Need to buy a van. - Seattle area, WA state

[SoulRaven]

My situation is time-sensitive. The priority is to get something reasonably reliable, quickly, for $1500 or less, could possibly swing a bit more if necessary (loan from a friend).

This would be something I'd move into straight away, ready or not. Anything with basic work already done on it would help a lot, especially insulation, or some sort of build inside I could work off of. But I am willing to purchase an empty shell if need be. I am disabled and would not be doing typical construction to fit it out, but I have my ways of making a space liveable.

Who wants to help me find one?

---

Budget increased to $2000, including tax and any repairs needed.

 

[sephson]

I did a quick Craigslist search for the Seattle/Tacoma area. These are what stood out to my eye in your price range. I tried to stick to vans that would involve the least amount of work to make them livable.

Not exactly stealthy, but would make a good blank slate:
1990 Dodge Ambulance:
http://seattle.craigslist.org/sno/cto/4749230021.html

Also a good blank slate, possibly older than you're looking for though:
1977 Dodge:
http://seattle.craigslist.org/tac/cto/4740619506.html

A good starting point:
1990 Dodge:
http://seattle.craigslist.org/see/cto/4749042821.html

Blank Slate:
1977 Chevy:
http://seattle.craigslist.org/see/cto/4750778192.html

Might be in the older than you want range, but it's already set up for living:
1976 Dodge Chinook:
http://seattle.craigslist.org/see/cto/4750778192.html

Another older van but already partially set up for living:
1978 Ford:
http://seattle.craigslist.org/sno/cto/4722218997.html

Smaller blank slate:
1992 Dodge Caravan:
http://seattle.craigslist.org/see/cto/4740344827.html

Older blank slate:
1978 Dodge:
http://seattle.craigslist.org/oly/cto/4750079994.html

 

[sephson]

Here's a correction to my previous post:

Might be in the older than you want range, but it's already set up for living:
1976 Dodge Chinook:
http://seattle.craigslist.org/see/cto/4736003904.html

 

[sephson]

Here's another for your list. Also, in my first reply, I accidentally swapped the descriptions for the first two links.

Already set up as a camper, but shows its age:
1983 Chevy:
http://seattle.craigslist.org/see/cto/4755696467.html

 

[SoulRaven]

Thanks sephson. Two things I'm realizing are really important to me are stealth and mechanical reliability as more important than a pre-existing setup. I think it's because I'd rather feel safe and uncomfortable than comfortable but iffy. This is causing me to gravitate more towards shells.

A few things have been falling through but I should be able to go look at and get one within the next few days. Looking forward to it!

 

[sephson]

Here's another for your list of potentials:

2000 Dodge.
Has shelving installed.
Floor space is limited.
http://seattle.craigslist.org/see/cto/4758463343.html

Also, that 1976 Dodge Chinook from my original post has been re-listed. Judging by the pictures, the current owner is a bit of a slob, so there would probably be some cleanup involved with this one.
Here's the link:
http://seattle.craigslist.org/see/cto/4760444524.html

 

[SoulRaven]

My rides have been flaking out on me. Really liked the looks of that 2000 Dodge.

Tomorrow's gotta be the day. I've got a ride and about half a dozen candidates picked out, but if I get the chance to jump on this one and all looks good that'll be it: http://seattle.craigslist.org/tac/cto/4772812617.html

 

[SoulRaven]

Hang on, this was on my list but it's just been bumped up based on something I just realized: http://seattle.craigslist.org/oly/cto/4758392952.html

Was reading another thread here on passenger vs. cargo van models and about how the plastic molding infringes on precious space. This listing indicates it's a passenger van that's been "converted into a cargo van". If I'm reading that right it sounds like someone's gutted it out, so you end up with a cargo shell that has windows.

I keep waffling on windows. More stuffing around with insulation and whatnot, but since I'm living inside a vehicle in the rain capital of the world the ability to see outside can really improve mood. I noticed that when I got some temporary tinting up on my car's windows. I was assuming I'd get a cargo van, but I'm finding this option really appealing.

