Mid 80's Ford full size van tow rig?

[mark268]

Ok, I looked through the postings have not read anything about using a van for a tow rig. I assume there is a reason?

My father in law has a mid - late 80's full size ford van he'll give me if I want it. No bad shape, needs steering gear box but runs good. 351 ci.

Why do you not read much about towing with a van? I would think it could be decent? I am looking at towing a cj on 16 foot trailer. You could use the van as camper also..?:eek:

I would love to hear everyones $.02 but please dont hack on me fawkers :flipoff: I am just asking questions to people with more experience than I.

Thank you

[FYRMAN]

What is the GVW on the van? Is there a number on the side like F100-150-250-350? You should be able to find the GVW numbers in the driver's side door frame. If they are not there, try looking for other tags attached to the van.

[Brad]

I think vans are E150/250/350 ;)
My buddy Doug uses his 1 ton 2wd van to tow his buggy on the trailer.

[FYRMAN]

Originally posted by Brad
I think vans are E150/250/350 ;)


You are right. Thanks for correcting me.;)

[DRM]

I need do dig up pics on my wife's grandfather's rig for his 28' enclosed race trailer.
It is an E350, high top conversion van, converted to dually, powerstroke too. Talk about a sweet ride :)

[TEX]

I know a couple of folks who have used 3/4 ton Ford vans from the 80's as tow rigs. One had a 6.9, not sure what was in the other. The guy with the 6.9 REALLY likes his for all the space it has inside. He sleeps in it during hunting trips. Seems to me he took out all but the front seats & one bench.


TEX

[paniolo]

3/4 ton vans were definately on my list of potential cheap tow rigs. I'll bet you could get some good deals on used fleet vehicles, like phone trucks etc. Also the late 80's-early 90's conversion vans are going real cheap and are usually all hwy miles. I would make sure it was a 3/4 ton though.

[mark268]

that is the only problem, I believe it is a 150 series. Which is a 1/2 ton correct.