Full Review Chevy Express Passenger Van / Must watch before buying! RV Living

Chevy Express 3500 Passenger van review. This is the review for the 12 passenger V8 motor that is rated to tow over 10,000 pounds. We put the van to the test carrying our trailer fully load at around 9,700 pounds.

Пікірлер: 120

  • @crowdnine878
    @crowdnine8783 жыл бұрын

    I have a 2009 with 6.0 V8 and 4L80E trans. It is a bullet proof beast and I would recommend it to anyone in the market for a full size van.

  • @ZR1Terror

    @ZR1Terror

    3 жыл бұрын

    Yeah but they don’t have Bluetooth

  • @warithabdullah8179

    @warithabdullah8179

    3 жыл бұрын

    Does it have aux??

  • @Sr_iRL

    @Sr_iRL

    2 жыл бұрын

    How reliable is it? I found one in my area for a good price it’s listed with 14.5k miles

  • @rickybailey7123

    @rickybailey7123

    2 жыл бұрын

    U are 100 % right I've got a 2005 3500 6.0 4L80 with 360,000 miles runs and drives like new best van I have ever had and will keep it till the day I die !!!

  • @mercedesbenzs600bash

    @mercedesbenzs600bash

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@rickybailey7123 Original engine and transmission???

  • @Sadie04074
    @Sadie040742 жыл бұрын

    The rule of thumb I have always been taught is that your maximum towing limit should not be more than 80 percent of of the truck's maximum limit. Also, as a general rule, everyone should actually weigh both the tow vehicle and the trailer at a CAT Scale so that they know for sure what the loaded weights are.

  • @adventures.and.activities
    @adventures.and.activities2 жыл бұрын

    We use a 2017 Chevy Express 3500 15 passenger to tow our 30' travel trailer. Plenty of power and tons of payload capacity. Great video!

  • @mikerootz5935
    @mikerootz59354 жыл бұрын

    After many hours of research into what vehicle to buy to pull our new 19 foot, 4200 lb. Freedom Express travel trailer and after viewing this review we decided to purchase a used 2019 Express 12 passenger 3500 van. This is very similar to the one you reviewed. Our total load with camper and equipment in it is about 5800 lbs plus another 500 pounds in the van. THIS VAN IS PERFECT, pulls the trailer perfectly. I barely notice the trailer behind me. Mine has the 6 liter engine. We measured the gas mileage at about almost 14 mpg. We are very pleased because it is a much better van than the Ford E150 it replaced.. You mentioned in your review that this Express is noisier, rattles more and is somewhat under powered.. NOT true for us. You have to keep in mind that these are 3500's and they ride rough until you put weight in them. We have no rattles in ours it takes ANY hill with ease and we have no sway issues. I can see why you had issues because you are pulling a huge trailer and had it loaded down with almost 10,000 pounds.. LOL ---sure its gonna struggle. SO MY RESPONSE to others considering this van: It is perfect for us and I recommend it because it"s huge inside as we take EVERYTHING, it's one of the least expensive tow vehicles you can get, there are plenty available as lease returns and they have plenty of power they heavy enough suspension to pull any small to medium sized trailer. If you purchase the express as a tow vehicle, make sure to get a 3500 with the 6.0 liter engine and purchase heaviest trailer hitch and the best brake controller you can find. I used the Pull Tight rated for 15000 pounds, the biggest they make for this van. I have no regrets..

  • @311hitwall

    @311hitwall

    3 жыл бұрын

    Does your van have a lot of interior noise - rattles?

  • @dwynepen7626

    @dwynepen7626

    9 ай бұрын

    🙏...amen

  • @theresayeager5190
    @theresayeager51903 жыл бұрын

    We have the 2018 Chevy Express one ton extended van, with the towing package. I think getting it with the towing package is essential. We also have an Equalizer hitch on it. We took out all the seats and put in crates for our dogs. We just bought a new trailer, but stayed with a 29 ft, ultra light, a little over 7K pounds. Having a van limits how much you can tow. We have no problems with sway, even when passed by a truck and have gone through passes without a problem. We stay around 65 MPH. Gas mileage is terrible and I wish the tank was bigger. We only get around 200 miles on one tank. But there really are no other options if we want to take the dogs and not get a Motorhome. I love this van and would recommend it to anyone traveling with dogs.

