RFP 17F-26 | CNG bus overhaul | machining services for cummins engines

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) is issuing RFP 17F-26 to procure machining, overhaul, and remanufacturing services for Cummins ISL CM2180 8.9L CNG engines (Model 74100501) that support the SR1982 fleet of 175 New Flyer CNG buses. The estimated quantity is 115 engines at an anticipated production rate of three engines per month, with potential to increase to five engines per month, though no minimum quantity is guaranteed. All work must comply with Technical Specification No. EE&QA-833 and be completed within three business days of receipt unless delays result from Force Majeure or written MBTA approval. Bidders must submit firm fixed pricing for basic work components (block, crankshaft, camshaft, and connecting rods) and additional services (main cap tightening, deck resurfacing, threaded hole repair, and casting repair), along with hourly labor rates for unlisted work. Required qualifications include at least two years of experience with transit or transportation-related engine remanufacturing, adequate facilities and equipment, and sufficient financial resources. The MBTA will evaluate proposals on a best-value basis, considering technical proposals, warranty terms, and pricing together rather than lowest price alone. Key deadlines include a pre-bid conference on February 23, 2026 at 9:30 a.m. via Microsoft Teams; questions due March 6, 2026 at 2:00 p.m.; official answers published March 13, 2026 at 2:00 p.m.; and proposals due April 1, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. via COMMBUYS with a virtual public bid opening scheduled for the same date at 2:30 p.m.

The contract shall remain in effect for four years (48 months) or until all required engines have been remanufactured, whichever occurs first, with an estimated contract execution date of May 15, 2026 and project start date of May 22, 2026. Successful bidders must comply with Build America, Buy America requirements, federal and state prevailing wage laws where applicable, and all applicable civil rights and non-discrimination laws. The MBTA is exempt from Federal Excise Tax and Massachusetts State Sales Tax (Exemption Number E-042-323-989), and these taxes should not be included in bid prices. Contractors must provide proof of insurance within three business days of conditional notice of award and maintain comprehensive coverage throughout the contract term, including Commercial General Liability ($1,000,000 per occurrence), Automobile Liability ($1,000,000 combined single limit), Workers' Compensation with Employers Liability ($1,000,000 limits), Umbrella Liability ($10,000,000), Professional Liability ($5,000,000), Pollution Liability ($5,000,000 per occurrence), Technology Errors & Omissions ($10,000,000), and Cyber Liability ($5,000,000 for network security and $5,000,000 for data breach). All insurance policies must be placed with Massachusetts Division of Insurance-licensed companies with a Best's rating of A- or better. The contract includes a one-year warranty beginning upon installation covering defects, labor costs, and shipping, with warranty repairs and redelivery required within five business days. The RFP does not identify specific set-aside designations or incumbent vendors, and no budget range has been disclosed in the available documentation.