New E-350 looking for info etc
Thread Starter
|
New User
Joined: Mar 2020
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
New E-350 looking for info etc
Hi all,
Just got my first Ford. It's a 1986 E-350 Type B RV with a 460.
It almost passed california smog(it passed 4 years ago with the previous owner).
I'm looking for recommendations for a good mechanic in the Los Angeles or greater area.
I'm also looking to update just about anything that makes sense, so any sources for knowledge and parts would be awesome.
I know the 460 was in production until the late 90s, so would it make sense to try to update some parts? For example switching to fuel injection.
Just looking for ideas and advice on where to start with getting this beast in shape. Not looking to race her lol, just get decent mpg and pass smog while retaining what power i can. Optimization is probably the right word.
Thanks.
Just got my first Ford. It's a 1986 E-350 Type B RV with a 460.
It almost passed california smog(it passed 4 years ago with the previous owner).
I'm looking for recommendations for a good mechanic in the Los Angeles or greater area.
I'm also looking to update just about anything that makes sense, so any sources for knowledge and parts would be awesome.
I know the 460 was in production until the late 90s, so would it make sense to try to update some parts? For example switching to fuel injection.
Just looking for ideas and advice on where to start with getting this beast in shape. Not looking to race her lol, just get decent mpg and pass smog while retaining what power i can. Optimization is probably the right word.
Thanks.
Ford Parts Specialist
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 88,826
Likes: 785
From: Simi Valley, CA
I doubt you'll be able to pass smog if you install fuel injection. CA frowns on swaps like this. Updating to newer parts is another no no.
CA smog tests all 1976 and newer vehicles. All the original emission parts have to be present and in good working order.
If a vehicle cannot pass the smog test, it cannot be registered. There is no waiver if the parts are obsolete...it's fix it or park it!
CA smog tests all 1976 and newer vehicles. All the original emission parts have to be present and in good working order.
If a vehicle cannot pass the smog test, it cannot be registered. There is no waiver if the parts are obsolete...it's fix it or park it!
Junior User
Joined: Apr 2015
Posts: 56
Likes: 3
I cant help but wonder if the costs involved in modifying will pay returns, especially as most RV are only driven a couple thousand miles a year at best. Most are rather heavy beasts, and have the aerodynamics just slightly above that of a barn door. Keep the speed down if you can, with my 1989 e 350 motorhome, mileage VERY rapidly and significantly drops off over 55 MPH. As has been suggested, tune it up, I was surprised the difference platinum spark plugs made. Make sure you have a fresh oil change before retesting
Jeff
Jeff
Trailering
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 18
Likes: 0
If you like 80s-90s style Ford RVs, you might try to find a diesel one. It can be either an IDI (1983-1994.5) or early PSD (1994.5-1997). Diesels are except from smog tests if they are 1997 or older. 98+ have to be tested.
I know it doesn't answer your question, but it's something to think about if you want an RV in California that's newer than 1975 and doesn't have to be smog checked. (All 1976 and newer gassers have to be tested.)
I would say engine swap, but that probably won't fly since it's a gasser as far as the state is concerned, and they likely won't pass it if has a diesel engine in a gasser chassis.
I know it doesn't answer your question, but it's something to think about if you want an RV in California that's newer than 1975 and doesn't have to be smog checked. (All 1976 and newer gassers have to be tested.)
I would say engine swap, but that probably won't fly since it's a gasser as far as the state is concerned, and they likely won't pass it if has a diesel engine in a gasser chassis.
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
ford76460
1973 - 1979 F-100 & Larger F-Series Trucks
0
Nov 8, 2017 06:07 PM
nfscarbon07
Big Block V8 - 385 Series (6.1/370, 7.0/429, 7.5/460)
2
Jun 29, 2015 11:07 PM
wickedklown83
1980 - 1986 Bullnose F100, F150 & Larger F-Series Trucks
2
Dec 2, 2010 10:22 PM
F100Dude
Big Block V8 - 385 Series (6.1/370, 7.0/429, 7.5/460)
1
May 8, 2004 04:03 PM
