FYI from MCI Summer 2016

FROM

FYI

Summer 2016

COMPARING COSTS

MCI ACADEMY

MAINTENANCE MATTERS

MCI Total Cost of Operation, by the numbers.

Offers most comprehensive technician training available today.

COMING CLEAN : Getting to know your Setra wipers.

© 2016 Motor Coach Industries, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

FROM

FYI

RELIABILITY RALLIES, REFRESHED SETRA COMFORT CLASS S 407, AND MILES OF HAPPY MCI RIDERS Read all about it. In this issue of FYI from MCI read details on what we’re doing that make the MCI® J4500 and D-Series the best sellers in their class. Learn about the restyled Setra S 407 that makes this coach value priced and super for shuttles. As the back-to-school season starts, learn how MCI offers your technicians and drivers an education program unlike any other. Discover what makes MCI Reliability Driven.

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CLICK TO VIEW VIDEO 2

Exceeding expectations in style and value.

Setra – a Daimler brand

The Setra ComfortClass S 407 CC. Practical luxury, powered by Mercedes-Benz.

For comfort you can count on, and European flair that’s sure to impress, the Setra ComfortClass S 407 delivers superior value and a high “wow” factor, thanks to stylish new exterior options, upgraded seating choices and other improvements.

Plus, Setra coaches are backed by the extensive MCI network, giving you unparalleled access to parts inventory, service outlets, training opportunities and more. To find out what a Setra S 407 can do for your business, visit www.setracoaches.com.

Motor Coach Industries · 200 East Oakton Street · Des Plaines, IL 60018 Phone 866.624.262 · www.setra-coaches.com Distributor of EvoBus GmbH for Setra buses and Setra parts in the United States and Canada.

Setra S 407 ad_2016_BMN.indd 1

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6/27/16 12:14 PM

CONTENTS Summer 2016

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COMPARING COSTS: MCI Total Cost of Operation, by the numbers

REINVIGORATED: The Setra S 407 moves to the front of the ComfortClass

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MCI Reliability Rallies at MCI Sales and Service Centers showcase our best

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MCI Academy Offers most comprehensive technician training

Maintenance Matters COMING CLEAN: Getting to know your Setra wipers

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Why MCI?

Training Camp

COMPARING COSTS

MCI Total Cost of Operation, by the numbers Total cost of operation has become a bit of a buzzword in the coach industry of late, with MCI making its case for the J4500 having the lowest TCO among its competitors—and competitors voicing their doubts.

Nevertheless, MCI has made a rigorous case for its low TCO, which is based on residual value plus projected costs such as those revolving around fuel usage and economy. So where do those figures come from?

In the case of the fuel economy claims, the figures come straight from the Navistar(formerly Bosch) Proving Ground in New Carlisle, Indiana. Navistar tests are conducted independently, with testers meticulously following SAE fuel economy test standards which account for variables such as tire pressure, environmental factors such as wind, driver style and coach specifications.

Behind the testing MCI’s Navistar testing was done on a three-mile oval, using a 2014 J4500 in head-to-head testing with a 2014 Van Hool C2045 and a Prevost H3-45. The testing assumed 65 mph on cruise control to minimize driver variation. Tires were tested cold and pressure adjusted if necessary. Navistar additionally removed the fuel from each coach and replaced it to ensure that all coaches underwent the test using fuel with

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the same energy content. Navistar also installed its own fuel-flow, FPS and other data-collection instrumentation in the vehicles. The coaches were warmed up before driving, eventually doing 17 laps on cruise control.

“TCO is a good benchmark for many operators,” says Brent Maitland, Vice President of Marketing and Product Planning. “Whether you tend to keep a coach three years or a decade, you’ll be affected by operational costs, which of course you want to be low. You’ll also want to factor in the money you’ll recoup when you sell the coach. MCI vehicles have historically maintained excellent resale value, thanks to their reliability and durability. And we’ve made a lot of tweaks to the powertrain and other places that have lowered fuel costs over the years as well.”

MCI has published its TCO figures, and they show: • The MCI J4500 has a fuel cost savings of $19K versus the VanHool C2045 and $23K over the Prevost H3-45 over 10 years, assuming diesel prices of $2.50 per gallon at 100,000 miles driven annually.

• The J4500 is worth $156,750 after 10 years: That’s $7,450 more than the VanHool C2045 and $14,250 more than the Prevost H3-45. *

The fuel advantage explained MCI has achieved its fuel economy advantage in large part because of optimized powertrain and axle ratios, aerodynamic design and engine OE improvements. There have also been savings on weight and other tweaks that give the J4500 its advantage.

Other data point to MCI’s TCO advantage as well. The J4500 also offers a leading warranty of 30 months or 250K miles with fewer exclusions, plus Super 60 extended warranty coverage, helping operators to better predict their costs for the first few years of ownership. MCI has also succeeded in making improvements that have resulted in more reliability—as evidenced by the 45% drop in warranty claims between January 2014 and October 2015.

MCI also supports its vehicles with an eye to long-term value when it comes to service and parts. MCI ships 90 percent of all orders within 24 hours, with 96 percent of Coach Critical parts shipped within the same timeframe. MCI has also been working to put more parts near customers, with strategic distribution points across the United States and Canada, plus more availability at MCI Service Centers.

The quest for long-range value also drives many of MCI’s other support services, including 24/7 emergency roadside assistance; expert technician training that includes hands-on as well as online LMS coursework; technical phone and field support; and continued investments in MCI Service Centers.

Other tests MCI has also done its own fuel-economy testing against competitor coaches, neutralizing variables by doing head-to-head comparisons along the same route, swapping drivers, recording tire tread depths and maintaining recommended pressure in all tires.

Additionally, some operators have shared their fuel-economy data with MCI. In both cases, the real-life results back up the Navistar testing.

“Cost of ownership equals the bottom line,” said Maitland. “It’s part of the equation of what makes a coach worth owning, along with the things that make a coach marketable to begin with—curb appeal, excellent handling and passenger comfort. MCI does extraordinarily well on all of those fronts, which is part of being ‘Reliability Driven.’”

Click here for more MCI TCO data in an easy-to-read format.  * Values are based on 2004 model year coaches from the 09/15 issue of "The Official Bus Blue Book" published by Bus Solutions LLC.

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MCI ACADEMY OFFERS MOST COMPREHENSIVE TECHNICIAN TRAINING AVAILABLE TODAY

Your technical team keeps your business running. Shouldn’t your professionals receive the best training in the business? Welcome to MCI Academy, with decades of product and operating know-how distilled into a centralized, state-of-the-art online and hands-on certificate training program. For operators who need to bring new hires up to speed quickly, or advance the skills of seasoned technicians, MCI Academy is the solution.

“It’s a whole new approach to the technician instruction and training we do at MCI. No other motor coach manufacturer or industry entity offers this type or magnitude of education,” says Scott Crawford, MCI Technical Training Manager. Crawford, who also spent seven years as service manager at MCI’s Dallas Service Center, knows these needs from the ground up. “Operators can’t always spare teams to travel and attend classes, so we’ve taken a look at our complete scope of learning to provide the best in-person instruction, hands-on learning and online training options for maximum flexibility.”

Starting with Systems Qualifications, MCI Academy allows students of varying proficiency to earn certificates at all levels. At MCI Academy, new hires entering the field can become Level 3 technicians, while experienced technicians can earn Level 1 and 2 certificates, along with specialty diplomas in such critical coach-down repairs as HVAC and electrical systems.