  • @Narcolepsykid
    @Narcolepsykid3 жыл бұрын

    Get the 4500 mirrors for the rv express Use my van for a daily driver (short commute) Love it!

  • @JoeysAutismAdventures
    @JoeysAutismAdventures Жыл бұрын

    i use your youtube test drive videos as my white noise to help me sleep at night. also I am autistic. i like 15 passenger vans, and Airbus A321 aircraft as a hobby. i also like Yamaha stereo equipment.

  • @dakotaharley1959
    @dakotaharley19593 жыл бұрын

    I pull our 7K lbs camper with our 2011 LT3500 15 passenger Savana. With the family and additional gear, we are probably a little lighter than you. Haven’t had any issues with crosswinds, big rigs passing or towing in the mountains. We do have the 6.6 Duramax so my front end is heavier, along with the van’s overall weight. I personally feel that the diesel engine makes a huge difference when it comes to towing with a Savana/Express. For our family of 5, it has been the best and most useful tow vehicle I’ve ever had for camping.

  • @diehlpicklecafe7807
    @diehlpicklecafe78073 жыл бұрын

    This was very helpful in deciding whether to get a Chevy Express van or not to haul a travel trailer. Thanks ~DC

  • @johnm5714
    @johnm57143 жыл бұрын

    I own a 2014 AWD GMC cargo van and it’s smooth and quiet.drives like a Cadillac, actually.the rough ride your getting is the 3500 suspension in that thing.mines a 1500 and even after 175,000 miles it’s still tight and quiet...this is my second one I bought from new-absolutely need/want the AWD in the full size cargo van.makes working in the North East very safe and productive.-first one I had I sold with 289,000 miles and it was still very tight and strong.the 5.3 liter motors the new 350...last forever with religious oil changes.

  • @discerningmind
    @discerningmind2 жыл бұрын

    The problem here isn't the Chevy Express Van. The problem is that his trailer is huge. It has to be at least 33'. A trailer that size is getting into a park model range. Most people that travel with a big trailer, buy a fifth-wheel trailer. The fifth-wheel trailers are much, much better in tow, and safety, than a hitch design trailer. Understandably, with a big family cost(s) are almost always a matter, and a big hitch design trailer costs a lot less than a fifth-wheel unit. While he had improvement changing to the 3/4-ton pick-up, he's still towing a hitch design trailer and those just aren't suited for travel when they get up into the longer lengths. The big hitch design trailers are best when left at a campground with a seasonal pass. And a fifth-wheel trailer is best for travelling.

  • @michaelohara2161
    @michaelohara21613 ай бұрын

    One thing I learned after having a 30’ travel trailer for 20 some years. We really only needed a 20’ with better designed layout. You don’t have to always buy the biggest. I would rather have a 4,000 lb towing cushion for towing in the mountains. Our 20’ camper is hardly felt. We added 3 m thinsolate under the plastic wall panels and a thick 6’ pickup truck bed mat in the back. Now travel is pleasantly quiet.

  • @vincenzopromedia
    @vincenzopromedia4 жыл бұрын

    I never drove an express van but seeing the stock numbers from the 6.0L engine in the 3500, I wouldn’t expect to be wowed. The 5.3 in the same year had better numbers. It’s practically on par with the 4.8 if they still make it. But the body rattle is also extremely annoying for a 2018 but still to be expected because the 2019 van hasn’t really changed much since 2003 when it was new and just understanding the market they’re made for. They used to come in 4x4, double barn doors on either side, and 6.6L turbo diesel but all that got cut. I think that plus the extended would’ve probably been an ideal config for your application. But I guess it’s water under a bridge. I think the best thing to do with these vans is aftermarket stuff and mods. Because then for the money of a new rig you could do some serious damage. That’s why they’re still my favorite vehicles. With mods they’re even better than new rigs. But that’s enthusiasts stuff.

  • @jeffreyrogers3562

    @jeffreyrogers3562

    4 жыл бұрын

    6.6L gas with over 400hp coming out next year. Can always get a 4x4 Quigley conversion, they only ever came with awd from the factory.

  • @adventures.and.activities
    @adventures.and.activities2 жыл бұрын

    Great video! Just subscribed to your channel We tow our 30' travel trailer with a 2017 Chevy Express 15 passenger. It does the job well!

