Beschreibung
Recently arrived from Arizona is this bone stock original 1978 Dodge Shorty. Despite it needing paint, this van is in remarkable condition for its age, with absolutely no rust anywhere, very straight bodywork, and running and driving just great. Its also about the same size as a SWB Transit, so, unlike a lot of American vans, its really easy to live with in the the UK. As of now its in the UK with all duties paid and a NOVA certificate in hand, but will shortly be MOT’d and registered on an age related UK plate (Unless you want to get in quick and be the first name on the logbook).
Mechanically this van is spot on, and drives, steers, and stops just as it should. Its factory stock with the punchy Slant 6 engine (Not to be confused with most manufaturers wheezy 6’s), which goes really well, sounds great, and offers much better economy than the equivalent V8. The 3 speed manual gearbox shifts smoothly, the brakes have been gone through, and the original steel wheels wear brand new tyres.
As said, the body and chassis are in remarkable condition, we’ve been all over it and can’t find one bit of structural rust, and very little surface either. There is also no real damage to speak of, just a couple of minor dings. A well respected bodywork man I know looked over it and reckoned a weekend’s work would see it ready for paint, it really is that good. Only modifications from stock are the rear windows have been panelled over (nicely), a side door window added (again, nicely), and a couple of small bits to attend to where the world’s ugliest roof rack was once fitted. The van is easily big enough for a couple of 70’s Choppers or a double bed to go in.
The interior is a little scruffy but complete, with both seats useable, and all the gauges and lights operating as they should, even the interior light works. The dash top is sun-bleached, but a swift application of some Angel Hair will sort that! All the glass is in good order, and the door windows go up and down as they should. The rear load area is clear and open as it came from the factory. There’s room for improvement or personalisation, but theres nothing to stop you using the van in the meantime.
As are the majority of vehicles I bring in, this one is as solid and original as its possible to be, there are no nasty surprises hiding behind shiny paint and bling wheels, its a good honest useable truck that is a perfect base for you to build on and turn into something really special, whilst enjoying driving it all the time rather than spending months cutting and welding.
As always I’ve tried to describe the van as honestly as possible, but the best thing to do is come see it yourself. It’s available to view by appointment in Hockwold, Suffolk. Contact me on here, on the details below, or call Ivor on the details below.
Price with UK reg and full MOT is £6950.
