1974 Ford Econoline E-300 review from North America
"I hope it lasts for another 20 years"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
This is the cheapest vehicle that I have ever owned.
The steering was shot when I bought it. It's still the only trouble I have. I think the idler arm is the problem now.
The front engine seal went out in 1988, and we rebuilt it with a short block and I put hard seats in the head. I now have 86000 miles on this engine.
A few years ago, the c-4 tranny went out. I was pleased that the cost was only $650.00. Last year I started rebuild it again. That's when we decided that I bought it at 187k not 87k.
General comments?
The parts that are available are cheap. 302 engine, C-4 tranny, Dana 60 rear end. The parts I can't find, I try to cross with a pickup. The blinker lenses are 63 pickups. My son likes the fact that I can change the points and plugs from the front seat. He never saw a V-8 before.
Recommended reviews
| 1983 - Econoline Club Wagon/E-150 302 straight 6 If you're looking for a reliable party van, why not an Econoline? |
|
| Strong van when well maintained |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1974 |
| Year of manufacture | 1974 |
| First year of ownership | 1978 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2009 |
| Engine and transmission | 204 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 10 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 178000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 306000 miles |
| Date of Entry | 17th August, 2009 |