The 1968 Chevrolet Van, a symbol of the era’s free-spirited attitude and burgeoning counterculture, revolutionized the automotive landscape. This iconic vehicle, with its boxy design and spacious interior, became a canvas for expression, a mobile home for adventures, and a symbol of freedom for a generation.
It was the embodiment of the “go anywhere, do anything” spirit that defined the 1960s, capturing the imagination of a nation seeking new horizons.
The 1968 Chevrolet Van was more than just a vehicle; it was a statement. It represented a break from the traditional and a embrace of the unconventional. Whether used as a family hauler, a workhorse for small businesses, or a rolling party on wheels, the 1968 Chevrolet Van offered a unique blend of practicality and personality.
History and Background
The 1968 Chevrolet Van, also known as the Chevy Van, marked a significant moment in the history of the automotive industry. Its introduction brought a new class of vehicle to the market, one designed for utility, versatility, and a touch of freedom.
The Chevy Van was born out of a changing landscape. In the 1960s, the American automotive market was experiencing a shift towards smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles. However, there was also a growing demand for vehicles that could handle a variety of tasks, from transporting goods to serving as mobile homes.
The Chevy Van was a direct response to this evolving need.
Design Philosophy and Target Audience
The design philosophy behind the 1968 Chevy Van was simple: to create a vehicle that was both functional and affordable. It was intended to be a workhorse for small businesses, a family hauler, and a platform for creative conversions. The target audience was broad, encompassing entrepreneurs, families, and individuals seeking a versatile and spacious vehicle.The Chevy Van was designed with a simple, utilitarian aesthetic.
It featured a boxy shape, a large cargo area, and a rugged, durable construction. The interior was designed for functionality, with minimal frills and a focus on maximizing space.
Early Adoption and Impact
The 1968 Chevy Van was a commercial success. Its affordability and versatility quickly made it a popular choice for a wide range of applications. It was used by small businesses to transport goods, by families for weekend getaways, and by individuals for a variety of creative projects.The Chevy Van also had a significant impact on the development of the van market.
The 1968 Chevrolet Van, with its iconic boxy design, became a symbol of the era’s counterculture. While it might not have the vintage elegance of a 1939 Chevrolet Master Deluxe , the 1968 van offered practicality and freedom for a generation looking to break free from traditional norms.
Its spacious interior and adaptable design allowed for a wide range of uses, from family vacations to transporting musical instruments for rock bands.
It paved the way for a new generation of vans, which were increasingly refined and specialized. The Chevy Van’s success helped to solidify the van as a distinct and important segment of the automotive market.
Design and Features
The 1968 Chevrolet Van, a groundbreaking vehicle that ushered in the era of the modern van, boasted a distinctive design and a range of features that made it a versatile and popular choice for both commercial and personal use. Its unique combination of functionality and style set it apart from other vehicles of its time, establishing it as a true icon of the era.
Exterior Design
The 1968 Chevrolet Van featured a boxy, utilitarian exterior design that emphasized practicality over aesthetics. Its flat front end, with its large, upright grille and rounded headlights, gave it a distinctive look. The van’s high roofline provided ample headroom for passengers and cargo, while its large side windows offered excellent visibility.
The van’s overall design was simple and functional, reflecting its intended purpose as a workhorse for businesses and families alike.
Interior Design and Layout
The interior of the 1968 Chevrolet Van was designed with practicality and versatility in mind. It featured a spacious cabin with a high roofline, providing ample headroom for passengers. The van’s interior was typically finished with durable vinyl or cloth upholstery, and it offered a range of seating configurations to suit different needs.
The front seats were typically bench-style, accommodating up to three passengers, while the rear cargo area could be configured with folding seats or a variety of cargo-carrying options. The van’s interior was also equipped with various features, including a dashboard with basic gauges, a steering wheel, and a heater.