Crawford says this is just the beginning for MCI Academy. “We have the full support of our CEO Paul Soubry to continue to expand our training program.” A recent tour by the Kincaid Bus team demonstrated how operators were “really impressed by the resources we have available now and will have in the future,” he added.

The motorcoach industry needs mechanics According to the United States Department of Labor, employment of diesel service technicians and mechanics is projected to grow 12 percent from 2014 to 2024, faster than the average for all occupations (see link).

MCI Academy’s creation comes at a critical time – operators are dealing with a technician shortage. MCI has taken its historic portfolio of technical training, adding comprehensive systems and specialty coursework, along with proficiency as a solution.

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“Our customers have told us that good mechanics are hard to find,” said Crawford. “If they can’t be found, then they need to be created. That’s where MCI Academy comes in.”

The Academy blends in-person week-long instruction, hands-on Technical Tune-Up training events, its award-winning webinar series, and the highly successful online, anytime training program called the Learning Management System (LMS).

Launched in 2015, LMS today has more than 4,200 registered users, including technicians and drivers, and a growing library of more than 405 courses (with more to come). “There have been more than 17,000 LMS courses completed by technicians and drivers,” said Crawford. “And we’ve trained more than 1,200 technicians through our Tech Tune-Up sessions.”

Unlike other training methods, the MCI Academy offers a challenging curriculum and coursework that requires technicians to pass tests, both written and practical. “The structured and regimented learning environment takes technician training to a whole new level,” said Crawford.

“We’re proud of our commitment to be our customers’ best source for training, enabling their technicians to quickly diagnose problems, fix them, and keep their fleets on the go. That’s our goal.”

Access to the MCI Academy is free to MCI and Setra customers. For more information view our brochure or contact Scott Crawford at training@mcicoach.com. 

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TRAI N I NG CAM P

MCI continues to offer a full schedule of hands-on Tech Tune-Up sessions and scheduled webinars as well as its new online, anytime LMS modules to help technicians, owners and others get to know their MCI and Setra coaches inside and out. All training events are held at no cost to MCI customers. Check your calendars, and make your plans. Chances are, there’s a learning opportunity that’s just right for you.

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Training Schedule •

October 4-6 Setra Technical Tune-Up MCI SERVICE CENTER, Des Plaines, Illinois

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October 11-12 MCI Technical Tune-Up MCI SERVICE CENTER, Dallas, Texas

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October 13-14 MCI Technical Tune-Up MCI SERVICE CENTER, Dallas, Texas

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October 18-20 Setra Technical Tune-Up MCI SERVICE CENTER, Los Alamitos, California

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November 1-2 MCI Technical Tune-Up MCI SERVICE CENTER, Winter Garden, Florida

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November 3-4 MCI Technical Tune-Up MCI SERVICE CENTER, Winter Garden, Florida

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November 15-17 Setra Technical Tune-Up MCI SERVICE CENTER, Montreal, Quebec

MCI Academy Webinars Getting schooled: Creating technicians with MCI Academy Good technicians can be extremely hard to find, and MCI has come up with a solution: create them.

MCI Academy is MCI’s answer to technician scarcity, offering a start-to-finish training program that takes candidates all the way from beginner to a Level 1 Certificate. Technicians can also take fourweek Electrical and HVAC Specialist Diploma programs. Apparently, this is currently available at no charge, the classes use a combination of online LMS modules and in-person, hands-on work. Led by Scott Crawford, this webinar will offer more information on the program, including assessments and registration. Dial in, and see what MCI Academy can do for you!

•

October 12, 2:00 p.m. CDT

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November 16, 2:00 p.m. CST

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December 7, 2:00 p.m. CST

LMS Webinars Online, anytime: MCI LMS takes training to a new level MCI's groundbreaking Learning Management System (LMS) offers comprehensive training for technicians, drivers and safety personnel that's available online, 24 hours a day and 7 days a week, augmenting MCI's hands-on Technical Tune-ups. This essential webinar is your opportunity to get a guided tour of the new MCI LMS, which already includes more than 400 courses on MCI and Setra coach systems and operations — and more courses are being added every day. Learn about LMS features such as custom capabilities, testing, report generation, achievement certificates and more. MCI's LMS is currently being offered to MCI and Setra customers at no cost as a show of appreciation. This is your ground-floor opportunity to experience this unique new training system. Don't miss it!

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October 26, 2:00 p.m. CDT

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November 23, 2:00 p.m. CST

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December 14, 2:00 p.m. CST

You can register for all MCI webinars at mcicoach.com/webinar 

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LAKETRAN DEBUTED NEW MCI COMMUTER COACHES FOR PARK-NRIDE, BUS ON SHOULDER SERVICE Officials from Laketran, the regional public transportation system in Lake County, Ohio, and community representatives gathered on June 2, to check out the clean, green, new commuter coach models making their debut on Park-n-Ride and Bus on Shoulder service into Cleveland.

Laketran invested in 10 new clean-diesel MCI Commuter Coaches to replace 1998 MCI workhorse models about to go into retirement, plus four additional coaches are due to arrive in 2017.

At Laketran’s June 2 unveiling of its new MCI commuter coaches, from left, Richard DeYoung, MCI regional vice president of new coach sales, joins Ray Jurkowski, Laketran general manager, and Gary Landuyt, MCI regional parts manager.

At the celebration at Laketran headquarters in Painesville Township, Ohio, Richard DeYoung, MCI’s Regional Vice President of New Coach Sales, accompanied by Gary Landuyt, MCI Regional Parts Manager, conducted a “white handkerchief” test by attaching a handkerchief to the coach’s exhaust pipe to indicate how clean the emissions output is from cleandiesel coaches. Plus, motor coaches are the most fuel-efficient, per-passenger-mile mode of motor transportation, surpassing

the car, plane or train, providing a clean-air transportation option.

The new Laketran Commuter Coaches are expected to carry 175,000 commuters to and from Cleveland annually. 

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Key Equipment Finance

INTERESTED IN SPONSORING MCI'S FYI FROM MCI EZINE? PLEASE

CONTACT MARKETING@MCICOACH.COM TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OPPORTUNITIES TO JOIN MCI AT KEY INDUSTRY EVENTS OR ENJOY SOME PROMOTIONAL SPACE IN FUTURE ISSUES OF FYI FROM MCI.

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I NCASE Y

MCI J4500 Severe Duty Package Protection for travel off the-beaten path

by Larry Plachno

B

ack when MCI got its start eight decades ago in Winnipeg, Manitoba, much of North America was wilderness. Inventor and MCI founder Harry Zoltok understood that a motorized multiple passenger vehicle had to withstand harsh road conditions, along with minus 40 below zero temperatures common during a Winnipeg winter.

Today is no different. In fact, the need for hardy coaches continues to increase especially for operators that run tours around Alaska, or hold contracts with mining industries to transport workers to highly remote regions throughout North America. A motorcoach must be up to the challenge, and those made by MCI have proven their worthiness.

Premier Alaska Tours, an Alaska-based land tour motorcoach charter company, and others operate MCI J4500 coaches on their dynamic tour around Alaska, a state which includes what some consider the loneliest road in America, the unpaved, 400-mile Dalton Highway.

