Turtle-Top Camper: 1964 Ford Econoline

The Ford Econoline debuted in 1961 as a derivative of the new Falcon compact. It came in the form of cab-over passenger and cargo vans, and even a pickup (like the Chevrolet Corvair). During the first generation, to compete with the Volkswagen Transporter, Ford partnered with Travel Equipment Corp. to develop the Family Wagon, a pop-up camper with a “turtle top”. This example is from 1964 and is well-worn, but perhaps rebuildable. Located under a carport in Little Rock, Arkansas, this nifty project is available here on craigslist for $2,950.

We assume this Family Wagon is a conversion from Travel Equipment and not something someone cobbled together themselves. It was based on the Econoline passenger van, as it comes with side windows rather than steel panels. These fun campers are said to have been built to sleep up to six passengers, so maybe all the comforts of home were present. A small air conditioner hangs out one of the side windows, so we assume 12-volt power was arranged.

These wagons were powered by six-cylinder engines, and – in 1964 – a 170 cubic inch 6-banger was used. A 240 truck I-6 was optional. The dusty air cleaner here may have a 200 label on it, so perhaps the engine is not original. Whatever the case, this van doesn’t run thanks to a lifter that’s “not pumped up.” A 3-speed manual transmission was/is the typical companion to the six-cylinder motor.

There is some rust present, and the odometer reading may be in the 98,000-mile neighborhood. The overall condition of the van is rated as “fair”, so perhaps this is restorable given the right budget and talent. It’s not likely to be a candidate to be a donor unless you happen to already have one of these Travel Wagons. Bring cash but leave the trades at home. Can you have it running by Summer? And thanks, Rocco B., for the cool tip!