Which configuration of the Dodge A van for roadtripping?

rustytoolss wrote:I would say the fuel mileage between the V8 and the /6  would not be enough to get worried about. And the extra power is always a good thing.
As far as updates:  Electronic Ignition, Disc brakes, and a GOOD radiator. And of course a big smile
I bought an A100 pickup (cause they're cool) but for traveling , the van body is probably the better choice (more room for thing needed). The 318 and the /6 are both very good engines. You can't go wrong with either one.
Since the van is a 108, I think the 318 is the better choice IMO.

Joe Miller wrote:Hello everybody,

I'm new here, and so far I'm really digging the site. I just wanted to get some opinions.. If you were to have an A-van to drive heavily, and basically live in, what would it be? The standard A-100? Longer A-108 wheelbase? Slant 6 225? 318 V8? Manual or automatic?

I've been pondering this for a while.. I don't currently own a Dodge van but I've found one I really like. It's a 108 in really nice shape, 318 auto. I figured with reliability, economy, and comfort in mind, a 108 equipped with a /6 manual would be my best bet. So I'm not sure whether or not to pull the trigger and get this van, even though it doesn't meet my idea of the perfect configuration.

What do you guys think? Is the 318 comparable with the /6 in reliability? Economy?

Remember.. driving long distances.. highway speeds. I know this could be a whole new topic, but, say I did get this 108 with the 318 auto, any immediate modifications I would be better off doing?

Any input is much appreciated, interested to hear what you guys have to say.

Thanks,
I believe for long distance and useability. the A-108 with a v8 and auto lends itself to this task better than a shorty and a 6 would
Joe

dix wrote:the champion rad will work just fine,
the 4 seasons rad was cheap until everyone here started
buying it then the price went threw the roof

whalemstr wrote:I have an FSR in mine and I took my mechanical fan off and put a 16" electric pusher on it. I can go all the way to town and back - 24 miles one way - and never turn the fan on with this radiator! I took it out on the highway at 70mph on one of our 105+ degree days and with the fan on I watched the temp only get into the middle of the gauge and stay there. As soon as I would get into 55 or slower areas it cools down even more!

I love mine and love the service these guys showed to me!!!

877-385-1900
ask for Gary and tell him Dan out in California sent you his way!!!


I did have to drill the holes in the flange and cut the top of the flange so it would fit into the tapered doghouse top...no big deal