 27 Driver s Instrument Panel 28 Indicator Lights and Audible Alarm 29 Front Switch Panels 30 Left Front Panel 30 Right Front Panel 31 Side Console Switch Panels 32 Side Console Upper Switch Panel 32 Side Console Lower Switch Panel 33 Forward Console Switch Panel 34 VISION cavers nannsoox Heater Valve Lever 35 Heater Filter Panel 35 Steering Column 36 Steering Wheel Position 36 Left Switch Stalk 36 Right Switch Stalk 36 Cruise Control 36 Parking Brake Units With Air Brakes 38 Parking Brake Units With Hydraulic Brakes 39 Driver s Seat Standard 40 Driver Lap amp Shoulder Belt 40 Driver s Seat Air 42 Driver Lap amp Shoulder Belt 42 Interior Compartments 44 Passenger Seats 46 Passenger Area Heaters 47 Passenger Windows 48 Emergency Exits 49 Rear Emergency Door 49 Vandal Lock 49 Emergency Pushout Windows 50 Emergency Roof Hatch 51 Entrance Door Emergency Release 52 Exterior Compartments 53 Engine Compartment 53 Battery Compartment 54 Fuel Filler 54 Keeping Your Bus Looking New 55 Pre Trip Inspection 57 Before Placing the Bus in Service 57 Daily Pretrip Inspection 57 Exterior Walkaround 57 Entrance Area Inspection 60 Engine Compartment Inspection 61 Instrumentation amp
44. Driver s Alert Checks 63 Exterior Lights Check 64 Passenger Area Inspection 65 Emergency Equipment Check 65 Prepare For Driveaway 66 Mirrors and Mirrors Adjustment 67 Routine Operation 69 Routine Operation 69 Maneuvering Safety 69 Prior to Starting the Engine 70 Starting the Engine 70 High Idle Function 71 Service Brakes 72 About Hydraulic Brakes 72 Parking Brake With Hydraulic Brakes 73 About Air Brakes 74 Parking Brakes With Air Brakes 74 Transmission Control 75 Range Inhibit Feature 75 Allison Automatic Transmission Driving Tips 77 Transmission Indicator Lights 78 Exhaust System 79 DPF Regeneration In Blue Bird Buses 80 Aftertreatment Terms 80 Levels of Notification 81 High Exhaust Temperature Notification 81 Level 1 Regeneration Notification DPF Indicator Appears 82 Level 2 Notification DPF Indicator Blinks 82 Level 3 Notification Check Engine Indicator Appears 83 Level 4 Notification Stop Engine Indicator Appears 83 Stationary Regeneration Precautions 84 General Propane Tank Filling Procedures 86 Propane Powered Motor Vehicle Filling Procedures 87 Enroute Emergencies 91 Enroute Emergencies 91 Using Triangular Hazard Reflectors 91 Using Booster Cables 92 Starting Problems 93 Jacking and Towing 94 Jack Points 94 Towing 94 Air Tank Schrader Valve 96 Scheduled Maintenance 97 Scheduled Maintena
45. Inspect rubber discs for cracking or damage Inspect spring Isolator Mounts amp fastener for damage Tighten bracket to 70 80 ft Ib Tighten Isolator to 54 58 ft Ib First 1000 Miles Then Every 6 Months or 6000 Miles _Axle amp Suspension Front _ _ _ Z __ _SSSSSSSSSSSSOSOO Inspect amp Tighten SofTek Spring Tighten to 285 305 ft Ib Suspension U Bolts Axle amp Suspension Rear Inspect Comfort Air Suspension Ride Shock length eye to eye 22 68 25 Height First 1000 Miles Then Every 6 Months or 10 000 Miles _Axle amp Suspension Rear __ _ _ Z OOOO Inspect amp Tighten Comfort Air Suspension Tighten 7 8 U Bolts to 400 450 ft Ib Tighten 3 4 U Bolts U Bolts to 260 320 ft Ib VISION cavers nannsoox First 1000 Miles Then Every 12 Months or 12 000 Miles _Heaters amp Defrosters _ _ Z _ OOO Inspect Front Heater Hoses amp Clamps Inspect for evidence of leaks or deterioration replace with proper parts Axle amp Suspension Front Inspect amp Tighten AirTek Suspension Axle Tighten to 285 305 ft Ib To Suspension Fasteners First 5000 Miles Then Every 12 Months or 24 000 Miles _Transmission _ OOOO Replace Transmission Sump Filter First 5000 Miles Then Every 24 Months or 24 000 Miles _Transmission _ OOOO Replace Transmission Main Fluid Filter First 11 000 Miles Then Every 6 Months or 6000 Miles _Cooling System _ _ _ OSS
46. O Inspect Charge Air Cooler Inspect for clogging debris SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE As Specified by Engine Manufacturer Cooling System Replace Coolant See your Engine Ooperator s Manual Use only premixed coolant s approved by the engine manufacturer Never mix different types or brands of coolant Engine Replace Oil amp Filter See Engine operators manual for oil and filter specifications and maintenance interval Adjust Valves See Engine manufacturer s Service Manual for interval As Specified by Transmission Manufacturer Transmission Adjust Transmission Shift Cable See Transmission Chapter VISION cavers nannsoox Every Day Doors Test Wheelchair Lift Follow the manufacturers recommendations Emergency Equipment Inspect Fire Extinguisher Charge Ensure that Extinguisher Charge is not expired Inspect Fire Extinguisher Mounting Bracket Ensure that Extinguisher bracket is secure and operates correctly Inspect First Aid Kit Contents Ensure that kit supplies are fully replenished clean and not expired Inspect First Aid Kit Mounting Bracket Ensure that mounting bracket is secure and operates correctly Emergency Exits Inspect All Emergency Exits Warning Devices amp Signs Test Stop Arms amp Crossing Arms Windows Inspect All Mirrors Inspect All Windows Brakes Inspect Air Brakes Air Lines amp Fittings Drain Air
47. Off Low rocker switches mounted in the upper panel of the Driver s side console Heater Cut off Valves The vision s heaters operate by circulating engine coolant which is heated by the normal operation of the engine Red painted handled valves are provided in the engine compartment to isolate coolant flow to the engine there by removing all internal heaters from the circuit Some bus operators choose to turn these valves off during summer months Top of engine toward firewall Right side of engine near frame rail 2 Bas _ ah Optional Underseat Heater 4 48 VISION cavers sannsoox Passenger Windows The opening split sash windows in the Passenger area are of a new design on the Blue Bird vision but operate similarly to other windows familiar to school bus Driv ers To lower a window place an index finger in both of the spring loaded sliding latches and slide them inward away from the frame Hold them inward as you slide the window sash downward There are four intermediate opening positions between fully closed and fully opened When the sash is opened to the desired height release the latch slides and then push the top of the sash frame upward or downward to make sure the latches on both sides engage one of the position notches When the window is in one of the intermediate positions the sash can be pushed upward to close without first retract ing the latches However the notches of the fully opened positions ar
48. ST indicator is on e The HEST alert appears in the instrument panel e The audible alarm sounds one beep HEST Notification The HEST alert appears in the DID status window 4 The audible alert sounds ane beep 87 VISION cavers sannsoox 82 Level 1 Regeneration Notification DPF Indicator Appears In low demand operating conditions it is possible that the regeneration system does not have sufficient opportunity to prevent particulate build up in the DPF The ECM senses that accumulation is occurring and that regeneration is needed The driver is notified as follows e The DPF Regeneration alert activates e The audible alert sounds one beep The above indicates that regeneration of the DPF is needed at the earliest conve nience The regeneration can be accomplished in either of two ways If practical the bus could simply be operated for a while at a speed above the automatic regenera tion threshold or the bus could be taken to a suitable location to have a Stationary Regeneration procedure performed If the bus is operated at a minimum highway driving speed 20 mph Caterpil lar 40 mph Cummins the automatic regeneration system will activate If minimum speed is maintained long enough usually 20 30 minutes the automatic regenera tion mode can likely reduce the soot sufficiently to cause the DPF Icon to go off Therefore the first appearance of the DPF icon should be perceived by the driver as a normal
49. Yet this new engine hood sacrifices none of the visioN s legendary field of view The Driver s area has received multiple improvements you are sure to enjoy An all new dash houses the new instrument cluster and also provides a built in glove box The instrument cluster includes a major new feature the Driver Information Dis play This is a large LCD panel which provides you and your service technician access to a wide array of system information The infinitely adjustable steering column is also new providing a foot release pedal for quick and easy adjustment Of course there are myriad other technical technical refinements under the hood with which the Driver may never interact directly but which nonetheless con tribute to an overall improved operating and ownership experience Built to purpose Built to last Built to bring to your operation a new level of value efficiency and rugged reliability VISION cavers sannsoox Backed By Blue Bird Blue Bird provides all the behind the scenes support you depend upon for success in your school transportation operation Blue Bird Authorized Distributors Blue Bird administers its full range of Customer Services through a nationwide network of local or regional Blue Bird Authorized Distributors The Distributor through whom your bus was purchased should always be your first point of contact for information and assistance Contact information for your distributor is located on the bac
50. age Tighten mounting bolts to 215 ft Ib Tighten to 380 420 ft Ib Visually inspect for damage Inspect for signs of leakage wear or damage Tighten upper shock mounts to 50 70 ft Ib Tighten lower shock mounts to 150 180 ft Ib Inspect Comfort Air Suspension Whole Assmebly Visually inspect for damage 1 f D O E E JK IUO JO w Vv SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE Brakes Replace Air Brakes Air Compressor Filter Clean Air Brakes Check Valves Clean amp Lubricate Air Brakes Treadle Valve See Bendix Treadle Valve Appendix in Air Brakes Chapter Clean Air Compressor Governor Inspect Hydraulic Brakes Calipers Inspect for signs of leakage or physical damage Adjust Hydraulic Brakes Park Brake Lever Adjust engagement pressure at the lever to 90 100 Ib Cooling System Replace Coolant Filter Electrical Inspect Battery Battery Posts Clean and apply anti corrosion agent Exhaust System Inspect Exhaust Pipe J oints Inspect for loose clamps leaks damage Fuel System Replace Fuel Filter Filter Element Clean Fuel Filter Inlet Screen Steering Lubricate Steering Gear Pitman Arm Pivot Clean Replace if damaged NLGI 2 EP multipurpose grease rated GC LB or equivalent Use hand operated grease gun 109 VISION cavers nannsoox Every 6 Months or 10 000 Miles Axle amp Suspension Rear Inspect amp Tighten Comfort Air Suspension
51. ake function is provided not by the air pressure but by coil springs incorporated within the rear wheel brake actuation chambers When the parking brake valve on the dash is pulled outward air pressure is vented from the rear brake actuators allowing the springs to engage the rear brakes and locking the rear wheels When the parking brake valve is pushed in it allows the air pressure in the rear brake actuators to overcome the spring pressure thereby releasing the rear spring brakes Therefore although the parking brake control is an air valve it is not air pressure which applies the parking brake but the absense of it The parking brake is applied by mechanical springs which are released caged when the air system pressure is sufficient for normal brakes operation Pushing in the parking brake valve to release the parking brake does not release air pressure it applies it to cage the spring brakes This is why the parking brake button automatically pops out if you try to release the parking brake before sufficient air pressure has built up If for any reason the air reserve in both primary and secondary circuits brake drops below a safe minimum the spring brakes automatically engage and lock the rear wheels If this occurs enroute the Driver should call for professional service assis tance Provisions are made for a qualified service technician to mechanically release the spring brakes to allow the bus to be towed for repair si
52. alley Georgia 31030 Safety Precautions Throughout this manual are precautions labeled Warnings and Cautions and set in the style shown here CEN The Warning designation is generally used for precautions which if not properly observed while performing the related procedures could result in serious personal injury or death ef Uh ile The Caution designation is generally used for precautions which if not properly observed could result in damage to the bus or its equipment This manual is intended for use by qualified professional bus Drivers who understand and observe all appropriate safety precautions and procedures associated with safe driving in general and pupil transportion in particular The user of this manual must read and abide by all safety warnings noted not only in this manual but also on any labels and documentation for vehicle equiment and devices Scope and Content This handbook is intended to acquaint the bus Driver with the Blue Bird bus model it describes It is recommended that after being thoroughly read by the Driver it be stored in the bus Although not a service manual it contains general information that may be of value in situations of roadside hazard assistance such as the location of jacking points or the location of fuses Scheduled Maintenance tables are included as a convenience These should be regarded as the minimum maintenance procedures to keep the bus in proper op erational condition The serv
53. ane fuel and is equipped with a Liquid Propane Injection system Intake High volume canister type air cleaner with replaceable pleated fiber cartridge Charge Air intake circuit by exhaust driven turbocharger Charge Air cooler mounted in front of engine coolant radiator Intake restriction indicator Exhaust 4 O D 16 Gauge aluminized steel tubing from engine turbo charge to in line muf fler Stainless steel muffler with catalitic converter 4 O D 16 gauge aluminized steel tailpipe Wide band exhaust clamps used at all joints Tailpipe exits through bumper road side Tailpipe is 0 to 1 2 beyond bumper Visions equipped with 2007 emissions standards engines use engine manufac turer specific diesel particulate filter mufflers which integrate with an active regen eration system to oxodize particulate soot Frame Chassis Dual C channels 10 1 8 high with 3 flanges made of 5 16 thick 50 000 psi steel All permanent fixtures on frame are attached with hi tensile strength Huck Spin fas teners with swaged lock nuts 13 14 VISION cavers sannsoox Fuel System 60 gallon capacity aluminized steel safety tank mounted between frame rails In cludes a sender inspection plate and right side fill opening with spring loaded lock ing door Spin on fuel filter standard Racor 490R30 fuel filter with see thru bowl self venting drain integral check valve on inlet side and 200 watt heater optional Sec ondary
54. arning devices enclosed in a plastic storage container secured to the floor near Driver 5 lb fire estinguisher in entrance door area Two roof escape hatches mounted above aisle Seats Driver s Seat National NS2000 pedestal standard or air adjustable optional Seat belt is three point floor mounted anti cinch emergency locking retractor Passenger Seats All Passenger seats and barriers are optional and are upholstered in 42 oz polyester backed vinyl solid gray Stepwell Three step riser National Standard 10 to 14 ground to lower step height Stainless steel Step treads with non abrasive black rubber with white nosing Three inch wide white ribbed rubber with metal backing wearplate is located at floor level step at the entrance door Includes stainless steel assist rail at rear of stepwell Stop Arm Crossing Arm One Specialty solid state electric operated high intesnity reflective octagonal stop arm red with a white border and 6 high lettering STOP or ARRETT on both sides Includes red incandescent lights over and under the word STOP visible from both sides Sun Visor Transparent dark green tint 6 5 x 30 smooth edge plastic Located in front of driver Adjustable vertically on two arms pivoted at ends of visor and at anchor points on windshield header Switch Panel Mounted on left of driver with rocker type illuminated switches for electrical equip ment Brightness of illumination is contr
