1974 Ford Econoline E-300 review from North America
"Strong van when well maintained"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
I have only had a few problems. At around 100,000 miles a part of the steering mechanism popped loose. When I turned the steering wheel the wheels would not change direction until a full spin of the steering wheel. I had to replace the main bearing of the Y-joint steering. Every rod was taken off before I could take the bearing off the chassis. It also took a pneumatic press to pop the bearing loose of it's clasp. A replacement bearing was $150. As I understand it, the Y-joint steering was one of the worst designs ever. It was too easy to foul it up.
Aside from that, the only other problem I've had was that a radiator hose popped at 110,000 miles.
General comments?
This van did get a remodeled engine at 87,000 miles because of years of disuse.
This is the cargo van model.
It has been hit twice in the back. Only once was there any trouble from an accident, when hit by the other vehicle my gas tank was punctured.
Overall, I do enjoy having a large van and I haven't had any huge problems with it. It starts every time even though I only drive it about once a week.
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![]() ![]() | OIL LEAKER |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 1997 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | V8 Manual |
| Performance marks | 6/10 |
| Reliability marks | 7/10 |
| Comfort marks | 7/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 2/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 90000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 117000 miles |
| Date of Entry | 26th January, 2003 |



