What do you think about this chassis?

dhally · 03-12-2011, 07:51 PM

I found a used van that already has a raised roof. Any ideas on what to look for when I inspect it?

2006 Ford E350 Econoline Raised Roof Cargo Van Only 24,000 Miles 5.4 Liter V8, Automatic, Power Steering, Air Condidtioning

**BroncoHauler** · 03-12-2011, 08:50 PM

I think you should go for the other one in the first pic that has a backhoe boom coming out of the roof.

As for the "other" one, with the 5.4L, it all depends how extensive of an interior build you will be going for. Too many cabinets and accessories and the van weight may make the platform somewhat underpowered.

Seems like a good base rig, especially with the raised top.

Herb

jage · 03-12-2011, 09:43 PM

Smell for damp, see what you can pull back to inspect the top install, look for water leakage. Can't think of much else, maybe check for the body dent in front of the fuel door, get a little knocked off.

billwilson · 03-13-2011, 11:09 AM

Looks like a nice rig
how much they want?

dhally · 03-13-2011, 06:44 PM

The part-time dealer is asking $15k. I'm preparing a low-ball cash offer.

Silver350 · 03-13-2011, 07:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dhally

The part-time dealer is asking $15k. I'm preparing a low-ball cash offer.

For what you want to do, I like it, but the price seems a little high. Regular cargos of that vintage are listing for $10-11K so with the roof I'm thinking $12 ish.

jage · 03-14-2011, 08:33 AM

Or, if it was on expedition portal, about 35K and you wouldn't be allowed to question the price!

dhally · 03-14-2011, 10:00 AM

Does anybody have experience with the differences between pre- and post- 2008 Ford chasses? Apparently the steering and suspension was changed in 2008. Will it make a difference in how the van drives? We test drove a 2004 and the steering felt twitchy (it had 4x4 tho).

**BroncoHauler** · 03-14-2011, 10:07 AM

Limited experience with post-08's, but I do know the brakes were substantially upgraded in '08. Reason enough to go that route, but that will dramtically affect your budget no doubt.

Herb

unimogdave · 03-14-2011, 08:43 PM

This is the exact same van i purchase except it a 2005 with 97000 miles of $4500. It was a delivery van for Sinclaire Paints (Ca) and it has its share of dings and scratches. The shell has a inner fiberglass shell that you can remove and get more head space also their are welded roof ribs to strengthen the roof which you can attach a new deadline to. My build is almost complete and I'm very happy with the van, it could use a little more power! I would low ball the guy most peaple dont want high tops, mine was on Craigslist for weeks before i purchased it. hope this helps....Also A big selling point for me also was power windows, mirrors, and locks that the van had

Dave.

PS I replace the barn door with ones with windows for just 150.00 from Pick and Pull!!!!!