What series what to buy

[simple]

Only some work on the leaf sprung van - re-arched front spring and Fox Shocks (dual in the front for looks only).

I've been "Wheeling" for 42 years in everything from Flat Fenders to KOH Racers. There is not a lot of empirical evidence out there to prove my point, but there is a lot of first hand experience.

Thanks. I'm curious about the TTB front end and am interested to learn more about it.

 

[ujoint]

I know the RSC can complicate the 4x4 conversion, but otherwise, is there a reason to avoid it? Or actively try to get it? I've been thinking of it as a bonus, but it wasn't a major factor.
I kind of like the 08 front end look, but I'd MUCH rather have a durable, reliable van... Especially if I'm gonna drop a bunch of cash into upgrades.
Thanks for the input!

The RSC isn't a deal breaker and we add our RSC upgrade parts to more vans that don't have the system then do. Our upgrade enables us to use the stock ABS sensor which won't work on the stock truck unit bearing. This keeps everything happy. The kit includes Dynatrac parts from the knuckle out so new knuckles, spindles, hub assay's, 35 spline axle shafts, Warn locking hubs, F550 brakes (14.5" dia) and bigger calipers/pads. This setup also comes with crossover steering and a higher clearance tie rod. All nice stuff and the brakes are worth it alone.

Our lift limit is 6" with the RSC electronics.

 

[naterry]

Thought I'd solicit some thoughts from people who have owned van(s) of various vintage and mileage. There is a huge variety of vans in my price range (10-15K). I'm looking at gas engines, mostly 5.4 available but I'd prefer a V10. What do folks think is a better strategy for deciding between similarly equipped vans in similar condition - age or miles? For instance (an extreme), a 2005 E350 EB with 39000 mi vs 2011 with 116000. Similar price and condition.
Part of me feels that lower miles means longer life for the engine. Experience favors fewer years and general consistent driving (with maintenance) as a better bet. Obviously good maintenance and care trumps all, but I can't always know what the PO did to take care of it.
Thanks

IMHO there is a sweet spot in the mileage/age/number of previous owners balance. "The unicorn theory." I bought a single owner 1996 PSD with 60k miles like a 4 year old on his birthday knowing that seals were brittle and the eminent fuel pump and line replacements were a fraction of the cost of a newer van with comparable use. I guess my point is that it's worth your time to wait and dig if you can do the maintenance/tune-up an older van with good history requires.

 

[radorsch]

I checked out a few vans today. I found a 2005 E350 EB V10 Torqshift with under 40k miles. No rust. Looks great outside and drives very well. Inside is a bit rough with some missing trim, a hole in the headliner from a previous monitor and paint spilled on the vinyl flooring, stained seat fabric, etc... Also looked at a 2011 RB 5.4 with 93k for just a little more $. I think the 2005 is a better buy, but the wife and kids are falling for the allure of the sweet 2011 styling and interior. I like the RSC, but otherwise its all cosmetics - the V10 felt much better and the EB has so much more room. I'm looking for some support and input. I think it would be super easy(and probably quite cheap) to swap in some new carpet and fix the headliner (or put in a DVD player for the kids). I was wondering, however, if anyone had swapped in interior panels from newer vans to the older body style. I was thinking of looking for junked vans that would have the cargo pockets and cup holders in the panels that the family likes on the 2011.
Thanks
Rob

 

[FarmerFrederico]

Anyone know the difference between 4th and 5th Gen E350 V10's in terms of transmission? 4th gen has a 4sp and 5th gen has a 5sp I know...reliability? Appropriateness for 4x4 conversion?