looking for advice on purchase - Diesel Forum

Darryl97420 · 08-25-2008, 10:39 AM

Hey guys,

I am looking to buy a 1985 E350 extended van conversion with the 6.9l diesel. There are about 174000 on the odometer and everything seems to be in good condition.
I'm buying this rig to be my daily driver and believe with the diesel engine and 3 speed automatic transmission that I should be good to but before I take delivery tomorrow (Tuesday 8/26/08) are there any suggestions or things I need to take a look at? I know to look at the oil and tranny fluid along with coolant but are their any hidden problems I should look for?

Any advice would be appreciated.

Darryl

blageurt · 08-25-2008, 11:30 AM

As far as I know the 6.9 is very reliable and should last a long long time. You should post in the 6.9 / idi forum for more specific questions , since there are more knowledgeable people there. Also I believe you have the C6 transmission , which is damn near bulletproof.

u2slow · 08-28-2008, 08:20 PM

Test drive it.

I have not been impressed with the performance of NA diesels and 3spd auto trans - Ford or GM in my experience. The axle ratio will most likely set you up for either:

1) good economy & poor towing/loaded performance (i.e. 3.55 and lower)
2) good power & poor economy (i.e. 4.10 and up)

YMMV. (no pun intended

)

Darryl97420 · 08-29-2008, 10:25 AM

I went ahead and bought it Tuesday when I checked it out. There is the known leak from the #1 return fuel line (at lease I think thats what that is). Also found an oil leak from a hose that is under the engine by the transmission. This is my first diesel and it seems to drive no different than gas powered rigs that I have had in the past. It has plenty of power with the 4.10 rear end. Still on my first tank so economy charting is still in work. I can say that I will be adding a Fitch fuel catalyst on payday that will improve fuel economy and give me a bit more power. The Fitch has done wonders on my gassers I can't wait to see what it does on this diesel rig.