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I have driven a lot of miles in both rear engine Gilligs and mid-engine Crowns. Both have advantages and both have disadvantages.
One real advantage of the mid-mount engine is the wheelbase is shorter so the turning radius is much tighter.
One real disadvantage of the mid-engine is the engine is in the middle. With all of the running gear under the floor it limits you as to what you can mount under the floor--tanks, gen set, etc.
One advantage of the rear engine is it is more conventional than a pancake engine. If you understand the NHH Cummins and the DD 6-71 pancake are virtually identical to their upright engine brothers you shouldn't have any problems.
One disadvantage of the rear engine buses is they do have problems with getting enough air through the radiator to cool the engine on steep grades or in high heat situations. Even the Gilligs with the high capacity air scoop had problems.
As far as driving goes, I prefer the ride of the Crown but I prefer the driver's compartment of the Gillig. I have found the Crown to ride smoother than the Gillig--the Gilligs I have driven tended to really pound the pavement.
The Crown driver's position is really close to the side window, closer than any other bus I have ever driven. If you are tall or large bodied you will find yourself way to close to the side window and having to peer under the top of the windshield. I have never had the same sort of problem or feeling in a Gillig.
On balance, I prefer the Crown. While some have likened the Crown and Gillig as Cadillacs and Lincolns, they are so far and away better than anything that Blue Bird, Thomas, et al have put out there really is no comparison. I have 30+ year old Crowns and Gilligs that have fewer rattles and leaks than brand new Blue Birds.
Just like you will find people who like Cadillacs better than Lincolns and vice versa, so you will find people who prefer the Crown over the Gillig.
I have owned and driven both a lot of miles. I prefer the Crown.
Mark O. |
RV and bus conversion info since 1996.
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