Operators serving mining industries in Nevada, Colorado and other states have also selected the MCI J4500 and D-Series coaches for commuter services, transporting miners to incredibly remote sites through all four seasons, road types and weather conditions.

“In these environments, product performance matters,” said Brent Danielson, MCI’s director of product planning, sales engineering. “Many aren’t aware of the extreme abuse these coaches take in daily service. We see it; and this experience and feedback from operators has led to many improvements and the protection now available with the severe duty package.”

MCI’s case study examples include Golden Arrow’s service for Kearl, a worldclass oil sands mining project with 4.6 billion barrels of bitumen resource and a project lifespan of more than 40 years. The Kearl Oil Sands Project is an oil sands mine in the

When most people think about bus operations they envision scenes of interstate highways and delightful tour locations. However, many buses operate daily under difficult conditions in mining and industrial applications. MCI now offers a special Severe Duty package on its popular J4500 model to cope with these rugged conditions. MCI.

Athabasca Oil Sands region at the Kearl Lake area, north of Fort McMurray in Alberta, Canada.

The MCI Commuter Coach constantly proves itself in tough urban environments.

“In New York City our out-of-service rate is six times better than our closest competitor and comparable age vehicles,” said Danielson. “We always take our customers’ operations into consideration when we update our models.”

Which leads to the latest round of enhancements.

The new Severe Duty Package from MCI for their J4500 model is turning several

14 • National Bus Trader / June, 2016

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heads. Some of us have already noted that it makes a versatile model even more versatile. It is also generating interest because the Severe Duty Package represents a particular and coordinated package of options for a specialized application. That kind of thing has rarely been seen in the bus industry in the past and shows a strong move by MCI to accommodate some of its customers running a specialized service.

For those who do not know or do not remember, the MCI J4500 coach traces its lineage back to 1997 when MCI introduced its new Renaissance® model. Introduced as a higher-class model for upscale charters and tours, the Renaissance offered modern styling, improved systems and several

Y O U M I S S E D I T . A S S E E N I N T H E J U N E , 2 0 1 6 I S S U E O F N AT I O N A L B U S T R A D E R

Roadways at some of these mining operations can be much different than interstate highways. In dry conditions you have to cope with dust while mud is typical in wet conditions like this. MCI.

higher quality features. It quickly became the preferred favorite for high-quality charters and tours by MCI operators.

The Renaissance soon became known as the E4500 model. It was probably expected that other operators would pressure MCI for more of a “bread-and-butter” version of the attractive E4500 as sales increased. Introduced at the UMA show in February of 2001 in Atlantic City, the new MCI J4500 offered much the same styling and curb appeal as the E4500. But, as requested, it was more of a traditional coach for everyday service.

Peter Pan Bus Lines showed their confidence in both MCI and the new J4500 model by being the first in line to place an order. Soon, the new J4500 coaches were running between Boston and Springfield and on other Peter Pan routes. When Peter Pan and other operators ordered more J4500 coaches, it soon became obvious that the J4500 model offered both the traditional MCI durability as well as the new, attractive design. In 2002 the J4500 surpassed the sales of its parent E4500. In 2004 the J4500 surpassed the sales of the MCI D4500, becoming the most popular intercity coach on the market.

Without special care the dust easily gets into the passenger cabin. Shown here is an additional air filter located beneath the driver’s area that is a part of the J4500 Severe Duty package. NBT.

When many of us think about bus operations, it is the most obvious types of service that come to mind. This can include a charter on Interstate 80 through Iowa cornfields or a tour stopping near Times Square for a Broadway show. But there are numerous other uses for buses. These include several types of industrial locations including mines.

The typical large mining operation tends to be somewhat remote. You will not find them in the heart of a big city or even in sprawling suburbia. Larger mining operations are more likely to be found in remote locations where there is no public transportation. Hence, dedicated coaches are often used for staff transportation to and

from work at these locations. A similar situation also exists for transporting employees to work at oil and gas operations.

This kind of service can be among the most difficult for coaches. The entire area can be full of dust from the mining operations. Roadways may be less than ideal and dusty in dry weather while muddy in wet weather. Operators facing these difficult conditions approached MCI with a request for special modifications for coaches used in this type of service. The MCI engineers determined the specific problem areas and then developed the new Severe Duty Package for the J4500 to combat them. Here is a list of the items included in this new package.

Taken in southeast Kansas, this photo shows the size of the off-road equipment used in some of these heavy-duty mining and industrial applications. The coach from Village Tours of Wichita is overshadowed by Big Brutus. Note the size of the people behind the shovel. VILLAGE TOURS.

The J4500 has retained the title of most popular coach on the market ever since. But a strange thing happened. MCI engineers began improving the J4500 from time to time to where it soon became the coach of choice for all types of service – from heavy-duty scheduled runs to high-quality charters and tours. Operators who had previously operated the E4500 coach moved to ordering the popular and improved J4500 model. In an industry that has been moving to different coaches for different types of service since the mid-1980s, the J4500 has become somewhat unique in being very versatile and suited to most every type of service. This new Severe Duty Package extends that versatility even more.

16 • National Bus Trader / June, 2016

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Reprinted with permission from National Bus Trader

I NCASE Y

Supplemental Engine Air Filter Dust and particles in the air are a major problem for bus operations serving mining and similar industrial facilities. The dust tends to get into everything and is a particular problem when it gets inside of engines.

Part of the Severe Duty Package is a supplemental engine air filter that is installed inside the primary air filter. It captures smaller particles and also keeps dust from entering the air intake system when replacing the primary filter.

Cabin Fresh-Air Filtration System The ever-present dust annoys the passengers as well as the engine. An additional filter has been provided in the compartment beneath the driver to filter all incoming fresh air. This keeps dust out of the cabin air distribution system and provides cleaner air for the passengers.

Additional Full-Width Mud Flaps for the Drive Axle Mud and dirt are a particular problem for components located beneath the coach.

MCI has provided full-width mud flaps for the drive axle. These help protect the tag axle steering cylinder, U-joint and the transmission housing by reducing the mud, dirt and rocks kicked up by the drive tires.

Additional Full-Width Mud Flaps for the Front Axle Full-width mud flaps have also been placed behind the front axle. This fills in the gap between existing mud flaps. It helps knock down mud, dirt and rocks kicked up by the front tires that could cause problems to underfloor components and systems.

Dust is an ongoing problem at many of these industrial and mining locations. It can be a particular problem if it gets into the engine. Hence, MCI provides this additional filter in the engine compartment (center, top) as part of its J4500 Severe Duty package. NBT.

Engine Compartment Under Pans with Transmission Shroud These mining and similar industrial services have had problems with mud, dirt and stones getting into the engine compartment.

In addition to the possibility of causing damage, they also make the area dirty. MCI’s answer to this has been to provide a pan under the engine and a transmission shroud.

This goes a long way towards closing off the area and eliminating a lot of that mud, dirt

A major problem when operating in these industrial locations is the mud and dirt that gets thrown up into the engine compartment and can cause damage as well as making things messy. As a result, MCI provides a pan under the engine and a transmission shroud to minimize this problem. This closes off the area and eliminates much of the dirt and dust. NBT.

and rocks being thrown into the engine compartment.