Engine Options
The 1968 Chevrolet Van was available with a range of engine options, each offering a different combination of power and fuel efficiency. The standard engine was a 230 cubic inch (3.8 L) inline-six cylinder engine, producing approximately 120 horsepower. For those seeking more power, a 283 cubic inch (4.6 L) V8 engine was also available, generating around 195 horsepower.
The 283 V8 was a popular choice for those who needed to tow heavy loads or haul large quantities of cargo.
The 1968 Chevrolet Van, a symbol of the counterculture movement, offered a unique blend of practicality and style. Its boxy design and spacious interior provided ample room for adventure, while its iconic grille and chrome accents hinted at the American muscle car era.
For those seeking a more classic aesthetic, the 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air offered a sleek and sophisticated alternative. However, both vehicles reflected the spirit of their respective times, capturing the imagination of a generation with their distinct personalities and enduring appeal.
Variants and Models: 1968 Chevrolet Van
The 1968 Chevrolet Van, a pioneer in the burgeoning van market, was available in a range of configurations to suit diverse needs. These variants, encompassing different body styles, engine options, and trim levels, catered to both commercial and recreational applications.
Body Styles
The 1968 Chevrolet Van offered a selection of body styles, each designed to accommodate specific purposes.
- Standard Van:The most common body style, the standard van featured a spacious cargo area with side-hinged doors and a rear-hinged door for easy loading and unloading. It was well-suited for commercial applications such as delivery, transportation, and construction.
- Passenger Van:This variant was designed for passenger transport, offering a comfortable interior with seating for up to 12 people. It was popular for family outings, school transportation, and shuttle services.
- Panel Van:This model featured a closed cargo area with solid metal panels instead of windows. It provided enhanced security for valuable cargo and was ideal for deliveries and commercial applications where visibility was not a primary concern.
- Chassis Cab:The chassis cab version was essentially a bare frame with an engine and drivetrain. It was designed to be customized with a variety of bodies, including box trucks, dump trucks, and specialized vehicles, allowing for tailored solutions for specific applications.
Engine Options
The 1968 Chevrolet Van was available with a selection of powerful and reliable engines.
- 230 cu in (3.8 L) I6:This six-cylinder engine was the standard option, offering a balance of power and fuel efficiency. It produced 120 hp (89 kW) and 210 lbâ‹…ft (285 Nâ‹…m) of torque, providing sufficient power for most applications.
- 250 cu in (4.1 L) I6:This larger six-cylinder engine offered increased power and torque, generating 140 hp (104 kW) and 230 lbâ‹…ft (312 Nâ‹…m). It was a popular choice for heavier duty applications or those requiring additional towing capacity.
- 283 cu in (4.6 L) V8:For those seeking more power, the 283 cu in (4.6 L) V8 engine was available. It produced 195 hp (145 kW) and 290 lbâ‹…ft (393 Nâ‹…m) of torque, making it ideal for demanding applications such as hauling heavy loads or towing trailers.
- 327 cu in (5.4 L) V8:This powerful V8 engine was the top-of-the-line option, delivering 250 hp (186 kW) and 360 lbâ‹…ft (488 Nâ‹…m) of torque. It was a rare option but provided exceptional performance for those requiring maximum power and towing capacity.
Trim Levels and Packages
The 1968 Chevrolet Van was available in various trim levels, offering different levels of comfort and features.
- Base:The base trim level was the most affordable option, featuring basic amenities such as vinyl seats, a heater, and a single windshield wiper. It was a practical choice for those seeking a functional van at a budget-friendly price.
- Custom:The Custom trim level offered additional comfort and features, including cloth upholstery, a radio, and a two-speed windshield wiper. It provided a more comfortable and refined driving experience for both passengers and drivers.
- Deluxe:The Deluxe trim level was the top-of-the-line option, offering premium features such as power steering, power brakes, and air conditioning. It was a luxurious choice for those seeking a comfortable and well-equipped van.
Special Editions
While the 1968 Chevrolet Van did not have any dedicated special editions, it was possible to customize the van with various factory-installed options and accessories. These included options like woodgrain paneling, chrome accents, and different wheel covers, allowing owners to personalize their vans to their liking.
