Kodie, a district near me has the same issue...with an early 90s AARE. They don't have the money to fix it, but would if they could. Parts deteriorate...but when it is cheaper to replace the part than the bus...we replace the part.
Eric, we will keep insurance on it, so it will not affect the budget at all...whether we start today or in September. (Honestly, one week of keeping track for maintenance won't be atrociasly more expensive).