89 e250 2wd?

[centralcoast]

Hi everyone,

New poster here. Currently have a Tacoma, but looking for a van to start a project with (2wd, just basic camper build-out). I've had the truck for 12 years and want something a bit bigger.

Found an 89 e250 cargo with ~150k miles on it. V8. Looks pretty clean and the price is right.

Any known issues with this model/year? I'm used to the reliability of my Toyota and would appreciate the same in a domestic van, but I know that is not always the case. Second question - I have found some higher mileage (200k+) e350s with the 7.3 diesel. How high of mileage is too high?

Thanks!

- Scott

 

[plh]

Second question - I have found some higher mileage (200k+) e350s with the 7.3 diesel. How high of mileage is too high?

I've heard that they are million mile engines if maintained properly. Not sure what is reality.

 

[mikracer]

It seems the weak link in the "early" Fords are the transmissions. Not sure what transmission that 89 would have, but the 4r100 behind the 7.3 seems to have a limited life span. I've read that if the transmission has 150k-200k, you should factor in a rebuild soon. If the high mileage vans you are looking at has a documented tranny rebuild, then you should be good to go. Of course, maintenance is key with any used vehicle.

 

[Bikersmurf]

I've got 15-16 mpg (US) highway in my 7.3 Ambo that tips the scales at 8500 lbs empty. It's got 200k miles and I wouldn't hesitate to buy another if the price was right and the evidence indicated it had been well cared for.