Chevy Cargo Van questions

Snowman9000 wrote:
I'm considering buying a used cargo van, probably a Chevy, to replace my pickup truck, and be convertible into a camping rig. I owned a 1986 Chevy 1/2 ton cargo van for my work, and used it a long time. So I'm familiar with the concept for sure. But not necessarily with the DIY camper application.

First question: sliding side door, or double door? I had the slider and it was good for tight spaces. But for camping, maybe the double door offers more ways to set up the interior?

Would a 3/4 ton be okay? How about a 1/2 ton? I'm talking minimalist camper here. No water tanks, no propane, no genset. Two twin beds, minimal camp kitchen, porta potti, bins for clothes and camp gear. If I had a 1/2 ton I don't think I would hesitate to use it. But starting from scratch, it seems like a 3/4 ton would be worthwhile.

Last, what about vintage for a Chevy? Not counting any camping, this van will be driven <5000 miles a year. So I'm thinking something from the mid-2000s. Is there a year where the engines or transmissions got better? 6 speed would be nice, for instance.

Same question for a Ford or Dodge, if one catches my eye.

If you go with Chevy, go with a 3/4 ton with the full floating axle. That's the HD version. On Ford and Dodge, 3/4 ton has it but Chevy can be both ways. Look for the axle end sticking out through the wheel. 1994 up is a good bet. 1988 through '93 all the manufacturers had trouble with paint falling off. White and silver are still hard colors to keep on. Silver especially since the metalic pigment tends to crack the paint coat.

Get a V-8 and if it doesn't have a transmission cooler, put one on. On the side doors, sliders tend to "boom" due to the larger metal skin. My B has dual doors on the side. The main door is fine for getting in and out. I rarely use the smaller second door but if I need to put something large in it, it is handy.

You really want a raised roof. Considering that you're going to be a minimalist camper, I'd look around for a conversion van with a raised roof. These often go for less than a regular passenger van as there is a smaller market. It has better insulation and may of the creature comforts you'll want. You can then pull the extra unneeded seats to make room and have it in use in a short period of time. With the transmission cooler many of them have, you can pull a small trailer if you ever want to travel and take a few extra things with you.