Retro Shorty: 1977 Dodge Tradesman Custom Van
Though the niche of “vanning” has gained some popularity in recent years, finding surviving examples of these over-the-top vans often presents a challenge. This 1977 Dodge Tradesman is available here on eBay as part of a no reserve auction, and it offers potential buyers a healthy dose of colorful paint, shag carpeting, and tufted upholstery.
This short-wheelbase van is available in San Bernardino, California with a clean title. Unfortunately, there isn’t a ton of history about this unique Dodge, but there is no denying that it is a relic from the past that should clean up well.
The brown and orange graphics combine nicely with the yellow paint, and though it has some fade, it perfectly suits a van of this nature, especially with the addition of the period-correct wheels. According to the seller, the body is “pristine and is completely rust-free, with no rust or repairs, ever,” but unfortunately, there is a sizable dent behind the driver’s door.
Of course, there’s the cabin, which is the cornerstone of most vans like this. It’s clear that someone put a ton of time and effort into customizing this interior, and while the advertisement does not list all of its features and personalizations, it is promising and in better condition than many similarly customized vans from the era, even if the front seats need repair.
There’s a 318 cu.-in. V8 engine under the hood, which pairs to an automatic transmission to drive the rear wheels. The 5-digit odometer shows 18,825 miles, but the odometer has likely turned over at least once. Even with the unconfirmed mileage, the seller notes that the drivetrain is solid and that the engine starts right up and idles without any issues. Additionally, the van’s brakes, steering, and suspension also feel strong.
At the time of publication, bidding is at $3,550, and the auction comes to a close today. If you purchased this running and driving retro van, what would be your plan?
Auctions Ending Soon
2006 Ford Mustang Saleen S281 SCBid Now1 hours$18,000
2002 Subaru Impreza WRXBid Now3 days$333
1975 Chevrolet Corvette ConvertibleBid Now3 days$3,000
1964 Ford F-100 Camper CustomBid Now3 days$2,000
2006 Jeep Wrangler SportBid Now5 days$10,500
Comments
Now THAT’S a real, honest to god Shaggin’ Wagon. Let’s hear it for Flower Power!
Don’t come a knockin!
Add larger tires , will look meaner, otherwise, clean it good inside and enjoy.
Connecticut Mark:
Yeah, those some pimpin aftermarkets! Wayyy too small.
Just by going back to OEM factory will make that ride a lot
safer, let alone look better.
Nothing wrong with those wheels! My brother-in-law had a Dodge Van very similar, only the colors were different. But he had the biggest tires he could find to have on the stock “Tubine” wheels. Especially in the snowy Massachusetts , R.I. Winters!
San Berdoo? Bring a blacklight.
Last time it was put up for auction the high bid was $7,100. I’d be surprised if this one doesn’t end close to that amount this time too.
Steve R
It reminds me of the love machine from “Up In Smoke”
We had a 76′ with the 318 but it was blue, not red. Red was gone on mopar engines by then I thought? Ours rusted away badly in the northeast winters…within 9 years.
The covers were repainted, you can see the factory blue underneath
Is that an electric fireplace????
SOLD for $5,600.
Running, Rust-free, authentic, sounds like a good deal to me.
I’d take my wife in it and show her what she missed being born in 74, I got a few on her, but this would be different, no Marriott, roughing it a bit
John, I have seen on this website that you were in the club scene in the 1970’s. Your wife was born in 1974? Good for you, ya ol’ dog lol!
My girlfriend was born 15 years after I was born. I thought I did good, I believe you got me beat!
Yeah well I started young, real young, hanging in there,
Still impressive buddy!