I've been looking to buy a full size conversion van initially I wanted a 2003 or newer Chevy because that body style is still in production. You can say I'm on a budget or you can say I'm cheap I've been hoping to get one for under $13,000. I have seen a couple in that price range in good condition but couldn't get to them quickly enough.
But also in my search I've seen some conversion vans from the 80s and early 90s with low miles at half that price.
I'm not opposed to doing an engine and transmission swap and complete rebuild of the front end. If I can get the van cheap enough I don't really need it for a couple years anyway. This would be a daily driver family van and be tasked with doing some Towing probably 20 or 30 times a year.
Am I crazy to even consider a van from the 80s? I am worried about Parts availability. But would not mind upgrading old parts like doing 4 wheel disc brakes.
Yes it's crazy. You should be able to find an early 2000's van in good shape for that money. Convert it yourself.
looks, this one already has a rack
http://www.pacificfleetsales.com/used-cars/detail/2009-Ford-E350-(1-Ton)-Cargo-Van/281/1FTSE34L19DA23728
Be aware that back in the late seventies and the eighties, car manufacturers (especially US ones) were struggling to meet air pollution standards. Many of the engines of that era combined very low performance, terrible gas mileage, and weird trouble-prone exhaust gas recirculation, air pumps, dozens of vacuum hoses, etc. In other words, the worst of both the old and new. For example, the base engine in the 1975 Corvette delivered a whopping 165 hp - I'd swap engines!
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chevrolet_Corvette_(C3)
I ended up buying a 1997 e150 conversion. I totally forgot about air bags, crumple zones, and shoulder belts all around. This is a family car daily driver wanted it a little newer safety wise.