I took Jerry's advice and dropped to 4200. Lets see if that builds traffic. Or my wife accuses me of giving it away...:-)
This is so very hard to gauge what to ask. I think if I got someone just to come and see it would help. I also took all the adds in the paper and found the average to be around 3800.
The add reads 4200/offer. thanks again for all your suggestions.
I am looking at a new 1999 GMC Savana, 5.7l, low top, dual air, power windows, and locks, with a Legacy conversion. It's $23,999. How is the price? Is Legacy good? They tell me I can go to leather for "about" $1000 more. Can I get quality for that price? What should I pay for TV/VCP? Can/should I do that aftermarket? The dealer is Evans Pontiac GMC in Dallas.
I have had a horrible experience from Troy Aikman. I bought a car from them and everyone there thought they were super human and were very sarcastic. I won in the end because they broke some federal laws. I guess it pays to be aware of your rights. However the van that I purchased from them is a lemon. My 1998 Express Chevy Custom van has had the cataylic converters go out at 3,000 miles. The gas tank was dumping fuel, air conditioner compressor failed, muffler has been replaced and never installed properly. I had to get a written estimate from some one else to make Vandergriff Chevrolet fix it. The brakes have failed me, the camber/castor is out and dealer denies problem. The Power Steering was leaking and it had to be replaced. What else is there left to fail. GM is a run around. They could care less. I cant ever talk with the GM Rep. Has any one every experienced this. What do I do where I do not end up getting taken advantage of.
I have a problem of space- or lack of it. I want to get a van that has a rear door opening height of at least 48" so that I can load my motorcycles in it, but the driveway at my house (built in 1926) is only 80" wide with concrete curbs on both sides. I know that I will erase the letters on the tires eventually, but I would like to get as much clearance as possible. I went and measured some new vans, and didn't find anything that worked. (I went to Troy Aikman, by the way, and must say that the salesman I ran into there was probably the least helpful I encountered.) Does anyone know of a van that would work? Do I have to go back to the 70's? Thanks.
I have a 93 Dodge 2500 conversion, 5.2 liter. I like the space, power is fine, but I have never been happy with the steering. Essentially the problem is what I call "tracking". In my cars, as I go down the hiway, I can hold the steering wheel in one place and the car stays in the lane. I can look at the scenery if no cars are around, and not drift over into the emergency lane. However, the van requires constant minor correction. (My 71 Dodge which lasted until 92 had the same problem). In speaking with tire guys, they claimed the problem is weak sidewalls. TireRack recommends three tires for trucks to give them better road rides. It turns out I have one of them (Dunlop SportRover GTX). I still am not satisfied, especially having just purchased a Lincoln LS which steers by telepathy. I am curious if anyone else has these problems, and has tried purchasing bigger wheels and tires to correct this problem. Its not just the wind, as even on the calmest days I have this difficulty.
I'm concerned about the degree of difficulty to work on a van eng. in the 2000 Dodge 1500 Ram w/5.2 ltr V8 ). For example, how tough is it to replace the alternator , spark plugs , etc. It was quite a job to replace the alt. on my '84 Chev G20 w/305 V8 & A/C ; and the rear spark plugs were not fun either. Does the engine cover come off without much hassle and adequately expose the eng. in the new Dodge (or other make) full size van ?
I have never driven a Dodge van, so I can't help, but I have owned 3 Chevy G20 conversions w/hightops and don't have that problem. I really don't think 17" wheels will address that, I think I'd take it to a "frame" or a good four wheel alignment shop to make sure it really is tracking correctly. Have you ever actually had someone else drive it and you follow along behing to see if the rear wheels are tracking straight w/the front end..? I pull an 8,000 lb. travel trailer w/my van and don't have the difficulty you are describing.
