Hey everyone,

My dad was a long-time Ford fan, he passed and I have his baby now hoping to tap into the collective knowledge of this community.

I have a 1985 Ford Econoline Club Wagon van (Bivouac edition) with a 302 or 351 V8 that I'm getting prepped to sell. It needs three things done that I know of:

1. Carburetor rebuild (Motorcraft 2-barrel or 4-barrel)
2. Steering system repair
3. Front suspension work (likely the Dana axle and leaf springs)

I'm based in Scotch Plains, NJ and willing to transport the van up to 100 miles — so NJ, eastern PA, and southern NY are all on the table.

I've already identified Strictly Fords in Bullville, NY as a strong lead and plan to follow up with them. But before I commit, I wanted to ask here — does anyone in the NJ/NY/PA area have a trusted shop they'd personally recommend for this era of Econoline? Ideally someone who knows the carb-era platform well and can handle all three jobs in one visit.

Happy to hear from anyone who's had work done on a similar van in the region. Really appreciate any leads — the right shop recommendation from someone who's been there is worth more than any Google search.

Thanks in advance!

 

Hi. Can't help with a shop recommendation but I'm curious about what a Bivouac edition is.

It's a 4x4 conversion?

 

It's a completely finished interior with carpet, captains chairs etc. Also exterior finishes as well. It's not a conversion but it does have a back bench that folds out into a bed with a wardrobe compartment and a fridge. It's pretty cool!