Flash back to camper van roots.. Build

spurious · 05-25-2023, 10:46 PM

Although camper vans by the mid 1970’s was no new thing. There are many companies out there that fell to the wayside of larger more industrious companies such as Sportsmobile. I picked up this very original barnfind camper van made by Combi-Wagons out of Seattle Wa. It would appear it was owned for many years by someone in the aerospace industry.
I thought I’d change the pace with everyone as I make my retro build.

bigriver · 05-25-2023, 11:11 PM

Completely badass

marret · 05-26-2023, 02:23 AM

Yeah, cool.

shenrie · 05-26-2023, 05:17 AM

Love these old random campers. Is this the hard sided setup that folds into place instead of canvas? If it is one of my old racing buddies found a top at the local salvage yard and installed it in a 92ish idi e350. They are really cool old school tops. Look forward to your progress and more pix.

spurious · 05-26-2023, 08:12 AM

When I bought the van I had high expectations that I would be able to get it to run, not so… timing chain failed and internal damage was extent. Originally I was going to rebuild the 351w and C6 transmission. Then with careful considation I decided to update a bit to a LS Chevy swap. I know how this goes over w Ford or Chevy guys but… here it is

Steve C · 05-26-2023, 09:22 AM

Now that's one way to interpret the "go big or go home" sentiment. Very nice addition to the engine bay!

arctictraveller · 05-26-2023, 11:57 AM

Awesome all the way around.

E-350 · 05-27-2023, 01:39 PM

I’m soo jealous on that LS! That would be so much fun!!

Did you do the engine/ transmission mounts and similar yourself? Driveline is custom now?

Happy to see more details and annoyed I can’t (at least I think I can’t) do that here in CA!

spurious · 05-27-2023, 03:36 PM

Thanks for the encouragement to all, the LS swap has been quite a learning experience, not over difficult just time consuming… unfortunately I’ve only seen one other done and limited information was shared.
Motor mounts are universal
Trans mount is one of my own custom build.
Wiring is a stand alone harness by BP Automotive, I can’t say enough praise about their product, and product support.
Original drive shaft was lengthened..

At this point I have driven around the neighborhood, but turns out the transmission is bad, only first gear…

Amazing power worth all the brain damage!

I don’t see any reason why it can’t be smog legal, you can totally add catalytic converters o2 sensors and honestly run cleaner than any 1976 vehicles on the road…

spurious · 10-15-2023, 09:08 PM