John- thanks for the info. As it was pretty much the same on both vans, I think its a design issue. I have driven behind it on several ocasions and do not detect the "dog walk" appearance foudn when the rear axle is whopperjawed. Regading plug access on the Dodge vans, I am certain the 2K is the same as the 93 I have. Once the engine cover is off, access is very straightforward. Changing plugs is not a problem, nor is access to any other critical parts. I can fit under the van to change my oil & filter without using a jack. I once pulled the engine on a 72 Dodge van (same basic design as the 2K). You disconnect the trannie and pull the engine up into the passenger compartment and out the passenger door. Now thats access! I think the engine cover on the Mopars is larger than the more recent Ford or Chevy vans. This give you greater access. Dave
Dave,,Thanks for your opinion/experience with your engine work on the Dodge van. Do you have have an idea about what mpg the new van (109.3" WB) can get ? I plan to go to a local dealer this weekend and try to test drive one. I will pay attention to the steering to sense if there is abnormal side drift. ...........Rubin
Average about 15. near 20 on highway, but your speed determines a lot. My 72 Dodge was a 6 banger; deuce and a quarter. It got the same mileage as my 5.2 L. I think there is so much air being pushed out of the way and so much weight to pull, that engine size is less relevant in determining MPG in these beasts than mass/shape. I appreciate the power on the 5.2 L a lot more than the 225; it was tough going through the California mountains in second gear! The 5.2 is the same basic design as the old 318 C.I. from the 60's. It just has fuel injection now. It is a tried and true powerplant. My problem with the steering is that it just requires constant minor correction to stay on course on the highway. It isn't a problem, but requires paying attention most of the time. I notice semi-tractor trailer drivers always having to adjust wheel position when I pull alongside too. Maybe I'm just too sensitive to it. Good Luck with your purchase. Dave
Dave,,thnx for info on mpg,,,,,I drove a 2000 Ram cargo van ,,5.2 ltr,,127.2" WB last weekend. The acceleration, braking,and handling/roadability seemed VERY good. The side drift on straight highway stretch did not seem abnormal. Rubin
Hello Conference. Does anyone have any input about full-size Ford vans? I looked at two Club Wagons today. One, a 98 XLT and the other, a 99 Chateau. Each had the 4.6l V8. Is it a good motor? Do these vans have any inherent problems that I may be unaware of? Does anyone have a preference to Ford, GM, or Dodge vans? Thanks in advance. Pete L.
I drive a '97 Ford conversion with 4.6L. Have 38k on it and no problems. Just had new pads put on front brakes, rear were still ok. Engine has at least equal power to the '95 Chev with 5.7L engine that I drove before this van. I much prefer this van over the '95 Chevy and '93 GMC vans that I once drove.
Hello Conference. Does anyone have a guess as to the Selling Price for my '89 Ford E150 High-Top Conversion van? I don't know the conversion company. But it is still very nice inside: includes TV, VCP, AM/FM/Cassette,wood trim (in good shape), captains chairs and fold-down bed. The gray & maroon paint is starting to fade, and the engine is a bit sluggish. The body is pretty good yet with no dents or rust.
Also, for new vans, how much should I pay for a 2000 GMC high-top, with Explorer Conversion package? It lists for around $46,000. Can I get that down to $30,000??? Any Guesses??
I was a fleet driver for a large resort for several years. We had Caravans, 12 pass Dodge 3/4 ton vans and 3/4 ton Ford Club Wagons, as well as several small Ford busses.
All of the drivers hated the big Dodges on Interstate trips. The handling ranged from poor to marginally unsafe in heavy winds. I feel it had to do with the suspension geometry. They were a little better with a full load & 1999 model year was A LITTLE better. (Loved the Caravans.)
In contrast the big Fords drove like they were on rails. Solid as a rock. I preferred everything about all of the Fords. (3 were diesels.)
I have an 82 GMC/Sherrod which I want to replace in the next year or two. In my opinion, GMC is in between Dodge & Ford for handling.
I'm looking exclusively at Fords based on my experience. (Best drivability of all) Interested in a stock E 150 or conversion with minimum frills for camping and extended travel. (Alaska -2003)
I want to be able to tow up to 7500 lbs. occasionally. (boat) & I'm thinking of a Power Stroke diesel. Would appreciate input from anyone knowing anything about this. Nothing on conversion mfr's web sites.