55. arts joints such as the vane pivots and tracks of the shutters assembly regularly using a light spray lubricant such as WD 40 115 116 BLUE BIRD Pe USARE eee OU Sar aah Pe Theta RAINEY 5 Post Office Box 937 Fo ey Georgia 31030 USA gt www blue bird com
56. atio with TRW Power Steering Pump 18 diameter two spoke padded steering wheel with tilt steering column Tires Michelin 10R 22 5 G tubeless XZE Highway Tread Tow Hooks Two front frame mounted standard Two rear frame mounted optional GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS Transmission Allison 2500 PTS Series transmission 5 Forward speeds 1 reverse with Gen 4 T han dle shifter mechanism Dextron III fluid Wheels Hub Piloted steel 10 stud disc wheels single front dual rear 22 5 x 7 25 rims Wiring Blue Bird single zone Multiplex chassis circuit wiring system with MPX Module lo cated in Power Distribution Unit compartment at front of bus below dash Includes diagnostic switch in driver s switch panel for service diagnostics General Specification Body Panels amp Compartments Battery Compartment Enclosed compartment 23 63 L x 24 00 D has roll out tray Includes retaining pins with cables to secure the tray in a closed position Hinged door with recessed locking Paddle Handle latch Located on front of left side of bus Exterior Electrical Compartment Left front side of bus below Driver s window Power Distribution Unit Inside the bus centered on the front wall against the floor Cover removable with two thumbscrews Houses the main Multiplex Main Bus Con troller battery power distribution connections and other electrical connections Side Electrical Channels Inside the bus above the side windows
57. black smooth rubber over wheelhousings Subfloor 1 2 Fir plywood secured to steel floor panels with screws Heater Defroster 90 000 BTU front system on Driver s side with continuous ducted defronsting of windshield and Driver s window Washable filter Driver selects recirculating of fresh air into system as conditions require Manual ball type water flow control valve on heater next to driver for temperature control Goodyear Hi Miler heater hose with constant torque clamps at all joints Insulation The roof sides front and rear including corners and bow cavities are insulated with 1 2 thick fiberglass providing an R value of 5 75 Lettering SCHOOL BUS black vinyl lettering on front and rear caps Yellow reflective back ground optional Vinyl lettering on top of emergency windows and rear emergency door on both interior and exterior of vehicle according to federal regulations Opera tion instructions decal on all emergency exits French decals options available Lights Backing Two 5 clear incandescent right and left rear Clearance Two amber front and two amber rear single Switch operates clearance cluster and side marker lights Daytime Running Head lamps tail license plate parking clearance amp marker lights activated when engine is running Directional Two 4 plain amber fender mounted Two 7 amber lights mounted on rear GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS Dome 6 Candlepower single row equally spa
58. ccellerate windshield de fogging under certain conditions Driver s Fan 3 position High Off Low switch Controls the auxilliary fan mounted above the windshield and to the left of the Driver Strobe Light 2 Position on off switch Con trols the roof mounted strobe light Console Panel Dimmer 3 stop slider switch Dims or brightens Console Panel switches Mirror Defrost Momentary switch Activates defrosting system for exterior rearview mirrors nN A Dome Lights 2 position on off Turns on off passenger compartment dome lights Des y fi 3 position High Off Low Driver s Fan E 3 position High Off Low 5 Mirror Defrost Momentary Defrost exterior rearview mirrors Drivers Dome 2 position on off Turns on off drivers dome light Console Panel Dimmer 3 stop slider Slide to dim brighten console switches Noise Suppression Momentary Turns off noise making devices in drivers area Strobe Light 2 position on off Turns on off exterior strobe light DRIVER ORIENTATION Side Console Lower Switch Panel The lower panel of the Side Console contains controls for the front heater unit which is housed immedately below the Side Console left of the Driver seat Ducts from this unit also provide windshield defrosting Fresh Recirculate This knob controls the type air which is circulated by the heater system and fan By turning clockwise air i
59. ced at center over aisle Single control switch Headlights Dual element 65w high beam 45w low beam 9004 halogen bulbs mounted in contoured lens housings Stepwell 14 candlepower Wired to operate with ID lights with entrance door open Stop and Tail Two combination lights 4 right and left rear license panel in combina tion with 7 stop and tail lights with clear red lens Warning Lights Weldon 8 light sequential system with dual hoods Mirrors Exterior Crossview A Rosco Mini Hawkeye crossview mirror system allows a seated driver to view pedestrians while the bus is stopped The crossview mirror system is comprised of a 10 8 x 12 5 elliptical mirror with tinted upper portion to reduce glare supported by a center mounting post with ball stud mounted on both left and right sides of the bus The mirror mounting posts are attached to the front cowls and fea ture a breakaway pivot to minimize damage in the event of accidental contact The crossview mirror system allows for viewing all areas along the front and sides of the bus which are not visible by direct view Exterior Rearview Rosco Avia non detend rearview mirror system Provides view of teh roadway to the rear as well as a view of teh ground along both right and left sides Rearview mirror system is comprised of a 74 square inch flat and a 38 square inch convex 36 radius mirror on both right and left sides Right rearview mirrors are located so as to be visible through
60. current It is the responsibility of the driver to ensure compliance prior to each trip Triangular Roadside Hazard Reflector Kit For those states requiring the triangular markers to be located in the driver s com partment this container is mounted on the floor immediately behind the driver s seat In some states it is mounted on the floor under the rearmost left hand seat or under the second right hand seat The contents of the triangular warning device kit should be checked each month or as the regulations of your state dictate See the Enroute Emergencies chapter for instructions on deploying the refelectors ALIE alag tat vaur The First Aid Kit is mounted on the interior header panel above the windshield Depending upon options or regulatory requirements the bus may also be equipped with a Body Fluid Kit in the same general location Fire Axe floor mounted between Driver s seat and left console Triangular Roadside Hazard Reflector Kit sitet Fire Extinguisher size and location varies according to options and state specs Triangular Roadside Hazard Reflector kit may also be mounted behind the Drivers seat or at the rear of the bus just inside the Rear Emergency Door opening 25 VISION cavers sannsoox Flare Kit If the bus is equipped with a flare kit on most VISION buses it is typically mounted on the floor behind the Driver s seat and left side seat barrier The location may differ accordi
61. cy exit may cause audible alerts Audible alerts may also be heard if the DID has recorded error codes Note the condition of the battery charge as indicated by the instru ment panel voltmeter Fully charged batteries are necessary to com plete the pre trip inspection Turn on the interior dome lights Walk toward the rear of the bus correcting any conditions such as unlatched emergency windows roof hatches or latched rear emergency door vandal lock that were alerted when the ignition switch was turned on Return to the Driver s seat Turn off the dome lights Test other equip ment switches in the upper panel of the side console varies accord ing to options v All indicators amp DID illuminate during initialization v After initialization voltmeter indicates full battery charge Vie v Vanal lock or other alerts are indicated turn on dome lights and correct the condition v Return to seat and check other left console devices 63 VISION cavers sannsoox Exterior Lights Check 12 With the help of an assistant operate all of the exterior lights and verify that they are all working properly 12 2 Note operation of all running lights marker and clearance lights and warning lights on the front of the bus 12 3 Note operation of all side marker and clearance lights on the left side of the bus 12 4 Note operation of all side marker and clearance lights on the right side of the bus 12 4 N
62. d as long as certain operating conditions such as minimum speed thresholds are met When bus operating conditions do not provide adequate opportunity for the regeneration system to keep the DPF clear soot be gins to accumulate A system of driver alerts keeps the driver informed of when the exhaust system is in need of regeneration and of high exhaust temperature associ ated with regeneration Several levels of regeneration alerts occur in sequence each indicating a more imperative warning High Exhaust Temperature Notification The High Exhaust System Temperature HEST indicator appears to alert the driver when exhaust temperature is unusually high and that prudent judgement should be applied regarding the proximity of people or combustibles to the exhaust sys tem For example the bus should not be parked on a surface of grass or weeds The conditions under which the HEST indicator appears differ between Caterpillar and Cummins equipped buses With Caterpillar engine the HEST indicator appears whenever the exhaust tem perature is high 842 F or above and the bus is either stopped or moving at a slow speed approximately 5 MPH With Cummins engine the HEST indicator appears whenever the exhaust tem perature is high 752 F or above regardless of moving speed The driver should be familiar with and abide by all instructions warnings and cautions in the engine manufacturer s operator s manual regarding safe operation when the HE
63. e designed to latch more securely To close a window that is fully open slide the latches inward and then slide the sash The windows are designed for maintenance free operation However a light sili cone spray lube may be applied to the slides and frames as needed to help ensure smooth operation Damaged latches can be replaced without removal of the window or sash Repair technicians should refer to the Vision Service Manual for the procedure Push inward on both slide latches to lower window Each window has five open positions When in any of the top four positons the window sash can be closed raised without retracting the latches When the window is in its fully open fully lowered position the latches must be retracted to close the window DRIVER ORIENTATION Emergency Exits All emergency exits on this Blue Bird bus meet FMVSS specifications In true emergency situations every second counts It is therefore essential that every school bus Driver be completely familiar with the location and operation of all emergency exits Read the following descriptions thoroughly but also practice operating each of the exits to have not only a mental memorization but also a tactile familiarity with the amount of force required to operate the opening the amount of space available around the opening etc Checking for proper operation of each emergency exit must be part of the daily pre trip inspection regimen Em
64. e rear brakes whenever air pressure is absent These spring brakes also serve as the Driver con trolled parking brake The parking brake knob is an air valve which when pulled outward releases air pressure from the rear wheel chambers This allows the springs to apply the rear brakes Pushing the parking brake knob inward allows air brake system air pressure to retract cage the coil springs If air pressure is insufficient for safe normal air brakes operation the air pressure is also insufficient to disengage the spring brakes Thus it is not possible to release the parking brake until sufficient air pressure has built up in the system DRIVER ORIENTATION Parking Brake Units With Hydraulic Brakes Blue Bird Vision buses equipped with hydraulic brakes are also equipped with a drum shoe type brake mechanism mounted to the driveline at the rear of the trans mission When applied the park brake prevents the driveshaft from turning A control cable leads from the parking brake mechanism to a lever mounted in the Driver s area immediately left of the foot pedals just above the steering column release pedal To apply the parking brake grasp the grip handle of the lever and pull firmly upward When properly adjusted a detent resistance is felt at the end of the lever s travel The lever is designed to require 90 100 pounds of pressure to fully apply the parking brake Always apply the brake fully pulling it upward to a horizontal po
65. e vehicle Mirrors must be adjusted for each individual driver of the bus 1 Ensure the driver s seat is properly adjusted 2 Adjust the right hand flat mirror so that the tops of the right hand windows are visible in the upper edge of the mirror and the right hand side of the bus is visible along the vertical inside edge 3 Adjust the right hand convex mirror so that the view in the convex mirror overlaps the view provided by the flat mirror above it The right hand side of the bus must be visible in this mirror as well 6 VISION cavers sannsoox 4 Adjust the left hand flat mirror in the same manner as described for the right hand flat mirror OUTSIDE OF BUMPER CENTERLINE OF BODY BUMPER 5 Adjust the left hand convex mirror in the same manner as described 12 FEET FROM FRONT BUMPER o ourtsipE oF gt o vo for the right hand convex mirror o 6 FEET FROM 6 Adjust the elliptical cross view mir FRONT BUMPER rors by positioning each mirror so FACE OF the arrow embossed on the mirror FRONT BUMPER head points directly at the driver s CENTERLINE eyes FRONT AXLE 7 The final adjustment of the mirror TEST CYLINDER system must be accomplished to TEST CYLINDERS A O ARE provide the seated driver a view 1 FOOT HIGH X 1 FOOT DIAMETER consistent with the requirements CYLINDER P IS of FMVSS 111 3 FEET HIGH X 1 FOOT DIAMETER NO P The driver must be able to see SENTERLINE
66. ed on a metal tray which is retained by a pin To access the batteries open the compartment door remove the retaining pin and slide the tray outward The Visions battery compartment Fuel Filler The fuel tank of the Vision is located between the chassis frame rails in the rear over hang portion of the vehicle The fuel filler door is located on the right side of the vehicle body rearward of the rear axle Read and abide by the warnings on the decal on the inside of the filler door CEN Remove the fuel cap slowly Observe fueling instructions that are printed on the inside of the fuel access door to avoid fire and or explosion Remove the retaining pin that could result in serious bodily harm or death Never fill to more than 95 liquid capacity 95 capacity is reached at the initial pump cut off and slide the battery tray outward Fuel filler door DRIVER ORIENTATION Keeping Your Bus Looking New Generally speaking common auto care and cleaning products and practices may be used Washing Tips Wash the bus frequently using cold water and mild soap Do not wash the bus in direct sunlight or use harsh or gritty cleaning compounds Strong soap and cleaning chemicals can harm automotive finishes The soap should never be allowed to dry on the surface of the paint Rinse thoroughly and immediately to pre serve the paint finish In colder climates road salts and other ice melting chemicals will be deposited