  • @conraddean5051
    @conraddean50513 жыл бұрын

    Like your video, and mostly agree with your points. However, the lack of power is not due to the engine at all. But rather the low gearing, it's a 3.42 rear axle ratio. Mostly meant for driving without a load and for fuel economy. My 2006 Chevrolet Express 3500 with the 6.0l has a 3.73 rear axle ratio and does not lack merging power nor the torque to pull a 10,000-pound horse trailer. Just a few things to keep in mind.

  • @brianlisec2509
    @brianlisec25092 жыл бұрын

    I would recommend 2015 Chevy express 3500 ext. van . I special ordered mine and was able get factory tow ,locking positracktion rear and many other little things , I do tow a 10000# travel trailer with it and it does the job ,extended wb is better for towing harder for backing. Only notice slightly rough ride when I forget to air down tires a little when trailer is not on..

  • @markvaughn5853
    @markvaughn58533 жыл бұрын

    The 2021 have a 6.6 as an option. It is a 401 Horsepower beast. Torque is 464. fixed the power issue. But when getting a van like this, there are a few musts if your going to tow. You need the 6.6, you need the tow package, and I personally think that limited slip comes in handy as well. Maybe because Im in the North where it snows. When towing, you really don't want to push your weights within ten percent of vehicles high limit. Hard on your Vehicle, hard on everything. Any Van in a wind is going to get pushed around. I have had two six O chevys, and never thought they road rough. Bare in mind they were both 3500's and were extended lengths. I currently have a Promaster, and am going back to Chevy due to reliabilty. The Promaster has some nice convenient points to it. But don't let the front wheel drive fool you. In the Pro it does not help much in snow or muddy conditions. I think your review is overall good on the Express. And if your towing a trailer under seven K pounds.. No issue. We will see what the 6.6 does. I will come back and let you know after giving it a couple of good runs.

  • @anniesfinds

    @anniesfinds

    2 жыл бұрын

    Hello how is the 6.6 doing? We have a similar trailer and thinking about towing it with Chevy passenger van. Really interested to know which van is better. 6.3 or 6.6? And how are they different?

  • @johnharper2016
    @johnharper20164 жыл бұрын

    You make no mention of having a 3 pass weigh in at a CAT scale. My guess is that with a 9500 lb trailer AND 6 people and all there travel stuff you were probably exceeding the Combined Gross Vehicle Weight Rating. That is the TOTAL amount of weight the van can handle. Weigh the van first all loaded and ready to travel. Then weigh the van with the trailer attached without your weight distribution hooked up. Then weigh the van and trailer with the weight distribution hooked up. Look at the axle loading and the TOTAL weight of the rig. You should probably do this with your new F250 set up. You may be surprised at the results. Happy travels and if safety is a main concern go to the CAT scale soon.

  • @thesnowleys8565

    @thesnowleys8565

    4 жыл бұрын

    Some great points you bring up. Yeah the trailer was around 7500 dry pounds but with people and gear it was the 9500 pounds. Not sure if that was clear in the video. Thanks for your comment and helpful insight.

  • @vincenzopromedia

    @vincenzopromedia

    4 жыл бұрын

    I don’t fully understand all of that but I know I don’t fully understand cgvwr in the first place. I know I gotta get it down before I do any pulling of my own. I thought the gvwr was the weight of the trailer plus the max weight the van can carry combined. Which should tell you how much extra weight the vehicle can carry depending on how much the trailer is combined with the vehicle.

  • @TheSouthpawSharpshooter
    @TheSouthpawSharpshooter4 жыл бұрын

    Great review

  • @Dee-sl9pu
    @Dee-sl9pu2 жыл бұрын

    2003 Chevy Express 3500 6.0. Ours works like a beast. would love to convert it to 4x4.

  • @tims.9883
    @tims.988320 күн бұрын

    Just bought one of these used, 2014 15 passenger, it is way louder and rougher ride than my 2016 ram 2500.

  • @daviddufresne7049
    @daviddufresne70494 жыл бұрын

    I bought a used 2008 1500 cargo, rides smooth and quiet, V-6, 4,300 lb. tow rating. We are looking at the extended ones, so the quick release seats are nice, but a rough ride is not wanted, neck injury requires it.

