Timbone

Thanks Linda, Looks just like the one for sale! I admit, I wouldn't mind owning it even though Toyota is my first choice. I didn't realize until I joined these forums that Chevy, Ford, & Mazda had these conversions! Learning quite a lot!

Actually, I should say the 5 speed manuals with the 2.3 4cyl did decent, the diesel version better of course!

Unfortunately none of their engines had a good MPG rating. I really like it but can't help to wonder about the mileage. There wasn't a big difference between the two 4 cyl's they offered in 85 compared to the 2.8 6 cyl. If I ended up with it I believe I would be looking at a newer 3.0 or 4.0 motor upgrade, probably the 4.0. I noticed it has a tow package on it. Wish there were more photos!!!

This was interesting reading. Maybe should have a separate thread? Just a thought. Now about that Americana, did anyone buy it? Is the original poster buying it? What is the status? Hope everyone is well.

Have to be a member of that group to view/open link.

Actually the body style reminded me of the old Ice Cream trucks!

That "Funwagon" looked pretty interesting to me. I agree, ahead of it's time in 67! Now I can't help to wonder if any of us will ever see one. I won't soon forget the "Funwagon" and will have my traveling eyes open!

Sounds good. I was thinking of current but the older ones you mentioned sound interesting!

I am wondering what would be a few good RV Magazines to start with being new. Appreciate all replies!

Very interesting thread. Obviously we have some member's who KNOW what they are talking about based on education, experience, and backed up with links that confirm their findings/knowledge. One note on a more recent post about not having any issues. Praise God, I'm glad you didn't. But keep this in mind, newer vehicles were made to use ethanol. Older vehicles were meant for regular or plain unleaded gas. Older vehicles have component's in them that can be damaged by the ethanol/alcohol. I may have missed it as I read so much, but keep in mind ethanol blends have a shelf life! Depending on what experts you talk to the time frame varies. I believe possibly the climate plays a roll also. What does this mean? Ethanol blends are COMPRESSED into our regular unleaded fuels. Think about carbonated soft drinks. In time they go flat. In time Ethanol separates leaving you with 10% alcohol laying around and causing issues with some parts, performance, etc. I bought a Yamaha Grizzly from our local Yamaha dealer. The warranty will not cover ANY fuel related issues. A step further, they had a clear container of El0 Fuel that separated on their counter. You could shake it up or what ever and can't remix the fuel. Wasn't it Florida Marina's and Boat owners that brought class action suit against the state as the alcohol was melting through some fuel tanks and/or other components causing multiple boat/yacht fires? Not trying to scare anyone but pointing out as long as your driving your vehicles and using the fuel you should be okay but don't let your E blends sit around in older vehicles, mowers, ATV's etc. One problem was with the fuel needles in the carbs on motorcycles and ATV's. I literally saw the damage done to lawnmower carbs where certain parts melted, corroded, etc. Sorry for the long post. Here in NY they now have separate pumps for boats etc. that are ethanol free. The bad is the price is usually 1.00 or more per gallon. Hope this helps. I know it is a difficult topic on a lot of Forums but knowledge is power. Thank you for the links above!

I converted my R12 to the 134a and I cannot tell you the difference from the R12 but can tell you I have as low as 39° coming out of the Dash Vents! That was done on our 91 G20 Van. Quite pleased with the results. BJ'S Wholesale offers a recharge kit once the conversion is done and I do have a slow leak somewhere, early to mid summer I need to recharge it, 40.00, well worth it for me, need my AC!

I was pulling 21 MPG highway with ASTRO TBI on my NY To FL trips. Auto with OD. I believe the Dodge 3.8' S were good motors but mid 90's auto tranny's were noted for problems. I was trying to find a Dakota Extended Cab with a manual but never did. Good point with the mileage with the 4.3's. We raised our kids in ASTRO Vans. Needed the room and liked to travel. SO, what is the best swap with some power to tow that gets decent mileage?

Derek, Any idea what years Toyota offered the factory fix? I'm not surprised, in my opinion Toyota always offered a good product. This was the first time I read different posts about upgrading the 3.0. Have to admit though I like the later 4.3's from GM. They used them in full size vans etc. and had plenty of power. I currently have an earlier one with TBI in my G20 that doesn't lack any power. I'm thinking ahead for towing purposes.

Probably a aluminum block then? I'd rather have the 4.3 GM 6cyl with an automatic. They use it some of their RV's with the Astro body.

It seems I have been finding posts about the 3.0 being swapped out. I am new to this so I am wondering if this is because the motor wasn't popular or was prone to mechanical failure? Appreciate any replies!