Photography Prowess: 1970 Ford Econoline Shorty Van – SOLD!

May 2, 2022, Update – We confirmed the seller of this “Classifind” deleted their listing, so we’re now able to call this one “SOLD!” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call us directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar.

If you want a quick photography lesson on the proper timing of natural light, scroll through the generally excellent pictures provided in this post.  The seller filmed the feature photo during the “Golden Hour” (one hour after sunrise and one hour before sunset) while several other shots were clearly taken midday. Sunlight quickly goes from soft to harsh which can wreak havoc on your ability to take accurate pictures of your ride as the faded paint on this 1970 Ford Econoline “Shorty” van was originally listed in April 2022 on Craigslist in Camarillo, California (Ventura) illustrates.

Photography lesson aside, vintage vans are simply hard to come by these days, particularly second-generation Ford Econolines. Typically originally purchased for commercial duty, most were driven to the ground as they eventually rusted away from poor corrosion protection. The seller reports their vintage Econoline was a barn find that has only minimal rust on the bottom of the driver’s side door.  In addition to the great photographs, the seller’s excellent detailed description is a must-read (see below).

Currently offered for $8,500 or best offer, comparing that price against the  Collector Car Market Review Online Tool reveals the seller’s ask falls between this guide’s #2 “Very Good” estimate of $6,400 and its 1 “Excellent” appraisal of $10,900.

Launched as a 1969 model in January 1968 following a lengthy United Auto Workers (“UAW”) strike, the second generation moved away from the Falcon-based, forward-control design of the van it replaced and now shared many of its underpinnings with the F-series full-size pickups. The new design facilitated a conventional, albeit very short hood that aided engine cooling and easier access for routine maintenance.

The Cars & Stripes YouTube Channel features this Ford’s launch video of the Econoline from 1969 comparing it against its contemporary domestic competition of the time:

Here’s the seller’s detailed description:

“1970 Ford Econoline Shorty Van for sale. “Shorty” version that everyone wants. This is a Southern California all original, factory correct, real barn find in outstanding shape for its age. The only rust/cancer this van has is a small spot on the bottom of the driver side door, that’s it. Easily accessible and repairable. The rest is all surface rust. The odometer reads 37,600 (it’s rolled over once so it has 137,600 ) and will continue to go up as I do drive it 1-2 times per week. It has the original (larger option) 240ci inline 6 cylinder engine, with a 3 “on the tree” (on the column)transmission. It runs, drives, steers, and stops quite well. The only things I’d recommend doing is eventually rebuild the carburetor (kit is included), change the points and condenser(included) and eventually change the valve cover gasket(also included)minor oil leak from the valve cover not anything to really worry about. I’m the second owner. I acquired it from the original owners. I have maintenance/parts records for it from the previous owner and myself. Many mechanical parts have been replaced. New fuel pump, radiator hoses, heater hoses, flushed engine/radiator and it was very clean when I did this. New Fan belt, spark plugs, I have new wires (just need to be installed), 4 brand new cooper tires, new air filter, new fuel filter, recent oil and filter change, the gear oil in the trans. Rebuilt master cylinder, brakes, shocks, it’s got a good Napa legend battery in it, good starter and alternator (with hardly any miles on both) no charging issues, new bulbs throughout the van inside and out have been replaced, everything pretty much works in this van as it should. Lights, horn, heater, all the gauges and odometer work as well. No AC. It even has an old school 1970s push button (located on dash) bell located under hood, as well as built in electrical outlets/plug ins to power up anything from home. Great for camping, hunting, exploring, roaming, working, moving, motorcycles, etc. this van screams 70s and is versatile in so many ways. This van was stored inside a dairy barn most of its life. I have plenty of spare tuneup parts for you in the future including: spark plugs, cap, rotor, points/condenser, etc. Still has the original wood paneling throughout the interior in great condition. Good Firestone bias ply spare tire is included still mounted on the original steel wheel. Has a lot of cool history behind it. Built in lockable gun safe, small tool box and storage compartment. Original paint, glass is all in great condition. Original blue shag carpet is still in good shape too! Paint has some minor surface rust, nothing major, looks great, outstanding patina, gets compliments everywhere I go. Clean/clear title, in my name, current registration, no smog ever needed! Asking $8,500.00 cash obo. Open to reasonable offers or possible trades. Its the perfect blank canvas to start anything or leave in its original state. I don’t need help selling it and I’m in no hurry either. Phone calls/texts only, no emails. Must see to appreciate. Thank you for your time and interest.”

Camp or Cruise: What would you do with this Ford Econoline?  If so, comment below and let us know!