#354, certainly the Power stroke diesel in a new Ford Van would, in my opinion be more that adaquate to tow a 7,500 Lb. boat.
I might suggest you think about going to a 250 (3/4 ton) vs. the 1/2 ton if you are going to tow that kind of weight. I am pulling an 8,000 lb. RV travel trailer with a Chevy Conv Van G20 (3/4 ton) plus I have beefed up all the suspension, added several transmission coolers, etc... I have a 5.7 L 350, and it does a good job handling the weight. If it were me, since you may not have near the "wind drag" with the boat as I do with the travel trailer, I'd seriously consider a V8 gas motor and spend the extra $ on the 3/4 ton unit (just my opinion based on my experience)
The (GM)350 is great. I move my boat with an old ratty K20 Suburban. Lots of power. 8-10 mpg.
Actually I probably have more wind resistance than you. I have an express cruiser with fixed pilot house that extends above the roofline by at least 4 feet.
Since my first post, I've determined that you have to go to an E250 or E350 to get the diesel and I dont think an E150 could handle the weight anyway. I feel a lot more confident with the bigger wheels, brakes, bearings of a 3/4.
The power of the diesel is excessive, but I've heard great things about their fuel economy.
I'd rather spend the money on sound mechanical features and cut back on interior frills and flashy paint jobs.
A local man who plows snow reportedly saved $400 on fuel costs this winter with the PowerStroke. (and this was a light winter around here) Also talked to another man who towed a MUCH heavier load from NY to FL with an F350 diesel pickup and got OVER 14 mpg.
I've heard that the Dodge (P.U.) with Cummins does even better but the drive train doesn't hold up as well.
You are pushing a lot of air with that much extension above your tow vehicle. I'm glad you are going w/the 3/4 ton..good move, and the Power Stroke will do you a great job....good luck,
I had a 1998 G15. This was a great van in all aspects, except brakes. Rear brakes would pre-maturely before front brakes.
van conditions: driven in san francisco up & down hills with many stop & go deliveries
at 8,000 miles rear brakes worn to rivets & found to have gotten extremely hot. Front brakes had appox 10%. COST $800
at 10,000 same as 8,000 with 25% on front. COST $900
at 12,000 same as 10,000 COST $900
van conditions: switched to long delivery route few stops lots a freeway
at 16,000 found rear brakes failed. van spent 3 days at chevy and nothing was found wrong. COST $1,100
at 29,000 found rear brakes failed. van spent 14 days at chevy and nothing was found wrong. COST $1,900
at 43,000 strange noise from bottom - suspect rear brakes. found noise to be trans - change under extended warranty. But also found rear brakes worn to 5% & front brakes at 30% - changed rear pads.
at 43,000+ started lemon law repurchase
at 49,000 chevy re-purchased van. I bought a new 2000 G25 I hope these brake work normally
I am on my 4th Chevy Van, and have never had such a problem w/either front or rear brakes, even pulling a large/heavy travel trailer. I hope your new one gives you better results.
If your new van doesn't have a transmission cooler, I'd seriously consider installing one, as I've mentioned in other posts, I have 3 on mine for towing, but even running around town, it will heat up to 180+ degrees w/out the travel trailer behind it....it needs to always stay under 200.
There have been several recent posts regarding handling.
I have a 99 Chevy Express conversion with 275/60r15 tires which are wider than the 235/70's (or 245's?) that typically come stock. The wider tires improve handling and help negate wind effects.
The draw back is that they are slightly smaller in diameter meaning the speedometer shows approximately 1.5 mph higher than the actual speed at 60 mph and the odometer tacks on an extra 1000 miles every 50K. Some would say the lower profile of the tires create a rougher ride or more road noise but I have not noticed any difference between my Chevy and my brother's Chevy whatsoever. It does seem to hold the road tighter and the wider tires seem to look better on the van than the skinnier factory tires.
