Positive Review
After getting it on a partial trade, I took it to get transmission checked, mechanical check, exhaust check (found a broken exhaust mount) and had all the rims and tires replaced (just for looks). I hit a pothole and the van started skipping... took to mechanic and found that the original spark plugs were rusted into the head. they got everything out ok and has been running good since. changed the starter, had to have the rear shock mounts re welded (had fallen out before I bought, but never realized it until one fell out and dragged on the ground), carries two cubes of brick in the cargo area. tows anything! gets about 10mpg... loaded or not. I am paranoid about things breaking so I keep it very well maintained and i guess that is the key to keeping an old work van reliable. I recommend it to anyone in the woodworking biz...
Critical Review
I feared the 4.3 V6 would be heinously underpowered, but it feels great! it's not winning any races, but it is more than capable of moving the van around with ease. I often pull my race car and trailer (which total at least 4,500lbs) and it tows like a dream.
Showing 8 of 73 reviews.
Can haul whatever you can throw at it.
Gas mileage around town
I bought this vehicle brand new in 2001 and have relief on it for almost 22 years. Pulled a travel trailer up the mountains in Colorado and Wyoming numerous times while loaded down with the family, dogs, and camping gear. Motor still runs great. Only have replaced the fuel pump. I've asked my son to drive my casket to the cemetery in this van when I die.
Compact RV
Propane system inoperable
Includes extended roof (6+ ft interior, refrigerator, microwave, kitchen counters & cabinets, closet, TV, toilet, and solar panels on roof.
good riding van
none
We call our van Big Boy. Its comfortable, powerful and smooth with 16. When it need repair it gets repaired. Great for hanging out with grands, fishing, camping, it tows well getting rust on drivers side looking for a shop to replace with metal. I'm keeping mine.
Fun and safe to drive
Harley any noise from engine
Good van lost of room used for work or play handle well in all conditions has a 6.5 diesel engine etc
Reliability; space for everything
Fuel economy in town
I have the 1/2 ton with 350 cubic inch motor and 4L60E transmission. It has over 194,000 miles and has towed a 30 foot travel trailer with wife, 3 kids, two dogs over 10,000' passes in Colorado (twice) and Wyoming on family vacations. Bought the vehicle with 78 miles on it new. I have taken great care of it. It is a member of the family now. I have written in my will that I want this van to carry my casket to the burial. Seriously.
Reliable
Ineterior plastic is beginning to fail.
We bought this Van in January 2001 for $17,000 with about 25,000 - a deal! Now it has 136,000 and still runs strong. We have had it in Europe for 5 years and drove throughout, Germany, Poland, the Czech Republic and the Alsace region of France. While there, it underwent vehicle inspections that would make California's appear negligent. I've maintained the vehicle well throughout ownership. It's only been over the past 8 years that some major items needed replacement. I've had some front suspension work done as well as replacing the Shocks, Water Pump; Fuel Pump; Fuel Injectors and intake manifold gaskets. I think we've had a very good value with this van.
great for trips or camping
lots of miles
hi top conversion
I would like to say that this is a custom van. Interior is beautiful. We bought it when our grandkids were little and now we drive it to visit them in college. It runs beautifully , It has been taken good care of. The inside is still in great condition, The leather is still beautiful. It is so comfortable to take long trips. Plenty of room for everyone and their luggage.