67. eet guard ES Optimax coolant should be tested by sending samples to a Fleetguard lab for a monitor C test as specified in the Cummins Operator s Manual The John Deere Cool Gard coolant may be tested by sending a sample to John Deere for a Cool Scan test or may be manually tested by qualified service technicians using a John Deere Three Way test strip which is included in John Deere 3 Way Heavy Duty Coolant Test Kit TY6175 Follow the engine manufacturer s procedure for draining flushing and refill Blue Bird buses equipped with Caterpillar or Cummins engines may also be equipped with an optional coolant filter The coolant filter element installed at the Blue Bird factory is compatible with all three of the above described coolants Biue Biro NumBer 00064641 Venpor Wix Part NumBer 24070 Shutters Your VISION may be equipped with radiator shutters a set of vanes designed to re Strict airflow through the radiator and thereby help control the engine operating temperature in extremely cold weather The shutters are automatically controlled by the operating temperature of the engine and are effective by controlling the amount of air flowing through the radiator cooling fins The shutters must be maintained and kept free of foreign material that would prevent them from operating Inspect them for obstruction on a routine schedule such as when checking the engine oil level Remove any debris Service technicians should lubricate the moving p
68. eleasing the brake press the thumb button to allow the lever to be lowered The grip of the lever should not turn during normal operation When releasing the parking brake always be sure to release it fully all the way to the stop of the lever travel Nant Ai Ng a JE s E Ni a N 39 40 VISION cavers sannsoox Driver s Seat Standard The standard Driver s seat in the Blue Bird Vision is mounted on a spring loaded ped estal Several manual adjustments are provided for maximum control safety and comfort Height Control The telescoping cylindrical tubes of the seat base enclose a coil spring which pushes the seat height upward when the seat is not loaded A hand operated lever on the right side of the seat mount latches the seat into one of sev eral height increments and tightening the adjacent hand operated knob locks the seat securely at the current height To change the height crouch beside the seat and loosen counterclockwise the knob on the seat base This allows the spring in the seat base to raise the seat when the lever is raised Raise the lever and hold it while pushing the seat down to the desired height Release the lever Raise lower the seat to ensure it snaps into the nearest of the preset notches Then tighten the locking knob securely Back Tilt Control Turn the large knob located at the bottom of the left side of the seat back where the seat back attaches to the seat bottom
69. em regeneration and should be read and understood by the driver In 2007 diesel en gines use only diesel fuel labeled Ultra Low Sulfer per the engine manufacturer s specifications In Caterpillar use oils meeting API CJ 4 or Caterpillar ECF 3 compliant See Caterpillar Opera tion and Maintenance Manual SEBU8083 08 for details In Cummins use oils meeting API CJ 4 SL and Cummins Engine Standard CES 20081 See Cum mins Owners Manual ISB 6 7L CM2150 for details The exhaust systems of 2007 and newer engines incorporate engine specific Diesel Particulate Filters which operate at higher temperatures during their Regeneration cycles The front exhaust pipes are insulated and heat shields are installed at locations along the exhaust tubing Cummins shown 19 80 VISION cavers sannsoox DPF Regeneration In Blue Bird Buses As with most new mechanical processes the introduction of more sophisticated ex haust systems in 2007 emission standards compliant engines has generated some degree of initial confusion Engine manufacturers have designed their own methods to accomplish the regeneration cleaning of the DPF and therefore describe the pro cess in somewhat differing terms Whether your Blue Bird bus is equipped with a Caterpillar or Cummins engine neither system is complicated Nor should the regeneration process be regarded with alarm Both Drivers and service technicians should be at least conceptually fami
70. er bat tery 92 ENROUTE EMERGENCIES Starting Problems For more detailed instructions refer to the engine manufacturer s Operator s Man ual One or more of the following items may cause an occasional starting problem e The Park Brake must be on to start the bus e The Transmission must be in Neutral e If the bus is equipped with Vandal Locks the bus will not start unless the doors or windows equipped with Vandal Locks are closed e Low battery charge e A malfunctioning starter e Problems with the wiring harness or connections e Out of fuel 93 VISION cavers sannsoox Jacking and Towing Jack Points ee i Front Jack Point CEN Proper jacking procedures and basic safety re a r y measures must be observed to ensure the safety of personnel while working under the bus Always check the serviceability of any lifting equipment prior to use Ensure that the lifting device is of sufficient strength to handle the bus and that the surface provides the necessary firmness to support the weight of the bus concentrated on the footprint of the jack Never move under a bus supported only by a hydraulic jack 1 Park the bus on a flat level surface of sufficient firmness to sup port the jack 2 Chock the wheels in both directions 3 Use only jacks and jack stands of sufficient capacity to support the bus Following the jack manufacturer s recommendations place the jack securely under the axle at the spring o
71. ergency exits are clearly identified with the words EMERGENCY EXIT Basic operating instructions are also printed on labels affixed on or near each exit The bus is equipped with an audible alarm that sounds when an emergency exit is unlatched On the vision the DID screen also identifies the open exit s CEN All Emergency Exits should be inspected and tested daily The labels and decals should be considered part of this inspection and should be maintained in a clearly legible condition Rear Emergency Door The rear emergency door is opened by lifting the long horizontal handle all the way upward and pushing the door outward The door is equipped with a hold open tele scoping strut at the top of the opening When the door is fully opened a pawl in this strut rotates to prevent the door from falling shut To close the door push it outward to the end of the strut s travel This causes the pawl to rotate again allowing the door to close Close the door smoothly push it against the frame firmly to compress its seal and close the handle latch fully Vandal Lock The rear emergency door may be equipped with an optional vandal lock This is a sliding bolt type latch with a sensor switch which detects when the vandal lock is closed If the vandal lock is closed the engine cannot be started and an audible alert sounds The vandal lock must be open during normal operation Door hold open strut 49 50 VISION cavers sannsoo
72. evention device the use of the 80 bleeder valve is not required CANN Technicians work ing with or around fuel systems should be properly trained to utilize extreme care and caution at all times Failure to exercise extreme caution and care may lead to serious accidents which can result in property damage personal injury and or death ROUTINE OPERATION Propane Powered Motor Vehicle Filling Procedures 1 Entering the propane fueling station 1 1 Park the vehicle in close proximity to the motor fuel dispensing station QUENT NO SMOKING ALLOWED Turn off and remove the vehicle ignition key Exit the vehicle and ask all passengers to step outside the vehicle 3 1 Some stations may ask all passengers to stand outside the area where the fill process is taking place 3 2 Some stations could be self service and the driver would perform the filling process however in this case the driver has to be trained and cer tified to obtain an authorized filling station dispenser access card The attendant may need to inspect the propane tank for corrosion dents and verify the data plate displays the ASME stamp and other pertinent informa tion is correct An attendant can refuse to fill your propane tank if it does not pass this inspection Regular inspection and maintenance of your tank will prevent refusal to fill the tank Verify the meter is set to zero 5 1 Ifthe dispenser is an electronic dispenser it will set to zero au
73. f the engine hood hold open strut Close and latch the right side hood latch 10 1 Reach up and inspect the condition of the right windshield wiper blade 10 2 Walk to the left side and latch the left side hood latch Reach up and inspect the condition of the left windshield wiper blade v Engine coolant level v Washer fluid level v Belt condition v Radiator clear of obstructions debris me RS Sl oe L L E Br SS hae 1 TY ee ere gt aes ff v Inner side of right front wheel v Suspension shock v Intake restriction indicator AU v lose hood latch right side Check wiper blade Y Latch left side Check wiper blade PRETRIP INSPECTTION Instrumentation amp Driver s Alert Checks 11 Enter the bus If the bus is equipped with an electrically operated or air operated door ensure that the emergency release is not tripped Be seated in the driver s seat Insert the ignition key and turn it to the first On position but do not start the engine All the instrument panel lights and the Driver s Information Display illuminate 11 1 11 3 Visually scan the lights watching for any that do not illuminate The gauges sweep during their initialization process Then the indicator lights and DID module change to their normal monitoring mode Turning the ignition switch to On awakens the Multiplex system Cer tain conditions such as a locked vandal lock or unlatched emergen
74. g active regeneration events exhaust temperatures are elevated and an indicator light on the instrument panel illuminates to notify the Driver that regeneration is active This regeneration mode is automatic and normal and requires no special action on the part of the Driver As part of the 2007 emissions standards effective October 15 2006 the EPA has required fuel retailers to sell lower emission fuel designated ultra low sulfer diesel After that date all commercially available number 1 and number 2 highway diesel fuels are Ultra low sulfer diesel This fuel must be used in all 2008 model buses pow ered by a 2007 emission standards diesel engine as indicated by a decal located near the fuel filler door reading The engine in this vehicle must be operated only with low ash engine oil and ultra low sulfur diesel fuel meeting EPA specifications for highway diesel fuel including a 15 ppm sulfur cap For detailed information on recommended fuels and other fluids always follow your engine manufacturer s guidlines Regarding Modifications Blue Bird Corporation offers many items as standard and optional equipment to meet federal state and local specifications and individual customer requirements Those interested in modification of thisvehicle should consult the Service Man ual and Blue Bird Engineering Department for a more complete understanding of the vehicle Vehicle modifications which may cause non conformance with the
75. he engine manufacturer s Operator s Manual e If at all possible the Stationary Regeneration procedure should be conducted at a service facility by trained technicians e The Driver s first priority is the safety of the passengers If a Stationary Regen eration must unavoidably be done by the Driver under a qualified technician s direction alternate transportation should be arranged first or passengers should be removed under proper supervision to a location away from the bus e Select an appropriate location to park the vehicle e Choose a surface that will not burn or melt under high temperature such as clean concrete or gravel not grass or asphalt e Ensure that nothing that can burn melt or explode gasoline wood paper plastics fabric compressed gas containers hydraulic lines is near the exhaust outlet Abide by all instructions warnings and cau tions in the engine manufacturer s operator s manual regarding safe operation when performing a Stationary Regeneration e Park the bus securely e Set the parking brake Put the transmission in Neutral Chock the wheels ROUTINE OPERATION e Secure the exhaust area e If bystanders might enter the area set up barriers to keep people safely away from the exhaust outlet e If the procedure is performed indoors at a service facility attach an exhaust discharge pipe rated for at least 1500 F e Keep a fire extinguisher nearby e Check exhaust system surfaces
76. he exhaust system of accumulated exhaust residue DPF Diesel Particulate Filter A component in the exhaust system which takes the place of a traditional muffler A DPF contains a special dissimilar metals filter which traps particulate accumulation soot which is then converted to carbon dioxide by the aftertreatment process The Cummins DPF also contains a catalytic converter Regeneration The process of cleaning accumulated soot from the filtering compo nents inside the DPF Regeneration occurs at high exhaust system temperatures to turn the soot into carbon dioxide gas Regeneration can be thought of as conceptu ally similar to the clean cycle of a self cleaning oven ARD Aftertreatment Regeneration Device A component of the Caterpillar Regen eration System located on the right side of the engine at the outlet of the turbo charger The ARD is controlled by the engine s ECM and is activated when regenera CEN Postponing regeneration beyond the early indications may result in the engine being automatically de rated and reduction of power while driving CENS The aftertreatment regeneration process can cause extremely high exhaust gas tem peratures hot enough to ignite or melt common materials and to burn people Carefully read understand and abide by all instructions warnings and cautions in the engine manufacturer s operator s manual and other related engine manufacturer s literature regarding safe opera
77. his level of notification the DPF needs to be regenerated within the next one to two hours of bus operation Otherwise the third level of notification will occur The DPF ee alert appears in the DID status window A The audible alert sounds one beep Level 2 The DPF Regeneration alert flashes in the DID status window lt The audible alert sounds continuously ROUTINE OPERATION Level 3 Notification Check Engine Indicator Appears If the bus continues to be operated without taking the measures indicated by a Level 2 Notification particulate accumulation worsens These indicators are activated e The DPF Regeneration alert continues to flash e The audible alert sounds continuously e The engine is automatically de rated e The Check Engine alert appears The above indicates that a Manual Regeneration must be performed as soon as pos sible Because the engine is automatically de rated it may not be possible to drive at sufficient speed to cause active regeneration to occur With Cummins engine depending upon the severity of the accumulation the regeneration switch may not be allowed to initiate a regeneration without use of Cummins s PC based diagnostic software Insite Level 4 Notification Stop Engine Indicator Appears If the bus continues to be operated without taking the measures indicated by a Level 3 Notification particulate accumulation reaches a critical level Engine power is auto matical
78. iarize yourself with the locations of all emergency equipment It is assumed that the Driver will seek immediate assistance of qualified service tech nicians in the event of any mechanical failure The information in this section is only to provide some information which may be helpful to service technicians rendering assistance Using Triangular Hazard Reflectors In the event that the bus must be parked in an emergency lane or road shoulder deploy the triangular roadside hazard reflectors as follows On a two lane roadway place a triangular marker 100 feet about 40 paces to the front of the vehicle with reflective side facing oncoming traffic Place another triangular marker 100 feet about 40 paces to the rear of the vehicle with the reflec tive side toward overtaking traffic On a four lane roadway place one triangular marker 100 feet about 40 paces to the rear of the vehicle Place another triangular marker 200 feet about 80 paces from the first marker 300 feet behind Front the vehicle The reflective side should be facing overtaking traffic Approx 40 Paces 100 Feet Disabled q Unit gt Two Lane Traffic Front Rear Approx 40 Paces Rear Approx 40 Paces 100 Feet Start 10 Feet 4 From Rear of Bus 4 m Approx 80 Paces 100 Feet 200 Feet Disabled Start 10 Feet Unit 4 From Rear of Bus q q Aa lt _____ ee Four Lane Traffic 91 VISION cavers sannsoox Using Booster Cables
