Towing with Chevy 1500 Express conversion van

[ssobol]

I recently bought a bigger boat. While I can tow it with the vehicle I have, the towing weight is close to the limit. I happened upon a 2000 Chevy 1500 Express conversion van with the 5.7L V8. This van will tow 5500# or 6500# depending on the rear end. This would give me a comfortable margin as far as towing capacity goes.

Has anyone had any experience towing with this type of van? Are there any issues when towing that I should consider?

I have a 2005 Chevy Cavalier which has been troublesome. I am concerned that this van will be more trouble than it is worth.

Thanks.

 

[F14CRAZY]

Re: Towing with Chevy 1500 Express conversion van

Add a trans cooler...the 4L60/65 isn't as durable as it should be but they're alright

My family has towed everything with E series vans and vans are just as good as trucks

 

[ondarvr]

Re: Towing with Chevy 1500 Express conversion van

I had one a year or so older but was the same rig. On the third tranny under warranty the head guy in the service department said not to tow so much weight with it because the conversion added extra weight....my response was....it doesn't have a hitch.

 

[kmarine]

Re: Towing with Chevy 1500 Express conversion van

I have towed a 28 ft {7000 lbs}boat for years with a 1500 gmc van. Make sure to tow in drive and not overdrive, add a trans cooler and you should br ok. Same engine and trans as other gm trucks. A little less brake rotor for stoping so make sure you have good trailer brakes. A trans cooler is a must for all vheicles without factory tow packages. You can get them for under $100 at most auto parts stores. unless you live in the mountains you should be ok.

 

[skyking897]

Re: Towing with Chevy 1500 Express conversion van

I'd question that #5500-#6500 tow weight. That's probably for a basic van not the conversion van as they are considerably heavier than the basic van, thus reducing towing capacity. Also, comparing a Cavalier to the Express Van is like apples to oranges. The Cavalier/Sunfire were all a POS, just basic transportation and not meant for longevity let alone towing. In reality, the Express Van is very similar to the Chevy 1/2 ton truck, just with a big box added. +1 for making sure the trailer has good brakes.