Thoughts on this van for sale

[Seajatt]

https://portland.craigslist.org/wsc/cto/d/hillsboro-1990-cargo-van/6861108539.html


It looks really good...just seems too cheap.

Edited by moderator to include description:
1990 e350 cargo van it was owned by Safeway for a catering van so the miles are low it only has 80k miles
2200$ or best offer

 

[JD GUMBEE]

I would make damned sure that is not 180,000 first of all.
Besides that, know that 351 that most likely powers it will give you 10-12MPG.
Also, the engine is a PITA to fix on top compared to others. It is in the peak of emissions and air pump hoses. (that disintegrate when touched when this old.)
Also, the heater fan has a built in bug. It can be fixed easily and for little money.

Besides that, it is one of the most solid units.
Seems priced about right.
Beware of valve cover gaskets. They can cost $1200 at a shop to have them done.
(8+ hours book IIRC, plus there will be hoses/clamps other stuff needed.)

Overall, it is a very solid model.

Thirsty though. Very thirsty.

 

[highdesertranger]

that seat sure looks like it has more then 80k on it and that floor is ugly. also that overdrive switch, is that factory? wonder why they only show the tread on one tire? highdesertranger

 

[MrNoodly]

I would make damned sure that is not 180,000 first of all.

Yeah, I never trust the seller of a nearly 30-year-old vehicle with an odometer that can't show hundreds of thousands miles. 180K miles? Hell, it could be 380K.

 

[Gr8ful]

No problem, just have him verify what he says with records on maintence from Safeco & receipts since he bought it.

 

[Seajatt]

I'm not going to purchase it. I think the lack of fuel economy alone is enough. I do however, really appreciate the feedback.

When I first started considering vandwelling, I've been really dismissive of minivans. My mind is changing on that as I consider what the average day would look like. I might be picking an astro or a safari at this rate.

 

[highdesertranger]

Astro and Safari MPG isn't all that great. highdesertranger

 

[Seajatt]

Astro and Safari MPG isn't all that great.  highdesertranger

True, but they'll beat the brakes off getting 10mpg.

 

[ped]

I sold my 1990 e150 in better shape for less than half that.

 

[Weldman]

If the transmission is solid and you could do a compression check on the engine it will tell you whether its 80k or 380k miles. One of the best tools to know how to use.

 

[Doubleone]

Yeah, I agree... that seat speaks to more than 80k. Exterior looks pretty cherry.