New to me, Older than me, 1989 SMB

[Tkkujawa]

Little bit about myself. About a year ago I saw this awesome ESPN interview with Daniel Norris. A MLB pitcher who signed a million dollar contract but lived out of his van, choosing a simple life, rather than let all the money go to his head. This struck a chord in me and I immediately started looking for a van. Was planning on getting an old work van and converting it myself. Everything I looked at kept falling through. Finally saw this guy on the side of the road for $800 and couldn't resist. It is a 1989 Ford e-150 SMB. Converted by SMB North in Huntington IN in 1989. Only has 50,000 miles which seems to be true. Has some surface rust, and interior needed a lot of work. So I far I ripped the interior out and planning a simpler design. Herculined the entire PH top and Exterior. Think it is looking a lot better and I am excited for the adventures.

[Tkkujawa]

A couple more pictures:

[rallypanam]

Cheapest SMB ever! Congrats, and look forward to seeing progress.

[larrie]

Ours is an 89. The only problem we had was a blown rear seal a couple of years ago. Congratulations on the great find.

[Viejo]

Good Score! Love the road warrior paint job.

Keep us posted.

[Tkkujawa]

Thanks guys I am excited and it has been a fun hobby! Neighbors think I am crazy. Thinking about putting in hardwood floors next, and trying to figure out new water lines since the existing ones seem to be old and moldy.

[rallypanam]

Originally Posted by Tkkujawa

Neighbors think I am crazy.

You are not alone.

[Tkkujawa]

Since I have bought I have had spark plugs/wires changed, all fluids changed. Van seems to run well. Anything else I should think about replacing immediately? Being this old makes me hesitant to take it very far at first.

[xcnick]

Originally Posted by Tkkujawa

Anything else I should think about replacing immediately? Being this old makes me hesitant to take it very far at first.

Alignment? Put a square up against the front wheels and see if front is bent out like a baby giraffe. Might be fine, but if not it, would wear the tires quickly.

Passenger seat base swivel. The gaucho paired with the passenger seat turned around are the key features of my living area.

302 or 351? AOD tranny?

Funny how your project inspires us. Welcome.

[witoke]

Brakes, tires, air filter, Check wheel bearings. When you say "all fluids" did that include coolant and diff? If it hasn't be driven lately keep an eye out for seals beginning to weep/leak with use. Check all hoses including brake hoses for soft spots or wear.

Congratulations, looks like the best find ever!