7.4 liter V8 in the 3500 passenger van. After 11,000 miles consisting of both short trip and fwy driving (50%/50%). Nearly all driving is with a light load (4 people and luggage). After over 62 tanks of gas, the overall average is 10.33 miles per gal. Min in town is about 8.5 mpg and max on fwy is about 14 mpg.
I would suggest a look at the ford V-10 in lieu of the diesel. The engine option is much cheaper than the diesel(4,990.00) , it has about the same towing ability, for 2000, they pumped up the horsepower and torque substantially, I believe 305 hpo and 425 ft lbs of torque. You must get the E350 to get the V-10 which puts you right into a HD van, tires , susp min of 3.73 rear end etc. In the long run diesel repairs can be very costly and gas is a little easier to find. I use a 3/4 ton chevy for now but the V-10 will be my next tow vehicle.
Our church wants to buy a 14- passenger van with individual seats rather than bench seats. We want a center aisle so the older members do not have to crawl over the other seats. A raised roof might be considered, but I heard that to go to a bus means more problems with the wind blowing on the highway. Does anybody know who handles these type conversions? We want to use a one-ton chassis, which I have been told are hard to find.
I need more power/torque from my 1986 E 150 full size conv hi top van(302 V8). The van's int/ext is in great shape and I want to keep it. Is it possible/practical to replace the 302 with a 351 and HD trans? Will I gain enough of a difference? Any ideas or suggestions? thanks for your time. Michael/Atlanta
Compare original specs on the 302 with those of the 4.6L. You may find enough improvement in hp and torque that going to a 5.4L isn't necessary. My '97 is powered with a 4.6L V8 and it seems quite adequate. I don't tow anything with it though and if I were, I'd want the 5.4L.
WooHoo!! This may not be the right forum, if not please excuse me, but I've found shopping for a full size van to be very difficult, and finally...success!! I started looking to replace my '86 Ford Club Wagon in April. I had decided on a Ford E150XLT, 5.4L V8 engine, limited slip diff, 7 passenger seating, dual air and privacy glass in green or black. Made the rounds of the local dealers, read everything I could find on the net so I'd be prepared and informed. None had any van on the lot that met my needs, either totally underpowered or overloaded with options I didn't want and lacking the options I did want. None offered to order. They tried to talk me into a minivan (no thank you, goodbye) they tried to talk me into a conversion(no thank you, goodbye), anything but what I needed. Also ran into attitudes that ran the gamut from the 'Hey, little lady' routine, to the 'what do you (emphasis on the You) really need a full size van for anyway?', to one unforgettable salesman telling me I should be grateful to purchase what he had on the lot,,,,,yes, he really did and yes, I left that lot - Fast! Finally contacted Autobytel.com, frankly not expecting too much after my experiences so far. Wow....what a difference! I was contacted by the dealer within 24 hours. He also was not able to locate a van with my required options, and offered to order. I took my list of options and invoice/MSRP pricing, and questions ... we met twice, and I placed my order on May 8th! I was starting to worry about getting too close to the end-of-year, but I now have a build-date of June 19th!! I'll have my new E150XLT, at invoice plus 1% of MSRP for the advertising fee, around the first of July! Yes, it took a while, but I was able to get exactly what I wanted, I think the price is fair, and I was treated with the courtesy and respect that any customer deserves. To me it's worth the wait....come on June 19th!
I'm looking for a $3 to $5K, 10 to 15 yr old machine for hauling stuff around.
There are plenty of ads. I'm just wondering if there are any known turkeys that I should avoid.
I'm thinking Chev/GMC G10, maybe G20. A/C (front), 6-cyl. I'd like a V8 but the best one is supposed to be the 350 and that's supposed to be extremely thirsty.
The loads I'll be carrying will be relatively light. Nothing above 1000lbs. Usually less.
I'm looking at buying a '99 Econoline E150 with low miles (17,000). I need it to tow a trailer (6,000 lbs) but it doesn't come with the tow package. It seems to have everything it needs but the hitch and the wiring; it has the 5.4L v8, hd alternator, hd shocks, 3.55 diff.
