Newb, Opinions on Used SMB

Pete · 02-01-2011, 10:01 AM

I've wanted a SMB for years, and the opportunity is finally presenting itself. I found a model near me, and am going to look at it today. I am hoping for some opinions on it's value. Here is the ad:

"Original owner of Sportsmobile 2001 Ford 350 4 x 4 van conversion RV
65,000 miles, V-10 gas engine
White with tan interior and custom carbon fiber dashboard
Penthouse Sportsmobile pop-top with full bed up top, sleeps 2
Custom bench seat in rear, seats 3 - 4 and folds flat into a bed that sleeps 2 - 3
Captain chairs up front that swivel
Mid-size refrigerator with 2 deep cell marine batteries
Drop down TV, DVD/VCR player, multi-disc CD player with headphones
Custom Ruenel front and rear bumpers with 2 sets of fog lights
Weatherband radio and CB
Custom rear and side windows with curtains and sunshades
Cruise control, power door locks
Small interior cabinet, side shelf, side door table
Rear ladder with mounted spare
Thule racks
Extra clean, in and out, no dents or scratches. Completely maintained.
Excellent choice for round town vehicle and weekend RV."

Asking price is $31,000.

Thanks,

jage · 02-01-2011, 10:14 AM

Buy it and never speak of the price again.

Seriously, at the price and mileage with 4x4, that could be the deal of the century. The inside is a little non-standard, and lacks some amenities (no sink, furnace, or water mentioned) but even for a light build 4x4, it seems like a fair price.

Viejo · 02-01-2011, 10:21 AM

If that van looks as good in person as it does in the ad, then that's a very good price. So good in fact that I would suspect there's something wrong with it. If you and your mechanic both like it, grab it up and welcome to the club.

**BroncoHauler** · 02-01-2011, 10:22 AM

Low miles too. Be ready to move fast!

Herb

Pete · 02-01-2011, 10:45 AM

What is the consensus on the V10 engines? Based on my limited research, they don't seem like the ideal motor, but probably won't be a lemon either.

Roonie · 02-01-2011, 11:09 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Pete

What is the consensus on the V10 engines? Based on my limited research, they don't seem like the ideal motor, but probably won't be a lemon either.

The V-10 engine is bulletproof in most regards except for the 2000-2004 it has plug issues. After 2004 they added more spark plug threads so no more issue. The plugs are the main thing. It is probably best if it has not had them changed. If they have not been changed then you are probably ok. Biggest problem is the plugs tend to unscrew and take the threads with them. If they are kept tight you should not have any issues.

Personally I chose the V-10 over the diesel because it had few issues compared to the same year diesel.

In 1999, and 2001, an interim fix was done for a cross-threading issue.
Original process:

Step 1 - Zero torque spark plug (air tool)
Step 2 - Torque to 16-20Nm final torque (DC Run down), monitor at 6-12Nm, and final torque must be reached within 0-360 degrees.

New process (addressed the possibility of applying installation torque for more than 25 degrees of rotation)
Step 1 - Zero torque spark plug (air tool)
Step 2 - Torque to 16-20Nm final torque (DC Run down) start monitor at 6-12Nm, and final torque must be reached within 3-25 degrees.

Another action to address cross-threading was the addition of an alignment feature to lead the plug into the hole.

You can find out all the info you ever wanted to know about the V-10 (or diesel) at this site.;
http://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/forum49/

**BroncoHauler** · 02-01-2011, 11:14 AM

Get the owner to have his Ford dealer run an OASIS report which lists the factory service work done. You should be able to see if there were warranty issues, or other major issues.

Herb

Ford_6L_E350 · 02-01-2011, 05:05 PM

At that price you should be able to replace the heads (worst case outcome on plugs) and still come out ahead.

Join the club!

Mike

Aldercrest · 02-01-2011, 08:33 PM

Quote:

If you and your mechanic both like it, grab it up and welcome to the club.

I'll second that. Buy it.

Pete · 02-09-2011, 09:39 AM

Well, I pulled the trigger last night. So fricken stoked. Here she is. Immediate plans are to add a furnace and a sink, and the Five Star tuner. Also, would love to tighten up the steering a bit. Any ideas for that?