  • @briangarcia2358
    @briangarcia23584 жыл бұрын

    Not sure why your video popped up on my recommendations, but I watched it. I can understand your need for more pulling power. However I don’t agree with some of your concerns and hopefully they weren’t the issues that pushed you to sell it. First, the space for items. You didn’t like it, and I find my van has more than enough space and I really enjoy the deep door pockets for extra camp gear storage. But that’s simply an opinion. On to the rattling, I agree that they have a bus or airplane type rattle as your driving but i remedied that by removing all the panels and spraying foam insulation, then reassembled everything. As far as the stiffness and comfort, you didn’t seem to like it but that’s likely the fact it was a 3500 and not a 1500. My 1500 obviously wouldn’t be able to tow what yours did, but for that reason I think the suspension components aren’t as stiff as the 3500. My van has a very “car like” quality vs my Jeep or work truck. But hey- for what it’s worth it was a well put video for those who are considering buying one. Things to think about for sure. Take care. ✌🏾

  • @dwynepen7626
    @dwynepen76269 ай бұрын

    You need a longer wheelbase for a trailer that length ...and a 6Litre or more especially for mountains... I assume it was geared to high for a constantly 10,000 lbs

  • @Lex41710
    @Lex417104 жыл бұрын

    We have 5 kids and I was really hoping the Chevy might be the ticket. We will need to seriously do some research now on the travel trailer and size of vehicle. Obviously 90% of the time the vehicle will be used in the city for school, errands, shopping, but when it comes to vacation I'd really like something that could take the entire family and travel trailer

  • @displacedtexan

    @displacedtexan

    4 жыл бұрын

    We have a 3500 regular wheelbase GMC Savana, and we love the room it has on trips. Yeah it’s a little loud and stiff without weight on it, but we knew that going in. We like being able to have all of our cargo covered and accessible, as opposed to being under a bed cover of sorts. Plus the cost of these is FAR less than a similarly equipped truck. Another pro of the van is payload capacity. My van’s payload capacity is almost 3500 pounds, which exceed many weights found on 3/4 ton trucks and definitely blows a half ton out of the water. It’s nice not having to worry about weights when traveling. We took a family (four adults, two kids) and all of our stuff, along with a trailer weighing in at about 6000 pounds (so maybe 15k total) up the mountains of Wyoming and S Dakota with no issue.

  • @christophertucker1414
    @christophertucker14143 жыл бұрын

    SO, did you get a smaller RV to pull behind the 6.0L Express, or what vehicle did you decide to go with to tow the LARGE RV instead of the 6.0L Express?

  • @tomgeezer2342
    @tomgeezer23423 жыл бұрын

    Towbar kit parts are about $280 installation at U-Haul is about $100

  • @TheSouthpawSharpshooter
    @TheSouthpawSharpshooter4 жыл бұрын

    I have 3 kids and another on the way. Trying to sell the wife on one of these but isn’t working so far lol

  • @displacedtexan

    @displacedtexan

    4 жыл бұрын

    With having kids and taking cross country trips, my wife loves the accessibility to the kids with having this van. That could be a selling point to her ;)

  • @erinhoffman4819

    @erinhoffman4819

    3 жыл бұрын

    I'm a wife and mom to three kids 4 and under. Tell your wife this van is a dream! Seriously, she won't regret it. (We took out the middle row of seats for more space for now. So luxurious).

  • @user-tf5kr4qp2i
    @user-tf5kr4qp2i4 жыл бұрын

    I got a 2018 long wheel base with the 6.0. With .4.10 rear end it pulls our 38ft toyhauler like a dream. While it could use more power it’s plenty we’ve gone from Washington state to Texas pulling the toy hauler I would guess you have the 3.73 in that van. But you’ve sold it so it’s not longer a issue for you but your video really doesn’t do the vans any jusitice. You bought a commercial spec work van thinking it would be smooth and quiet like a normal spec truck would be.

  • @SprinklerMan1
    @SprinklerMan14 жыл бұрын

    I have an 06 with 6.0. I tow a 324 eagle bhds with 8005 lbs dry weight. Im a little over weight with the 373 rear end but it tows fine. I have 4l80e trans vs the new vans have 6l80e. 6.0 is a work horse.

  • @thesnowleys8565

    @thesnowleys8565

    4 жыл бұрын

    They are really great vans! For the price and what you get it’s hard to beat. I see lots of them on the road towing trailers.