Cultural Impact
The 1968 Chevrolet Van, a symbol of the counterculture movement and the burgeoning recreational vehicle (RV) industry, left an indelible mark on popular culture, automotive design, and societal trends. Its versatility and spacious interior made it a canvas for personal expression, while its association with freedom and exploration resonated with a generation seeking to break free from societal norms.
The 1968 Chevrolet Van’s Role in Popular Culture
The 1968 Chevrolet Van became a cultural icon, appearing in numerous films, television shows, and music videos, often representing a carefree and adventurous lifestyle. Its association with the hippie counterculture movement, characterized by its emphasis on peace, love, and individuality, cemented its place in the cultural landscape.
- In the 1969 film “Easy Rider,” a pivotal film of the counterculture movement, the main characters, played by Peter Fonda and Dennis Hopper, travel across the United States in a customized 1966 Ford Econoline van, a close competitor to the Chevrolet Van.
This film solidified the association of vans with freedom and rebellion.
- The 1970s saw the rise of “van life,” a lifestyle that embraced the freedom and flexibility of living in a van. The Chevrolet Van became a symbol of this movement, with many individuals customizing their vans to create mobile homes, workshops, or even mobile businesses.
- The 1968 Chevrolet Van also made its way into television, appearing in shows like “The Partridge Family,” where the family’s touring van was a central element of the show, and “The Brady Bunch,” where the family used a van for camping trips and outings.
Influence on Automotive Design and the Minivan Segment
The 1968 Chevrolet Van, along with its competitors, helped pave the way for the development of the modern minivan segment. Its spacious interior, versatile seating arrangements, and cargo capacity made it an attractive alternative to traditional station wagons, influencing the design and functionality of later minivan models.
- The Chevrolet Van’s success in the late 1960s and early 1970s led to the introduction of more refined and sophisticated van models, including the Chevrolet Astro and the Chevrolet Venture, which further refined the minivan segment.
- The 1968 Chevrolet Van’s impact on automotive design is evident in the popularity of vans today, which are widely used for families, businesses, and recreational purposes.
Restoration and Preservation
Restoring and preserving a 1968 Chevrolet Van can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to bring a piece of automotive history back to life. However, it’s essential to be prepared for the challenges and complexities involved in this process.
Restoring and Preserving a 1968 Chevrolet Van
Restoring a 1968 Chevrolet Van requires a dedicated approach and a comprehensive understanding of the vehicle’s history and design. The process involves a combination of mechanical, cosmetic, and interior restoration, each requiring specific skills and resources.
Common Challenges
- Finding Parts:Sourcing original parts can be challenging, as many components are no longer in production. You may need to rely on salvage yards, specialized suppliers, or aftermarket manufacturers.
- Rust and Corrosion:These are common issues with older vehicles, especially those exposed to harsh weather conditions. Rust can be particularly problematic in areas like the body panels, frame, and undercarriage.
- Engine and Transmission:Overhauling or replacing these components can be expensive and time-consuming, requiring specialized knowledge and tools.
- Interior Restoration:Finding original upholstery, carpets, and other interior materials can be difficult. You may need to use reproduction parts or have custom pieces made.
Best Practices
- Thorough Inspection:Before starting any restoration, conduct a thorough inspection of the van’s condition, documenting any damage, rust, or missing parts. This will help you create a plan and estimate the scope of the project.
- Professional Assistance:For complex repairs or specialized tasks, it’s wise to seek professional assistance from experienced mechanics, body shops, or restoration specialists.
- Quality Parts:Use high-quality parts, whether original or aftermarket, to ensure longevity and proper performance. Avoid using cheap or substandard components that could compromise the restoration.
- Documentation:Keep detailed records of the restoration process, including parts used, repairs made, and any modifications. This will be invaluable for future maintenance and repairs.
Interior Restoration
Restoring the interior of a 1968 Chevrolet Van involves addressing the upholstery, carpets, dashboard, and other interior components.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Disassembly:Carefully remove the seats, carpets, dashboard, and other interior components. Take photos and label each piece to ensure proper reassembly.
