Hey all - new to this particular forum - usually over in Super Duty section. Looking at purchasing a 1989 Econoline 350 from a private seller. It's in relatively good shape as far as I can tell. I'm picking it up tomorrow and bringing it over to my shop to go over it head to toe. What particular things should I be looking for with this particular vehicle? I do not know the engine size yet (will the VIN tell me that info? I know it does with SUper Duty's). Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

 

VIN will tell the info. Position 8 is engine code, y=4.9, n=5.0,h=5.8,m=7.3diesel,g=7.5.
The door jamb sticker will have all the original equipment info.
E4OD trannys can be problematic if they have not had the post 95 updates.
Space is tight in the engine compartment.
Some spark plugs are hard to get at, may never have been changed.
Cowl drains can plug up, remove front fenders to clear them.
Some think the Haynes manual has good info on electrical and emmisions parts testing.
There are 2 versions of the 89-91 Chilton van manual, the larger and more complete version is #8157, the one with a red and white Club Wagon on the cover.

Alan P