Transmission Speed Sensor Protection The transmission speed sensor was an obvious problem area for buses running in mining and industrial areas. Again, this situation was the result of dust and other things in the air. MCI has resolved this problem by providing additional covers for the transmission speed sensor. There are actually two separate covers for two different purposes. They protect the harnesses from impact damage due to rocks, and other road debris while also keeping the harnesses secure under the accumulated weight of snow, ice, mud and road debris.

Transmission/Differential Breather Tube Protection This was another area on a coach that was vulnerable to dust and debris when operating in these mining and industrial areas. In particular, the breather tubes could become plugged if filled with dust and debris. To provide protection and reduce the potential for contact with dust and debris, the tube was moved to the top of the axle area. This increases the reliability of the breather tubes but also guards against damage from ice and snow. The tubes are now less likely to be affected by dust, debris, snow and ice because they have been relocated to “cleaner” areas in the axle area.

Pressurized Baggage Compartments Another problem area for buses used in these applications is the underfloor baggage compartment. The pervasive dust gets into everything. It not only leaves a layer of fine dust on surfaces in the baggage compartments but also gets into any equipment in National Bus Trader / June, 2016 • 17

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that area. What MCI did to eliminate this problem was to provide positive air pressure inside the compartments to prevent the dust from entering and help remove any dust already inside.

Brake Dust Shields on All Axles Brakes were also a typical problem area on coaches used in mining and industrial operations. In addition to the ever present dust, brake components suffered damage

Special equipment included with the Severe Duty package helps protect the underside of the coach.

In addition to full width mud flaps, MCI also provides a cover for the transmission speed sensor and has moved the breather tubes to the top of the axle area. This photo shows the underside of the coach in the area of the drive axle. Note the automatic tire chains. NBT.

from rocks and large debris thrown up from the roadway. MCI provided dust shields on the brakes on all axles to prevent damage from dust and large debris.

3M Paint Film Protection Systems and components seem to be the major concern for coaches in this type of service. However, the exterior of the coach is also a problem area. With rocks and debris continually being kicked up, the paint and finish is very susceptible to damage. MCI’s answer to this problem is to provide a protective film covering the 3M exterior paint.

This tends to minimize the damage from the smaller stones.

All of these items are included in MCI’s Severe Duty Package for the J4500.

Technically, it is known as option 6.05.116 and can be easily added to your J4500 order to make sure your new coach is equipped to deal with rugged operating environments.

This package was developed with years of feedback from key customers and MCI is constantly looking to add more value enhancements. MCI’s Brent Danielson commented: “We know we compete with a lot of really good products, but ours has been proven. Our customers say that MCI continues to provide the most advantages for the lowest operating cost.” ❑

From the June, 2016 Issue of

National Bus Trader 9698 W. Judson Road • Polo, Illinois 61064 Phone: (815) 946-2341 • Fax: (815) 946-2347 Website: www.busmag.com 18 • National Bus Trader / June, 2016

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Reprinted with permission from National Bus Trader

I N C A S E YO U

10 June 1, 2016

INDUST

New MCI engineering team p DES PLAINES, Ill. — Motor Coach Industries recently launched a new engineering team dedicated to supporting MCI technical staff in the field — a move intended to improve customer service and identify issues engineers can use to more quickly modify coach systems and designs in the factory.

MCI created the Design Engineering Field Suppor t Team (DEFS) to work with the company’s 26 Technical Solutions Managers (TSMs) positioned throughout North America as front-line contacts for customers.

TSMs provide technical expertise and other assistance to customers, but if issues arise requiring additional expertise or operators want to customize fleet software, for example, TSMs now have a direct line to DEFS. “We thought that if we could get a closer relationship between them (TSMs) and our engineering staff, it would really help us getting better proactively with new designs coming out,” said Bryan Couch, vice president and general manager of operations for MCI manufacturing plants.

“At the same time, we also

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have seen an increase in the electronics and the programming of the vehicles,” he said.

For example, if a customer taking delivery of a coach wants his outside lights to illuminate when the entry door opens and the coach wasn’t delivered that way, an engineer could modify the coach software to make that happen. MCI is getting more requests for customized features because vehicles today have that software capability, Couch said.

“So we thought that would be another reason to have this dedicated team that could work really close with our TSMs to help improve our products, serve our customers better and then in the instance where there is a challenging technical issue in the field, then these guys (TSMs) would know exactly who to call, they could talk face to face and already have a relationship set up and from that we think we’re getting much quicker solutions also to our costumers,” Couch said.

Three DEFS engineers plus a supervisor are dedicated to the TSMs and have expertise in electrical systems and coach program-

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Bus & Motorcoach News

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to service frequently, so that information can get fed back in.”

TSMs have an intimate knowledge of vehicles’ use, he said, “and we’re trying to get that knowledge into our engineering organization.”

MCI, which was acquired by Winnipeg-based New Flyer Industries Inc. in December, set the plans in motion for the DEFS team last August during its strategic planning, Couch said. The team was announced internally in March and publicly in April.

Besides adding the engineers to create the DEFS team, MCI also added five TSMs this year, said Wolfgang Winzer, MCI vice president and general manager of aftermarket operations. Of the 26 TSMs, 15 are dedicated to private-sector operators in the U.S. and Canada and 11 to the public sector.

The DEFS team formation was driven by MCI’s private-sector business and customer feedback, Winzer said.

“Some of the customer satisfaction surveys that we’ve done in the recent past have shown us that there is room for improvements in that area and we tend to react to the

Reprinted with permission from Bus & Motorcoach News

voice of the customer and actually wanted to really provide that additional layer of service to those private customers,” he said.

Brent Maitland, vice president of marketing and product planning for MCI, said the DEFS team is part of a comprehensive approach the company is taking to transform the way it provides service and support to customers. The goal is a much higher level.

Market research showed MCI was perceived as best in class in service and support overall, which was pleasing, Maitland said.

“But we also learned … there are some areas where we can get even better, more responsive,” he said. “There are a lot of initiatives we put in place from more parts stocking, better parts pricing, getting rid of parts-order minimums — that’s the parts side. And this really takes it to the next level on the service, support and sort of the field technical side of it, so it’s really part of a broad vision.”

Added Couch, “A lot of this is proactive so that the products continue to get better and better and better from this relationship between the engineers and the TSMs.”

THE SOLUTION IS OUR DISTRIBUTION 17

MCI, NEW FLYER TO SHOWCASE VEHICLES SIDE-BY-SIDE AT BUSCON 2016 MCI and New Flyer will exhibit side-by-side in the same booth at BusCon 2016, which will be held at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis September 19 to 21, 2016.

The shared booth space will provide attendees the opportunity to see both a 2017 MCI J4500 — the industry’s best-selling private-sector coach, featuring clean-diesel technology — and New Flyer’s MiDi® — a medium-sized, multipurpose low-floor bus ideal for all types of service, including shuttles.

BusCon will mark the first time MCI and New Flyer, which acquired MCI on December 18, 2015, will be showcasing products together at a private sector equipment trade show.

About the New Flyer MiDi® The New Flyer MiDi® is a mediumduty, low-floor bus available in 30- and 35-foot lengths that kneels to curb level to easily accommodate wheelchair passengers and others. Ideal for use in transit, community shuttle services and for connecting passengers to high-frequency transit routes, the MiDi is a lighter and more fuel-efficient option with a streamlined design with one or two doors, and a 1:6 slope wheelchair ramp, offering passengers excellent accessibility. Passengers also will enjoy a comfortable ride with user-friendly features including low, step-free entries; a wide vestibule; large windows providing more natural light; dual rows of roof-mounted LED lighting and contemporary styling.

