Vintageracer, thanks for the detailed reply. Certainly puts a reality check on things.
My reasons for wanting the van are several, my other options are a F350 of similar vintage or a 60's panel van.
The van is a bit smaller than the F350, so slightly more practical (not a word I use often)
A walk through van is a more useable space than a pick up, indoor change area from surfing etc
They look cool (eye of the beholder etc)
4WD, not needed that often but I want it anyway
Ride quality is subjective, I daily drive (when it works) an ex military 110 land rover and have previously had other MV's
The van I'm interested in is an oil burner, I like diesel
I'm under no illusion about the work required, spencyg's Boomer van front end rebuild is probably what I'll do.
As for rust, well see my above comment re land rovers