79. ice technician should refer to and become thorougly acquainted with the separate Blue Bird Service Manual Please note that not all possible situations that may arise while operating the bus are addressed The exercise of caution common sense and good driving practices coupled with experience are required for safe operation If questions arise that are not specifically covered in this manual please contact your Blue Bird Distributor Your Distributor will either answer your questions or will be able to assist in obtaining the needed information To report a problem with your bus contact your Blue Bird distributor or if you deal directly with Blue Bird con tact your Service Representative If you are unsure of the identity of your Blue Bird Service Representative call the Blue Bird switchboard at 478 825 2021 and ask the receptionist for the Blue Bird Service Department For replacement parts Contact your Blue Bird distributor or Parts Sales at Blue Bird Body Company GENERAL SPECIFICAT O General Specification Chassis Alternator 185 Amp Leece Neville 12 Volt High Output Axle amp Suspension Front Axle Hendrickson SteerTek 12 000 Ib rating Petroleum lubed bearings 50 degree wheel cut Hubcaps with window seal included Suspensions Hendrickson SofTek 8 000 Ib standard or 10 000 Ib optional rating 4 x 60 Hendrickson variable rate tapered springs with Anti Wear liner Maintenance free rubber
80. ine Oil Caterpillar DEO 19 Quarts 18 Liters ture ranges Caterpillar and Cummins equipped buses may have John Deere Cool Gard optional extended life coolant installed Never mix 50 50 premix 7 Y2 Gallons BB 00064641 different coolant colors types or brands See Engine Engine Coolant standard only excluding heater system Wix 24070 Cooling System section for details Transmission refill capacity is substantially less than the initial fill because some fluid remains in the Transmission Fluid Dextron III 7 4 Quarts 7 liters BB 00033381 transmission cavities after draining Rear Axle Oil Hypoid Gear Oil 35 pints 16 9 liters See Rear Axle Viscosity Chart below Chevron Dura Lith Grease Front Axle Grease EP NLGI 2 Chevron RPM Synthetic Trans If equipped with optional front oil lubricated bear Front Axle Oil mission Fluid SAE 50 ings DOT 3 and DOT 5 must not be mixed If brake system becomes contaminated with DOT 5 the system must be flushed and major components may require re Brake Fluid DOT 3 BB 00067254 placement Brake Interlock DOT 5 Ss On units with hydraulic brakes and brake interlock BB 01940881 feature O o Onan a __ B8061 onus wiharbtes Rete Watersmaar a e wea O eS o Engine Oil Viscosity EFO BHO RFO rrr Rear Axle Viscosity Temperature Chart Meritor Lubricant Specification Description Cross Reference Minimum Outside Temperature Maximum Outside Temperature SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE
81. ipers for any sign of brake fluid leakage In spect the front axle and suspension for missing bent misaligned or broken fasteners Inspect the shocks for signs of oil leakage 8 2 Visually inspect the steering gear mechanism Look for signs of fluid leakage 8 3 Check the engine oil level 8 4 Check the brake fluid level if the bus is equipped with hydraulic brakes 8 5 Check the hydraulic fluid level 8 6 Check the transmission fluid level the v Transmission fluid y sommes sse J e P oo h o Sips 2 X ms a aA 61 62 VISION cavers sannsoox 9 Step to the right side of the engine compartment 9 1 Visually inspect the inner side of the wheel If equipped with hydrau lic brakes inspect the calipers for any sign of brake fluid leakage In spect the front axle and suspension for missing bent misaligned or broken fasteners Inspect the shocks for signs of oil leakage 9 2 Look at the air intake restriction indicator and ensure it is not indicat ing a restricted air intake 9 3 Visually inspect the alternator and its connections for signs of corro sion broken wires or other physical damage 9 4 Check the engine coolant reservoir fluid level 9 5 Check the washer reservoir fluid level 9 6 Inspect the engine fan alternator belt for tightness and any signs of excessive wear or damage 9 7 Inspect both sides of the radiator for debris and signs of damage 10 Turn the cam lever o
82. k cover of this manual Blue Bird School Bus Support Your Blue Bird Distributor is equipped and staffed to handle your service re lated issues and also has immediate and direct access to Blue Bird s own fac tory based Customer Support All Blue Bird Support Representatives are true Blue Bird technical experts with long histories at the Blue Bird plants where your buses are built Blue Bird School Bus Training The Training staff of Blue Bird Customer Service conducts an ongoing program of Field Service Factory Service and Focussed Training classes and seminars to ensure that service technicians of Distributors are always up to date on the lat est service information and techniques Some of these training classes are open to the service personnel of customers Blue Bird Parts Sales Blue Bird s modern Service Parts facility ships parts directly from the home plant in Fort Valley Georgia to Blue Bird Authorized Distributors and Blue Bird Bus Spec and Bus Care centers nationwide Blue Bird Parts Sales consists of modern warehousing facilities efficient ordering and inventory control systems and ex pert technical staff who know your bus inside and out Service Parts also pub lishes its own parts catalogs available for customer purchase Blue Bird Technical Publications Blue Bird Driver s Handbooks and Service Manuals are produced and continu ally updated by a full time in house staff with full access to manufacturing as sembly
83. l The vision s instrument cluster is a single unit of all electronic guages and warn ing lights which receive both analog inputs from such components as the fuel tank sender and instrument panel dimmer switch and digital signals from components such as the engine and transmission control modules A centrally located DID panel E a 10 aaa zA lA 0 poaa lOO 5 304 E F20_ am E a J an w N displays the odometer reading error alerts and service technician diagnostic infor mation The buttons on the right steering column stalk are used to cycle the DID through its various modes and menus If the VISION is equipped with hydraulic brakes the instrument cluster contains 6 gauges Buses equipped with air brakes have two additional gauges indicating primary front and secondary rear air pressure Gauge Data Source Speedometer Engine ECU via J1939 Tachometer Engine ECU via J1939 Engine Oil Pressure Engine ECU via J1939 Engine Coolant Temperature Engine ECU via J1939 Fuel Level Analog Fuel Sender Voltmeter Analog input key on Primary Air Pressure Analog input Secondary Air Pressure Analog input Tachometer Speedometer Voltmeter Secondary Air Pressure ne ie gt oy Engine Oil Pressure Primary Air Pressure Engine Coolant Temp Driver Information Display Fuel Level 28 DRIVER ORIENTATION Indicator Lights and Audible Alarm An arrangement of LED illuminated warning lights provide feedback to the Driver abo
84. l upshift automatically to the next range CEND Downshifting to a lower transmission range increases engine braking and helps maintain control The transmission normally prevents automatic up shifting above the lower range selected However if the engine governed speed is exceeded while in the lower range the transmission is de signed to upshift to the next higher range to prevent engine over rev This will reduce braking force Therefore engine braking and service brakes should be used in combination when descending long and or steep grades Use engine braking to help reduce vehicle speed and to reduce the service brake pres sure necessary to maintain control But continue to use the service brakes to prevent exceeding engine governed speed and to be prepared for unexpected upshifts 7 8 VISION cavers sannsoox Transmission Indicator Lights The instrument panel contains three indicator lights associated with the transmis sion Range Inhibited Under certain operating conditions the Transmission Control Module TCM may restrict gear selection to protect the engine transmission from damage For example if a downshift would cause the engine to over rev the trans mission may not respond to a change at the shift lever until engine RPM decreases When this occurs the RANGE INHIBITED warning light illuminates See the Range In hibited Light and Shift Inhibits section of the Allison Transmission operator s manual for more infor
85. lace If the bus is equipped with oil lubricated axles check the sight glass in the center of the hub for proper oil level CENNO Tire inflation pressure must not exceed the specifications of the tire and or wheel rim manufacturer for the application The inflation pressure embossed on the tire sidewall does not take the wheel or rim capacities into consideration Tires should not be inflated above the pressure listed on the Federal Certification plate without consulting your tire wheel distributor 2 2 Check the Stop Arm for any signs of physical damage 2 3 Open the battery compartment door and inspect the batteries Check for corrosion on the battery terminals and for loose connec tions Close the compartment and make sure it is secure 3 Step back for an overall view of the left side 3 1 Check that all markings are legible and in good condition including emergency exit signs and reflective tapes 3 2 Check for broken windows and any other signs of vandalism 3 3 Check that all windows are clean 58 v Stop Arm in good condition v Tire condition amp pressure v Lug nuts axle oil level v Batteries secure v Terminals secure amp corrosion free v Markings in good condition v Windows clean amp in good condition PRETRIP INSPECTTION 4 Approach the rear axle at the front of the rear tire 4 1 4 2 4 3 Look under the bus and across to the other side of the axle Visually inspect f
86. le the engine is running 1 Apply the service brakes to bring the vehicle to a complete stop and continue to hold the brake pedal 2 Ensure the engine idle is in the low position High Idle switch is off 3 Shift the transmission to Neutral 4 Apply the park brake On buses equipped with hydraulic brakes fully lift the park brake lever On buses equipped with air brakes Pull the Park Brake valve 5 Release the service brake pedal allowing the park brake to take on the load of holding the bus 6 If parked in any unusual situation such as a severe incline chock the wheels and take any other precautionary measures necessary to ensure the bus doesn t move If this procedure is not followed the bus could move unexpectedly and cause serious injury or death and or property damage of NU ile Do not allow the bus to coast in neutral This practice can result in transmission damage Engine retard and braking assistance is not available when the transmission is in neutral It may not be possible to get the transmis sion back into gear while the bus is moving Do not idle in R reverse for more than five minutes Extended idle time in R reverse may cause transmission overheating and damage Always select N neutral whenever time at idle exceeds five minutes ROUTINE OPERATION Allison Automatic Transmission Driving Tips Accelerator Control The pressure of your foot on the accelerator
87. led with approved coolant before being returned to routine service Any enroute event requiring topping off of the coolant should be reported to service personnel responsible for maintenance of the bus CENNO Exercise extreme care when removing the cap from the engine coolant reservoir Always allow time for the engine to cool before removing the cap The pressurized coolant may be very hot and can spray out causing serious burn injuries Coolant Types Engine coolant is generically divided between two types standard and long life or extended life Extended life coolants generally allow longer intervals between coolant changes sometimes requiring additives to be added near the midpoint of their service life and or for special testing to be performed at certain intervals En gine manufacturers however differ somewhat in regards to specificaitions for cool ants which they recognize as long life when used in their respective engines Blue Bird buses built as of August 2006 come from the Blue Bird factory with one of three types of coolant The standard coolant is John Deere Cool Gard 50 50 pre mix This coolant is considered extended life when installed in John Deere engines It is to be considered standard life coolant when installed in Caterpillar or Cummins engines Caterpillar equipped buses purchased with a long life coolant option have been filled with Cat ELC premix Cummins equipped buses purchased with a
88. liar with the regeneration process As soot builds up in the DPF filter the driver is notified in several stages by visual and audible alerts The alert system is designed to provide reasonable and comfort able fore warning and adequate opportunity for the needed regeneration As the need for regeneration becomes more severe the alerts become increasingly impera tive and the penalty for postponing the needed regeneration also increases When the earliest alerts occur there is typically ample time to complete a route and then have a Stationary Regeneration procedure performed at a proper facility If early alerts are ignored and the condition is allowed to worsen the engine will even tually de rate automatically and performance will reduce noticeably If the condition is allowed to become severe a Stationary Regeneration may not be possible and the DPF may require removal and treatment using specialized equipment Therefore to minimize disruption of your bus operation the regeneration related alerts should be heeded and responded to at their early stages as a matter of routine Aftertreatment Terms The following summarizes some of the terms associated with the exhaust systems of Blue Bird buses equipped with 2007 emission standards compliant engines Both the driver and technician should become familiar with the following terms Aftertreatment The process of highly filtering engine exhaust in order to reduce emissions and of purging t
89. located under the front edge of the seat bottom releases the seat track allowing the seat to be manually adjusted fore or aft While seated pull the lever toward the left Slide the seat fore or aft to the desired position and release the lever Slide the seat slightly to ensure the lever latches into one of its locking notches Seat Bottom length Under the front edge of the seat bottom directly above the slide release lever is a handle which allows the seat bottom to be pivoted forward effectively lengthening the seat bottom for Drivers with longer legs To move the seat base to the forward position stand beside the seat Grasp the front handle with your right hand and the side of the seat bottom with your left Lift the seat slightly and pivot it forward Then press it down firmly into position Pivoting the seat bottom forward in this way also clears the seat bottom from the seat back allowing the bottom to be hinged forward to gain service access to the seat pedestal mechanism Driver Lap amp Shoulder Belt To use the seat belt shoulder harness pull out an adequate amount of webbing and engage the buckle The retractors will pull the harness snugly into place You may ad just the height of the shoulder harness by positioning the bracket to the most comfort able level The buckle can be released by pressing on the button at the center MAENI The driver s seat belt should be worn any time the bus is moving The upper mount
90. long life coolant option have been filled with Fleetguard ES Optimax 60 40 premix 113 114 VISION cavers sannsoox Blue Bird installs decals on or near the deairation tank filler which state the type of coolant installed at the factory The decal states the approved premixed coolant and coolant manufacturer s part number for one gallon quantities The decal also lists the manufacturer s part number for the concentrate which is approved for mix ing with the premix for stronger glycol concentration When replenishing or replacing coolant only use coolant of the same type already installed Never mix coolants of different color type or brand Plain water is corrosive at engine operating temperatures Never add plain water to the system When using concentrated coolant to raise the glycol concentration for extreme temperature environments Blue Bird recommends only mixing the concentrate with pre mixed coolant of the same type not mixing with water Coolant Testing and Replacement Each engine manufacturer has its own specific requirements for coolant testing and maintenance Therefore refer to the engine Operator s Manual for your bus and fol low the engine manufacturer s maintenance specifications Blue Bird recommends that Caterpillar cooling systems with Cat ELC premix coolant should be tested according to the Caterpillar Operation and Maintenance Manual Blue Bird recommends that Cummins cooling systems with extended life Fl