Am I missing anything? Can I get the wiring and hitch put on relatively inexpensively? Or should I just wait to find one with the original tow package on it.
Thanks to Jboater for your march 24 post, I purchased a used 1999 Ford xlt Chateau with the 4.6l v-8. I've put a little over 5k miles on it and it runs like a charm. A few notes: the trans will prematurely shift into overdrive between 40-50mph so I normally switch od off while driving around town. The heat deflector cowling? surrounding the exhaust makes a lot of clanging sounds while driving and after I shut off the engine. Is this normal? Is there a bench/bed combo that I could purchase to replace the fixed rear bench seat? I saw a 1994 Chateau that had a factory installed one. It could be moved to middle or rear. I didn't see the option available in Edmund's van pricing lists. Thanks to all. pl
The shift to overdrive @ 40 mph must be by design. Mine shifts to OD at the same speed. I leave the OD on all the time. I've gotten acclamated to the shifting and don't even think about it. My heat deflector will sort of pop or make noise when I shut the engine off and usually once from closing a door after it has been setting a while. I'm not aware that it rattles while driving. You might try looking for a Truck/Van parts and equipment store. You might be able to locate a seat there. If a '94 seat would fit, you might find one at an auto salvage yard.
Hello all. I am a member of a band that is planning a tour of the U.S.soon and we are looking for the best used full size van with the best MPG, (especially with gas prices so high and the fact that we are struggling musicians), and the best reputation for stability. We are leaning towards Econolines, only because of their reputation, but would be open to any suggestions. Something between an '85-'96/7 that is $5,000 or under is ideal. What would anyone reccommend we should seek out? Also what model of Econoline would be best? Thanks for any input!
I drove a '95 Chevy conversion 5.7L V8 for two years. Put 42k miles on it and had good luck mechanically. It averaged 13-14 mpg. Currently drive a '97 Ford conversion 4.6L V8. Two and a half years and 45k miles have been trouble free. Average about 15 mpg. Best of four vans I've owned. 93 GMC V6 short wheel base was also good mechanically. Averaged 16 mpg. 91 GMC Safari extended body, 2 wheel drive with 3.73 towing gear averaged 17 mpg. Was also good mechanically. This van with the standard 3.42 gear should average 18-19 mpg.
I am considering a '95 Dodge Ram Conversion (Sherrod) with a V6 with 58k mileage for $8,000? Is this a good deal? Will this be underpowered? Can it tow a small boat and trailer? Thanks!
It is below average mileage and this price sounds very good. The lowest value Sherrod is the Quantum. whsle 2,100. retail 2,700. Add these numbers to the cargo van values found at Edmund's. I don't know about the V6. I would think a good test drive would be the best indicator.
Thanks for the counsel jboater! I will give it a try. The only issue with the design seems to be the leg room for the front driver and passenger due to the wheel wells being where they are. The rest looks great. Now lets see if it drives OK. A good mechanic can tell me how the engine and drivetrain look...
Can someone give me some advice? I am a current user of a Dodge Grand Caravan, 1988, and the transmission is going so I'm in the market for a new(er) van. What I'm finding is, that I'm completely disatisfied with the new models of minivans, they are noimpressive and seem much smaller than my old version. I'm thinking about a Chevy Astro, as it seems to be a step between the full size, and the mini's. My old van is fully equipt, but roomy. (We camp a lot)Is this about the only alternative that is around? My husband is really concerned with gas mileage, and I'm hung up on space. I love the look of the Astro conversion vans - do those extras like the higher top suck up gas? What could be expected for mileage? I'd go with a normal one if I could find some nice options like quad seats and nice interior. I'm also thinking a '97 with lower mileage on it or a 98 used. They are hard to find in my area of CT though. Can you great people give me some feedback? Either privately or on the forum: reezteez@aol.com. Thanks!!
be a good choice. The upscale OEM trim on the Astro is the LS and top line is LT. On the Safari (same van, different nameplate)it is SLE and SLT respectively.
