Ford P-500 Parts & Accessories

Ford P-500 Parts & Accessories

The Ford P-500 was the largest step van in Ford's P-series forward-control commercial lineup, designed for operators who required the highest payload capacity and largest walk-in body dimensions available from Ford's commercial van platform. It was powered by the 360 and 390 cubic-inch FE V8 engines and the heavy-duty 300 cubic-inch inline-six, mounted in a commercial ladder frame with axles and braking systems rated for the P-500's substantial GVWR. Operators running large dry goods routes, linen service, and heavy parcel delivery services relied on the P-500's combination of cab visibility, walk-in access, and payload capacity for decades of productive commercial service. This collection provides the maintenance and replacement parts that keep P-500 step vans in service or support conversion and restoration projects.

Popular Upgrades

P-500 maintenance focuses on FE V8 carburetor rebuilds using Holley and Carter replacement units, front kingpin and thrust bearing replacement kits for the commercial steer axle, and brake hardware including master cylinders, wheel cylinders, and rear drum shoe sets rated for the P-500's elevated weight class. The 390 FE benefits from Pertronix Ignitor electronic ignition conversions that reduce maintenance requirements and improve reliability on engines that have accumulated decades of commercial service cycles. Rear leaf spring pack replacements with load-rated commercial units are essential for P-500s that have developed a chronic sag from years of fully loaded delivery routes.

Performance and Handling

The P-500 uses a solid front steer axle with kingpin geometry and heavy-duty rear leaf springs sized for the maximum walk-in body weights these vans were designed to carry, a commercial chassis architecture that prioritizes payload reliability over handling refinement. Kingpin rebuild is the primary steering maintenance task on any P-500 showing play or wander, and it requires correct kingpin kits specific to the Dana or Ford commercial steer axle used in this application. Rear spring pack condition directly affects chassis alignment and tire wear on loaded P-500s, making spring inspection and replacement a key part of any maintenance schedule.

What is the GVWR of the Ford P-500?

The Ford P-500 was rated at a higher GVWR than the P-350 and P-400 chassis, typically in the Class 5 medium-duty range that allowed it to carry the largest walk-in body configurations available from P-series body builders. The specific GVWR varied by year and body builder specification, and operating a P-500 within its rated GVWR is critical for safe braking performance and long-term chassis durability. Brake components ordered for a P-500 must be rated for the class-specific weight rather than using lighter-duty P-350 or truck parts that may not provide adequate stopping force at full payload.

Can the Ford P-500 be converted into a mobile showroom?

Yes, the P-500's large walk-in body, high ceiling, and generous floor area make it one of the most practical foundations for a mobile showroom, trade show display vehicle, or custom retail environment, and many examples have been professionally converted for exactly these purposes. The conversion typically involves custom interior fit-outs, high-quality flooring, branded exterior graphics, and commercial electrical systems for lighting and display equipment. Florida operators who use converted P-500s for trade shows and events benefit from the van's low floor height, which minimizes step-in barriers for customers visiting the mobile exhibit.

Why These Parts Fit Right

Parts in this collection are selected for the P-500's commercial GVWR class and FE V8 or inline-six drivetrain specifications, ensuring correct load ratings for brake and suspension components rather than lighter-duty step van hardware. Fitment data distinguishes between 390 FE and 300 inline-six applications where engine-specific components differ. Fast shipping keeps your P-500 in service or your conversion project moving forward without delay.

Browse our exhaust systems for 390 FE and 300 inline-six manifold and exhaust options, explore suspension components for commercial kingpin and leaf spring rebuild hardware, and check our air intake systems for FE and inline-six carburetor and intake upgrades.