Ford’s Econoline arrived in 1961 on a derivative of the Ford Falcon’s compact chassis as a replacement for the F-series panel van. With its engine between the front seats, the entire floor pan behind the seats was available for cargo space. The second generation saw the engine moved forward, but still remain inside the cab, and a V8 became available. Ford’s alterations to its van were by now catering to passenger use, with more emphasis on comfort and customization. By the time the third generation began production, the engine was in a “nose” for easier servicing from the front, and the body was situated on a full-sized chassis. This 1978 Econoline van is available here on facebook Marketplace for $7500, offered by the second owner. It’s travelled only 104k miles and has been garaged since it was new, with regular maintenance along the way. Thanks to Lothar… of the Hill People for the tip!
When the Econoline first arrived, it was optioned with one of three six-cylinders. As the chassis and payload increased, Ford began offering a slate of V8s; by the time this van was made, only one six was offered, along with two diesels and four V8s. This engine is a 351 cu. in. Windsor, which will move its payload right on down the road but at the cost of a shock after filling up at the pump. Not only its weight was a knock against it – aerodynamically it was the equivalent of a brick. The seller notes the transmission is a manual.
The interior has a couple of groovy touches, including shag carpet door panels (and interior walls and maybe the roof!) and captain’s chairs in the rear. The seller notes that the seat belts are not original to the van. Regardless of its current configuration, the sky’s the limit for the new owner – this could be made into a work truck, a tow vehicle, a camper, maybe even a food truck.
Almost any window/door configuration you can imagine was available. This van has windows the full length on the passenger’s side, and one tall window on the driver’s side. The Econoline’s customization options made it popular throughout its history for commercial use – its original intent – and passengers as well. Its popularity led to Motor Trend designating the Econoline its first Truck of the Year in 1978. It’s the third-best seller in the van market through history, with another Ford product – the Transit – taking first place, and VW in second. If you bought this van, how would you use it?
I’d buy this van in a flash if I had the money right now. I’ve owned several of the fords over my life and found them to be the most dependable of all of them, which I’ve also owned. Love the interior too.
I owned a 1983 Ford very similar to this one. Mine had the 351 Windsor, but I’m not sure if it was a 2 barrel or a 4. It was a conversion with 2 captain chairs and agency in the rear that folded down into a bed. There was a small table between the captain chairs and bench, and the captain chairs swivled. It had 2-20 gallon tanks. You had a flip a switch in the dash to change tanks. I found it fun to watch the gas gauge go from empty to full. I don’t remember mpg, but I did have awesome range. Filling both tanks hit my wallet hard. I bought it in 1989 and traded for a 1990 Chevy Astro. Only problem was rust, but I lived in Iowa at the time.
In the video on FB marketplace, at around 20-22 seconds, at the bottom right, there appears to be an old style gas filter. It looks to be covered with oil/dirt. This drew my eyes to the front of the head and it too is covered with a thick coating of oil/dirt. Looks like this engine might have been plagued with oil leaks?
I have always wanted one of these vans. I remember them from back in the 1970’s and the 1980’s back then there were van clubs and on the spare tire cover or on one of the back doors they would have the club name painted. I always thought what fun being in a van club would be. Unfortunately due to age I am no longer in a position to purchase one. I’ll tell you though if I did buy it I wouldn’t change a thing always did love that shag carpet. GLWTS
That 4-seat arrangement it like the old Primetime Halfback conversion except those had a bulkhead behind the seats with an unupholstered cargo area for dirt bikes and such. Neat old van.
Brings back memories looking at interior design. My buddy was a carpenter and did all the work himself and it was nice had a bed for if your girl gets tired. Going to the lake in a comfortable van hard to beat. Maybe if there was a boat…..ah yes there was a boat, great 70’s