- Cleaning and Repair:Clean the interior thoroughly using appropriate cleaning agents. Repair any tears, holes, or damage to the upholstery, carpets, or dashboard.
- Upholstery Replacement:If the original upholstery is beyond repair, consider replacing it with new or reproduction fabric. Professional upholstery shops can handle this task.
- Carpet Replacement:Replace worn or damaged carpets with new ones. Choose a material that matches the original style and color.
- Dashboard Restoration:Clean and repair the dashboard. If necessary, repaint or refinish it to match the original color.
- Reassembly:Carefully reassemble the interior, ensuring all components are properly installed and secured.
Exterior Restoration
Restoring the exterior of a 1968 Chevrolet Van involves addressing the body panels, paint, chrome, and other external components.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Bodywork:Repair any dents, scratches, or rust damage. This may involve using body filler, sanding, and priming. Professional body shops can handle complex bodywork.
- Paint Preparation:Thoroughly clean and prepare the body panels for painting. This may involve sanding, masking, and priming.
- Painting:Apply several coats of primer, base coat, and clear coat. Use a paint that matches the original color and finish.
- Chrome Restoration:Clean and polish the chrome trim. If necessary, re-chrome or replace damaged pieces.
- Other Exterior Components:Repair or replace any damaged exterior components, such as the bumpers, lights, and grille.
Parts and Resources
Finding parts and resources for restoring a 1968 Chevrolet Van can be challenging, but several options are available.
Parts Suppliers
- Classic Industries:Offers a wide range of parts for classic Chevrolet vehicles, including the 1968 Van.
- YearOne:Another reputable supplier specializing in parts for classic American cars and trucks.
- Eckler’s Classic Chevy:Offers a variety of parts for Chevrolet vehicles, including interior, exterior, and mechanical components.
- Salvage Yards:A good source for finding used parts, but be sure to inspect them carefully for any damage or wear.
Online Resources
- Chevrolet Van Forums:Online forums dedicated to Chevrolet Vans provide a platform for owners to share information, ask questions, and find parts.
- Restoration Guides:Many online resources offer detailed guides and tutorials on restoring classic Chevrolet Vans.
Technical Specifications
The 1968 Chevrolet Van was a versatile and durable vehicle, designed for a variety of purposes. Its technical specifications reflected its intended use, with a focus on practicality and reliability.
Engine and Transmission
The 1968 Chevrolet Van was offered with a range of engine options, each providing different levels of power and performance.
| Engine | Horsepower | Torque | Transmission |
|---|---|---|---|
| 230 cu in (3.8 L) I6 | 140 hp (104 kW) | 210 lbâ‹…ft (285 Nâ‹…m) | 3-speed manual |
| 250 cu in (4.1 L) I6 | 155 hp (116 kW) | 230 lbâ‹…ft (312 Nâ‹…m) | 3-speed manual, 3-speed automatic |
| 283 cu in (4.6 L) V8 | 195 hp (145 kW) | 280 lbâ‹…ft (380 Nâ‹…m) | 3-speed manual, 3-speed automatic |
| 327 cu in (5.4 L) V8 | 210 hp (157 kW) | 310 lbâ‹…ft (420 Nâ‹…m) | 3-speed manual, 3-speed automatic |
Dimensions and Weight
The 1968 Chevrolet Van was available in two wheelbases, with varying cargo space and overall length.
The 1968 Chevrolet Van, with its spacious interior and rugged build, was a popular choice for families and businesses alike. While the van was known for its practicality, Chevrolet also produced iconic muscle cars like the 1972 Chevrolet Camaro RS Z28 , a true performance machine.
