1968 Handi-Van (Questions!)

I would like to say "hello" to everyone out there and introduce myself since I will probably be using this forum quite often. I recently acquired my first van, equipped with a 1968 Handi-Van with a 327 V8 Auto Powerglide Transmission and it has a little over 79,000 miles on it, (miles are proven to be accurate.) I'm going to post images of the van so you can have a look....let me know what you think. I'm interested in learning about 1968 and similar-era GMC vans from everyone on this forum.

The van is in o.k. shape for a 40-year old vehicle, but there are a few problems that need to be addressed and any advice is greatly appreciated. Also, I had a local garage that works on "old stuff" and they seem to have a decent business, but I'm wondering if the prices for repair are fair on each item listed below:

*I don't know how to do these things, so I figure the shop should do it:
1. Replace front wheel brake cylinders, resurface rotors, adjust brakes: $300.00
2. Replace rusty exhaust pipe and muffler: $225.00
3. Transmission Fluid Flush: $100.00
4. Full tune - up (includes new wires and plugs): $400.00
*I think I can figure these things out:
5. Replace valve cover gaskets: $150.00 (Should I attempt this myself?)
6. Clean and rebuild 2-barrel carb.: $300.00 (Should I attempt this myself?) Is it worth just replacing the original carb with a new one instead?
7. Coolant Flush and Fill: $90.00 (Should I attempt this myself?)
8. Brake Fluid Flush and Fill: $100.00 (Should I attempt this myself?)
9. Replace fuel filter: $50.00 (Should I attempt this myself?)
10. Ignition: Should I get rid of the original set up and go with an electronic ignition? (I really don't like the idea of setting points!)
11. Window insulation / seals....where can I get them?
12. Seats: Any hot links out there?
13. Wheels: The original 14" wheels are on the van....should I get rid of these and go bigger for any reason? It seems this is a VERY small rim for such a big vehicle.

In addition to your opinion on repair costs, please let me know if you have recommendations for particular parts that work best or if you have something I might be interested in. The only MAJOR part I'm looking for is a right rear door that is dented in.

*Also, what is the best source to obtain a manual / repair guide for my van?

Thanks!
-Nabor J



There is residual oil on the motor and tranny and I'm wondering what is the best method to remove it....should I use GUNK?

donivan65,

I'm in the Pacific NW (Oregon.) Any of the numbered issues I listed are open for discussion....let me know what you think. About brakes, how much money would converting to front disks cost?

Thanks,
nabor j

I've always used some cheap brand of engine wash that you just spray on then hose off. Be careful not to hose the electrical stuff too much. If the van won't start after a hosing, let it dry for a few days then try again, or take the distributor off and make sure no water got in there. Just be careful when hosing it down.

OR, you can carefully clean the motor off with a rag and some brushes and some varsol or paint thinner...but it will take a little longer to do than a spray on Gunk or whatever.

donivan,

yes, the van has five lug wheels. how difficult and what is the cost to convert to disc? will this make a big difference and will it save money over time?

thanks,
nabor j

Welcome to the site. I too am a novice when it comes to vehicle repair and the people here have been a GREAT help. Ask anything you need to know and i am sure someone will have the answer.

Many thanks to everyone who replied to my post....you advice and info. has been very helpful so far and I'm looking forward to learning more!

Take it easy,
nabor j

Correction on my motor....it's a 307, not a 327 V8.

-nabor j

Howdy Nabor! Welcome aboard!

$400 sounds a little high for a tune up, "full" or not. If you switch to an electronic ignition distributor, that takes care of your dwell setting forever. And you'll have to set the timing anyway when you put the new distributor in. Plugs are super easy to install, along with new plug wires. Then it's just the carb. I'm not sure you should attempt a carb overhaul if you've never done one before. Have that done and they should include adjusting it when they reinstall it.

Congrats!! so where are the pictures, lets see this van!!