An even mix of city and x-way driving will probably yield 16 - 19 mpg. The all wheel drive version will likely lower that by about 1 mpg.
I'm unable to comment on the effect of the high top on the conversions.
I owned a '91 Safari 2wd with a 3.73 towing gear and averaged 17 mpg. One common negative on these vans is the cozy leg room in the front passenger seat. Also, you'll probably find these a bit more truck like in ride and handling than the mini-vans.
You should also consider the VW Eurovan. We have both an 90 VW Vanagon and a 96 Chrysler Town & Country. While the VW is about the same size outside, it has much more room inside. The newer VW Eurovan also appears to be larger inside (they stopped making the Vanagon in the early 90's). You should also look at the Weekender package for the Eurovan - we have it for our Vanagon (a Multivan) and the pop-up roof with 2 person bed is excellent for camping.
Had been considering purchase of new E-250, but in talking to random owners I've run into a COMMON MAJOR PROBLEM. Seems some penny-pinching genius thought it would be a great idea to start using ALUMINUM gears in the trannies and this is the reason for widespread tranny problems and the warranty ONLY provides for the same aluminum replacement thereby GUARANTEEING a reoccurence. ATTN: Any FoMoCo dealer service mgr or mechanic. What is the straight scoop? Have they voluntarily started shipping new vehicles with STEEL gears or is it still the same old crapola ?
Comments
This is so very hard to gauge what to ask. I think if I got someone just to come and see it would help. I also took all the adds in the paper and found the average to be around 3800.
The add reads 4200/offer. thanks again for all your suggestions.
Guitarzan
Community Leader/Vans Conference
Thanks!
Jon
No info available from NADA on Leagacy since 1986.
I have no personal knowledge of the product.
Sorry,
Does anyone know of a van that would work? Do I have to go back to the 70's?
Thanks.
I am curious if anyone else has these problems, and has tried purchasing bigger wheels and tires to correct this problem. Its not just the wind, as even on the calmest days I have this difficulty.
Thanks
Dave
John
Regading plug access on the Dodge vans, I am certain the 2K is the same as the 93 I have. Once the engine cover is off, access is very straightforward. Changing plugs is not a problem, nor is access to any other critical parts. I can fit under the van to change my oil & filter without using a jack. I once pulled the engine on a 72 Dodge van (same basic design as the 2K). You disconnect the trannie and pull the engine up into the passenger compartment and out the passenger door. Now thats access! I think the engine cover on the Mopars is larger than the more recent Ford or Chevy vans. This give you greater access.
Dave
My problem with the steering is that it just requires constant minor correction to stay on course on the highway. It isn't a problem, but requires paying attention most of the time. I notice semi-tractor trailer drivers always having to adjust wheel position when I pull alongside too. Maybe I'm just too sensitive to it.
Good Luck with your purchase.
Dave
Does anyone have a guess as to the Selling Price for my '89 Ford E150 High-Top Conversion van? I don't know the conversion company. But it is still very nice inside: includes TV, VCP, AM/FM/Cassette,wood trim (in good shape), captains chairs and fold-down bed. The gray & maroon paint is starting to fade, and the engine is a bit sluggish. The body is pretty good yet with no dents or rust.
Also, for new vans, how much should I pay for a 2000 GMC high-top, with Explorer Conversion package? It lists for around $46,000. Can I get that down to $30,000??? Any Guesses??
All of the drivers hated the big Dodges on Interstate trips. The handling ranged from poor to marginally unsafe in heavy winds. I feel it had to do with the suspension geometry. They were a little better with a full load & 1999 model year was A LITTLE better. (Loved the Caravans.)
In contrast the big Fords drove like they were on rails. Solid as a rock. I preferred everything about all of the Fords. (3 were diesels.)
I have an 82 GMC/Sherrod which I want to replace in the next year or two. In my opinion, GMC is in between Dodge & Ford for handling.