91. ly further de rated by the ECM The indicators differ slightly between Caterpil lar and Cummins equipped buses Cummins e The DPF Regeneration alert deactivates e The audible alert sounds continuously e The engine is further de rated e The Check Engine alert deactivates e The red Stop Engine alert appears Caterpillar e The DPF Regeneration alert continues to flash e The audible alert sounds continuously e The engine is further de rated e The Check Engine alert remains on e The red Stop Engine alert appears The above indicates that accumulation has progressed to critical levels and the bus should be stopped with the engine off as soon as it is safe to do so The bus should remain shut down until the aftertreatment system has been serviced With Cummins engine the regeneration switch will not be allowed to initiate a regeneration without use of Cummins s PC based diagnostic software Insite With Caterpillar engine depending upon the severity of the accumulation the regeneration switch may not be allowed to initiate a regeneration without the use of Caterpillar s PC based diagnostic software Electronic Technician With either Caterpillar or Cummins engine removal and cleaning of the DPF us ing specialized equipment may be required Level 3 The DPF Regeneration alert flashes in the DID status window 4 The audible alert sounds continuously The Check Engine Icon appears in the instrumen
92. mation Check Transmission Indicates the transmission s electronic Transmission Control Module has detected that the transmission s operating parameters have been ex ceeded Shifts may be restricted Drive to your service facility and notify your service technician A diagnostic code is registered in the TCM which a service technician can retreive with diagnostic tools See your Allison Transmission operator s manual for more details on how shifts may be inhibited Transmission Temperature The transmission fluid cooling system is integrated with the engine cooling system Normal temperature is 160 to 200 F If the transmission oil temperature reaches 250 F the TCM will inhibit operation in the higher gears and cause the TRANS TEMP light to illuminate If this occurs during normal operation note whether the engine coolant temperature gauge is also indicating excessive temperature If it is stop the vehicle and notifiy service personnel If the engine cooling system temperature is within normal range stop the bus in a safe location and check the transmission level refer to the Oil Check Procedure in your Allison Transmission Operator s Manual If the transmission fluid level is nor mal the Driver may start the engine shift to neutral and increase the engine speed to 1 200 1 500 rpm This may reduce the transmission temperature to operating level within two or three minutes If high temperature persists stop the engine and have
93. n height Overall maximum height varies from 117 to 118 depend ing upon choice of tires suspension system and body model Add 3 for roof vents and 3 for 77 headroom Rear bumper adds 1 25 to overall body length Front bum per adds 2 to overall body length Length Width Interior Width Height Skirt Length Wheelbase Interior Headroom Front Door Rear Emergency Door Wheel Cut Tire Size GVWR Front Overhang FCA Front Cowl to Axle CB Cowl to Bumper CH Cowl Height A mon 289 471 96 90 34 120 124 16 34 189 217 238 252 273 74 77 27 wide 78 high 52 5 X 37 7 50 11R22 5 highway tread Michelin XZE 30 000 Ibs 36 5 including bumper 25 64 5 33 21 17 26 75 9 5 41 97 18 REAR OVERHANG CF Dimensions amp Payload Weight standard equipment 4 12 Pupil weight 120 Ib each Driver 150 Ib en 6100 ao a as ma mw as aor nos ar eon ran san s Com em am e os a 4 ow eom o o 16300 eo O 252 66 n BODY CURB TOTAL OVERALL REAR TURN MODEL CAPACITY PAYLOAD WEIGHT WEIGHT LENGTH OVERHANG RADIUS 4 5 351 386 407 435 463 70 WHEELBASE Approximate curb amp total weights are based on standard equipment units Optional equipment may significantly increase these estimated weights 21
94. n that the bus is prevented from movement Before performing the exterior inspection enter the bus and make sure the transmission is in neutral and that the parking brake is fully on Exterior Walkaround 1 Approach bus from the front to begin general exterior inspection 1 1 2 1 3 1 4 1 5 On approach look for any sideways leaning or twisting of the bus which may suggest tire problems axle misalignment or structural damage Visually inspect the condition of front bus markings such as the School Bus sign and reflective markings Note that the wind Shield is clean Note that the crossing arm is properly secure and unbroken Grasp mirror brackets to check them for secure mountings Check for broken or cracked mirrors and clean the mirrors if v Markings in good condition needed v Windshield clean Look underneath the engine compartment for any unusual condi Y Crossing arm secure tions such as dangling harness wires Look at the ground underneath V Mirror brackets tight for signs of fluid leakage broken glass or other debris Serle E 5 VISION cavers nannsoox 2 Proceed around the left side Driver s side of the bus 2 1 Check the front left tire Check for proper inflation pressure Check the tread depth and look for any signs of physical damage Normal tread wear should be uniform across the width of the tread Inspect the rim for bends or other damage Check that all lug nuts are in p
95. n to the Start position Do not crank the engine continuously for more than 30 seconds If the engine has not started in 30 seconds allow the starter motor to cool for at least 2 minutes Do not engage the starter when the engine is running Do not attempt to start the engine under load 4 While the engine is cranking the instrument panel lights will go off After the engine is running the gauges will cycle through their startup sequence After the startup sequence if any indicator lights remain on take appropri ate action according to the indicated condition The oil pressure should rise within 15 seconds after the engine starts Do not increase engine speed until the oil pressure gauge indicates nor mal If oil pressure is not indicated on the gauge in 15 seconds do not operate the bus Stop the engine and refer to qualified service personnel 5 Release the key switch and allow it to return to the ON or run position immediately after the engine starts After the engine starts ensure that the transmission is still in the neutral position Once a normal engine oil pressure and air pressure are established the vehicle may be operated at a light load and speed 6 After the engine has started the air inlet heater may continue to run in a continuous mode or intermittently The air inlet heater will auto matically turn off when the sum of the engine coolant temperature and the air inlet temperature exceeds 127 F 35
96. nce 97 Maintenance Task Schedule 99 Engine Cooling System 113 Coolant Types 113 Coolant Testing and Replacement 114 Shutters 114 Notes 115 Thank You and Congratulations We at Blue Bird Corporation wish to thank you for your investment of trust in Blue Bird quality and congratulate you on being a Driver of one of the most innovative vehicles in pupil transportation the Blue Bird Vision Blue Bird Strength Blue Bird Innovation The BLUE BIRD VISION is the first C Type conventional school bus built upon a chas sis designed specifically for pupil transporation rather than mounted upon a multi purpose truck chassis The vision s chassis is purpose built at Blue Bird s Fort Valley Georgia plant as are Blue Bird s ALL AMERICAN transit type buses and the vision s C Type little brother the Ec 72 The BLUE BIRD VISION with its EC 72 and ALL AMERICAN FE and RE siblings comprise a complete line of built from the ground up buses providing an ideal fit for any school route need Unlike most conventional type school buses the vision is anything but ordi nary The VISION is the result of Blue Bird s steadily innovative engineering and over 80 years of school bus experience applied to the C Type category What kind of innovation For 2008 the vision receives a handsome new engine hood mounted to a rugged torsion pivot mount Opening and closing the hood is a light as a feather breeze
97. nding on ambient or other influent temperatures All tanks built for use on motor vehicles are equipped with overfilling prevention protection The Na tional Fire Protection Association NFPA have required motor vehicle propane tanks be equipped with a stop filling device to automatically prevent overfilling or filling the tank beyond the maximum recommended capacity of 80 This automatic stop fill system provides the primary method of preventing overfill of the fuel tanks This rule has been in effect since January 1 1984 As a secondary means of preventing an overfill condition of the fuel tanks and a means of verifying the accuracy of the automatic stop fill device the tanks are equipped with an 80 fixed maximum liquid level outage valve Manual bleeder valve The valve would be used to verify when the liquid fuel reaches the 80 level at which point the fill process would be stopped This valve can be used when filling and releases fuel in a vapor phase until the fuel reaches the 80 level at which time a stream of liquid will appear indicating the fuel level in the tank is 80 Most propane fueling stations will want to open this bleeder valve however since the propane mo tor vehicle tank is equipped with an overfill prevention device it is not necessarily required and may be prohibited in certain municipalities where the release of hy drocarbons to the atmosphere is prohibited The NFPA ruled that when the tank is equipped with an overfill pr
98. nel and adjustment should be made The cable is adjustable at both of its ends and small adjustments are possible at the handle However the handle adjustment should be locked by its setscrew and the handle should not turn during normal operation If the handle grip is found to turn during normal operation notify a service technician and have the parking brake adjusted and its handle tightened The parking brake should hold the fully loaded bus on a 20 incline on a dry paved surface If the incline is wet or covered with ice or snow do not park on it The brake will hold but the tires may not Similarly always apply the parking brake fully to its upper stop A detent pressure should be felt toward the end of the levers upward travel When releasing the brake press the thumb button to allow the lever to be lowered The grip of the lever should not turn during normal operation When releasing the parking brake always be sure to release it fully all the way to the stop of the lever travel Anunt Aant tL Suh a ae X c 3 4 VISION cavers sannsoox About Air Brakes The optional air brakes system on the Blue Bird VISION uses compressed air pressure to operate drum brakes The system is divided into two separate circuits one for rear brakes primary and one for front secondary The two circuits have their own air supplies However the system is designed so that if pressure in either circui
99. neration process can generically be referred to as passive regeneration Regeneration can be caused by raising the temperature of the exhaust system Both Caterpillar and Cummins engines are equipped with systems designed to increase exhaust temperature when the ECM senses that regeneration is needed and when certain requirements including a minimum travel speed are met This automatic heat assisted mode can be generically referred to as active regeneration Regeneration can be manually activated by means of a switch This procedure is generically referred to as stationary regeneration and should only be performed by or under the direction of a qualified service techni cian and in a controlled environment to avoid the potential for hu man injury or fire hazards The need for regeneration is communicated to the driver by a set of visual and audible signals in the instrument panel An additional alert the High Exhaust System Temperature HEST indicator notifies the driver when ever exhaust system temperature is high due to recent regeneration Eventually the normal ash accumulation which results from the re generation process must be removed from the DPF using equipment designed for the purpose at qualified engine service facilities Refer to the engine manufacturer s documentation for these service intervals The engine operator s manual provided with your bus contains additional information about exhaust syst
100. ng to maintain slightly higher engine RPM and alternator output 2 Limits the automatic upshifting to the second range Use for heavy city traffic and or for increased engine braking effect on downgrades 1 Limits the automatic upshifting to the first range Provides the vehicle with its maximum driving torque and maximum engine braking effect Use when pulling through mud or deep snow when maneuvering in tight spaces or when driving up or down very steep grades Range Inhibit Feature The transmission communicates with the engine to prevent over rev conditions which could otherwise result in transmission or engine damage If one of the range limiting transmission settings D 2 or 1 are selected the transmission s range inhibit feature will take over and allow the transmission to shift to the next range if engine RPM exceeds certain speeds Therefore although the use of a range inhibiting trans mission setting to utilize engine braking is an acceptable practice the Driver must still control the downhill accelleration with brakes to be prepared for unexpected upshifts When the selected transmission range is being over ridden the Range In hibit indicator light illuminates in the instrument panel For more information on the Allison transmission read the transmission operator s manual which was delivered with the bus 5 6 VISION cavers nannsoox CEN Each time you park the bus or leave the driver s seat whi
101. ng to state specs The kit contents should be inventoried every 30 days or as required by your state and local regulations The mounting fasteners should be checked monthly to ensure security Fire Axe and Crowbar If the bus is equipped with fire axe and or crowbar options on most VISION buses they are typically mounted on the floor behind the Driver s seat and left side seat barrier The location may differ according to state specs The Fire axe cutting edge is covered by a metal plate when mounted Crowbar mounting latch DRIVER ORIENTATION Driver s Area Blue Bird has designed many new features into the Driver s area of the vision A new one piece molded dash housing spans the entire front of the bus All gauges are incorporated in a single new main instrument cluster New switch panels are located to the right and left of the instrument panel The left switch console contains three switch panel banks An all new tilt telescope steering column provides improved adjustability range with a foot pedal release allowing the Driver to use both hands to position the wheel for maximum comfort Driver Information Display Left Front Switch Vent Panel Ls ALLI w hunnun 7 Fr Heater Control Valve Steering Column Release Pedal he LEN waa basa b ors a Instrument Cluster Right Front Shifter Vent Panel 27 VISION cavers sannsoox Driver s Instrument Pane
102. notification of action that needs to be taken but not as an emergency situation Typically even if the bus route does not afford immediate opportunity for higher speed operation there is sufficient time to finish the bus route and return to the bus maintenance shop before the higher level of notification occurs Exactly how much warning time the first appearance of the DPF indicator represents is depen dant upon specific operating conditions However current data from Cummins sug gest that at this level of notification the DPF needs to undergo regeneration within the next two to six hours of bus operation If regeneration does not begin a more imperative notification will activate Level 2 Notification DPF Indicator Blinks If the bus continues to be operated without taking the measures indicated by a Level 1 Notification described above particulate accumulation continues and a more imperative notification occurs e The DPF Regeneration alert begins to flash e The audible alarm sounds continuously e The engine may be automatically de rated The above indications should be interpreted as a more imperative alert that the ex haust system is in need of regeneration soon As soon as practical the bus should be operated at or above the minimum speed needed to allow automatic regeneration to activate or a Stationary Regeneration must be performed Again situation specific variables apply Current data from Cummins suggest that at t
