What to salvage

[Michael B]

New here. I’ve got an 87 4x4 automatic. Found a 87 2wd at a salvage yard (haven’t seen it in person yet). I don’t need anything specific right now but any advice on what hard to find pieces you would pick for the future? Happy to take pics for you all as well when I see it.

[AD2101]

I always try to snag stuff that is specific to these vans; outside sliding door handle, ECM, igniter, radiator fan shroud, fuse box, relays, windshield chrome pieces, alternator (if it's a Denso or Toyota unit), tail lights, cornering lens, air intake house, stuff like that. Another plus is most of those parts can be pulled in short order with nothing more than a Phillips screwdriver, 10mm socket, and a pair of pliers.

Admittedly, some of that stuff won't work on your 4wd van, but people are always looking for those parts on the forum as well as elsewhere online. If you're able to store and are willing to go through the hassle of selling them, it can go quite a ways towards funding the purchase price of the parts you can use. It's also good "van karma" in helping someone else in getting their van back on the road.

[Michael B]

Thanks so much. Turns out it was 4x4. Rust like crazy. I did get a bunch of little knick knacks like rear wiper motor and connections, seatbelt, a bunch of plastic pieces. I didn’t have time to get big stuff before it was gone (crushed). :(: