1974 Dodge Tradesman 200 Maxi-Van in original, nrestored condition. 318 V8, utomatic transmission with power steering and power brakes.
I recently purchased this van to use for parts but after getting it back into running condition I think this van deserves a new chance at life with a new owner. It had been sitting for about 2-3 years due to the previous owner's tampering with the distributor and then consequently wearing out the starter. He ultimately became frustrated and so the story goes.... With a new distributor, tarter and some fresh gas it started up and ran very smoothly with a very steady 20 inches of vacuum at low idle speed. Previous owner said the motor had been rebuilt 10 years ago with few miles on it but I have no written documentation to support that claim. I've driven it about 20 miles total on the rural roads connected to my property at speeds between 35-55 mph and it drove well with no overheating and good oil pressure. Speedometer and gauges work with the exception of the fuel gauge. The brakes work. Front end seemed ok. Trans shifted through all three gears and reverse. Tires match with good tread but are old. No serious or obvious leaks. It has been sitting so it will need a proper and thorough evaluation of all systems to be reliable driver. What does it need right now? Depends on how much money you want to spend. It does have a warm start problem which seems to be due to a flooding condition so at a minimum the carburetor will likely need some attention and perhaps a closer evaluation of the ignition system. A comprehensive flush of all the fluids and the fuel system would be next on my list. The battery is becoming weak as well and with a hard starting condition stated that could become troublesome. Beyond that it becomes more of a "need vs. want" argument.
Body is in fair shape. It has many small dents, cratches, aint chips and some rust. There is some minor rust bubbling on the driver's quarter after the wheel well and at the A-pillar. The battery tray area also has some rust. A cheap Maaco paint job would do wonders for this tradesman. Glass is all good but the windshield is starting to haze around the edges and the gaskets are original and cracked. Rear bumper is bent.
Interior is decent. It has a professionally installed 1970's style custom carpet job on the inside. No overbearing smells and it's relatively clean. The van has never had any aftermarket windows or vents installed so it's dry on the inside. Seats are clean with minor wear and tear. Driver's area rubber floor mat is in decent shape. The dash is stock and uncut except for the previously installed aftermarket radio (which may or may not work... there are no speakers present). Engine cover has plenty of scratches. Wipers and heater motor work. Rear door handle is broken. MAXI VAN means 12 ft from the back doors to the seats.
These older 70's Dodge vans that once roamed the streets of America in huge numbers have become an increasingly uncommon sight. This van is special in that not only is it a running, riving survivor but it has not had the typical aftermarket accessory identity crisis issues that so many other vans fell victim to. This van restored to original would make a great movie prop van, intage motorsport enthusiast's pit van or surfer's van.
No reserve, 999 starting bid keeps this auction real. $2500 buy-it-now says you are a buyer that knows what he / she wants and just don't have the time or patience for any of the typical eBay auction shenanigans.
It has a clear Oregon title with current Oregon tags good until July 2017. And yes, t is a running and driving van however I would not recommend attempting to drive this van home unless you are a brave, dventurous type with strong roadside triage mechanic skills and a chase car (or bike). Fuel is relatively cheap right now and transport fees have come down quite a bit so there is little savings benefit to self delivery. The van will be available for pick up at my property in McMinnville, regon 97128. Please do not ask me for transportation from airport or to bring the van to your location.
All of the pictures posted were taken on 3/17/2016. It was also last driven on 3/17/2016.
This van is being sold as-is, here-is with NO warranty written, xpressed or implied. It is the buyers responsibility to perform all necessary due diligence before placing a bid. It cost me $55 to list this van here on eBay so please do not bid unless you are truly serious about completing the transaction.
Buyer will pay with cash in hand at pickup or a cashier's check mailed in advance. Van will not be released until the funds are received and cleared. I have plenty of covered storage here and I will hold the van for up to 30 days if that will help you secure transportation. However, he van must be paid for in full within 3 days of auction close. I've been an eBay member for over 10 years with a 100% positive feedback rating and over 700 feedbacks recorded with most as a seller. Bid with confidence. If you have any questions please email me.