So this has probably been covered under other topics but Ill try this anyway. Bare with me might be a little long. I currently have 3 vans and possibly picking a 4th one up this weekend. 2000 E350 cargo 7.3 diesel, 2003 E250 cargo 4.6, 2005 pax van with 5.4 all power options, 2007 pax van 5.4 all power options. So ultimately Im wanting a 7.3 4x4 with power windows and locks. Doesn't really matter to me cargo or with windows. So here is the question. Would it be easier to convert manual to power windows and locks or convert gas to diesel? Either way I would have all the wiring, brackets, etc and once I start the build Im doing body off frame and building it up right with powder coating and painting. Ive read some people having problems going from manual windows to power. So pick the best body and build from there? Take the one that has the most of what I want and add to that?

 

i don’t know anything about windows and locks being changed but man that diesel/gas conversion sounds like hell.

Whats a pax van?

 

Passenger van.

 

Adding aftermarket power windows and locks to my '98 cargo van took me less than one afternoon, guess the diesel conversion would take a tad longer then that.

 

Really, converting to power windows/locks would be nothing compared to a gas to diesel conversion.

 

I have looked inside the doors and the mounting hardware for the regulators is not just nuts and bolts. Think they would have to be cut out and replaced with standard hardware.

 

I believe the regulator and lock assembly is riveted on, which is no big deal, knock the rivet mandrel thru with a punch and drill out the rivets. They're aluminum so it's painless. You will need one of those big rivet tools to reinstall. You could bolt everything in but it would be difficult because of access, if I recall correctly.