I'm wondering why there seems to be so little information, and parts, available for the 68-74 vans. I have a 74 that I'm restoring and a 69 that's my salt ride. I searched for a year before finding someone that SUPPOSEDLY made weatherstripping for these vans. I sent $360 to the guy and waited almost a year for the parts. Never got them, and had to ask for my money back. I've owned 4 of these vans in the last 8 years or so and have yet to come across anyone that knows much about them.

Things such as:
Did they ever come with front disc brakes? Or only drums?

Does ford have any kind of a database that has info on these vans?. And how do I contact them if they do?. Thanks in advance

 

Roger,

Have you tried Mac's, Dennis Carpenter or J C Whitney? I Like the early Vans and Pickups (61-67) so I do some business with these folks. Then there is always the Junk Yard route. Lot of good second generation Econo's out there. If you need web address's for the above let me know.

Good luck with your project.

Jim

 

Jim,
I've talked to all of them. I could type a list of all the companies and "absolete parts" companies that I've called or e-mailed, but my fingers would fall off before I got to the end. None of them have much of anything for these vans. Weatherstipping is impossible!!.. The only reason I've got from any of the companies was that these vans "are not a desirable vehicle anymore".... Nice huh?

 

Roger,

Frustrating as Hell isn't it! When you do find the parts Ya need to take out a second mortgage. I belong to a site that is dedicated to the earlies. Let me ask if they know of any parts sources for the second generation Vans. I know some of the folks drive them so maybe a connection there. Also, I have some sites tucked away in my favorites that may be of help. Give me a day or so to do some research.

Talk to you soon,
Jim

 

Roger,

For parts you might try Roy Duffield,in New Jersey, 856-478-2527. My source sez this guy has parts for the second generation but may be in the process of retiring.

If you are up to searching thru a lot of links try:
fmanet.com
chucko.com
fomoco.com (try tech forums general discussion0
http://members.aol.com/vannernet/links.com
superford.org

All of these sites have some good links. May find what you are looking for. If not let me know and we will keep looking.

Jim

 

I have had 3 of the second generation Econolines,two were gifts from my Dad, and 1, a very special 1970 E300 was purchased from & delivered by a great friend that I met right here on the FTE.
The second generation Econolines are neat, unique vans with their own personalities, and should not be treated "as not useful anymore" or "defunct" as some have said before.
I know that when I get my fantastic '70 on the road with Candy-Apple Red paint, chrome spoke wheels, correct '70 aluminum grille,chrome bumpers,original stainless west coast mirrors, that I won't likely pass anouther one like it, I do have a '73 E300 parts van with lots of good useable parts, so if anyone needs anything please let me know!!
Email:rbarkley1@cfl.rr.com -Supercab