I'm looking exclusively at Fords based on my experience. (Best drivability of all) Interested in a stock E 150 or conversion with minimum frills for camping and extended travel. (Alaska -2003)
I want to be able to tow up to 7500 lbs. occasionally. (boat) & I'm thinking of a Power Stroke diesel. Would appreciate input from anyone knowing anything about this. Nothing on conversion mfr's web sites.
I might suggest you think about going to a 250 (3/4 ton) vs. the 1/2 ton if you are going to tow that kind of weight. I am pulling an 8,000 lb. RV travel trailer with a Chevy Conv Van G20 (3/4 ton) plus I have beefed up all the suspension, added several transmission coolers, etc... I have a 5.7 L 350, and it does a good job handling the weight. If it were me, since you may not have near the "wind drag" with the boat as I do with the travel trailer, I'd seriously consider a V8 gas motor and spend the extra $ on the 3/4 ton unit (just my opinion based on my experience)
John
The (GM)350 is great. I move my boat with an old ratty K20 Suburban. Lots of power. 8-10 mpg.
Actually I probably have more wind resistance than you. I have an express cruiser with fixed pilot house that extends above the roofline by at least 4 feet.
Since my first post, I've determined that you have to go to an E250 or E350 to get the diesel and I dont think an E150 could handle the weight anyway. I feel a lot more confident with the bigger wheels, brakes, bearings of a 3/4.
The power of the diesel is excessive, but I've heard great things about their fuel economy.
I'd rather spend the money on sound mechanical features and cut back on interior frills and flashy paint jobs.
A local man who plows snow reportedly saved $400 on fuel costs this winter with the PowerStroke. (and this was a light winter around here) Also talked to another man who towed a MUCH heavier load from NY to FL with an F350 diesel pickup and got OVER 14 mpg.
I've heard that the Dodge (P.U.) with Cummins does even better but the drive train doesn't hold up as well.
Vince
John
van conditions:
driven in san francisco up & down hills with many stop & go deliveries
at 8,000 miles
rear brakes worn to rivets & found to have gotten
extremely hot. Front brakes had appox 10%.
COST $800
at 10,000
same as 8,000 with 25% on front. COST $900
at 12,000
same as 10,000 COST $900
van conditions:
switched to long delivery route few stops lots a freeway
at 16,000
found rear brakes failed. van spent 3 days at chevy and nothing was found wrong. COST $1,100
at 29,000
found rear brakes failed. van spent 14 days at chevy and nothing was found wrong. COST $1,900
at 43,000
strange noise from bottom - suspect rear brakes.
found noise to be trans - change under extended warranty. But also found rear brakes worn to 5% & front brakes at 30% - changed rear pads.
at 43,000+
started lemon law repurchase
at 49,000
chevy re-purchased van. I bought a new 2000 G25
I hope these brake work normally
If your new van doesn't have a transmission cooler, I'd seriously consider installing one, as I've mentioned in other posts, I have 3 on mine for towing, but even running around town, it will heat up to 180+ degrees w/out the travel trailer behind it....it needs to always stay under 200.
John
I
I have a 99 Chevy Express conversion with 275/60r15 tires which are wider than the 235/70's (or 245's?) that typically come stock. The wider tires improve handling and help negate wind effects.
The draw back is that they are slightly smaller in diameter meaning the speedometer shows approximately 1.5 mph higher than the actual speed at 60 mph and the odometer tacks on an extra 1000 miles every 50K. Some would say the lower profile of the tires create a rougher ride or more road noise but I have not noticed any difference between my Chevy and my brother's Chevy whatsoever. It does seem to hold the road tighter and the wider tires seem to look better on the van than the skinnier factory tires.
Any ideas or suggestions? thanks for your time.
Michael/Atlanta
Compare original specs on the 302 with those of the 4.6L. You may find enough improvement in hp and torque that going to a 5.4L isn't necessary. My '97 is powered with a 4.6L V8 and it seems quite adequate. I don't tow anything with it though and if I were, I'd want the 5.4L.
Jerry
This may not be the right forum, if not please excuse me, but I've found shopping for a full size van to be very difficult, and finally...success!!
