Hi everyone,
Im very interested in buying an escort van, please could people suggest things that id need to look out for when viewing potential vans. I know that rust could be a problem, but anything else would be greatly appreciated.
Also, please can you tell me if the vans have any kind of issues or problems that i need to know about.

I know that the vans can come in petrol models, is it wise to go for petrol, or should i stick to diesel.

Thank you for your time
Gilo

Stick to diesel mate asthey are much much more reliable.
Check for rust under the sills, Check the rear door hinges are not broke, as last time i checked they were £25 a hinge. I know 1 bloke who was charged £35 for a hinge.
Make sure all the switches etc work without a problem.
Check the exhaust is sound all the way through.
No knocking or strange rattles.
If it has roof racks, check where they clamp too aint rusted out.
Sometimes the bit of the roof under the top of the back doors, collects water so check that too.

Good luck and keep us up to date.

[quote name='vinnyvangough' post='3008' date='Aug 24 2008, 03:12 PM']Stick to diesel mate asthey are much much more reliable.
Check for rust under the sills, Check the rear door hinges are not broke, as last time i checked they were £25 a hinge. I know 1 bloke who was charged £35 for a hinge.
Make sure all the switches etc work without a problem.
Check the exhaust is sound all the way through.
No knocking or strange rattles.
If it has roof racks, check where they clamp too aint rusted out.
Sometimes the bit of the roof under the top of the back doors, collects water so check that too.

Good luck and keep us up to date.[/quote]


Thanx for the help, i havnt found any for sale atm, (it seems there arent any in the Isle of Man where i live).
Please can you explain what knocking is? Is it just noise and rattles or is it hte engine type of knocking, and if so, what does it sound like?
Thanks, Giles

Just basic engine knocking like bottom end sounds.
I had a bottom end nock and it lasted 20 mins before i had 2 holes in my block.
Brilliant vans though

I see
What about sub chassis rust, my Dad bought an escort van a while ago, and had it serviced and found out that the whole of the frame was rusted. Mechanic said that if any crashed into the back of it, the van was as good as scrap.
Is that problem inherent?
Thanks, Giles

As far as i know it hasn't been a major problem. Not known of many like that at all. Worth checking them out though.