This sweet 1973 Dodge Tradesman 200 was converted to a camper early in its life and remains in surprisingly nice shape despite being a home on wheels. In addition to the well-preserved interior, the exterior decals are in outstanding condition considering their exposure to prolonged wear and tear, and the Dodge also comes with a sweet set of running boards and fender flares to give it that classic in-period “vanning” style. The seller has offered this survivor camper with no reserve, and bidding is currently just over $7,000 here on eBay, located in Glen Burnie, Maryland.
It’s one thing to own a survivor camper; it’s another thing to own a survivor and one that looks this good from every angle. Fender flares look incredible on just about anything as this Tradesman conversion confirms, and while most of the van-tastic creations we see from this era are traditional short wheelbase work vans with a couch, we’re rarely treated to a proper compact motorhome with the same styling trends employed. The Dodge even features a raised roof with a top sleeper component and given there’s no mention of water damage, one would assume the Dodge has never fallen down that slippery slope of becoming a neglected weekend vehicle.
Falling into that category is particularly disastrous for an RV, as any water that sneaks past the roofline inevitably trickles into passenger compartments like these, warping fake wood trim, staining upholstery, and leading to unsightly (and unhealthy) mold build-up. Not so here, as the Dodge retains all of its period details from the countertops to the couch cushions. The plaid upholstery is totally correct for a motorhome of this vintage, and it’s incredible to see one that is either completely unmodified or has lovingly been restored back to factory condition. The Dodge is equipped with a kitchen counter and sink, along with a mini-fridge.
There are just over 100,000 miles on this Dodge, and the condition on display certainly helps reinforce that it has seen limited use. The front passenger seat is a swivel model, making it super convenient to pull over for a snack and converse with your backseat passengers. The Dodge also features a toilet and a shower, which isn’t always a guarantee in a motorhome of this size. Given both van life and camping are always in style these days, I’m sure this Tradesman conversion will find a new home after this auction, especially since it appears to be incredibly nice for a no-reserve auction.
This looks to be a great price for a well taken care of van/camper. Consider what you would spend for a new one… Front end design on the Dodge much better than the competitors. IMHO.
Only three pictures. It’s a matter of personal taste but I like Ford front ends better on these year models. I like the 318 engine in these, owned a 77 model one time, it was dependable. That plaid interior would have to go, but that’s just my opinion.
God bless America
I like the toilet at the end of the sofa. “I’m going to take a big steamy dump over here. Don’t mind me, you guys just keep eating”.
The ebay ad has many pics, but they are linked lower in the description. Seems to be a mixed bag, but if mechanically sound, usable.
Has a newer model grille, 76-77? My 77 had the same grille, we bought it new and converted it. My grandpa was a cabinet maker, my dad and he did everything and it was gorgeous. We had it for twelve years, it was very dependable. The original battery was 9 1/2 years old when it died.
This does look to be the 76 77 grille. 76 had clear signal lenses with amber bulbs, and 77 had amber lenses. At least if my memory serves me correctly
Sold for a high bid of $8,300.
Steve R