CHAMPION BODY CONSTRUCTION

The body has a steel cage construction. When the sidewalls, floor, and roof are welded together, they form a strong, durable structure.

 The sidewalls are constructed of 1.5” x 1.5” 16-gauge tubular steel studs and corner posts on maximum 48” centers. A 14-gauge, 1-1/2” x 2” tubular horizontal stringer is welded to the top of the studs. A 16-gauge Z-rail is welded to the studs at the bottom of the sidewall.

The roof consists of 1.5” x 1.5” 16-gauge tubular steel rafters installed on maximum 48” centers. The roof rafters are welded into two 16-gauge steel “U” shaped sidewall caps.   As required, additional reinforcement of the front cap structure and a truss is added 6 inches from the rear of the bus.  The rafters, in conjunction with two 16-gauge C channels,  form a “steel cage” type of construction.

The back wall has a 1.5” x 1.5” 16-gauge tubular steel frame, reinforced with 16-gauge “C” channel. A section of 16-gauge Z-channel is welded to the bottom of the back wall.

The floor frame is constructed of 11-gauge, 2” x 2.8” x 2” channel cross members, on maximum 34” centers, with an outer 14-gauge channel steel impact rail. 11-gauge, 4” flat steel is provided to support the floor track. The wheel wells consist of 16-gauge galvanized steel welded to the floor cross members. Any wheelchair tie downs are attached through 11-gauge 4” flat steel welded in the appropriate locations on the floor. The floor frame is secured to the chassis frame in accordance with the chassis manufacturer’s requirements.

When the sidewalls, floor, and roof are welded together, they form a continuous structure, which is extremely strong and durable. 

The cage shall be built as a complete assembly and shall be square, plumb and level before installing the body on the chassis.