thinking about getting 1982 B250 van

[Hersbird]

http://missoula.craigslist.org/cto/4315283681.html
So would that be a A-833 overdrive in this van? This ad actually just went up $150 in the last 10 min, it was $850. Any issues with these years? I would probably gut the emissions, simplify the ignition, use shorty headers and I have my high compression 68 318 still that I might swap in. Think it could get 18 on the freeway unloaded? We already have a nice minivan, but were thinking of getting a 20' lightweight travel trailer maybe 3000-3500 pounds loaded. If it could get 12 towing this might be the ticket.

 

[BrianT]

I've been wanting to go look at this one for my kid's band to haul their stuff around and still have the equipment protected. Very similar to the one you posted. Maybe someone can help us both out?

CL van that gets 35 mpg

 

[coronet66jj]

vans and pickups in the 80's used the a833 trans. the overdrive unit that i had in my 84 d150 had a very wide ratio but it was good for gas mileage. also that trans used the hurst shifter parts that are easily available. a good one to get!

 

[Hersbird]

According to the epa these vans dont get more then 17

 

[daliant]

Realistically that van would probably get about 15 mpg unloaded. The OD833 wont like towing 3000 lbs in overdrive unless it has 4.10 gears out back, you"ll probably have to use 3rd gear while towing which will probably put you at around 8-10 mpg when hauling a 3000 lb trailer.