18

About the Xcelsior®

New

Flyer

New Flyer’s Xcelsior, available in 35-, 40- and 60-foot lengths, comes in a variety of propulsion systems, with optimized and optional seating layouts that let more passengers ride. The Xcelsior® has a superb reliability and life-cycle savings reputation among top public transit agencies, with more than 8,000 units sold since 2008.

About the New Flyer XE40 zero-emission electric bus Clean, quiet and economical, the New Flyer XE40 zero-emission electric bus is built on their Xcelsior® platform. New Flyer has over 40 years of experience with electric propulsion including hybrid, trolley and fuel-cell buses. They have built and sold more electric buses to the North American industry in more configurations than all other transit bus manufacturers combined. The XE40 electric bus technology lowers total cost of ownership and eliminates emissions while providing customers with a quiet and comfortable ride.

“We look forward to seeing customers at BusCon,” said Brent Mailtand, MCI Vice President of Marketing and Product Planning. “Now operators requiring a low-floor shuttle or transit bus for community, campus or public transit partnerships, can tap MCI to put them in touch with the right people at New Flyer.”

New Flyer’s low-floor transit buses, including its multipurpose, medium-sized MiDi®, fit with MCI public commuter and private sector leadership positions, and both New Flyer and MCI have a philosophy based on reliability of product, service and support. The companies also offer the most comprehensive sophisticated aftermarket parts organization, providing support for all types of transit buses and motor coaches from parts to service and repair. 

19

MCI SERVICE CENTERS ARE NOW AUTHORIZED CUMMINS REPAIR DEALERS FOR WARRANTY, PARTS AND REPAIR

Since Cummins is the world's largest designer and manufacturer of diesel engines, there are plenty of service centers to choose from. But when motor coach owners come to an MCI Service Center, they are assured technicians working on their equipment have both Cummins and motor coach technical expertise to deliver fast, high-quality repairs.

Technicians at all six MCI Service Centers located in the U.S. and Canada have been trained to follow Cummins’ ISX 12L quick service guidelines to deliver consistent

support to maximize coach up time, including: •

Fast response and diagnostics

•

High quality repair

•

Use of only genuine Cummins parts

Please call 888-912-9983 to reach an MCI Service Center located in Dallas, Texas; Los Alamitos, California; Des Plaines, Illinois; Blackwood, NewJersey; Winter Garden, Florida; and Montreal, Quebec. 

20

21

WHY MCI ?

New videos tell the MCI leadership story

MCI lets coaches and coworkers do the talking in a new Reliability Driven video. Created to bring to life MCI’s motor coach might, the video highlights what it takes to build the industry’s bestselling models.

Viewers learn how MCI’s Quality at the Source initiatives, the structured lean manufacturing process that empowers employees, lead to reliable coaches that offer the lowest cost of ownership.

Viewers see the scale and action of the busy Winnipeg and Pembina, North Dakota, assembly lines, and the dedication of MCI’s skilled workforce. The video also highlights MCI’s strength in preowned coaches along with exceptional parts, service and support for an ownership experience that is, and will always be, Reliability Driven.

22

MCI J4500 Refined Design

The MCI J4500 Build video reveals all the goes into the best-selling coach in the tour and charter market. From the awe-inspiring welding of the stainless steel monocoque frame to robotic technologies that focus in on ergonomics and productivity throughout the 400,000-square-foot Winnipeg facility, viewers get a close look at what makes the MCI J4500 a model of efficiency.

MCI D-Series Workhorse Leader The MCI D-Series Build video tracks a Commuter Coach destined for Denver RTD. Shot at the Pembina factory, completion site for D-Series, the best-selling line of coaches in industry history, the video showcases how the Commuter Coach earns its workhorse reputation—while being Buy America-compliant and offering three powertrain options (clean diesel, hybrid and CNG) as well as two sizes (40- and 45-foot).

MCI aftermarket parts testimonial A video about MCI’s aftermarket business includes a testimonial from Miller Transportation. The Louisville, Kentucky, school bus and tour charter operator counts on MCI for replacements parts required to keep its fleet, which includes transit buses, on the move. The endorsement sends a strong message to the market that MCI is the one to trust for the right part. 

23

I N C A S E YO U M I S

M

ost bus operators are aware of several departments at bus manufacturers and dealers that they regularly deal with. This might include the sales department, the service department and the parts department. However, many operators are not aware that there are other departments that may be less obvious but still provide them with numerous advantages and benefits. Included in this group would be the Product Lifecycle Management team at MCI.

Product Lifecycle Management at MCI

by Larry Plachno Photos courtesy of MCI

Back in 2012, MCI created a new group known as the Product Lifecycle Management Team or PLM for short. Much of their work is not very public or obvious, but it does provide substantial benefits to operators. The primary goal of this group has been to predict lifecycles on numerous products. In addition to helping set optimum replacement times and avoiding road failures, this has helped inventory control and keeping parts in stock.

However, the PLM group has gone beyond that. Determining reasons behind lifecycles has helped in improving some parts. It has also helped in reducing prices on numerous parts. The PLM team will even help operators with their own parts inventory and ordering.

In fact, the group has been so successful that MCI recently expanded it with inventory management and sourcing teams.

A major goal of the PLM team is to predict product lifecycles. This helps a great deal in setting replacement cycles to avoid a coach down on the road. It also helps in planning inventory to keep up with preventive maintenance. The PLM team has found that alternators and starters have been found to last five years depending on duty cycles and operating environments. On the other hand, air springs typically last three to four years. This information is then shared with operators to establish preventive maintenance replacement times and avoid coach down situations.

“We can create a regular, automatic monthly order of scheduled maintenance items for any operator who will give us visibility into their maintenance needs,” says Scott Robertson, vice president of the PLM group. “We schedule meetings between one of our product lifecycle managers and their director of maintenance to determine what their wear item and maintenance parts usage really is, and prepare a standing monthly order. They can change it as needed, and it helps the operator reduce the number of parts in inventory, which can save them money.”

Robertson says that the group has also been aggressive in getting prices down on many of the parts MCI Service Parts sells. A good example is that they have been working with MCI manufacturing to get the price lowered on commonly ordered body parts by as much as 25 percent. Robertson suggests that this has made some operators look closer at MCI for value and selection in parts.

He mentions the example of a major national

Most of the work done by the MCI Product Lifecycle Management Team is not very obvious. They have helped to optimize replacement times, improved parts and reduced costs. A lot of their work shows up here at the big MCI parts center in Louisville.

carrier that saves about $25,000 annually by buying radiators from MCI Service Parts.

The PLM team has had a great deal of success in getting Setra prices down by working with the Setra parts division.

“We’ve reduced the cost of more than 100 Setra parts in the marketplace,” says Robertson. He provides the example of a commonly replaced Energy Station, which works as a hub for the cooling and air conditioning systems. Earlier, customers had to replace the entire unit, which was somewhat expensive. The PLM group worked with the

28 • National Bus Trader / February, 2016

24

Setra teams in Germany to offer individual power station components at a quarter of the cost so operators can just buy those parts that more often need replacement.

Working to determine lifecycles has led to various ways to improve different products.