  • @vincenzopromedia

    @vincenzopromedia

    4 жыл бұрын

    That’s interesting. My dad got a Chris craft crown 272 cabin cruiser that’s 10,400 and we went through a couple vehicles pulling it (01 5.3 suburban & 98’ 5.7 k1500) before we landed on a diesel (06’ dmax Sierra -beast). But he wanted an extended cab with the 8 ft bed because apparently the longer the wheelbase, the less the trailer will sway on the highway. The truck sucks to park but it is the best pulling machine I’ve ever driven. I think your van being an extended model might help with trailer sway.

  • @shaunfrey7800

    @shaunfrey7800

    4 жыл бұрын

    The newer 3500 Express vans have the 6l90. That's the transmission they put in the 1 ton gas motor gm trucks. It's a physically bigger tranny and usually cant be swapped into other vehicles due to clearance issues.

  • @edfhobbies556

    @edfhobbies556

    3 жыл бұрын

    I just bought the same year, engine and trans specs as you have do you still have same opinion as a year ago? thx in advance

  • @joshuabafoaikins3459
    @joshuabafoaikins345910 ай бұрын

    Am in Ghana and i use one as commercial vehicle and its very strong and durable at the same time quality and i feel comfortable when ever i use chevrolet express, and if you can dash me one of 2006 model i will be happy

  • @D_Cali_Life
    @D_Cali_Life4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for the info. I got a 31ft travel trailer at 7,700 weight Looking at 2019 Chevy Express 3500 Extended 6.0 Engine Good to know

  • @thesnowleys8565

    @thesnowleys8565

    4 жыл бұрын

    That sounds like a wonderful size trailer, let me know if there is any other questions about the express that I can help with. 🤠

  • @D_Cali_Life

    @D_Cali_Life

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank You. I went with the 3500 Extended cab. Currently converting the interior and will be towing a 31ft - 7,800 lb travel trailer. So when im not able to find a trailer spot in the city. I can stay in the Van. It took me 7 months to find a trailer spot in L.A. Everything was booked or reserved. I had to book months in advance. And you have to move every couple days and no spots sometimes. No monthlys or consistent weekly. So van life it is lol $30,000 for New 2019 Trailer And $40,000 for New 2019 Van. Thank you for the video.

  • @thesnowleys8565

    @thesnowleys8565

    4 жыл бұрын

    A great buy! Have fun and be safe on the road!

  • @shaunfrey7800
    @shaunfrey78004 жыл бұрын

    The problem with the 6.0 passenger van isnt power, its gear ratio. That van has a 3.42 gear. It works out great when hauling people but it needs more gear. Still, I would stay under 8000 lb gross trailer weight if anyone is considering a 3500 gm van for trailer towing. My travel trailer is 6400lb gross and my 2017 6.0 15 passenger tows it great. I will be doing a gear swap though.

  • @snowleyryan

    @snowleyryan

    4 жыл бұрын

    Shaun Frey yeah I agree but I just read that for the express in 2021 they are finally bringing out the bigger motor of a 6.6l v8. So if you get the right gear and the bigger motor you should be smooth sailing.

  • @nwinter2752

    @nwinter2752

    4 жыл бұрын

    I have a similar setup, 3500 extended, camper weighs 4700 dry. Are you thinking 3.73’s? I am of the same opinion, that sixth gear is steep and it won’t drop into sixth when towing.

  • @shaunfrey7800

    @shaunfrey7800

    4 жыл бұрын

    I would go 3.73 but I'm planning on a 5" lift and 285 70 17s. So the plan is to go 4.10 with a locker or limited slip

  • @nwinter2752

    @nwinter2752

    4 жыл бұрын

    @@shaunfrey7800 do you know what that'll bring your rpms to at say, 70mph?

  • @shaunfrey7800

    @shaunfrey7800

    4 жыл бұрын

    Not a clue but the 33" tires will offset the low gearing so it shouldn't be much.

  • @JohnDavis-yz9nq
    @JohnDavis-yz9nq3 жыл бұрын

    Air bags on the side walls in the back? I was thinking about converting one into a travel van. My worries are if someone hit you in a parking lot going 10 mph and caused the airbags to inflate it would mess everything up .

  • @ultralaserblast381
    @ultralaserblast3813 жыл бұрын

    for towing dont use e85... you range will be greatly diminished with mid single digit mpg

  • @dborchers1
    @dborchers12 жыл бұрын

    Did you have much buffeting? I have a '06 E350 pulling 5K TT 5.4L. It pulls okay but driving in a head or cross wind feels life threatening. We drove from Mt. Shasta to Ozarks and I don't think my wife will ever drive I70 in Kansas again.

