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Go Back   Ford Forums > Ford Trucks, Ford SUVs & Ford Vans > Ford Econoline

Ford Econoline There's more to the Econoline's staying power than Ford simply sticking with a product that has been the No. 1-selling full-size van since 1980. The Econoline has received only minor changes over the years. The result is a cargo van that looks different, but is still very much the same. For many E-Series customers, that is the best news of all.

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Old 03-22-2008, 08:10 AM   #1 (permalink)
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Default New guy with questions. (yes I searched)

Hey everyone! I searched for my answer and could not find it so here it goes.

I am looking to pick up an Econoline cargo van. I want something 2000 or newer and most I find are around 140k miles. I am not real up on these vehicles and would like to know the things I should look for when inspecting the vehicle, what I should keep an eye on after purchase and what repairs I should save my pennies for!

I am very mechanically savvy (motorcycle, bicycle and aircraft mech), and will be using the van for mostly local stuff with the monthly trip of 2000 miles. The most I will be hauling is a few dirt bikes in side, maybe a street bike or two on a trailer.

Would I need an eight? Some trips would take me on mountain highways.

Any hot features I should try to find (besides A/C? I live in Phoenix)?

Thanks everyone!
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Old 03-22-2008, 04:55 PM   #2 (permalink)
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I think for your application I would look for an E250 or E250SD (superduty)
I would at minmum at least get the 4.6L V8, and depending on GVW and trailer weight and your towing areas I would also think of the 5.4liter V8 as well..

look for service records, any warranty work performed, structural damage...etc...

the fronts suspension on the Vans have pretty much been the same old thing for years. I really wish ford would have designed something way better than the twin beam front ends. The articulation or travel axis is horrible, anyways ball joints don`t last long, look to see if they have been replaced. same goes for front wheel bearings, overall check front end for slop.

electronic 4 speed and 4R70/75W tranny`s usually last 100K+ when treated right and serviced normally. look for leaking seals. delayed shifting or erratic tranny behavior. check fluid for good red color and smell, if it`s burnt smell walk away.

also look for other evidence that vehicle has been serviced. The rear diff cover should look like it was removed and drained if serviced.

for the usual suspects:
Brakes, rotors, shocks,sagging coil springs in front, driveshaft U-joints, front susp bushings, door hinges, engine performance, tune-up?, plugs, air, fuel filters, oil, belts, hoses, etc...engine compartment cleanliness...

IMHO most cargo vans used were driven hard with minimal care, choose wisely and good luck...PR...
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Old 03-23-2008, 12:59 AM   #3 (permalink)
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this one has done many miles

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