1988 Dodge B350 Van - Opinions?

[nickd]

Looking at this van currently, and would like some opinions.<br><br>http://austin.craigslist.org/ctd/3602884509.html<br>http://www.cashboxmotors.net/vehicledetails.aspx?VID=175701170<br><br><img rel="lightbox" src="http://cimages4.carsforsale.com/468432/59251CEF-2035-4A80-A99B-1932703693BC_1.jpg" class="bbc_img"><br><br>1988 Dodge RAM B350 Camper Conversion<br>13-17 mpg, 77,414 on the odometer<br>5.2L V8 engine<br><br>--<br><br>Asking price is $3300. Anyone have experience with these vans? I don't have much knowledge about older Dodge vans and I'm curious to learn from someone who could offer some insight/opinions.<br><br>Thanks!<br>Nick<br><br><br>

 

[Lostinspace]

Have it checked by a mechanic and offer them $2500 and negotiate to split the difference at $2800 or $2900.&nbsp; I tried to find it on nada.com but that year and make wasn't there.&nbsp; they don't cover everything.&nbsp; When you stop to think about it though.&nbsp; $3000 isn't bad for a '98 Van with a hitop.&nbsp; So here you have a class B with the amenities done for you.&nbsp; and the mileage is great at 77k.&nbsp; I'd say if the mechanic gives a green light go for it. <img src="/images/boards/smilies/smile.gif" border="0" align="absmiddle">

 

[MrNoodly]

Not just an automotive mechanic, but an RV technician, too. Who knows what troubles might be lurking in all those systems. The faded paint suggests the thing has been sitting neglected for quite a while. If the exterior is that bad, the internal systems might be in similar shape. The rooftop AC unit looks like something from behind the Iron Curtain.<br><br><br>

 

[wrcsixeight]

I have an' 89 b250 with the 5.2.<br><br>I do not think 17 mpg is likely with that pompadour type high top and the extra weight of the conversion with the extended length, and around town MPG will be well below 13.<br><br>This year does have a roller cam with the 5.2/318. &nbsp;The roller cam is good for 10 HP and 15Lb/ft of torque but it is no Powerhouse. Not even close.<br><br>The transmission is likely the weak link if it has overdrive, and for them to claim 17 mpg, it is an overdrive transmission.<br><br>Smell the transmission fluid. &nbsp;Brown and burnt and you are looking at 2g's minimum for a rebuild in the near future. &nbsp;The 318 is an excellent engine and if maintained will go 180k miles easy.<br><br>The speedo's do not indicate 100,000 + miles, it rolls over. &nbsp;77k miles might actually be 177k.

 

[Unchained]

I have an '87 Dodge B350 hi top (not the pompadour style) extended van and I think that 13 to 17 is WAY optimistic on mileage. Even with no rear seats and stripped in the back, it got about 10MPG on the freeway driving it home. Granted, it wasn't in the best shape, but mileage is something you will want to look into. I'm actually going to sell mine and likely get an Astro or newer conversion van due to the craptastic mileage and other issues with 'the Beast'. <br><br>

 

[nickd]

Thanks for the input, everyone.<br><br>I'll be passing on this one. Appreciate the help!

 

[Roo]

Just wanted to say thanks for passing on this van. I picked it up for 1400 and other than replacing the tires the van was a steal. Very clean with just 77,000 on mileage. True the fuel mileage is way below the 13/17.
Once again thank you I was very much in need of a home

 

[rokguy]

<EM><STRONG><SPAN style="COLOR: #888888">Good on you, Roo.</SPAN></STRONG></EM><BR><EM><STRONG><SPAN style="COLOR: #888888">Sounds like a good buy.</SPAN></STRONG></EM><BR><EM><STRONG><SPAN style="COLOR: #888888">Welcome aswell.<BR>Geoff</SPAN></STRONG></EM>

 

[Roo]

Thank you for the welcome Geoff. And yes I'm still surprised at being fortunate to pick this van up after it was on the market for so long.
Once again thank you for the warm welcome