  • @nela5596
    @nela55965 ай бұрын

    If you got the 15p wheel base is longer and will tow way way better If you want more power, get a 6.6L duramax engine

  • @pavlo345
    @pavlo345 Жыл бұрын

    Would you recommend the extended frame for better towing capability?

  • @videopipeline6419
    @videopipeline64192 жыл бұрын

    If you had much load (gear & passengers) in the van, along with a 9,700 pound trailer, you were almost certainly well above the 16,000 lb GCW limit for this van. As "discerningmind" mentioned below, the trailer you towed is huge, and to elaborate upon that, It has a lot of aero drag due to the height, length, shape and all that stuff sticking up. If anyone wants to tow a trailer as large and draggy as this one behind a 1-ton SRW van, there is only one that provides a higher GVWR, and that one isn't available (new) any more: 3500 extended van with 6.6L Duramax, which has GCWR as high as 19,000 lb. No other conventional* 1-ton SRW van comes close to this. One drawback to these GMT610-series vans that you experienced, that contributes to their lack of stability when towing heavy is this: they have a relatively ancient front suspension/steering geometry (similar to 1988-1998 vintage GMT400 3/4-ton & 1-ton pickups) that has a fair amount of 'bump steer' and they also don't have OEM trailer stability control either. But despite all their drawbacks, GMT610-series vans have far higher owing capabilities than their direct competitors (e.g.: Ford Transit), which have basically abandoned any idea of towing much more than an ATV trailer. *excluding 450/4500+ series "vans" that are based on medium-duty trucks.

  • @cooleyhall4103
    @cooleyhall41039 күн бұрын

    How's the paint job on the 2019 any improvements with paint peeling and roof rusting

  • @H-RutherfordHill
    @H-RutherfordHill4 жыл бұрын

    Do you think the longer wheelbase Express van would’ve towed your trailer better? Or was it just the lack of power that was a problem?

  • @thesnowleys8565

    @thesnowleys8565

    4 жыл бұрын

    That’s a good question. Jumping to the Ford F-250 with a 6.2l compared to the 6.0l on the van the power did make a difference. I think the power would have been fine if I wasn’t traveling around the country and mountains. If I lived in a semi flat state it would have been fine. The longer wheel base would have been the better choice for towing capacity.

  • @conraddean5051

    @conraddean5051

    3 жыл бұрын

    The stock 3.42 rear axle gearing is the issue. Swap it to a 3.73 and you'll have no regrets.

  • @albertorangel2940
    @albertorangel29402 жыл бұрын

    What did you get instead?

  • @mikewest5529
    @mikewest55293 жыл бұрын

    My G4500 would tow that trailer like nothing! I have 4.56 gears and she is a monster!! It’s a 16 foot cutaway!! Check my cold start video!! That’s a 6.0 and she is a ripper!!

  • @DadJokesAllDayLong
    @DadJokesAllDayLong3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for the review. I have 4 kids myself + dogs so a truck just won't work for me. I am planning on getting a 5100lb hybrid camper so this should be fine for me. Since you decided not to keep it, what are you going to go with instead?

  • @GanderFlight
    @GanderFlight4 жыл бұрын

    So what did you replace it with? What's the current tow vehicle?

  • @thesnowleys8565

    @thesnowleys8565

    4 жыл бұрын

    Yes. We purchased a f250 that’s has a tow railing off the tongue of 12,500. So it gave us about 2,500 more pounds in towing and a little bit heavier of a truck. Stayed with gas but the motor was slightly bigger.

  • @BradCzak

    @BradCzak

    3 жыл бұрын

    TheSnowleys how well does the family of 6 fit in that?

  • @thewatercat9359

    @thewatercat9359

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@BradCzak yes that's my question as well. Planning in getting a 3500 Savana Passenger Van remove all seats except one for our daughter sitting in a car seat and add a high/sport top (so can walk) and turn it into a mobile office which also can be used for a day out on the beach with outdoor shower, mattress to take a rest, extra battery, etc. Plus we will be towing a trailer. Most likely around 7500 lbs. 25 feet. So after all comments, which configuration would be the best? Savana 3500, 6 Liter, 4.10 axle ratio (I understand as higher has better)? If I take the seats out, is the floor even? Or will it have a uneven floor?