103. ns require that school bus Drivers posess a Commercial Driver s License CDL The purpose of this manual is to acquaint the Driver with the particu lar Blue Bird bus model it covers Its information must be considered supplemental to not a replacement for the specific requirements for Driver certification testing and operational procedures For example the Pre trip inspection routine described in this manual may not include all items or details of the Pre trip inspection required by legally mandated inspections Contact the Pupil Transportation Director or similar office for your particular state district for more information INTRODUCTION VISION cavers sannsoox About 2007 Emissions Standards Buses equipped with 2007 engines are designed to conform to new and stringent federal emissions standards These standards affect both the equipment installed at the factory and the fuel at the pump Buses powered by 2007 emissions standards engines are equipped with special exhaust systems to reduce emissions The technical details of the systems employed by various engine manufacturers differ but share common general principles The exhaust muffler is a particulate filter which traps and burns microscopic particles in a process referred to as regeneration When heat in the exhaust is insufficient to fully burn the particulates the system enters an active regeneration mode so the necessary catalytic reaction can take place Durin
104. nt A chart on the inside of the cover identifies the individual fuses The PDU cover is easily removable without tools secured by two thumbscrews one on each side of the cover near the top Left Console Driver Storage Box A hinged lid just rearward of the left console switch panels provides access to a convenient storage compartment for Driver s items The tray of this compartment is removable for service access to electric components un derneath Right Glove Box A large capacity glove box is molded into the right side of the dash housing near the entrance door Entrance Door Header A removable panel above the entrance door provides ser vice access to the door opening closing mechanism when equipped with optional electric Bode entrance door This compartment is a service access and should not be used for storage Wiring Channels The molded housings which run the length of the bus above the passenger area windows are wiring channels which contain the harnesses for the body A service technician can remove the screws which retain the channels to gain access to the harnesses DRIVER ORIENTATION Power Distribution Unit E nape en i eee n J T 9 4 a Eaa e be a E A ih Ase totetel AFUE Re Ths YS B aSa7s lt es El A ectric Entrance Door Header Right Glove Box vat DES ld Wiring Channels 45 46 VISION cavers sannsoox Passenger Seats Blue Bird passenger seats are built t
105. o comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Stan dards FMVSS The vISION s passenger seats are through bolted to the floor of the passenger compartment QUZGUTTD School bus seat spacing is strictly regulated The seat dimen sions and spacing are engineered to provide compartmentalization of the passengers according to stringent safety requirements and testing Do not alter the pasenger seat spacing or configuration DRIVER ORIENTATION Passenger Area Heaters Some VISION buses are equipped with optional passenger area heaters The exact placement and BTU rating of these heaters varies depending upon specific options and seating configurations Two types of passenger area heaters may be installed on VISION buses Convection Perimeter Heaters This type of heater system is fully enclosed within the main floor to wall body frame members which run the length of the body on each side Engine coolant is circulated through finned heating tubes running inside the C channels Heated air circulation relies upon natural convection rather than forced air Underseat Heaters This type of heater system uses several individual heater units mounted to the underside of strategically located seats in the passenger area Engine heated water reaches these heating assemblies via tubes running in the body at the floor Each underseat heater unit has its own electrically driven circulation fan The fans are controlled by 3 position High
106. oap and a damp rag may be used for routine cleaning Household or automotive cleaners formulated for automotive vinyls may be used to clean stains from the passenger seat cushions Avoid cleaners or coatings which leave the surfaces slippery 55 56 Before Placing the Bus in Service Upon taking delivery of any new school bus Blue Bird recommends the following items be double checked by your service technician before placing the bus in rou tine pupil transportation service e Check the suspension U bolt torque e Check the service brake adjustment e Check the park brake adjustment on units equipped with hydraulic brakes e Check the torque on all the body tie down bolts e Check the torque on the driveline universal joint straps e Check all engine transmission and other running gear fluids e Check the condition and air pressure of all tires Daily Pretrip Inspection A daily pre trip Driver inspection is required for all school buses The guidelines be low are Blue Bird recommendations specific to the vision They neither supersede nor replace pre trip checklists provided by your pupil transportation administration or CDL requirements CEN Overnight parking of the school bus should always be on level and secure ground A thorough pre trip exterior walkaround inspection involves visual inspection of tires and areas under the bus Do not perform an exterior walk around inspection unless it is certai
107. of the stalk to incrementally adjust speed To make larger speed adjustments release the cruise control by tapping the brake and then use the throttle to reach the desired speed Then again press the slider toward the left 4 Tomomentarily deactivate the cruise feature press the brake pedal This will disengage the cruise control and begin to apply brakes 5 When you wish to again use the cruise control feature press the slider switch toward the left to Resume the previously set cruise speed If the ignition is switched off or if the Cruise Control slider switch is pressed toward the right Off the cruise control is deactivated DID Switch On Off Select Displays DID graphics amp allows menu option selection DID Escape Press to return to previous menu option DID Toggle Allows scroll of menu options DRIVER ORIENTATION Instrument Panel DID Controls Cruise Controls Set Resume On Off E Left Stalk Turn Signals High Low Beam O i Cruise Controls Se Wipers o mittent Z ZZ Ra aiiis Washers Toggle High Low Beam a ii IN i S Q a m Q Hi 3 Mi qi Windshield Wipers Windshield Washers 3 38 VISION cavers sannsoox Parking Brake Units With Air Brakes On Blue Bird Vision buses equipped with air brakes the rear wheel air chambers also enclose powerful coil springs These springs automatically apply th
108. olled by headlight switch rheostat 19 20 VISION cavers sannsoox Ventilation Air Intake Heater intake left front below windshield level provides up to 100 fresh air through heater Roof Vent Static non closing vent in front roof Windows Auxilliary Safety View Vision Panel Fresnel broad vision 7 1 2 x 13 1 2 in right front cowl Driver s Spectal double sliding aluminum sash with security fastener for locking both sash laminated green tinted safety glass Side Spectal 12 split sash with clear standard or tinted optional tempered glass Four vertically hinged push out windows Rear Vision Fixed clear tempered Windshield The windshield consists of four separate pieces of flat shaded safety plate glass Black grip handles and fold up step on right and left cowls to facillitate windshield clean ing Windshield Wipers Electric intermittent single switch wet arm wipers Electric windshield washer with hard plastic one gallon capacity reservoir located under engine hood washer outlets mounted on wiper arms Wiring Colored and continuously number coded in molding on top of side windows for ac cess to harnesses Body wiring protected by automatic resetting circuit breakers GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS Dimensions The dimensions shown exclude exterior mirrors marker and signal lights bumpers fender skirts washers wipers ad frames and rub rail and are taken under static con ditions at desig
109. on Driver must be ever mindful to avoid being lulled into a mental state of complacency Despite the ease of operation modern school buses are still very large vehicles and the cargo they carry is the most precious of all This chapter describes some of the general differences which a Driver new to school bus operation may experience and specific feature and equipment differ ences of the VISION in particular with which the Driver will interact every day Maneuvering Safety School buses are operated in a wide variety of conditions ranging from Southwestern desert roads to tight inner city alleyways Refer to the dimensions chart in the Gen eral Specifications chapter to understand some of the considerations imposed by the physical size and geometry of the bus which may come into play in your school route environment The proportionally long wheelbase means that the height of rises and humps which the bus can traverse without contacting the underskirt is dependent not just upon their height but on their length or duration of the hump The rear overhang of school buses is longer than other vehicles This must be borne in mind in situtations such as nearing curbs or embankments on sharply ris ing grades as well as in tight turns as the body overhang swings around behind the rear wheels The Driver is responsible for determining that the loading area is clear before stopping to load passengers and must ensure that all unloaded passengers are
110. or any missing suspension bolts signs of cracks misalign ment or other physical damage on the opposite side View the shock absorber for signs of oil seepage Inspect the left rear tires Check for correct inflation pressure in both the outer and inner tires Check the tread depth and look for any signs of physical damage Normal tread wear should be uniform across the width of the tread Inspect the rim for bends or other dam age Check that all lug nuts are in place Look at the axle center caps for missing nuts or signs of axle lubricant leakage Look under the bus behind the rear tires and view along the back of the axle all the way across to the opposite side Be watchful for any signs of oil leakage on the rear side of the axle missing bent misaligned or broken axle suspension fasteners Look on the ground for any signs of leaking fuel broken glass or other debris 5 Proceed around to the rear of the bus 5 1 Inspect the tailpipe for general condition or blockage 5 2 Step back for an overall view of the rear Check that all markings are legible and in good condition including emergency exit signs and reflective tapes Check for broken windows and any other signs of vandalism v Rear axle undercarriage suspension normal v Inner and outer tires pressure condition v Lug nuts axle cap nuts in place v Free of leaks seepage debris Y Tailpipe clear v Markings in good condition v Windows clean
111. or other purposes such as fueling stops Warning Light Start This switch is a momentary switch which activates the Warn ing Light System Press this switch upon approach to each school bus stop In most Warning Light System configurations this activates the amber warning light flashers When the door is then opened the red warning lights are activated and the stop arm and crossing arm extend Warning Light Emergency Switch This momentary switch activates the red warn ing lights for use in the case of emergency such as a roadside hazard Warning Light Master Warning Light Start a posdon Warning Light Pilots Warning Light Emergency Momentary On Off 2 lights Momentary Press to activate when Amber amp Red Activates red warning lights i iid a 34 DRIVER ORIENTATION Heater Valve Lever A red lever on the front heater housing to the left of the Driver s foot area controls the rate of heated fluid flowing through the heater unit providing a temperature control for the heater Heater Fllter Panel The filters in the heater system must be maintained and changed on a regular basis to maintain the airflow across the heater cores The main heater filter is located be hind a small panel at the driver s left This panel is held in place by luggage type over the center clasps To remove the filter pull upward and outward To replace the filter press it firmly into position and replace the cover panel The cove
112. osters Tighten Front Heater Fasteners Clean Front Heater Filter amp Core SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE UE BIRD All fasteners holding such heaters in place in unit For details on fasteners check installation prints Clean dust from cores Replace filter elements Axle amp Suspension Front Inspect amp Tighten AirTek Suspension Air Spring Fasteners Inspect amp Tighten AirTek Suspension Pin Lock Bolts Axle amp Suspension Rear Inspect Comfort Air Suspension Ride Height See a instl diagram for torque spec s Tighten to 380 420 ft Ib Shock length eye to eye 24 68 25 Inspect Comfort Air Suspension Ride Height Shock length eye to eye 21 75 25 Inspect amp Tighten Comfort Air Suspension Shock Absorbers Inspect for leakage or damage Torque upper mount bolts to 50 70 ft Ib Torque lower mount bolts to 160 180 ft Ib Inspect amp Tighten Comfort Air Suspension Torque Arm Bolts Torque to 150 205 ft Ib Inspect amp Tighten Comfort Air Suspension U Bolts Torque 7 8 bolts to 400 450 ft Ib Torque 3 4 bolts to 260 320 ft Ib Inspect amp Tighten Rear Axle U Bolts Inspect Spring Suspension Rebound Pins Tighten to 300 350 ft Ib Verify that cotter pins are installed Inspect amp Tighten Spring Suspension Shock Absorbers Inspect for signs of leakage wear or damage Tighten locknuts to 75 100 ft Ib Inspect amp Tighten Spring Suspension
113. ote operation of all running lights marker and clearance lights and warning lights on the rear of the bus 64 Passenger Area Inspection 14 Perform a general inspection of the cleanliness of the pas senger area and a functional check of all emergency exits 14 1 14 2 14 3 14 4 14 5 14 6 14 7 PRETRIP INSPECTTION Open the Rear Emergency Door checking it for proper operation Ensure that the audible alert sounds when the door latch is opened Close the door and ensure that it latches securely and that the audible alarm goes off Slowly walk toward the front of the bus inspecting the condition of the interior as you go Look for soiled or cut seat upholstery Grasp each seatback as you proceed checking it for secure mounting Look for damaged or dirty windows Watch for any loose items such as cleaning supplies or tools Upon reaching the rearmost roof hatch fully open it ensuring proper operation and that the audible alert sounds Close it securely ensur ing that the audible alert stops Similarly open and close the two rear emergency exit windows en suring proper operation and that the audible alert sounds when un latched and stops when fully closed and latched Proceed forward checking condition of each seat window and floor area between seats Upon reaching the frontmost roof hatches and emergency windows test them as described above Proceed forward checking condition of each remaining sea
