An acquaintance/colleague of mine is selling his 94 G20 conversion van. I really want it, and it seems like quite the deal to me, but just wanted to get the opinion of the experts here. He's asking 4k for it, which seems reasonable to me, my only concern is it's got 245k on it and the engine has never been rebuilt or touched. It's got the optional 350 apparently, which I don't think came standard on the G20. Is there any quick way to verify it's the 350 and not the smaller V8 variant?
The transmission was rebuilt 4k miles ago, along with a slew of other parts as well, such as a radiator, power steering pump,fuel pump, valve seals, etc. He said the only thing it needs mechanically is a new AC compressor. I know this guy fairly well (we spent several months together on a work trip), and he's not a liar, plus he says he has all the receipts and what not to prove his story.
I've always admired these style vans, but in my experience they are usually very beat up and more of a project than I want to take on, or extremely well done and out of my budget. Seeing one that is in good shape and in factory condition is rare to me.
What do you guys think? Should I pull the trigger?
Last edited by newkirkinc1; April 06th 2020 7:46 am.
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To me, the mileage (the big one for me) and the A/C compressor issue are detractors, but it does look like it's in really good shape. In my opinion, 4k seems just a little on the high side, but I wouldn't say it's a bad deal. Plus, there is value to be had from finding a clean vehicle that you like and being able to buy it from someone you trust. Ultimately, you're the buyer... If you think it's a good deal, then it is, and you'll likely be happy with it.
Miles is miles. Well maintained miles are the best kind of miles. Keep it maintained. Don't overtax the motor, or ever let it overheat, it will give many more good years of service. I'd not be surprised at 50K more miles. Easily. Nice Van.
I had to Replace my AC compressor too. At least you have the R134 system. Parts is Parts. AC is a must.
Maybe he's flexible a wee bit on price? No shame in trying.
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Had a 73 I bought with 207k. Put another 20k and it ran perfectly. It’s still on the road today, the guy that bought it from me still drives it. You can easily perform a compression test to get a sense of what’s going on in there. Chevy 350 4 bolt mains are work horses that are pretty hard to kill outright. Small Parts may fail because any van 20+ years or older is old. But there’s a reason that thing looks as good as it does and has high miles. Reliability.