  • @StressLessCamping
    @StressLessCamping3 жыл бұрын

    We're considering getting a 2018 Chevy Express 3500 but we would be towing a trailer well within the weight capacity of the van - about 5500lbs. If your trailer is over 9,000lbs that is pushing it so I can see why you switched. Thanks for the review!

  • @AlyoshikMr
    @AlyoshikMr Жыл бұрын

    What replecement of Chevy 3500 have you found for yourselv?

  • @indoorroadkill3369
    @indoorroadkill33693 жыл бұрын

    Anyone who complains the 6.0L is gutless clearly never towed in a pre-1990 truck, when you had half as much power and automatic transmissions only had three speeds instead of six. Yet, people still pulled large campers, construction equipment, horse trailers etc. and it wasn't a problem... you just didn't speed everywhere. Perhaps your expectations were set too high? There are plenty of reasons vans are cheaper than pickups... partly because the Express/Savana line, besides subtle improvements along the way, is largely unchanged since the fall of 1996. The nose changed in 2003. They stuck with what worked because the vast majority of full size van sales are contractors and fleets who want simplicity and reliability. I'd bet your van wasn't set up for being a tow rig. Just bolting on a hitch doesn't do it, unless you are pulling smaller trailers. You need the right gear ratio for oomph, stiffer tires(and higher air pressure) and shocks for less sway. And yes, the factory extended towing mirrors. They're available aftermarket as well, by the way. A weight distributing hitch with sway control would also have helped you dramatically. To be fair, i think your video is pretty good. However, I think your understanding of towing and research before purchasing the van was lacking. One 3500 is not necessarily the same as another, even if they look identical. Don't worry, you aren't the first to make this mistake, and won't be the last.

  • @mountainhobo
    @mountainhobo2 жыл бұрын

    So what did you do in the end?

  • @mikeatv
    @mikeatv2 жыл бұрын

    diesel is the only motor to tow with period if anyone says otherwise there full of shit… great honest video…

  • @311hitwall
    @311hitwall4 жыл бұрын

    Who had the van before you bought it? Just wondering if previous treatment is the reason why it rattles so much.

  • @briangarcia2358

    @briangarcia2358

    4 жыл бұрын

    311hitwall mine rattled too.. mine was a precious government vehicle. I pulled all the panels and just spray foamed the crap out of the cavities and put everything back together. Sounds quieter than my jeep now :-)

  • @kevinokun
    @kevinokun3 жыл бұрын

    you may have answered this , but which engine is it, 5.3 or 4.8?

  • @will_ren

    @will_ren

    3 жыл бұрын

    He said 6.0

  • @dustjunky2000
    @dustjunky20002 жыл бұрын

    I know next to nothing about automotive things. Is this an LS or an LT, and what's the difference?

  • @AlyoshikMr
    @AlyoshikMr Жыл бұрын

    How much does it cost(new) in US?

  • @ultralaserblast381
    @ultralaserblast3813 жыл бұрын

    front seats ride a llittle rougher than a pickup because you sit more by fromt wheels....center- mid seat is confort between all wheels

  • @TheBeast-ux1pb
    @TheBeast-ux1pb3 жыл бұрын

    How long is your travel trailer? I have a 6L 2018 Express 15 passenger and currently looking at a 31ft toy hauler that's 6250lbs dry.

  • @Morreese4808

    @Morreese4808

    3 жыл бұрын

    I pull a 3200lb trailer with my 2019 6L. It will pull it loaded up to about 7000lb total, but any more than that and it doesn't love it.

  • @scottjason2

    @scottjason2

    3 жыл бұрын

    6250lbs for a 31ft? That doesnt sound right.

  • @TheDemoDad
    @TheDemoDad2 жыл бұрын

    sounds like you didn't do your research. that was a base model. there is definitely a better radio option with onstar, navigation and all the bells and whistles. the doors that aren't sliders are calling 60/40 doors. all doors come in all configurations. GM did make a awd version but was discontinued after 2014 I believe. they were 1500 only. all the heavier vans with 4x4 are a conversion. of your van didn't come factory with a receiver hitch it didn't come with the tow package. and lastly the duramax would have been a better option in your case.

