Ok, here's where I'll put the pictures and information about my project-van, a real basket case I bought just for hauling. Because of its intended purpose, I might not ever do anything with it, but then again...

Before pics:

Rear view Right view Left view Top view

As you can see, there's a lot to be done, but at least it seems more or less road worthy (though I don't think I'd take it on the highway at speeds above 45 or so quite yet).

Plans? Well, taking care of the doors (NONE of them work right.. the passenger side door is held shut with a sliding-bolt style lock you might use to hold a garden gate shut) and the rust is paramount. Beyond that? Paint would be nice; probably the same color combination that exists, just because I am somewhat partial to that cottonwood-green style color. So what if it's devolved into something resembling old pea soup.

10 September 2003
Ok, I have the ignition fixed finally. I actually need a *key* to start it! I know that doesn't sound like much, but when you start off with good old screwdriver-start.. well.. it means something. :) The old ignition switch was dash mounted, but someone in their infinite wisdom decided it would be fun to carve a huge circular hole in the dash to mount the switch in.. then had to cut a metal plate to screw to the dash to hold the switch, again with a circular hole. Unfortunately, the ignition switch is keyed, meaning it has a flat part so it won't turn when you crank over the vehicle. As such, the whole ignition switch would turn in its mount. Well, I made a new metal plate with my trusty Dremel tool, and we're at least closer to something that'll work long term.
Next project? I think that would have to be the doorlatch on the driver's side. The door likes to pop open on its own accord. Also, now that I've had the chance to drive the van a bit, I found that its shocks are completely hammered, and a good bump makes the van bounce up and down like teenagers on prom night. Maybe I can get that handled at around the same time.

Questions? E-mail me.