Ok- I am going to do the conversion into my 66 Econline Pu(they are like the early ford vans without the back sheet metal) that is pretty light-
What should I look for when I go looking for a donor I am going to look for a 300DT and a auto trans( my little PU had a Ford 300 6 and auto) so I am thinking that the weight should be close- after reading some on this site 1- I should ask the owner not start the car until I am present
2- Look for "how much smoke?" and how long it takes to start
3- the auto trans- look for leaks and what else?
4- Put the trans into gear and test for the torque converter lock up? then drive and make sure it shifts to all gears and how hard it shifts into those gears? I know I am missing/asking a lot but really want to get it right the first time
thanks to everyone for their time
Nohair

Are you aware the five cylinder diesel weighs about 800 pounds? Also on your truck you want to do a critical rust inspection. I remember those models as vans. The area around the steering box should have zero rust. You will need much stiffer front springs as well. Those econoline vans back then struck me as thin vehicles. Also if in fair or better condition it is already a little of a collectors item. Not great yet but coming on. The conversion might hurt it's value. Remember it is unusual. If you ever hear or know of a spare tailgate for one mention it on site. A friend of mine that has restored one of these trucks is still on the hunt.

Of the old Econolines, the pick-up style is the only one to ever generate any interest, and even then it's not much. Still, I'd check out eBay before cutting it up for this project. It might be worth more than you think. Cutting it up won't increase the value at all, and might hurt it a lot.