  • @mikeb8342
    @mikeb83423 жыл бұрын

    Does anyone know if the 5th row (4 passenger) seat in a 15 passenger express/savanna be put in the 2nd row position? In an extended van that should give me 6 passenger seating and over 8ft behind us for cargo.

  • @indianapolisbankruptcy

    @indianapolisbankruptcy

    3 жыл бұрын

    Unlikely. The first three benches are the same size and interchangeable but the legs on the last row seat are positioned different.

  • @johnmoore3753

    @johnmoore3753

    3 жыл бұрын

    In my 07 3500 you cannot use last row in any other position.

  • @davidm1599
    @davidm15993 жыл бұрын

    Your 3500 obviously did not have a factory towing package - what makes you think it could have been rated for anything near 10000 lbs?

  • @RadicalPersonalFinance

    @RadicalPersonalFinance

    3 жыл бұрын

    The factory tow rating numbers in the manual.

  • @indoorroadkill3369

    @indoorroadkill3369

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@RadicalPersonalFinance the manual specifies "when properly equipped". Since it didn't have a factory hitch and he doesn't specify a gear ratio, one can pretty safely bet it did not have the proper setup for towing those kinds of numbers. His looks to be more like a small shuttle bus, carrying passengers and cargo. No heavy vehicle is going to get great mileage, especially in a gasser. If you want to do heavy towing, get the turbo diesel... you won't regret it.

  • @cooleyhall4103
    @cooleyhall41039 күн бұрын

    This van is 11 passenger van then it's the 2500 and not the 3500🤷🏽‍♀️ why ya keep saying 3500

  • @OlisYFaby
    @OlisYFaby4 жыл бұрын

    How much did you pay for your 1 year old van?

  • @snowleyryan

    @snowleyryan

    4 жыл бұрын

    $20k

  • @chrisludwig9783
    @chrisludwig97834 жыл бұрын

    Those new Ford's get terrible gas mileage too

  • @snowleyryan

    @snowleyryan

    4 жыл бұрын

    Chris Ludwig your right I get about 14-15 when not towing and 8 when towing.

  • @stephenboldrey9973
    @stephenboldrey99733 жыл бұрын

    Sounds like you need a A Prius . I have a 2018 it’s Great I get 25 to 27 miles a gallon on the interstate . I have never Heard so much whining . Is there anything you like Princess. This video was a wasted time I’ll never get back . Thanks . I think the operators with a big problem

  • @luvdacurvyones

    @luvdacurvyones

    3 жыл бұрын

    Yeah! What he said!

  • @chrisreed26
    @chrisreed264 жыл бұрын

    First off, why make a video soo early in the AM when you feel you have to whisper almost then when we listen to the video we have to turn the sound soo far up that when you close the van door it sounds like a darn sonic boom!! Thanks a lot!! 2nd, the van..You are going to be one of the rare ones to speak negative about this van which does show in the comments..Nearly everyone praises these vans as they are tough and reliable..You seem to have expected the ride quality of a 1997 Town Car but you just can't tow that kind of weight the Express van does with soft sprung suspension!! I think it's pretty well known that vans do not always make the best tow choice as their is such a small rear overhang...I'm no expert on towing but most do know this one little thing about vans!!

  • @DadJokesAllDayLong

    @DadJokesAllDayLong

    3 жыл бұрын

    You sound nice. The dude didn't have to make a video but he did and I appreciate it. He mentioned his cons which I also appreciate, even though I don't think they would be cons for me.

  • @chrisludwig9783
    @chrisludwig97834 жыл бұрын

    The Nissan nv 3500 great tow vehicle

  • @krakatoapinatubo6362
    @krakatoapinatubo63622 жыл бұрын

    No headrests in the back. That's a huge negative for safety.

  • @keldonator
    @keldonator2 жыл бұрын

    They aren't rated to tow over 10k lbs, they are rated to tow no more than 10k lbs.

  • @stingraymann7530
    @stingraymann75303 жыл бұрын

    He did all that talkin and then let us hear how I sound that's a rookie mistake

  • @XxN8iVeSc0uTxX
    @XxN8iVeSc0uTxXАй бұрын

    Ummm umm ummm and ummm umm ummm umm 😂

  • @bgarcia4291
    @bgarcia42919 ай бұрын

    Um, um, um, um, um🙄

  • @josemendez-fy7km
    @josemendez-fy7km Жыл бұрын

    How long is your travel trailer

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