Better Than a Sprinter? Why the Chevy Express 2500 is the ULTIMATE Budget Van Life Overlander.
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- Опубликовано: 14 окт 2024
- Are you an aspiring overlander with van life interests? Want a vehicle that combines both van and overlanding in a beautiful union? Enter the Chevy Express 2500. Funny Alex is back with some serious recommendations as he shares both the benefits and some drawbacks of choosing a Chevy Express as your next van overland adventure-mobile. Oh, and P.S., don't you dare miss the blooper reel at the end!!
#slowroamers #vanlife #overlanding #chevyexpress #2wd #diyvanconversion #diyvanbuild #auxbeam #offroadadventure #globetrotterlife #digitalnomad #travelcouplevlogs #weeklyvlog #youtubers
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As someone who is in the middle of a 2013 Chevy Express 3500 Minibus conversion, I whole heartly agree and appreciate the deeper dive on this reliable platform. Great videos as always. See you on the road in the future!
Heck yeah! Thanks for watching and good luck with the build!🙌🏻🙌🏻
@@SlowRoamers Thanks! I also see we both have a connection to bison/buffalo. 🦬
@@buyzen yep, I worked with them on a farm for about 10 years. They’re a cool animal.
I would have to agree. I have a 2000 Silverado 4x4 with 238k miles. Bought from the original owner at about 100k it burns no oil between changes, has never broken down on the road and with the 4.8 if I keep it at 60mph I can get around 20 mpg. I haven't experienced the paint issue, most people think I have had it repainted but lucky for me, it was pampered from day one and still in great condition. Hang on to yours, it's true, "they don't make 'em like that anymore!"
I’d love 20mpg…or even 17mpg. We’re a little heavy for that though. I think the paint issue is only on the vans. You’re absolutely right, they don’t make’’em like they used to!” 🤣 Thanks for watching!
@@SlowRoamers so what mpg do you get?
@@Trajkociklista depends on what kind of driving, about 12-15mpg
@@SlowRoamers well, considering that a a relatively small 1.9t Jeep ZJ with a V8 does that sort or milage(when I'm really really careful with the throttle 😅 steady 60 on a flat motorway is around 15, 13.5 at 75) 15-12 for a big chunk of a full sized van loaded with all the camper van stuff - doesn't sound that bad at all.
I imagined it would be more like 10-8 with such a large and heavy vehicle
Do you have an idea how much does the van weigh in its roadtrip mode?
@@Trajkociklista yeah, it’s certainly not horrible. I’m pretty light on the throttle, but as soon as we get off highway the mileage plummets pretty quick. Road trips mode, which means always, is 8700lbs right now.
I have a 2023 AWD Ford Transit with all the bells and whistles so i really have nothing to add to the Chevy Express conversation. But what I can say is Alex, you're totally nailing it with these YT videos. Your talent and hard work is shining through. Keep up the great work! From a fellow BC'er:)
Thanks Robin, I really appreciate the kudos. If you spot, make sure to wave us down!👋🏼👋🏼
@@robinw2560 i just paid 4k for a AWD express 5.3L with 120k miles the things a dream similar top to this. also can swap in a 4x4 transfer case from a silverado. I want this dudes van tho it's a beast
Yup, it's what I have, runs forever, parts availability, mostly it's reliable!!!!!!!
🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻
We're convinced!
Good!
Thanks for the great review. I am a new subscriber and am looking forward to following your latest journey. I have a 2010 GMC Savana self converted with a high top, same engine and overall spec. so it's great to hear all the positive feedback about it's suitability for adventure. Great stuff!
Awesome! Thanks for following along, Richard. Glad you liked the video. It’s always nice when you’re affirmed on a decision you’ve already made, ain’t it?🤣 Thanks for watching!🙌🏻
You are absolutely correct a simple vehicle is the best:)
Haha, thanks for the validation!😁
I think you're right: Chevy Express IS a great platform. In the end though, it comes down to what you call the "use case", i.e. what the drivers and build designers have done to optimize the vehicle. The things you've done with the van from a DIY perspective, where you've gone, the roads you've chosen have been the game changer. You've made great choices as owners, vanlifers and overlanders. You've truly mastered the platform potential. Excited for your PanAm adventures.
Great explanation! Love the pragmatic mentality when approaching the build and making a case for 2WD👍
🙌🏻🙌🏻
Love to see the more of the vehicle. Great content.
Thanks so much! There’s plenty to come!🙌🏻
A good set of tire chains when your vehicle is challenging traction conditions would greatly make up for the lack of 4x4 capability.
Think Trygg chains.
I am still driving my 88 Toyota for a reason! Simple, easy to work on- can go anywhere.
I’m driving an 88 Toyota too…but it’s got a 2001 Tacoma engine in it…😬😬
We had a ‘98 gmc Savana 1500 conversion (so the clone of the Chevy express) and drive it up to 700,000km. