Checked out a couple local vans for sale - advice needed

I'm looking for a Sprinter for a rv/weekend bike race trip conversion. I just checked out a couple local ones (same seller):

2004, 140" WB: Dodge branded, 426k miles, asking $5500. Moderate amount of rust showing on body, especially below rear windows. Original engine and trans, driveshaft has been replaced however. I test drove this one, up to highway speed. Everything seemed to work fine

2005, 140" WB high top: Freightliner branded, 220k miles, asking $7000. Less rust showing on this one but it has some engine issues - a small oil leak, and smokes on startup but clears up eventually. Seller thinks it's an ECU problem. I did not have time to test drive this one.

Is there any difference between the dodge and freightliner models, or just a different set of badges?

I'm more interested in the high roof body, but wanted to get your all's 2 cents on both. Going back this weekend to check it out some more. Anything in particular I should look out for? Also, seller is willing to negotiate on price.

Yes, the only mechanical differences between the Dodge and Freightliner are the exterior trim.
But sometimes there are minor bureaucratic hassles when you're dealing with "hot potato" issues (such as recalls) ... MB still owns Freightliner, but Dodge was split off back in 2010 or so.
To the best of my knowledge there are no recalls out on the 2004 and 2005 model years.
Some MB dealers are happy to work with you on Dodges, some aren't.
Dodge dealers who will still work on Sprinters are getting sparser (but both MB and FL should be happy to do after-warranty (i.e. your wallet) service).

The smoke (etc) on the FL could be leaky injectors... which could have (by now) caused internal cylinder damage by washing the oil off the walls when parked.
A compression test would be advisable.

--dick

If you're serious about buying one, I would own a scanner to take with you to pre-purchase inspections.

Horse said:

If you're serious about buying one, I would own a scanner to take with you to pre-purchase inspections.

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Before that find savvy Sprinter mechanic to look it over!
Expect to pay about $200 for his services.
Dennis

lindenengineering said:

Before that find savvy Sprinter mechanic to look it over!
Expect to pay about $200 for his services.
Dennis

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Plus travel time, and just how many vans does he look at for that $$200

SprinterSeeker? Where's "local"?

People might be able to suggest helpful mechanics.

--dick

I'm in Louisville, KY. I have a mechanic who is pretty experienced with VW diesels, but a sprinter specialist would be great if you know anyone nearby.

@Horse I have an OBD2 scanner. Will that get me anything worthwhile or do I need something more specialized?

Sprinter_Seeker said:

@Horse I have an OBD2 scanner. Will that get me anything worthwhile or do I need something more specialized?

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OBD II is a generic term, and some scanner types will give you mandated minimum codes if any present. Id say take it along and plug it in and see if it works. You've got nothing to lose.
I was lucky, mine does pretty good.

Check for black death, quick and easy, but a definite bad surprise if you find it after you get it.