Convert old vans to the new front end

[j.whitbread]

Current van sheet metal designed 1992 didn't change again until 2008 with the Super Duty inspired front end of the van. Is there any interest in people knowing how to upgrade the front end to all 08 and later parts?

As always it is never that simple. But it would not be too difficult to compare parts list and come up with an accurate list of the required parts and cost. Maybe fenders and hood could be reproduced in fiberglass or carbon fiber to save weight along with the new look.

I like the older style myself. Not to say some of the new 4x4s look pretty good now that I'm getting used to it. Two wheel drive vans with the new front end look too heavy up front. That's just me, I think anything looks better when it's four wheel drive.

 

[adventureduo]

Im interested to see what this takes, however being late model stuff.. the dealer will charge an arm and a leg for any item. Plus we'd need a ton of parts to make it happen like fender, well, hood, grill, light housings etc etc... it won't be cheap. I already thought about it and figured it wouldn't be worth trying.

Are there any differences in the crush zone, sub frame areas?

 

[j.whitbread]

I wouldn't be surprised if the frame was longer. The radiator looks like it's in the same position when I have done comparisons at the dealer.

Is it called a "front clip" at the junkyards?

Ford didn't change anything on the body from the fenders back because of all the up-fitters who don't want to re-engineer their products.

Does that suggest the front end is going to more or less bolt up to the van body? Why re-engineer an existing firewall or a-pillar when the new part can be made to fit. Oh wait, that's logical. Forgot.

 

[jage]

I wonder if putting a grille and headlights in the hard way and then refinishing the figberglass hood would be easier.

 

[pjpvi]

Are there any differences in the crush zone, sub frame areas?

A local 4x4 shop pointed out to me that the SMB 4x4 conversion welds solid plates over the crush portion of the front of each frame rail where the front of the springs mount. He really didn't like the fact that the SMB design eliminated this safety feature. I don't let it bother me, but then again I've never had to use this energy absorption part of the van (and hope I never do).

Phil

 

[Greg In Austin]

:g3:


I will have to look, but with our 2008 with SMB 4x4 conversion, I do not think there is anything welded that would defeat the crumple zone. I say yhis because of a conversation I just had last week with SMB about a front receiver for an '08 Ford. They said that they need to be fabricated to attach in such a way as to not cause a problem in that same area. ...and I don't think they would worry about it if it had already been defeated....

Maybe another change for 2008?

 

[adventureduo]

Are there any differences in the crush zone, sub frame areas?

A local 4x4 shop pointed out to me that the SMB 4x4 conversion welds solid plates over the crush portion of the front of each frame rail where the front of the springs mount. He really didn't like the fact that the SMB design eliminated this safety feature. I don't let it bother me, but then again I've never had to use this energy absorption part of the van (and hope I never do).

Phil

Phil it doesnt bother me at all either... look at what we're driving! :a5: Just make sure whatever you hit, it's smaller than you! :b8:

 

[surfgeek33]

Im interested to see what this takes, however being late model stuff.. the dealer will charge an arm and a leg for any item. Plus we'd need a ton of parts to make it happen like fender, well, hood, grill, light housings etc etc... it won't be cheap. I already thought about it and figured it wouldn't be worth trying.

Are there any differences in the crush zone, sub frame areas?

Don't forget the 08 Aluminess Front Bumper! Doh! :b1:

 

[rogers112869]

I have a 1992 e150 econoline van. I cannot find a grill guard anywhere. Does anyone know where I can get one?

 

[AdventureRider]

I'd be interested to see what it takes, if there maybe any more room with an updated clip, you never know. It would be great to add an intercooler and while your there (if there was more room) figure out beater cooling for our shoe boxes.
It looks like the 08 & newer, might be able to run at lower engine temps because of that large mouth grill, so a new front clip, may have more to offer then just the cosmetic appeal? Just a thought. :a4:

:g3: "our new direction with our top"
:q5:

 

[saline]

I think air coming in is not as big of an issue as getting it out of the engine compartment. There just isn't that much space for air to escape.

 

[j.whitbread]

I have a 1992 e150 econoline van. I cannot find a grill guard anywhere. Does anyone know where I can get one?

Go Rhino products used to make one. They had a photo of my 98 E3450 on their web site for a while but it's gone. Try emailing them or check for a used one on Ebay or Craigslist.

 

[onelegwarren]

When I saw the new E series vans I HATED it but in the last month or so, and looking at all you guys new lifted vans with Aluminess front bumpers the new style has really grown on me. I think Im going to wait maybe a year or so and then scour the local junkyards. I live in San Diego and about 30 miles from here is the border. On the US side there is a massive area on the border that must have over 100 junkyards. Maybe find a van thats been totalled in a rear end ?

Im sure its just a bolt on project but we'll have to see

 

[jage]

Im sure its just a bolt on project but we'll have to see

Them thar sound like famous last words! :a4:

 

[BroncoHauler-SMB]

I believe the doors are different, as are the mirror bases, so that leads me to believe that the fenders as they align to the doors will be different.


Herb

 

[carringb]

Door are the same.

Changes for the '08 body style are front fenders, bumper, hood, grill, headlights, and radiator support. You will also need the upper block-off plate above the radiator where the air intake is.

Yes, from what I can tell it should be all bolt-on.