Hey all,
I am currently looking for a small 10-12ft, single rear wheel box van for my carpentry/construction business as I have outgrown my pickup. Looking at new and used box vans in this size there are no diesels to be had. All the diesels are 16+ft, dual rear wheel and way bigger (and more expensive) than I need. I might have to go with a gasser but that scares me as gas is predicted to hit $2.50/gallon here soon. If things get that bad I plan on getting into biodiesel. So..... I came across a 93 Ford with a bad straight-6 motor in it that is configured the way I want it. Gee, where can I find a inline diesel with a front oil sump configuration for cheap...? There are quite a few 617's in the boneyards around here since the salt eats the rest of the cars. The question here is will a 617TD and the MB autotrans pull 7-8K around, and survive doing it? V8 radiators, aftermarket oil and tranny coolers should adapt quite easily. I have done custom swaps before so I know how to make engine mounts, brackets, etc. The hardest part might be getting the speedo to hook up! Yes I realize it will be slow. I'm not looking for performance just reliability, something better than 8mpg and the ability to make my own fuel if needed. Am I certifiable? Thanks, RT

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