Our hats are off to whoever looked at their 1979 Ford Econoline and thought “I bet I could fit a jet engine back there.” It did take a little massaging and a little stretching, but it fits and it is glorious. It is a little shorter than stock, but the brick-like aerodynamics are intact.
And while the dragon mural on the side isn’t exactly screaming bald eagles, there is something strangely American about it. Well, other than the fact is it is a Ford Econoline van jet dragster. But even better is that it is for sale! This isn’t just a cool toy to annoy your neighbors or light bonfires, it is a full blown business enterprise! The buy-it-now prices includes almost everything you need to put on a show except for a tow rig to move this beast around.
There is one question bothering us though about this monster: how do you learn to drive it? We would start by calling the folks at Frank Hawley’s Drag Racing School and taking a few classes. We are going to guess that you will have to provide your own jet dragster though. Imagine trading your boring accounting job to live life a quarter mile at a time! Sure there is some risk involved…and fire…but think of the looks you will get at the next PTA meeting when someone asks what you do for a living and you can respond “I drive a Ford Econoline van jet dragster.”
Check out these videos of the van doing its thing:
Here’s the ad copy in case it sells and the link disappears:
“1979 Ford Econoline Jet Van. Selling not only a vehicle, but also a business. FOR VIDEOS GO TO YOUTUBE, TYPE IN WRIGHT ATTITUDES JET (LONG VIDEO (14+40) GO TO 2+50 FOR JET VAN). The Jet Van body (shell) is of the original design but chopped and channeled, the current interior was professionally built from the ground up (chromoly tubing). Truly a unique form of transportation! It is powered by a 1950’s vintage Westinghouse J-34 eleven stage axial flow turbojet engine that generates 3500 lbs. thrust, with the afterburner generates over 6500 lbs. (approximate)! Maximum speed is governed by the limitations of the tires (300 mph). In addition, new brakes (Wilwood), parachutes, rims (with spares), onboard operating and hydraulic pump batteries, aviation antenna, some turbine oil (per Mil spec), smoke oil tank and pump, and a large list of items to operate this vehicle (see list below). Comes with aviation radio and helmet and the jet van is wired so you can talk and listen to the outside (air boss for air shows). Really puts on a fire, noise and smoke show! Can be used to “burn” a vehicle at other events. Auto dealerships can be tapped into as local sponsors. Having a large side profile is perfect for obtaining sponsors. Earns ~$2,000 – $5,000 per weekend with all expenses paid! Think about it, you get out there and get hired for only 5 air shows a year and in just 2 years this vehicle is paid for. Owner may be able to deliver and is willing to train the new owner free of charge, plus expenses. Sold as is where is with absolutely no warranty expressed or implied of any kind.”