Wanted B190

[LaPlaya]

Hi all,
so after 3 1/2 years of searching, I finally found THE ONE. And it was mine for a sweet, sweet moment... then brutally drove away

And so, here I am...searching again for:
-any year b190
-ideally around 50k miles, but probably no more than 75k
-mechanically excellent (engine & all) and sound (generator, systems, tires, etc.)
-not worried too much about interior condition, as I plan on re-doing most of it

I am daily checking on ebay, craigslist, google search, etc. I have already contacted the two sellers from "For Sale" thread on here, as it looks those are the only two currently available.

Off topic: Idea is to make all kitchen components in-line. You know how some vans have the fridge on driver's side and some have the stove. In my mind, seems easier to move the stove (would use only 2-burner cooktop) next to the sink, so ideally that's what I'd like. I think that was configuration up to 1996-7. Which then also includes the little tub in the bathroom, but that's ok because I kinda like it. Anyone have experience or knowledge with this?

Thanks.

[LaPlaya]

Just btw, I'm in central coast California area.

[190-b-651]

Central Cal in my backyard lol. I agree the stove and sink make more sense next to each other. My 93 is the other floor plan but it works. The bathtub/large sink is more like it I really haven't found a good purpose for yet its good to wash your hair or feet in but we use it more for storage than anything else.
Did you see the 89 b190 I posted its ben up a while its really clean and low miles.

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[LaPlaya]

Hi neighbor, thanks for your reply. I was actually gonna erase my original post, because it was written out of desperation and frustration over something, but oh well.. there it is.

Yes, I'm still undecided on the whole bathroom layout, but the little tub is just kinda cute. Plan is to spend 6-12 months in the van travelling around, and mostly boondocking so I'm anticipating entire bathroom, but particularly shower/tub will get a lot of use.

I did see the one you mentioned. In Modesto, right? Location of it is ideal, but I feel it's quite overpriced even for the low miles it has. It's still 1989, and has no generator, which is another $2,500+- on top of it. Plus, I can't seem to find anything else about it, and didn't want to bother the owners asking all the questions since I'd probably give $12,000 for it at the most, depending on engine condition and such. Yeah, I'd go pick it up tomorrow! I'm keeping an eye on it. Thank you for your suggestions.

[190-b-651]

Ill send you a p.m.

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[LaPlaya]

I need some advice as to what is a better option:

Both 1995, assuming everything works and all else being equal, is it better to go for (A) the one with +-60K miles one, or (B) with +-110K miles for $3,000 less?

(A) is a little better kept, prettier, and better condition inside, but does need couple of minor things fixed. It is also 2,000 miles drive back home.
(B) is not as shiny but close enough, only about 300 miles from home and $3,000 less.

Both are out of state, so as I just found out (thanks 190-b-651) it's another thousand at least to bring it.
How long do these typically last anyway? I've never seen one with over 150,000 miles on it. What is their life expectancy (for the machine, I mean)?

Thanks.

[190-b-651]

Definitely A would be my choice if the money isn't a problem.

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[LaPlaya]

Thanks, D. Well, money is tight so it's definitely a consideration but I'm trying to figure out if there's enough value in it.

So you're saying (assuming airfare & trip back ads up to +-$1,500) that those 50,000 miles are worth $4,500.
I honestly have no idea, would love to hear from more experts like yourself.

[190-b-651]

Repairs add up quickly three months ago $2700 for a transmission last month $500 shocks a year ago I replaced exhaust manifolds with a tune up and belts and hoses was $2900.
Im not trying to discourage you but its the reality of buying a 20+ year old vehicle. Plan on spending more on repairs especially on a higher mileage vehicle.
JMO


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[lido14co]

The good thing is there are plenty of Fords around so repair parts aren't an issue. A twenty year old chassis will have about the same wear no matter the mileage. The engine and transmission wear will have a lot to do with how the vehicle was driven and maintained. It's a crapshoot and you'll probably wind up spending about the same amount to rehab either vehicle. Whichever one you get you'll enjoy. There's nothing better out there that's as good in this price range. Good luck!


Cliff

[LaPlaya]

I don't know much about auto-repairs and engines, but my thinking all along was that mileage is not going to make that much difference in a 22-year old vehicle. Thank you Cliff. In the end, I went with option (A) just because it looked better maintained, and was able to agree to a price which would justify the expense of flying out there, and bringing it home.

(And now I'm questioning my decision one again.... )

[LaPlaya]

Repairs add up quickly three months ago $2700 for a transmission last month $500 shocks a year ago I replaced exhaust manifolds with a tune up and belts and hoses was $2900.

Ok, now I AM scared! $3K for belts and hoses? When can I expect transmission to go?
I wish I had a good, trustworthy mechanic around here...

And how would I go about replacing the fridge and stove and exhaust fan, for example? Is there a b190 store somewhere? LOL
Like, I was hoping to put in an instant water heater - would this be possible? And who would I even ask about this / purchase one?

[190-b-651]

It was the exhaust manifolds that were most of the expense installation required taking most of the front and top of the motor apart. Im not trying to discourage you like i said.

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[lido14co]

Any Ford dealer or mechanic can take care of your engine and drivetrain for standard mechanics fees, about $100 an hour plus parts. Things like a new fridge or generator are going to be pricey but any rv dealer can help you. I get that you don't want to spend a bunch of money but I figure for most of these old beasts you're going to be $20K all in to make it "perfect". Really not bad if you consider anything newer. So just do the projects a bit at a time and in the mean time fall in love with your new traveling companion.


Cliff

[LaPlaya]

Ok thank you both. One step at a time, I guess...