The PLM group has worked to bring improved parts to market, such as an upgraded MCI radiator with aluminum tanks. Also included in this area are an upgraded condenser module with new motors, auto snow tire chain kits, D coach LED headlamp retrofit kits and many others.

S S E D I T . A S S E E N I N T H E F E B R U A R Y , 2 0 1 6 I S S U E O F N AT I O N A L B U S T R A D E R

The PLM group is also adding products to MCI’s Coach Guard ® parts line on a weekly basis. Popular items include brake pads, rotors, air springs and PROHEAT® pumps that can save operators money while providing the peace of mind of an OEMapproved aftermarket product.

diate shipping, MCI will supply an equivalent Coach Guard product at a major discount. If neither the OEM nor Coach Guard part is available, MCI will issue a $500 parts credit. This offer is good both at the MCI Parts Store and at MCI Sales and Service Centers.

Thanks in large part to the PLM group, MCI Service Parts is also rolling out a brake parts in stock guarantee. The guarantee assures operators that commonly used OEM brake parts like brake pads and rotors will be in stock for late model MCI coaches. If they are not available for imme-

“We want to reduce headaches for our customers and save them money. Everything we do is toward a continued focus on the customer experience.” says Robertson. “It’s the PLM group’s hope that customers will recognize – and take advantage of – the value that we are creating.” ❑

Radiators can be a big cost item and a major factor in coach service. One national carrier saves about $25,000 annually by buying radiators from MCI Service Parts. The Product Lifecycle Management Team has also improved quality by upgrading a radiator with aluminum tanks.

From the February, 2016 Issue of National Bus Trader 9698 W. Judson Road Polo, Illinois 61064 Phone: (815) 946-2341 Due to the work of the MCI Product Lifecycle Management Team, MCI Service Parts is rolling out a brake parts in stock guarantee. Commonly used OEM brake parts like brake pads and rotors will be in stock for late model MCI coaches. If not available for immediate shipment, MCI will supply an equivalent Coach Guard product at a discount.

Fax: (815) 946-2347 Website: www.busmag.com

Reprinted with permission from National Bus Trader

National Bus Trader / February, 2016 • 29

25

PR O D U C T S & S ERV I C E S

REINVIGORATED: THE SETRA S 407 MOVES TO THE FRONT OF THE COMFORTCLASS 26

include wood-effect flooring and entryway covering.

European coach riders have long recognized that in its own way, the SetraComfortClass S 407 has as much to offer as its superluxurious TopClass S 417 sibling. And with a new aesthetic for 2016, the ComfortClass is offering even more, inside and out.

A Bosch Proline entertainment system completes the passenger experience, along with dual 110v outlets with dual USB ports at each seat.

The New Look

For the driver

Most strikingly, many new S 407s will be rolling up curbside with new, optional front and rear bumpers that sport the same sleek, German-engineered design and taillights as the S 417.

There’s plenty for drivers to like in 2016 on the S 407 as well. From heated windshields to electronically controlled blinds and side shades, the S 407 brings a new level of pleasure to thoselong hours behind the wheel.

“The optional new bumpers and taillights give the S 407 a truly premium look,” says Brent Maitland, Vice President of Marketing and Product Planning. “The new look gives operators yet another way to differentiate themselves from the local competition— and maybe even attract those inbound European customers who recognize Setra as their continent’s premium brand, even more so than Mercedes.”

The coach also offers superb handling, thanks to the Knorr braking, variable ratio power steering, optimal axle ratio, cruise control, automatic traction control, fullcoach lift and lowering and quick-recover kneeling.

In addition, safety features include SmartWave® tire-pressure monitoring and a fire-detection system. Exterior lighting includes halogen headlights, LEDs, daytime running lights, and fog, cornering and docking lights.

An interior that raises the bar on comfort

The Setra S 407s are now available with the Setra-exclusive Voyage and Voyage Plus seats, offering a more upscale look and rounding out an ample range of options.

Ergonomically designed for long-haul comfort, Voyage seats are as beautiful as they are functional, and offer S407 operators a new level of customization.

Optional tray tables bring an extra bit of grace to the coach experience.

And for ease of diagnostics, the S 407 includes Virtual Technician for Detroit Diesel engines.

A wheelchair lift is available as well.

Value priced

Operators will likely find the S 407’s 2016 pricing enticing, especially when they factor in a range of new features plus the engineering for which Setra is famous.

The S 407 offers a Mercedes Benz OM 471 engine, and a high-capacity AC system.

The S 407’s interior fabrics have been redesigned as well, giving an overall upgraded look that extends to the parcel racks, sidewalls and lavatory. Operators can choose from many colors and seating materials including elegant, durable composition leather. Additionally, the “Vincent” line offers a direct color match to the previous Dralon fabrics—a bonus for operators who already have Setras in their fleets. For more luxury underfoot, options

“The S 407 is a tremendous value,” says Maitland. “Operators who have seen the new coach are impressed, and we welcome all of our customers to take a look for themselves.” 

27

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MCI Service Centers Toll Free 888-912-9983

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28

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©2016 Motor Coach Industries International, Inc. and its subsidiaries. All rights reserved.

NEW IMPROVEMENTS, STRATEGIES AT MCI PARTS, SERVICE AND SUPPORT YIELD THE HIGHEST RATING: DIRECT PRAISE FROM CUSTOMERS

MCI Service Parts call center Customer Service Supervisors Matt DiGiuseppe and Sara Fentress.

It’s nice to get great compliments from long time customers. Especially when they mention your great people by name: “…I wanted to make sure that MCI knows that I appreciate the professionalism and courtesy Miss Lawler provides to your customers! ” Bob Niehaus, Charlotte Area Transit System “Michelle…this email is to let you know that I think you did a great job in helping me with my problem,” Marty, Northwest Tours

29

“YES!! Matt has been awesome. We got our windows ordered and things are on the right track…”

Jeremy Maul, Stormtrooper Coaches “Please let Jeanine Thompson and other customer service employees know that their efforts did not go unnoticed. You have put together a great team that makes customers feel respected and valued.” Robert McCormick, Lakefront Lines And even in verse: “Some things make a difference…Your help at the right time, even at a distance…On my end I express appreciation…All left for you to listen to the weather station…” Monroe Bus Co. No matter how it’s heard, “Thanks, great job!” is welcome feedback.

MCI’s tireless efforts to improve its parts and service system over the past few years have been working.

MCI is particularly happy about that second development, because it’s definitely a new day for aftermarket care at MCI.

Serving customers better, step by step “We’ve been adjusting our approach to aftermarket sales and service for the past few years,” said Scott Robertson, Vice President, Product Lifecycle Management. “Our customers know what’s worked and what hasn’t, and they haven’t been shy about telling us.”

An industry survey ranked MCI as “best-in-class” in the industry, but it also revealed areas that needed improvement.

MCI has been listening -- and responding.

Over the past 18 months, MCI Service Parts’ Louisville customer service call center has shortened on-hold times and improved contact quality in its speedy response to parts orders.

An upgrade to telephone software speeds this process with no calls abandoned.

“In 2015, the average hold time through the standard customer service call center was about 90 seconds. Year to date, the wait is now under 60 seconds,” said Jim Stibgen, Director, Aftermarket Customer Service and National Accounts. “We know some calls will be below or above that number because we have to be realistic about the time required to take care of a customer’s specific needs.”

