Apologies if this is the wrong forum. Im looking to purchase a 1974 B100 with 318/727 vehicle but not very knowledgeable on these older engines.
I really like the look of this van but would appreciate comments on what to look out for, both during the purchase and what typical upgrades for the future.
My goal is short trips around Socal.
In summary, is this a good Van for me to begin my custom journey or should I stay away from these older models?
Is this 318 & 727 combo a bad choice
Any comments would be appreciated.
Last edited by CrimsonCruizer; August 27th 2019 12:41 am.
That looks a lot like a van that was for sale out in Arizona about a year ago, I only say that because I was interested in it. Condition is everything. If it didn't have the big side bay windows it would be cooler (just my opinion).....check the normal stuff as with any used car, also check for rust on the A pillar, maybe check the front door alignments, weatherstripping, drip rails for rust, etc. If it was that Arizona van it's probably clean enough.
318 is pretty much the standard V8 of the day, it was used in a lot of cars/vans/trucks, my '92 even has one (technically it's still a 318.) The engine/trans are pretty common and easy enough to work on yourself or by any decent mechanic.
Thx for the response. So it doesn't have AC and Im struggling to find one with it. Is that something that can be installed with OEM parts? I saw this van did have an option for AC. What do you think it would cost roughly to buy the AC parts.
You’re in SoCal, you rarely ever need AC. I had two vans living there and never needed it. Roll the windows down, use the vent window and a fan if you feel like you need it.
I live in Washington State and i need AC eight months out of the year. ANd the earth is only getting hotter.
If you feel like you need AC, you probably do. 72-77 Dodge vans had factory AC, dealer installed AC, and aftermarket AC options. It is getting hard to find a complete system in good shape anymore. Your best bet would be to talk to one of the modern aftermarket AC companies like Vintage Air and see if they can sell you a kit that will work in your van. Be prepared to spend lots of money.
Alternatively, you could mount a remote AC evaporator unit and run some ducting up a wall and into the ceiling and leave the dash alone.
Thanks for your comments. It may be Socal but its still damn hot in summer - I need my AC.
Ill keep searching for the right one. Im love the B100 shorty look and the price for ac install I got was anything from $3500-&5000, I probably get the van for that price.
If anyone has one of these for sale, please let me know.
I live in Pennsylvania, have a black 76 Mid-Dodge, and I wish I had AC in it. Let the van sit in a parking lot on a hot day and it is like a sweat box to crawl into.
Mrs. cornfarmer just did a ~5000 mile summer road trip from NorCal to the Dakotas and back in our van without A/C (I tagged along for the ride from Boise to Bozeman). It's all about what your comfort level is I guess.
Last edited by cornfarmer; August 29th 2019 1:03 pm.
I have two vans with a/c and three without so those without get driven very little during summer. I work in the heat and cold all day 6 days a week so I want to be comfortable cruising.ðŸ˜