Customizing my perfect van!
 

I'm very interested in getting an E Series van for recreation and towing, but I've not had any luck finding exactly the van that I want: an E350 4WD with a 138 inch wheelbase, carburated diesel engine and manual transmission.

Are these vans out there or would this have to be a custom job? If it's gotta be customized, which conversions would be the easiest/cheapest? Would I be crazy to try any of these?

I have some basic mechanical experience from maintaining a 92 Honda Civic, including replacing the brakes, drive axle, cv boots and valve cover. I don't have much experience with engines or transmissions but I'm a fast learner.

Thanks for any advice!

Korin

Korin. Keep looking for that carburated Diesel. Maybe you can find on e on another planet.
All Diesels have fuel injection. That was Rudolph's invention!

Thanks for your reply, bluewind! I did not know that about Diesels. How about a diesel with a mechanical fuel injection, then? My main intention is to avoid any computer-controlled components. I'd like to keep it as easy as possible to maintain and repair on my own.

Korin:
Here is how a Diesel works: Diesel engine - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Since the injection pressures are much higher than those found in gasoline fuel injection you need specialized equipment and knowledge to repair Diesels. And the parts can be horrendously expensive even in all mechanical systems.

Maybe you can shed your fear of electronics. I used to be afraid as well but now I think engine electronics contribute much to efficiency, reliability and ease of diagnostics. What I didn't know I learned from places as this one.

Thanks again for the information, bluewind. I may end up going with EFI if I must, but I'd prefer to stay with mechanical components if at all possible. I realize that I would probably have reduced efficiency. Do you happen to know what kind of mileage I should expect on an EFI diesel compared to a mechanical fuel injected one?

How common are 4WD diesel E350s with manual transmission, whether EFI or mechanical?

Sorry, I can't answer your questions. I suggest you google for specs.

As a general rule Diesel engines are much more frugal in stop and go traffic than gasoline engines. On the highway there is not much difference in mpg and even less so in $/mile because Diesel is more expensive than gas in the US.

I have to leave it with that. Good luck to you!