Back in my diesel mechanic days, we used to work on those from time to time. Big, heavy, buzzy, fuel guzzlers. Most guys who had them wished they had something different. I like CAT diesels but I have some reservations about that specific one.
The 3116 would probably be more appropriate for a van application but then again, why? Cummins is a better choice for a number of reasons.
I bet that van rides like a Cadillac on that medium duty chassis...
I've run plenty of 3208s in boats and their ok, but I don't have any experience with them on the road. I bet you could get two or three of them for the price of one late model Cummins. Any further word from Cummins on a drop in van motor?
I try to stay on top of any news releases but haven't heard much lately out of Cummins. Lots of second-hand rumors though. I have a contact at Cummins NW that I plan to reach out to soon to see what is going on.