Hi all, about to buy my first van, been camping and sleeping in the back of my Jeep so its time to upgrade! I've looked at several vans in the 84-92 range and right now my heart is set on this one, a 87 high top with windows in the roof, my favorite kind. Just a little worried about the age, but if the mileage is low I dont see why it shouldnt be ok, im not afraid to get my hands dirty and fix things (hey I own a Jeep I better be!) Any advice? Things to look for when viewing a potential van to buy in that year range? Thanks
Pics of the 92 Dodge and the 87 Chevy im looking at attached - thoughts?
Last edited by Lister; February 04th 2019 4:01 pm. Reason: corrections
SUNSHINE VANS-VAN DIEGO ADRENALIN BY THE GALLON & CHASIN RACIN ONE FOR THE DIRT & ONE FOR THE STREETS '93 CHEVY G30 454 4X4 SPORTVAN EXT 146" WB '92 CHEVY G30 454 BEAUVILLE EXT 146" WB
They both look like worthy candidates. I like Conversions, especially the price. Nice to have 2, 2 compare 2, too! Cheap vintage Big 3 V8 inside. Pop that Doghouse!
As with any Vehicle, Operational inspection. Does everything work properly, and what doesn't? A thorough visual inspection as to condition, rust, leaks, trans mounts and motor mounts, driveline integrity, brakes, tires, fluids. Etc.
I'd rather change a water pump on a Chevy, that's for sure, check for a loose shaft.
Both engines will be fuel injection, a plus, IMO, but In tank fuel pump. Grr.
I'd say Dodge if by the slim chance it's a 360, even though mine needs a WP. Grr.
if it's a TB 318, compared to a Chevy 350, I'd go Chevy to get the 350 smallblock, instead. If it's a 305, I'd say Dodge. Nothing wrong with either make, they're just different. That would be my leanings toward powertrains, anyway. Unless, 454...
Just have fun and enjoy the Ride!
BBC Blue 1990 Chevy G30 L19 7.4 EXT Church Van, maternity division
DogVan 1988 Dodge B250 LA series 318 Wedge 5.2 TBI A500
Cabin Cruiser '94 Dodge B350 www.xplorermotorhome.com/ Xplorer MH model 230 230 hp LA series 360 Wedge MPI 5.9 A518 OD auto
The 87 would be fuel injection really? wow hope so I just got a carb rebuilt for a 74 Honda and it cost $180! Thanks for the advice. I'm pretty heavily leaning towards the Chevy, I love that window roof and I've been told bad things about early 200s Dodge transmission
Last edited by Lister; February 05th 2019 4:00 pm.
New van enters my field of view, like this one. Boring outside but awesome inside with roof windows front and back. a 95 GMC too which is a lot younger than an 87!