114. pect Power Steering Fluid Level Replinish to full mark Dextron III Tires amp Wheels Inspect All Tires amp Wheels Check air pressure Visually inspect tires tread wear lug nuts including spare Transmission Inspect Transmission Fluid Level Check production order for proper type of fluid to be added Every Week Seats Inspect amp Tighten Passenger Seats Cusion Screws Inspect for loose cushions clips Inspect Passenger Seats Seat Belts Lubricate buckles clean webbing as required Replace any damaged webbing straps Inspect Passenger Seats Upholstery Inspect for cuts tears wear and soiled areas Brakes Inspect Hydraulic Brakes Pads Replace if worn to within 1 8 lining remaining VISION cavers nannsoox Doors Lubricate All Doors Vandal Locks Adjust Jack Knife Door Air Pressure Every Month or 3000 Miles Spray Apply lubricant into key locks Use LPS 1 for sliding bolt locks See Body Construction Doors Jack Knife Door Lubricate Jack Knife Door Hinge Pins LPS 1 Adjust Jack Knife Door Roller Bracket Adjust J ack Knife Door Switch Adjust for proper open closed position See Body Construction Doors Jack Knife Door Adjust Outward Opening Door Control Rod Adjust Outward Opening Door Control Rod Bracket Adjust for full and secure closure without binding Adjust amp Lubricate Outward Opening Door Linkage
115. pedal influences the automatic shifting An electronic signal tells the ECU how far the driver has de pressed the pedal and the transmission adjusts its shifting for maximum perfor mance Cold Weather Starts Most Allison transmissions are programmed to restrict opera tion until operating temperature is reached When the transmission fluid tempera ture is below 25 F 32 C the transmission will not shift into an operating range and the Check Transmission light illuminates When the transmission fluid tem perature is between 24 F and 20 F 31 C to 7 C the transmission will operate in 1st 2nd or Reverse only If there is no other problem with the transmission the Check Transmission light will not be illuminated For transmission fluid tempera tures above 20 F 7 C the transmission shifts and operates normally Read the cold weather operation instructions in the Allison Transmission Operator s Manual sup plied with the bus Using the Engine to Slow the Vehicle Engine braking helps maintain good down grade control To use the engine as a braking force shift the range selector to the next lower range If the vehicle is exceeding the maximum speed for a lower gear use the service brakes to slow the vehicle to a speed at which the transmission can be downshifted After reaching the lower range the ECU automatically downshifts the transmission If engine governed speed is exceeded the transmission wil
116. pendix for specific model in Air Brakes Chapter Inspect Hydraulic Brakes Booster amp Master Inspect for signs of leakage or physical damage Cylinder 107 VISION cavers nannsoox Every 6 Months or 6000 Miles Warning Devices amp Signs Lubricate Destination Sign Hinges Lubricate Destination Sign Roller Gears Lightweight grease such as White Lube Axle amp Suspension Front Inspect AirTek Suspension Air Spring Inspect for wear abrasions cuts or other damage Inspect AirTek Suspension Ride Height Inspect amp Tighten AirTek Suspension Ride Height Control Valve Bolts Inspect amp Tighten AirTek Suspension Shackle Bracket Pivot Bolts Inspect amp Tighten AirTek Suspension Shock Absorbers Inspect AirTek Suspension Whole Assembly Inspect amp Tighten SofTek Spring Suspension Shackle Bracket Pivot Bolts Inspect amp Tighten SofTek Spring Suspension Shock Absorbers Inspect amp Tighten SofTek Spring Suspension Spring Pin Lock Bolts Inspect SofTek Spring Suspension Whole Assembly Axle amp Suspension Rear Inspect amp Tighten Comfort Air Suspension Shock Absorbers Shock length eye to eye 18 5 25 Tighten to 8 10 ft Ib Tighten to 300 325 ft Ib Inspect for signs of leakage wear or damage Tighten mounting bolts to 125 ft lbs 135 ft lbs Visually inspect for damage Tighten to 380 420 ft Ib Inspect for signs of leakage wear or dam
117. r panel must be in place to maintain the airflow through the filter ununannn l OF EE A Heater Filter Access 35 36 VISION cavers sannsoox Steering Column The Steering Column of the vision is a design new to Blue Bird school buses provid ing easy adjustment and greater range Steering Wheel Position A foot pedal left of the service brake pedal releases the column so it can be adjust ed with both hands on the wheel The position is not limited to a small number of detents Releasing the pedal clamps the column securely at its position anywhere within its travel range Left Switch Stalk The left stalk controls turn signals high low beam and also contains the cruise control switches Right Switch Stalk The right stalk controls windshield wipers and washers It also contains switches which are used to communicate with the DID Driver Information Display of the in strument panel The DID provides graphic information to the driver as well as diag nostic information for qualified service technicians Cruise Control The Cruise Control is provided to to improve fuel economy and lessen driver fatigue during long periods of uniform speed travel To operate the Cruise Control 1 Attain the desired speed in the normal manner with the foot operated ac celerator 2 Press the On Off slider switch toward the left On to activate the system at the current speed 3 Press the or buttons on the end
118. r suspen sion beam nearest the tire wheel to be repaired 4 Jack the bus only to the height necessary to service 5 Support the bus with blocks or jack stands under the frame rails Towing If the bus is towed with the rear wheels on the road the driveshaft must be prevent ed from turning in order to avoid possible damage to the automatic transmission This is accomplished by removing the rear axle shafts and covering their openings with caps to prevent rear axle lubricant spillage Also on VISION buses equipped with air brakes if full normal air pressure cannot be provided the air system the spring brakes must be mechanically caged to prevent their engagement 1 Apply the parking brake and chock the wheels while preparing the vehicle for towing 2 Remove the stud nuts and washers from the center hub 94 ENROUTE EMERGENCIES 3 To loosen the tapered dowels which surround each stud use a 1 5 diameter brass drift and 5 6 lb hammer Hold the brass drift against the center of the axle shaft flange inside the round driving lugs Firmly striking the end of the brass drift with the hammer will dislodge the tapered dowels of NUnit Do not use a chisel or wedge to loosen the axle shaft and tapered dowels Doing so can damage the axle shaft gasket seal or axle hub 4 Mark the axle shaft so that it can easily be identified for reinstallation on the side of the axle from which it is removed Carefully remove the a
119. ring cushioned cable on the engine compart ment side stops the hood at its open position A latch strut on the right side of the hood trips to prevent the hood from accidently falling shut after being opened fully To close the engine hood 1 Standing just forward of the right front tire grasp the engine hood overhead with the right hand With the left hand rotate the release cam of the hold open strut Slowly lower the hood The balance of the torsion spring hinge allows the hood to be lowered in a slow and controlled fashion There is no need to suddenly drop the hood to engage a catch Slowly lower the hood onto its rear supports 2 Grasp the handle of the hood hold down latch and hook the end of the elas tic strap into the notches of the cowl mounted bracket Then close the latch handle fully Similarly secure the latch on the left side of the vehicle y r i eae P lt A Pull forward lightly on the front handhold A spring loaded cable limits the opening range and helps support the hood in the open position A bles Na 3 5 2 k Fi A Ta f A The hold open strut automatically trips to prevent accidental closure Gently lower the hood into position and re latch the hold down latches 53 54 VISION cavers sannsoox Battery Compartment A hinged door located on the left side of the Vision directly below the Driver s win dow provides access to the vehicle s batteries The batteries are mount
120. ructed of 20 gauge steel and include a license plate emboss both right and left The left hand emboss includes nylon nuts and slot head screws for license plate mounting The front roof cap is formed from 18 gauge steel The rear roof cap is formed from 20 gauge steel Roof sheets are con structed of 20 gauge steel and span the entire width of the bus window header to window header Roof sheets include an embossed rain visor over side windows Front cowl panels are constructed of 11 gauge steel Floor panels are constructed of 14 gauge steel and are reinforced with full width U channel cross members All riveted floor joints are reinforced with full width 3 16 x 1 1 2 x 2 structural steel angles and 1 8 flat bar Panels Interior A removable 18 gauge steel front upper inner panel is provided to allow access to the front roof cap area A removable 20 gauge steel rear upper inner panel is provided to allow access to the rear roof cap area Removable composite wire moldings right and left are provided to allow access to body wiring harnesses Wire moldings are provided in sections Textured aluminized fully hemmed steel inside side panels are provided extending from the window sill down to the floor gusset seat ledge for the entire length of the body on both left and right sides Driver s and first section are acoustic headlining Second section and rearward are solid headlining panels span ning the entire width of the bus windo
121. s circulated from the interior of the vehicle of This is desirable when trying to heat passenger compartment rapidly By turning the 3 p nee Front Entry Heater control knob counterclockwise air from outside the bus is used in the system This is helpful when trying to cool the vehicle Heater Fan This knob adjusts the speed of the fan which circulates the air in the system In the counter clockwise position the blower is off By turning clockwise 3 speeds can be achieved low medium and high Defrost Bus This knob adjusts the air flow balance between the vehicle passenger compartment and the windshield By turning knob clockwise a damper is moved and air is diverted toward the windshield for defrosting Driver Passenger This knob Adjusts air flow balance in two directions By turning knob clockwise a damper is moved and air is diverted toward the driver By turning counterclockwise the air is diverted toward passengers The amount of air diverted is proportional to amount the knob is turned gt iE ie Front Entry Heater 3 position High Off Low Controls heater blower at entrance es Optional Underseat Heater door stepwell area Underseat Heater Switches 3 position High E Off Low Additional 3 position heater switches may be located in the side console upper panel if the bus is equipped with optional passenger area Fresh Recirculate J my 2 position underseat heaters
122. signs of abrasion Inspect Fuel Tank Vent Intake System Inspect Air Cleaner Filter Element Inspect for obstruction Inspect for proper seating secure lid Replace if soiled wet or damaged Inspect Intake Tract All Fasteners Inspect for signs of contaminate infiltration loose clamps wear spots holes in piping Inspect Intake Tract Charged Air Tubing Inspect for signs of contaminate infiltration loose clamps wear spots holes in piping Inspect amp Tighten Intake Tract Hose Clamps Tighten to 10 in lb Inspect amp Tighten Intake Tract Spring Loaded Clamps Tighten to near full spring compression Inspect Intake Tract Support Bracket Visual inspection Repair damaged parts immediately SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE Inspect amp Tighten Intake Tract T Bolt Tighten to 50 in Ib Clamps Inspect amp Tighten Intake Tract Worm Gear Tighten to 38 42 in Ib Clamps Steering Lubricate Axle Steering Linkage Drag Link NLGI 2 EP multipurpose grease rated GC LB or equivalent Lubricate Axle Steering Linkage King Pins NLGI 2 EP multipurpose grease rated GC LB or equivalent Lubricate Axle Steering Linkage Tie Rod NLGI 2 EP multipurpose grease rated GC LB or Ends equivalent Lubricate Intermediate Steering Shaft Slip Lubricate splines with multipurpose grease J oint Every 3 Months or 24 000 Miles Brakes Inspect Air Brakes Air Dryer See Bendix ap
123. sition at the full extend of its travel To release the parking brake apply the service brake with the left foot to prevent movement when the parking brake is released Then grasp the parking brake lever with the left hand press the thumb release button on top of the grip and lower the lever fully all the way against its lower stop Always release the parking brake lever fully Leaving it in a par tially raised position can allow the shoes of the parking brake mechanism to drag while the bus is operated resulting in overheating and accelerated wear of the parking brake shoes and drum The parking brake lever s grip incorporates a threaded adjustment mechanism to allow a service technician to make fine adjustments to the cable tension The adjust ment is made by loosening a set screw in the grip handle and then rotating the grip on its shaft This adjustment is designed to be performed in the service facility not during normal operation of the bus During normal operation the grip should not be free to rotate If the Driver ever finds the grip free to rotate when applying or releas ing the lever it should be taken as indication that the setscrew is not properly tight ened This condition should be reported to service personnel and proper adjustment and tightening should be performed Similarly always apply the parking brake fully to its upper stop A detent pressure should be felt toward the end of the lever upward travel When r
124. st comfort able level The buckle can be released by pressing on the button at the center CEN The driver s seat belt should be worn any time the bus is moving The upper mount of the shoulder harness is adjustable for proper position across the Drivers chest Press down on the release button and slide the strap mount to the desired height Release the button and ensure that the slide latches into the nearest preset notch Lumbar Adjustment Rear Position Front Position DRIVER ORIENTATION Fore Aft Slide Release Flipped Open 41 42 VISION cavers nannsoox Driver s Seat Air The air ride Driver s seat in the Blue Bird VISION is mounted on an air powered scis sor mechanism which houses its own electric air compressor Several manual adjust ments are provided for maximum control safety and comfort Height Control The front most red switch located on the side of the seat bottom adjusts seat height Press the top or bottom side of the rocker switch to raise lower the seat Lumbar Support The rear most white switch located on the side of the seat bot tom adjusts the lumbar support Press the top or bottom side of the rocker switch to increase decrease lumbar support Back Tilt Control To adjust the overall tilt of the seat back turn the large knob lo cated at the bottom of the left side of the seat back where the seat back attaches to the seat bottom Seat Bottom Fore Aft Slide A lever
125. t This Driver s Handbook 10 Safety Precautions 10 Scope and Content 10 General Specifications 11 General Specification Chassis 11 Alternator 11 Axle amp Suspension Front 11 Axle amp Suspension Rear 11 Batteries 11 Braking System 11 Bumpers 12 Controls 12 Cooling System 12 Drive Line 12 Engines 12 Intake 13 Exhaust 13 Frame Chassis 13 Fuel System 14 Horn 14 Instruments Gauges 14 Steering 14 Tires 14 Tow Hooks 14 Transmission 15 Wheels 15 Wiring 15 General Specification Body 15 Panels amp Compartments 15 Emergency Doors 15 Entrance Doors 15 Electrical 16 Fans optional 16 Floor 16 CONTENTS D gt Heater Defroster 16 Insulation 16 Lettering 16 Lights 16 Mirrors 17 Paint 17 Panels Exterior 18 Panels Interior 18 Reflectors 18 Rubrails 19 Safety Equipment 19 Seats 19 Stepwell 19 Stop Arm Crossing Arm 19 Sun Visor 19 Switch Panel 19 Ventilation 20 Windows 20 Windshield 20 Windshield Wipers 20 Wiring 20 Dimensions 21 DRIVER ORIENTATION 23 Driver Orientation 23 Product Identification Information 23 Federal Vehicle Certification Plate 23 Axle Record and Chassis Service Number Plate 23 Body Serial Number and Service Number Plate 23 Data Plates Reference 24 Emergency Equipment Locations 25 First Aid Kit 25 Body Fluids Clean up Kit
