I've worn out my fair share of Chevy cargo vans. My latest is a base model 2012 GMC Savanna 2500, 4.8L.
The Good. Normally, most van guys would shudder at a 4.8 - it's NOT a powerhouse; the 5.3 has much more grunt. However, The General has done something with the transmission, there are 6 SIX different ratios. This thing flat out hauls! Be prepared when you stand on the loud pedal. My weight on the road is just under 7500 Lbs, so it's not like it's running on empty - more like it's running on the bump stops and I can still chase down the Volkswagen that just cut me off.
I've run at least a few of these into the ground, with the same set of tools and varying inventory (I'm a road technician for a heavy equipment repair company), never had a transmission or 3rd member failure. 2007 and up models have excellent brakes.
The Bad. Compared to the Ford E250 the Chevy's are thin and tinny and don't seem to hold the road as well on the factory Bridgestones, having said that it may come down to tire choice alone.
Earlier models (up to 2004 at least) have weak brakes. That shouldn't be such an issue for the OP as they won't be hauling any where near the weight I do in the van.
One other beef with the Express/Savanna is soft seats. Yes, they're showroom comfortable but will leave you tired and moving slow after a long ride.
I don't know what year this trans became available, but it's a game changer. Look for a +/- button on the shifter. Also note that all 2500's since 2000 come with a selectable tow/haul button on the dash.