The call center’s 19 customer service representatives answer between 9,000 and 10,000 calls a month. They are using MCI’s online LMS (Learning Management System) to perfect their parts knowledge and call efficiency.

LMS, an online, anytime training program, features a library of more than 400 courses dedicated to major coach components and systems. It is also used by 3,500 MCI customer subscribers.

Parts shipments and fulfillment rates are also on the rise. In addition to shipping parts from the MCI Louisville parts distribution location and the Edmonton, Canada and East Brunswick, New Jersey satellite branches, parts warehousing sites have been added to California and Texas MCI Sales and Service Center locations for faster delivery times in those states.

MCI’s Dallas location now has 7,500-square-feet housing 4,000 items in inventory.The Los Alamitos location has a 50,000-square-foot parts distribution center with 3,600 items in inventory. Free standard shipping on parts orders of all sizes, with no minimum order, is yet another change demonstrating the company’s care for its customers.

30

At the Winter Garden, Florida, MCI Service Center, from left: Gus D’Andrea, Julio Armstrong, Chris Gault and Scott Batissa.

“Expanding parts availability, faster deliveries and free standard shipping are big improvements tied to the climbing customer demands,” said Robertson. “It’s about making it convenient and easy to do business with us.”

Other improvements Customers can also pick up parts at all six MCI Service Centers in the U.S. and Canada. In addition to the Dallas and Los Alamitos MCI Service Centers, other pickup locations include Des Plaines, Illinois, Blackwood, New Jersey, Winter Garden, Florida, and Montreal, where MCI is broadening its coach repair and refurbishing capabilities and adopting Quality at the Source (QAS). A lean practice methodology applied to the assembly line at the MCI manufacturing plants, QAS has service center shops organized to assure mistake-proof coach maintenance and repair.

One more thing Pleased by the Winter Garden, Florida’s Service Center’s timely repairs, Harold Lewis Jr., General Manager of New Orleans-based Lewis Coach Inc., sent a note to Paul Soubry, New Flyer and MCI President and CEO expressing his appreciation for a job well done. Lewis also made sure he didn’t leave anyone out, including his technical solutions manager “and all around great guy, Sean Greene, …… the capable hands of Gus D’Andrea and his staff” and salesman Rob Lessor, “who called to make sure all was well…”

Lewis concludes: “Being a small operator, it is important to have a coach supplier that is reliable, caring and just plain honest. MCI has continued over the years to be that and then some. Keep up the good work and may God continue to bless you with continued success.”

Such personal feedback keeps everyone going at MCI. “We’re grateful that customers notice our commitment to them, and we welcome feedback good or bad,” said Stibgen, who keeps track of all letters and emails he receives to share with the MCI executive team.

“This is precious communication,” says Robertson: “When customers take time out of their busy day to tell us what they think of our products and service, we know they’re telling us something that really matters to them. There’s no better way to find out how we’re really doing.”  31

M A I N T E N A N C E M AT T E R S

COMING CLEAN: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR SETRA WIPERS

A wiper motor is a seemingly simple thing:an electric motor that goes round and round. The wiper motor does not go in a back-and-forth motion to move the wipers; instead, the linkage does that. There is a low-speed brush, a high-speed brush and a ground. Put voltage in the low-speed wire, and the motor will run on low speed. Put voltage in the high-speed wire, and the motor will run in high speed.

Put voltage in both wires at the same time, and you will compromise the magnetic fields,causing the motor to run slow and overheat. All intermittent systems generally use the low-speed circuit.

32

Setra S 215/ S 217 Coaches

33

34

With that understood, we move on to the park switch, which is internal to the motor. This switch is mechanically cycled on and off with a cam on a gear. To park the wiper motor in the proper position, turning the wiper switch off connects terminal 31b and 53 using voltage through the park switch to power the low-speed circuit (keeping the motor turning).When the wiper motor park switch opens the voltage circuit, the circuit is also grounded, stopping the motor in the proper position.

35

36

37

38

Please refer to the schematic to the left which summarizes the wiper functions on the Setra S 215/S 217 coaches.

• Notice intermittent controller controls low-speed brush again.

High speed bypasses controller.

• 24-volt ignition going to wiper motor park switch at all times with ignition ON. • When wiper switch is turned off, when motor is not in park position, the park switch still provides voltage to the low-speed brush until park switch contacts open (notice that in “off” position, the pink and orange wires on the switch make contact.)

Wire colors are not specific and are for reference only.

• Blue — High-speed brush power • Red — Ignition voltage 24-volt • Pink— Low-speed and intermittent voltage • Orange — Park voltage to switch • Yellow — Wiper washer and signal to controller • Green — Ground • Violet — Intermittent/Mist Position

39

Setra S 407 / S 417 Coaches Setra uses a similar motor configuration on the S 407/ S 417s, but controls the park system a little differently with the FPSs. If you look at this system, Setra uses the same four wires but uses the park switch signal as an input to FPS1 to tell the module when the motor is in the Park position. The module can then remove the power to the motor at the proper time.

With the incorporation of the FPS modules, the schematics are divided into two separate drawings.

Shown below is the schematic showing the inputs from the turn signal switch to the main dash controller, DMUX. On the schematic it is identified as 61A03.

40

When the wiper switch position is communicated to the coach electrical, FPS #1, 04A01, will supply power to the wiper control module, 33A03. Power will come from either ouput HS16 or HS17, depending if low speed or high speed is selected on the wiper switch.

When the wiper switch is turned off, power will remain on HS16 to keep the motor running on low speed until the wipers are in the park position.

When the park position is reached, a ground signal is sent to FPS #1, input L13. At this point, the HS16 power is removed and the wipers stop at the center windshield post.

41

Wiper problems could be caused by either external wiring or internal wiper motor problems. Below are some possible issues and suggestions to what the root cause might be. Look over the list to familiarize yourself with the diagnostics of the S 407 / S 417: •

No low speed, high speed ok.

o

No power from switch to DMUX

o

Defective motor

o

Defective FPS1

o

Defective control unit

o

Wiring issue

•

No high speed, low speed ok.

o

No power from switch to DMUX

o

Defective motor

o

Defective FPS1

o

Defective control unit

o

Wiring issue

•

No low or high speed

o

No power to switch from X010B

o

No power from switch to DMUX

o

Blown 33F02 fuse

o

Defective control unit

o

Defective FPS1

o

No ground

o

Defective motor

•

Wiper switch off, wipers keep wiping

o

#5 terminal shorted to ground. FPS module still sends power to low speed until it sees #5 ground open circuit to park wipers, but never sees the open circuit.

•

Wipers do not park in proper position (stop when switch is turned off).

o

#5 terminal has an open circuit. FPS module removes power immediately because it sees the park position.

42

•

No intermittent operation. Remember, intermittent uses the low-speed circuit; is the high speed working?

o

If yes, then we know we have a ground, and it could still be a defective motor (low-

speed winding), wiring or intermittent control. If we jumper power to the low-speed

wire and motor works, then we know it is in the control of intermittent operation.

•

Check park switch operation?

o

Park switch is just an intermittent ground connection. Connect ohmmeter to ground and terminal 5. As the motor is turning, the meter should cycle from continuity to

open circuit.

If you have further questions on how the system works, or need help with any troubleshooting issues, call the MCI Technical Support Group at 800-241-2947. 

43

I N C A S E YO U M I S S E D I T.