126. t and seat barrier window and floor area between seats Emergency Equipment Check 15 Having reached the front of the bus again check all emergency equipment v Emergency door amp alert buzzer working v Emergency roof hatches amp alerts working v Emergency windows amp alerts working v Seat mountings secure v Seat upholstery clean amp in good condition v Windows clean amp in good condition v Aisle clear no loose items 65 VISION cavers nannsoox e Check the fire estinguisher charge and expiration date e Inspect the flare kit and or roadside hazard triangular reflector kit for full content and secure stowage e Inspect the fire axe and or crowbar for secure mounting e Inspect the first aid kit and body fluid kit for fully stocked content and se cure mountings Prepare For Driveaway 16 Return to the Driver s seat 16 1 Adjust the seat height back and position 16 2 Press the steering column release pedal and adjust the steering wheel position 16 3 Check the alignment and positioning of all rearview mirrors interior and exterior for optimum view Adjust as necessary 66 v Fire estinguisher charged securely stowed v First aid body fluid kit s stocked securely stowed v Axe crowbar secured v Hazard reflector flare kit s stocked secured v All other emergency equipment in full working condition Vv Adjust seat steering wheel v check all mirrors adj
127. t drops to certain levels the other system can supplement the pressure An air compressor mounted on the engine operates whenever the engine is run ning and maintains a normal operating pressure range within the storage tanks The bus cannot be driven until air pressure is sufficient for normal operation Therefore if the bus has been parked for an extend period or if the tanks have been drained as in normal maintenance procedure to expel built up moisture it is normal for additional time to be required for the air system to fully charge As air is Compressed moisture vapor tends to condense inside the storage tanks The tanks are equipped with bleeder valves to allow removal of this built up mois ture and should be used daily usually when the bus is parked for the night Some buses are equipped with an air dryer to assist collection and expulsion of the excess moisture during operation The storage tank is mounted under the bus outboard the frame rail on the driver s side and on buses equipped with an air dryer the dryer is mounted inboard of the frame rails just forward of the storage tank During normal operation the compressor cycles between its load mode and unload mode As this occurs the air dryer occasionally expells a blast of air chuff which can be heard by the driver This is a normal backflush behavior of the air dryer Parking Brakes With Air Brakes On Blue Bird vision buses equipped with air brakes the parking br
128. t panel right warning bank Level 4 Cummins The audible alert sounds continuously The Stop Engine alert appears in the instrument panel s top warning bank Level 4 Caterpillar The DPF Regeneration alert flashes in the DID status window 4 The audible alert sounds continuously The Check Engine alert appears in the instrument panel s right warning bank The Stop Engine alert appears in the instrument panels top warning bank 83 84 VISION cavers sannsoox Stationary Regeneration Precautions During active regeneration the exhaust system can reach extremely high temper atures Automatic active regeneration which occurs while driving the bus is pro grammed to occur only when the bus is moving at a minimum speed and it stops when the vehicle slows or stops With Caterpillar engine if the exhaust is still unusually hot from recent regenera tion when the bus slows or stops the HEST indicator appears to remind the driver of the high temperature condition With Cummins engine the HEST indicator appears whenever the high tempera ture condition exists When performing a Stationary Regeneration the entire process occurs for an extended period while the bus is stopped It is therefore critical that prudent human safety and fire hazard precautions are followed Those precautions include e Read understand and abide by all the precautions pertaining to regeneration procedures in t
129. tion when the HEST indicator is on Carefully read understand and abide by all instructions warnings and cautions in the engine manufacturer s operator s manual and other engine man ufacturer s literature regarding safety conditions when perform ing Stationary regeneration ROUTINE OPERATION tion needs to occur and the necessary conditions are met When not in regeneration mode the ARD is simply a chamber through which the exhaust flows During regen eration a charge of fuel and air is ignited in the ARD and the resulting combustion creates additional heat to facilitate regeneration HEST Indicator High Exhaust System Temperature An instrument panel indica tor which appears when the exhaust temperature is unusually high due to recent regeneration This is a normal behavior of the aftertreatment system intended to notify the driver and technician that the exhaust system temperature is high and that caution should be observed around the exhaust system DPF Indicator An instrument panel indicator which displays when particulate ac cumulation has reached a preset level in the DPF and regeneration is needed The bus should either be operated with a more demanding duty cycle until the indicator goes off or it should be scheduled for a Stationary Regeneration at a service facility Levels of Notification Regeneration the process which clears soot accumulation in the DPF occurs au tomatically as the bus is operate
130. to move the bus Rear Tow Hooks CEN The tow hooks are designed for horizontal pull ing only not for lifting Never attempt to lift the bus by the tow hooks Schrader Valve x SA Scheduled Maintenance A regularly scheduled maintenance regimen will ensure that the bus es you oper ate are always ready for safe reliable and efficient duty Although it is assumed that maintenance tasks will be performed by your operation s Service Technician s not by the Driver the information in this chapter is provided for convenience given that the Drivers Handbook will usually reside with the bus The Driver however is the individual most intimately familiar with the normal sounds behaviors and performance of the vehicle The Driver should be alert to any unusual or changing conditions and bring them to the attention of the service staff A few Notes pages are provided at the back of this handbook for that purpose For more comprehensive service and maintenance information the Service Tech nician should obtain and become familiar with the current Blue Bird Service Manual for the particular model s being serviced 97 98 VISION cavers nannsoox Fluids amp Filters Diesel Capacity Filter Comments Initial SAE 10W 30 viscosity when ambient temperature is 22 Quarts 21 Liters above 0 F 18 C and below 104 F 40 C See Refill Engine Oil Viscosity chart below for other tempera Eng
131. tomatically once the transaction has been initiated CAN For passenger safety Blue Bird recommends all occupants disembark to a safety zone before fuel filling procedures take place CANN Technicians work ing with or around fuel systems should be properly trained to utilize extreme care and caution at all times Failure to exercise extreme caution and care may lead to serious accidents which can result in property damage personal injury and or death 87 VISION cavers sannsoox 6 Connect the fuel nozzle to the vehicle fueling receptacle 6 1 The propane fueling nozzle has to be screwed on securely A Wear protective gloves while fueling a propane tank B Remove the protective cap from the vehicle fueling receptacle C Mate the nozzle coupling to the fueling receptacle D Turn the nozzle coupling in a clockwise direction two or three turns until secure A soft rubber washer or o ring seals the connection so over tightening is not required E Most nozzles for motor vehicle fueling are much like a gasoline type nozzle The nozzles are also minimum bleed type for safety and to meet hydrocarbon release requirements in certain jurisdictions 7 Turn on the propane dispenser pump and begin the filling process 7 1 Open the nozzle to begin filling 7 2 Do not fill the tank based on a mechanical float gauge reading or the fuel level gauge on the dashboard 7 3 Pay attention and never walk away from the filling process
132. uipped with an energency release lever mounted above the door In the case of air pressure failure the door closure can be released by flipping the lever toward the Open direction indicated Push upward to release the door mechanism so that the door can be manually opened or closed Rotate the lever downward to engage the door mechanism for normal control of the door by the switch panel Air Operated Door Emergency Release DRIVER ORIENTATION Exterior Compartments Engine Compartment The engine compartment hood of the Vision is mounted on a torsion spring hinge mechanism just above the front bumper and is retained in its closed position by two spring latches one on each side of the hood near the body s front cowl The system is designed for very easy unassisted one person opening closing and unobstructed access to engine compartment regular service components To open the engine hood 1 Unlatch the right side hood latch Lift the latch handle and free the elastic latch from the notches of the cowl mounted bracket Repeat this for the latch on the left side of the bus 2 At the front of the bus grasp the handhold above the center of the grille Pull lightly backward The torsion hinge is balanced in such a was as to re quire very little effort to lift the hood Ad the hood raises control it with the free hand especially in windy conditions Open the hood fully until it stops slightly beyond vertical A sp
133. ustments PRETRIP INSPECTTION Mirrors and Mirrors Adjustment CEN The mirror system on this Blue Bird bus has been designed to meet all field of view regulations However it is the responsibility of the driver to properly adjust the mirrors to provide adequate safety Mirrors provide additional visibility and they must be properly adjusted for each driver prior to each trip Mirrors are not a substitute for proper driver training and caution Never move the bus until each disembarking passenger is accounted for and clear of the vehicle Failure to strictly adhere to this procedure can result in serious injury or death The Blue Bird vision is equipped with four external rearview mirrors The curbside rearview flat mirror and convex mirrors are mounted from the top of the bus near the top right hand corner of the windshield in a common housing The driver s side rearview mirrors are mounted near the bottom left hand corner of the windshield Two hood mounted crossview mirrors provide view in front of the bus and along each side The hardware for the fender mounts must be maintained at 20 25 Ft Ib torque to minimize vibration D Do not over torque the mirror mounting hardware The outside rearview mirrors are designed to allow the seated driver a comprehen sive view of the areas at each side of the bus and to the rear of the bus CEN There is a blind spot directly behind the bus that extends several feet to the rear of th
134. ut various systems These are located at the individual gauges in a small cluster between the speedometer and tachometer and across the bottom of the panel as indicated below An audible sound speaker is incorporated into the back of the instrument cluster and sounds to accompany the indicator light warnings The audible alarm also serves to indicate turn signal blink and turn signal reminder 1 Left Turn Signal 13 Service Brake Applied 2 HighBeam 14 Wait To Start See Starting the Engine 3 Right Turn Signal 15 Transmission Range Inhibit 4 High Hydraulic Fluid Temperature 16 Check Transmission 5 Hydraulic Brake Failure 17 ABS Fault 6 Stop 18 Service Engine 7 Low or High Voltage 19 Park Brake Applied 8 Low Engine Oil Pressure 20 High Transmission Temperature 9 High Engine Coolant Temperature 10 Low Secondary Brake Air Pressure 11 Low Fuel 12 Low Primary Brake Air Pressure 29 30 VISION cavers sannsoox Front Switch Panels The exact arrangement of switches in the two front switch panels located on either side of the instrument cluster is somewhat dependent upon specific state specifi cations For example some states require additional switches for red and amber Warning Light pilots Shown are the standard and most common configurations If your bus differs from the diagarms shown check with your local specifications and familiarize yourself with each switch function Left Front Panel Headlights
135. w header to window header constructed of 22 gauge steel double hemmed to provide additional joint strength Reflectors Standard reflectors include e Two 3 red mounted on side of body near rear e Two 3 red mounted on rear of body e Two 3 amber right and left intermediate side reflectors Reflective Tape One inch minimum width strip around each emergency exit roof hatch pushout window when ordered One inch wide strip of yellow reflective vinyl around the perimeter of the rear emergency door GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS Rubrails Four double ribbed 16 gauge steel applied rubrails are installed along both sides of the body as follows One below side windows one at seat Passenger level one near the floor level one at the bottom of the skirt The window rail extends from the front bow on the right or the front cowl post on the left to the rear corner radius The floor rail extends from the front bow both right amp front to the rear corner radius The skirt rail extends from the front bow on the right or the front cowl post on the left to the rear bumper interrupted at wheelhousing cutouts The seat rail extends from the front bow both right and left around the rear corner radius Bumper rubrail installed below the rear emergency door immediately above the rear bumper Rail spans the full width of body and wraps around the rear corner panels right and left Safety Equipment Three reflectorized triangular roadside w
136. x Emergency Pushout Windows Four of the windows in the passenger area are emergency pushout windows two located in the front half of the bus and two in the rear half There are two variations the installation of which depend upon state specifications vertically hinging and horizontally hinging Vertical hinging pushout windows are hinged at the front side and swing outward like a gate Horizontally hinged pushout windows are hinged at the top and push outward and upward To open the pushout window rotate the red handle parallel to the glass and away from the window frame as indicated by the nearby decal Then push the win dow outward The emergency windows should be operated daily as part of the Driver s pre trip inspection A light spray lubicant may be used on the window latches and hinges to keep them in smooth operating condition Y O Teel IN heal BW i DRIVER ORIENTATION Emergency Roof Hatch Depending upon options and or regulation the Vision may be equipped with one or two roof mounted emergency escape hatches Xe NC Wp 1 i i 5 5j aN AS EME GE K Bll de ee ost 3 Yy nh Na lt Rotate the red knob from the position marked LATCHED to the Pull the hatch downward engaging its opening side with the white position marked TO EXIT bar Koern 39 EMERGENCY ENT A A ay 4s yy Cy gt od i te Grasp the two handholds on the sides of
137. xle shaft tak ing measures to catch the axle lubricant which may spill Install a cover plate over the open end of the hub to prevent dirt contamination and lubricant spillage during towing 5 Repeat the above procedure to remove the other axle shaft 6 Ifthe bus is equipped with air brakes and if full working air pressure is not present in the system the spring brakes must be mechanically caged before the vehicle can be towed Proceed as follows CEN Caging the spring brakes disables the parking brake Ensure that the bus is completely secured against rolling by wheel chocks before cag ing the spring brakes 6 1 On each of the rear combination brake chambers a special release stud tool is carried in a storage socket cast into the body of the cham ber Remove the nut and washer from the end of the release stud tool and remove the tool from its socket 6 2 Remove the rubber dust cap from the access hole in the upper end of the spring brake chamber Insert the toggle end of the release stud tool into the access hole Be sure that the tapered end of the tool has entered the hole in the piston inside the chamber Insert the tool until it bottoms SAARE 6 3 Rotate the release stud tool a quarter turn aml oa clockwise and pull outward to engage the toggle end with the piston While holding the bolt in its engaged position install the washer and nut onto the end of the tool Turn the nut down against the flat washer until finger tight

Driver Handbook - Central States Bus Sales, Inc.

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