The Camaro’s powerful engine and sleek design were a stark contrast to the van’s utilitarian nature, but both vehicles represented the spirit of American automotive ingenuity in their respective categories.
| Wheelbase | Overall Length | Cargo Space | Curb Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| 108 in (2,743 mm) | 188 in (4,775 mm) | 165 cu ft (4,670 L) | 3,400 lb (1,542 kg) |
| 120 in (3,048 mm) | 200 in (5,080 mm) | 215 cu ft (6,090 L) | 3,600 lb (1,633 kg) |
Performance
The performance of the 1968 Chevrolet Van varied depending on the engine and transmission selected.
- The 230 cu in (3.8 L) I6 engine provided adequate power for most everyday tasks, while the 250 cu in (4.1 L) I6 offered a slight increase in performance.
- The V8 engines provided significantly more power and torque, making the van more capable for towing and hauling heavier loads.
- The 3-speed manual transmission was standard, while the 3-speed automatic was optional, providing more convenience for city driving.
Suspension and Brakes
The 1968 Chevrolet Van featured a robust suspension system designed for durability and handling.
- The front suspension used a coil spring design, while the rear suspension featured leaf springs.
- The brakes were hydraulic drum brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy was not a primary concern for the 1968 Chevrolet Van, as it was designed for practicality and utility.
- The 230 cu in (3.8 L) I6 engine offered the best fuel economy, with an estimated 15 mpg (15.7 L/100 km) in city driving and 18 mpg (13.1 L/100 km) on the highway.
- The V8 engines had lower fuel economy, with estimates ranging from 12 mpg (19.6 L/100 km) to 14 mpg (16.8 L/100 km) in city driving and 16 mpg (14.7 L/100 km) to 18 mpg (13.1 L/100 km) on the highway.
Visual Representation
The 1968 Chevrolet Van was a unique and iconic vehicle, instantly recognizable for its boxy shape and utilitarian design. To fully appreciate its appeal, it is essential to visualize its distinctive features and understand the design choices that made it a cultural phenomenon.This visual representation aims to capture the essence of the 1968 Chevrolet Van, highlighting its key design elements and emphasizing the practicality and versatility that made it a popular choice for families, businesses, and adventurers alike.
Color and Materials
The 1968 Chevrolet Van was available in a wide range of colors, reflecting the diverse needs and preferences of its intended users. Popular choices included:
- Classic White: This color was a popular choice for families and businesses, as it provided a clean and professional look.
- Bold Blue: This vibrant color was often chosen by younger buyers and those who wanted to express their individuality.
- Earthy Green: This color was popular among outdoors enthusiasts and those who wanted a more rugged and adventurous look.
The exterior of the van was primarily made of steel, which provided durability and resistance to the elements. The interior featured a combination of vinyl and cloth upholstery, offering a balance of comfort and practicality.
Perspective and Composition
This visual representation is presented in a three-quarter perspective, allowing for a clear view of the van’s front, side, and rear profiles. This perspective emphasizes the van’s boxy shape and the large, functional doors that were a hallmark of its design.
The van is positioned against a backdrop of a bustling city street, showcasing its versatility and suitability for both urban and suburban environments.
Key Design Elements
The 1968 Chevrolet Van was characterized by several key design elements that contributed to its distinctive appearance and functionality. These included:
- Boxy Shape: The van’s rectangular body provided ample cargo space and a spacious interior.
- Large, Sliding Doors: These doors allowed for easy access to the cargo area and facilitated loading and unloading.
- High Roofline: The high roof provided ample headroom for passengers and allowed for the installation of custom interior features.
- Simple, Functional Grille: The grille featured a horizontal design with the Chevrolet emblem prominently displayed.
- Large, Round Headlights: These headlights provided ample illumination for nighttime driving.
The visual representation captures these key design elements, highlighting their impact on the overall appearance and functionality of the 1968 Chevrolet Van. The combination of practicality and style made it a popular choice for a wide range of users, solidifying its place in automotive history.
Conclusion
The 1968 Chevrolet Van’s legacy continues to resonate today, influencing automotive design and inspiring a new generation of van enthusiasts. Its enduring popularity speaks to its timeless appeal, a testament to its role in shaping automotive history and its enduring place in the hearts of those who appreciate its rugged charm and undeniable coolness.