BRIAN DEWSNUP

TO LEAD MCI AFTERMARKET BUSINESS

Brian Dewsnup has been named Vice President and General Manager of MCI Aftermarket.

He succeeds Wolfgang Winzer, who retired this month after four years at MCI, where he expanded the company’s strength in parts, service and support.

In his new role, Mr. Dewsnup will lead the Louisville, Kentucky, based parts distribution warehouse, field technical support and training center and six MCI Service Centers located in the U.S. and Canada.

Mr. Dewsnup was previously the Vice President, Business Development of New Flyer, and before that, Vice President and General Manager of Operations of North American Bus Industries, Inc., which New Flyer purchased in June 2013.

“MCI’s parts and technical service team already has a proud history, but with the many brands we now serve, we have a unique opportunity to improve and innovate,” said Mr. Dewsnup.

“Our customers are the best in the industry and we want to provide service to match.”

Mr. Dewsnup will continue to report to Mr. Paul Soubry, President and Chief Executive Officer of New Flyer and MCI.

View the entire press release  44

I N C A S E YO U M I S S E D I T.

MCI’S NEW SERVICE SECTOR LOCATOR FOR ERSA, PLUS CALL CENTER IMPROVEMENTS; KEEP MCI, SETRA MOTOR COACHES RUNNING ACROSS NORTH AMERICA

Motor Coach Industries ("MCI"), a subsidiary of New Flyer Industries Inc. (the "Company"), the largest bus and motor coach manufacturer in North America announced improvements to MCI's Emergency Roadside Assistance (ERSA), making it the best source for customers to get service 24/7. A newly created service locator available on the MCI Companion App, or from the MCI website, identifies all service locations available in any pinpointed location. At the same time, MCI added resources to the MCI ERSA call center and enhanced the call routing system. When using the ERSA hotline of 800-241-2947, callers now have the option of talking to an MCI technical expert or an MCI responder for emergency roadside assistance.

The service locator can be accessed from the MCI website at mcicoach.com/ERSA or directly through the MCI Companion App, available from the Apple App Store and Google Play.

View the entire press release 

45

CORPORATE CHARTER & TOURS

FIRST TO GO WITH TWO RESTYLED COMFORT CLASS SETRA S 407 COACHES To deliver ultimate comfort to a discerning audience, you need the ultimate coach. And for Corporate Coach Charter & Tour, Setra fits the bill.

MCI, the U.S. and Canadian distributor of Daimler Bus-built Setra coaches, announced today that the Los Angeles, California-based company is the first operator in the United States to take delivery of two restyled Comfort Class Setra S 407s.

But this was no ordinary delivery.

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I N C A S E YO U M I S S E D I T.

Paul Eshaghi, who founded Corporate Coach Charter and Tours in 1990, knew the exact look and feel he wanted on a Setra S 407 for his corporate customers, when he toured the Ulm, Germany plant two years ago. "I sat down with Setra and MCI representatives and discussed how we serve upscale corporate clients that expect high-end, elegant looking coaches," he said. "I suggested that if the S 407 was brought a little bit more upscale, especially the front exterior, along with a luxury interior, it would be a perfect coach for the U.S." said Eshaghi, already a Setra customer with two 2015 Setra S 417 coaches. Noting the advantage of similar parts for easier maintenance, the savings from the lower price, and a more attractive coach, "I was eager to try the S 407," he said.

View the entire press release 

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MCI RELIABILITY RALLIES AT MCI SALES AND SERVICE CENTERS SHOWCASE OUR BEST The MCI Reliability Rallies at Sales and Service Centers in Los Alamitos, California, Des Plaines, Illinois, Blackwood, New Jersey, and Montreal, Quebec in June and July gave customers the chance to see MCI’s best-selling coaches and a New Flyer MiDi® bus, as well as enjoy lunch and prize drawings.

The Los Alamitos, California, Rally was held June 1; Des Plaines, Illinois, June 16; Blackwood, New Jersey, July 12; and Montreal, Quebec, July 19.

The Des Plaines event coincided with an MCI Executive Management Leadership team meeting, allowing customers to meet our CEO Paul Soubry. The day also celebrated the delivery of two of seven MCI® J4500 coaches Village Tours, Wichita, Kansas, has added to its fleet this year. 

Joining in the Village Tours delivery celebration are from left: MCI’s Aram Nikitas, VP Central Region; Patricia Ziska, VP New Coach Sales; Patrick Scully, EVP Sales and Marketing; Village Tours’ Ivan Moore Jeff Johnson and Jeff Arensdorf, along with PaulSoubry, MCI CEO; Bryan Couch, VP and GM Operations; and Brian Dewsnup, VP Aftermarket.

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Like-New Setra Sale!

Own a Ready-to-Roll, Pre-Owned Setra S 417 with Setra Select+ Warranty, Service and More!

Get the luxury coach your fleet’s been looking for.

MCI’s all new Setra Select+ program offers you Setra TopClass S 417 coaches that are 11 years old or newer at substantial savings.

What You Get Warranty

A low-mileage, 210+ point inspected pre-owned Setra TopClass S 417 that’s ready to go into revenue service immediately.

Vin #00235, 2005 Setra S 417 TC

A 60-day limited warranty, plus 4-months of extended coverage on brakes, electrical system and more (excluding engine, transmission, batteries and tires), adds confidence to your purchase.

Maintenance

Includes two free express service visits and a 10,000-mile preventive maintenance at any six MCI Service Center locations.

Training

FREE, three-day Setra technical training will be provided for one of your technicians at MCI’s Louisville, KY, training center.

Vin #00790, 2009 Setra S 417 TC

ON SALE! NOW

Vin #00495, 2007 Setra S 417 TC

Vin #10011, 2011 Setra S 417 TC

See more Setra Select+ Coaches at mcicoach.com/preowned Search by Category under Setra Select+

A New Flyer company

Motor Coach Industries · 200 East Oakton Street · Des Plaines, IL 60018 · Phone 866.624.262 · www.setra-coaches.com Distributor of EvoBus GmbH for Setra buses and Setra parts in the United States and Canada.

MCI FYI Setra ad_final.indd 1

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Have a great picture of your MCI or Setra coach in a fabulous location? Historical MCI or Setra photos? Send us what you have and we may use it in the next FYI from MCI! Send submissions to fyi@mcicoach.com www.mcicoach.com

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Leading the industry starts with a winning team.

Parts World-class fill rates and inventory for all makes and models

Support 24/7 via in-house ERSA, Technical Call Center and extensive field support

Training Online LMS, LEARN webinars and Technical Tune-ups

F

Manufacturing Quality-at-the-source transformation

Performance Lowest total operating cost, maximum uptime

rom head-turning good looks to the market’s

from our team to troubleshoot your problem, get you

lowest cost of ownership, and safety technologies

your part, and get you on your way, thanks to second-

like adaptive cruise control and optional collision

to-none service and support. It’s what MCI has been

mitigation, our coaches lead the industry not just in

doing better than anyone for more than 80 years. And

sales, but in features, amenities and value. Plus, we

it’s what we’re still doing better today. See what an MCI

offer the assurance that there will always be someone

J4500, MCI D-Series, or Setra coach can do for you.

Discover what it means to be Reliability Driven.

©2016 MCI

To learn more about the MCI J4500’s lowest total cost of operation advantage, scan here.

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