"Box Top Builds" '82 Dodge Van (Slump Therapy)

[ReduitRetro]

Yes, we all get in a building slump from time to time, and in my case there are several builds on my workbench that have gotten so involved, that I just had to take a break. So, I went to my extensive collection and for some reason this one peaked my interest. I originally built this MPC kit in its original form "Bad Company" some 40 years ago, and the memories of doing so helped me want to build this one. First off, those of you who are familiar with this kit know that the hood is molded closed, so as a result MPC at the time severely simplified and deleted much of the under hood detail as it wouldn't be seen due to the extremely short hood these vans had anyway. I first cut open the hood, scratch built the under hood engine bay area that was completely non-existent in the kit, went to my parts box and scavenged a battery and windshield washer container, radiator fan shroud, and 7-blade heavy duty cooling fan, scratch built an upper radiator hose and a fresh air intake tube for the air cleaner assembly, as well as adding a power steering pump and belt, along with adding painted on wiring and electrical component detail to the firewall. The interior was built straight out the box with the exception of replacing the kit supplied steering wheel with a more sporty one. Dodge van's of this era were of unibody construction, and had no actual separate frame to speak of as in offerings from Ford and Chevy, but had a welded on steel front subframe to support the engine and front suspension,(replicated in black in the underbody picture). To round out the look I was going for, I raised the rear suspension to give the van a more vintage rake and stance, and once again raided my parts box for wheel's and tires, as well as a pair of sport mirrors for the exterior to get rid of the kit supplied "west coast" style in the kit. All in all, I think it turned out okay, and will definitely help get me out of my current slump. Hope you all like it, and thanks for looking.

[Sledsel]

I like it!!! Been considering getting this kit. Hmmmmmm......

 

[ChrisR]

Looks great!

[ncbuckeye67]

That's a beautiful van! The extra detailing & scratch building definitely improved the look of the engine bay 1,000%.