I started looking to replace my '86 Ford Club Wagon in April. I had decided on a Ford E150XLT, 5.4L V8 engine, limited slip diff, 7 passenger seating, dual air and privacy glass in green or black.
Made the rounds of the local dealers, read everything I could find on the net so I'd be prepared and informed. None had any van on the lot that met my needs, either totally underpowered or overloaded with options I didn't want and lacking the options I did want. None offered to order. They tried to talk me into a minivan (no thank you, goodbye) they tried to talk me into a conversion(no thank you, goodbye), anything but what I needed. Also ran into attitudes that ran the gamut from the 'Hey, little lady' routine, to the 'what do you (emphasis on the You) really need a full size van for anyway?', to one unforgettable salesman telling me I should be grateful to purchase what he had on the lot,,,,,yes, he really did and yes, I left that lot - Fast!
Finally contacted Autobytel.com, frankly not expecting too much after my experiences so far.
Wow....what a difference! I was contacted by the dealer within 24 hours. He also was not able to locate a van with my required options, and offered to order. I took my list of options and invoice/MSRP pricing, and questions ... we met twice, and I placed my order on May 8th! I was starting to worry about getting too close to the end-of-year, but I now have a build-date of June 19th!!
I'll have my new E150XLT, at invoice plus 1% of MSRP for the advertising fee, around the first of July! Yes, it took a while, but I was able to get exactly what I wanted, I think the price is fair, and I was treated with the courtesy and respect that any customer deserves. To me it's worth the wait....come on June 19th!
That's an interesting post. I hope you have good luck with the new one.
There are plenty of ads. I'm just wondering if there are any known turkeys that I should avoid.
I'm thinking Chev/GMC G10, maybe G20. A/C (front), 6-cyl. I'd like a V8 but the best one is supposed to be the 350 and that's supposed to be extremely thirsty.
The loads I'll be carrying will be relatively light. Nothing above 1000lbs. Usually less.
Am I missing anything? Can I get the wiring and hitch put on relatively inexpensively? Or should I just wait to find one with the original tow package on it.
Dave
1994 G2500 a/c tilt cruise V8 well maintained.
Not using it,just got a new one
A few notes: the trans will prematurely shift into overdrive between 40-50mph so I normally switch od off while driving around town. The heat deflector cowling? surrounding the exhaust makes a lot of clanging sounds while driving and after I shut off the engine. Is this normal?
Is there a bench/bed combo that I could purchase to replace the fixed rear bench seat? I saw a 1994 Chateau that had a factory installed one. It could be moved to middle or rear. I didn't see the option available in Edmund's van pricing lists. Thanks to all. pl
My heat deflector will sort of pop or make noise when I shut the engine off and usually once from closing a door after it has been setting a while. I'm not aware that it rattles while driving.
You might try looking for a Truck/Van parts and equipment store. You might be able to locate a seat there. If a '94 seat would fit, you might find one at an auto salvage yard.
Currently drive a '97 Ford conversion 4.6L V8. Two and a half years and 45k miles have been trouble free. Average about 15 mpg. Best of four vans I've owned.
93 GMC V6 short wheel base was also good mechanically. Averaged 16 mpg.
91 GMC Safari extended body, 2 wheel drive with 3.73 towing gear averaged 17 mpg. Was also good mechanically. This van with the standard 3.42 gear should average 18-19 mpg.
dfdreamer
The lowest value Sherrod is the Quantum. whsle 2,100. retail 2,700. Add these numbers to the cargo van values found at Edmund's.
I don't know about the V6. I would think a good test drive would be the best indicator.
dfdreamer@aol.com
An even mix of city and x-way driving will probably yield 16 - 19 mpg. The all wheel drive version will likely lower that by about 1 mpg.
I'm unable to comment on the effect of the high top on the conversions.
I owned a '91 Safari 2wd with a 3.73 towing gear and averaged 17 mpg. One common negative on these vans is the cozy leg room in the front passenger seat. Also, you'll probably find these a bit more truck like in ride and handling than the mini-vans.
Jerry