Vans for $5000. or less

[UmpquaTim]

After I sold my Class A, I was looking for a van to convert in to a camper. It took me several months before I found what I thought was a terrific deal, but there were several out there... most of which went fast! In the end, I spent $800 on a 1995 Ford E-350 extended passenger van. 274,000 miles, but with a rebuilt engine and transmission.  Yes, $800. Predictably, this thing had issues outside of the Engine & Transmission.

I've made it my daily driver for about the last 9 months so I could work out all the kinks. I've replaced tires, brakes, front shocks, rear rotor, front caliper and water pump and more.  There was no way I was going to take an old vehicle, for which I had no history, out on the road for long trips. Now I can say, with the exception of a clock spring, this thing rules. Never a problem with engine or transmission, just "EVERYTHING ELSE." Most recently, a solid driver from Oregon to Salt Lake City. If I was in a hurry, there's no way I would have spent so little and fixed so much. But sometimes, if you have the luxury of time, you can get a terrific value, and over a period of time... gain some confidence.  

Cheers,

UmpquaTim

 

[Bud Smiley]

I've noticed a huge discrepancy between those who can/do their own repairs and what they think is a good price, and those who take it to the shop for nearly everything. It's almost like two different planets.

Very true. I have bought a lot of stupid cheap vehicles (at least 8 cars below $400) because I knew how to diagnose and fix them. Another important skill is figuring out which issues can be ignored. I would expect a very nice rig for $5k.

 

[user 37446]

Multiple cargo vans, 3/4 or 1 ton, on the Phoenix and surrounding area Craigslist under $5K.  I mean multiple like over a dozen. Not sure if they are still available but they are certainly there. As long as a well used interior is ok... Most if not all need a new driver's seat, junkyards may be good for that.

 

[Gideon33w]

I wouldn't spend $5k on a van. Yes, I can do virtually anything one could possibly need mechanically but the reason is that there is just no need. PLENTY of good options out there in the $2,500-$4,000 range. Leaving ample money for maintenance (which I harp on) and mods for vandwelling. An early 2000s Express van with ~150k miles is a good choice and easily meets those pricing requirements. Plenty high tops out there which bump price a bit but if that's what you need/want then that's what you need/want. Now, if you can't do your own maintenance then cost rises sharply because mechanic labor is pricey. I suggest heading over to the maintenance section of the forum and reading my posts. Start with the sticky at the top and click through looking for my threads. Wait for a deal but don't compromise on what you want. That budget is plenty to start.