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Rediscovering the 1987 Dodge B150 Van: A Workhorse of the '80s

The 1987 Dodge B150 Van stands as a testament to the era of big, bold, and functional American vehicles. Born from the assembly lines of Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation, this van was designed with utility and versatility in mind. At a time when vans were the go-to choice for businesses, families, and adventurers alike, the Dodge B150 emerged as a popular option, offering a blend of reliability and roominess that was hard to match. A unique fact that might pique your interest: the B150 series was among the preferred choices for conversion van companies, often transformed into luxurious cruisers decked out with plush interiors and high-end entertainment systems.

Design and Innovation

With its boxy silhouette and robust stance, the exterior of the 1987 Dodge B150 was unmistakably a product of its time. The design exuded practicality over aesthetics, with a focus on maximizing interior space. Inside, the cabin was straightforward and no-nonsense, with durable materials built to withstand heavy use. While not known for opulent finishes, the B150 offered comfort and functionality with ample storage compartments and customizable seating arrangements. Technological features were modest by today's standards but included necessities like power steering and air conditioning. Color options ranged from classic whites and grays to more vibrant hues, with deep blues and reds being popular picks. The most iconic body style was arguably the window van, which provided clear visibility for passenger transport or a blank canvas for custom conversions.

Historical Significance

The Dodge B150 didn't just transport people and cargo; it carried the spirit of an era that valued hard work and adaptability. Its design influenced the multi-purpose vehicles that followed, proving that a vehicle could be both a dependable workhorse and a comfortable passenger carrier. The B150's legacy is evident in the continued popularity of full-size vans in various applications, from commercial fleets to lifestyle vehicles.

Performance and Handling

Performance-wise, the 1987 Dodge B150 was more about endurance than speed. While top speed and acceleration figures were modest—with 0-60 mph times not typically being a highlight—the van's V8 engine options provided sufficient power for hauling and towing. On the road, the B150 handled like the large vehicle it was, with a focus on stability and predictability over agility. Drivers could expect a commanding view of the road and a sense of solidity, with engine sounds that spoke more to reliability than performance.

Ownership Experience

Owners of the 1987 Dodge B150 valued it for its practicality as a daily driver, its spaciousness for family trips, or its potential as a blank slate for customization projects. Maintenance was generally straightforward, with many parts being widely available and affordable. Reliability was a strong suit, though as with any vehicle of its age, upkeep is key to longevity.

Fun Facts

The Dodge B150 has had its share of screen time in movies and television shows, often cast as the quintessential '80s van. While not known for breaking speed records, it has certainly set records for versatility in use. Criticisms over the years have focused on its fuel economy and size, but fans argue these are small trade-offs for its overall utility.

Collector's Information

Today, the 1987 Dodge B150 Van holds a unique niche in the collector's market. While exact production numbers are hard to pin down, it's clear that well-maintained examples are becoming rarer. Values can vary widely based on condition, mileage, and customization; a pristine stock van or a professionally converted model could fetch anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000 or more. The market trend shows appreciation for models in exceptional condition or with unique provenance.

Conclusion

The 1987 Dodge B150 Van may not have been the flashiest vehicle of its time, but its enduring appeal lies in its simplicity and capability. Whether it's remembered as a family road-trip cruiser or valued as a collector's item today, this van embodies a period of automotive history that championed practicality and versatility—a true workhorse of the '80s.

1987 Dodge B150 Door Seal, Back Left Cargo, 84-90 Dodge B-Series (B150/B250/B350) Van, Each-LM 123-VEDoor Seal, Back Left Cargo, 84-90 Dodge B-Series (B150/B250/B350) Van, Each. Replaces OEM # 4354115. Made with Metro’s SUPERsoft Sponge™—our specially formulated soft yet durable EPDM sponge rubber—to protect against the elements. SUPERsoft rubber

1987 Dodge B150 Door Seal, Back Right Cargo, 84-90 Dodge B-Series (B150/B250/B350) Van, Each-LM 123-VFDoor Seal, Back Right Cargo, 84-90 Dodge B-Series (B150/B250/B350) Van, Each. Replaces OEM # 4354114. This part replaces the right rear cargo door seal on 1984-1990 Dodge B-Series vans. Made with Metro’s SUPERsoft Sponge™—our specially formulated soft yet durable EPDM sponge rubber—to protect against the elements. SUPERsoft rubber

1987 Dodge B150 Door Seal, Side Left Cargo, 84-90 Dodge B-Series (B150/B250/B350) Van, Each-LM 123-VGDoor Seal, Side Left (Rear) Cargo, 84-90 Dodge B-Series (B150/B250/B350) Van, Each. Replaces OEM # 4354112. Does not fit sliding door. Made with Metro’s SUPERsoft Sponge™—our specially formulated soft yet durable EPDM sponge rubber—to protect against the elements. SUPERsoft rubber

1987 Dodge B150 Door Seal, Side Right Cargo, 84-90 Dodge B-Series (B150/B250/B350) Van, Each.-LM 123-VHDoor Seal, Side Right Cargo, 84-90 Dodge B-Series (B150/B250/B350) Van, Each. Replaces OEM # 4354113. Does not fit sliding cargo door. Made with Metro’s SUPERsoft Sponge™—our specially formulated soft yet durable EPDM sponge rubber—to protect against the elements. SUPERsoft rubber

1987 Dodge B150 Drivers Side (left) Door Seal. Fits full size vans only-LM 123-VLDrivers Side (left) Door Seal. Fits full size vans only. Each

1987 Dodge B150 Passenger Side (right) Door Seal. Fits full size vans only-LM 123-VRPassenger Side (right) Door Seal. Fits full size vans only. Each

1987 Dodge B150 Windshield and rear glass lock-strip. Fits Many '57-'93 Mopars. Each.-LS 2-AWindshield and rear glass lock-strip. Fits Many '57-'93 Mopars. Each.

1987 Dodge B150 Lockstrip Seal, 54-93 Mopar Full Size Truck, Van & SUV, Chromed Plastic Type-LS 2-VLockstrip Seal, 54-93 Mopar Full Size Truck, Van & SUV, Chromed Plastic Type, Each. Works with Metro p/n VWS 2706.

1987 Dodge B150 Chrome Windshield Lockstrip-LS 3-CThis chrome lockstrip insert's into the weatherstrip to lock in the glass. Includes center cover clip. It's sold as a single piece to do one application.

1987 Dodge B150 Windshield seal, '71-'93 Dodge/Plymouth B/PB series vans-VWS 2706Windshield seal, '71-'93 Dodge/Plymouth B/PB series vans, with groove for lockstrip, each.

1987 Dodge B150 Glass Run Window Channels-WC 4300-02Glass Run Window Channels. Fits '71-'79 Dodge B-series and '74-'79 Plymouth PB-series full size vans. 4-piece kit includes both left-side and right-side front upper and division bar glass run window channels. Set.