 

[Almost There]

Hang on, this was on my list but it's just been bumped up based on something I just realized: http://seattle.craigslist.org/oly/cto/4758392952.html

Was reading another thread here on passenger vs. cargo van models and about how the plastic molding infringes on precious space. This listing indicates it's a passenger van that's been "converted into a cargo van". If I'm reading that right it sounds like someone's gutted it out, so you end up with a cargo shell that has windows.

I keep waffling on windows. More stuffing around with insulation and whatnot, but since I'm living inside a vehicle in the rain capital of the world the ability to see outside can really improve mood. I noticed that when I got some temporary tinting up on my car's windows. I was assuming I'd get a cargo van, but I'm finding this option really appealing.

Getting the 'Chateau' package is definitely a bonus in that you get all the upgrades and if all the extra trim stuff has been gutted, you also get the bonus of the extra room.

The tilt out windows in both the rear doors and the front side windows will give you the ventilation you need as well (something my cargo van is lacking right now).

Good luck on the search, I hope you find something soon.

 

[sassypickins]

Best wishes finding the right rig for you!

 

[akrvbob]

It's easy to insulate windows, bur very hard to regain your sanity if you go crazy without seeing out!! I speak from experience!

Bob

 

[SoulRaven]

The one with windows sold today before I could get to it.

The 2000 Chevy Astro the seller claimed had "no problems" took over half a dozen tries for him to make it start, a skinny spare wheel in use and the driver's door doesn't open from the outside.

Whadayaknow, insurance quotes double for Ford E250s as compared to Ford E150s or E350s. That expense alone ruled out a few good ones.

Lots of others were already sold, and several sellers just plain aren't getting back to me. I called dealers, I called wreckers, every possibility seems just slightly too wrong to make it work.

I just need a mechanically sound van shell with halfway decent mpg and affordable insurance....pretty pretty pretty please....

Seems just a few days ago there were so many options out there. Now I fear the holidays are going to reduce the market even more. Currently widening the net to include possibilities a couple hours' drive away.

---

It's easy to insulate windows, bur very hard to regain your sanity if you go crazy without seeing out!! I speak from experience!

Bob

Haha very good point.

 

[SweetMarie1965]

That last van looks good. Hope it all works out for you! Keeping the good thoughts.

 

[SoulRaven]

Got one!

A moderately(?) stealthy 1986 G20 "conversion van" in really good shape. Professional engine replacement 10,000 miles back, meticulous maintenance going back 16 years and garaged throughout. Gas guzzling and a broken speedometer are its two main faults, but for $1450 I'm not complaining. This was exactly the sort of thing I needed - sure my preferences would have been slightly different if we're talking ideals, but for an immediate option to house me through the winter months of wind, rain, and cold this was an incredible deal and I couldn't be happier I grabbed it.

 

[SweetMarie1965]

Congrats Bitty!!! I'm very glad for you! May you have many, many trouble free miles.
It's a really nice looker too!

 

[rvwandering]

Congratulations! It's pretty. I'm sure you'll make it a very nice home. You really did a wonderful job making your little hatch back cozy.

 

[sassypickins]

Yes!!!!!! This should be just what you need to be comfy for the winter. Great score. I am so happy for you. Are you sitting in it as we speak? LOL I would be. Stay warm in there!

 

[gypsychic]

Seems like the previous owners took great care of it! It looks really nice. I'm glad you found it. I bet you feel like a weight has been lifted. I remember when I didn't have a vehicle and having to depend on others to get things done. It made it just that much more stressful. Those days are over now

Can't wait to see what the inside looks like and how it looks after you move in. Being in the PNW you'll have to put in lots of color on the inside to head off those winter blahs. What color makes you happy?

Enjoy!

 

[cyndi]

Congratulations, Bitty!!! I am so excited and happy for you!!!

 

[LeeRevell]

Very nice for an older van. Love the color scheme! And that roof rack is just asking for a solar panel.......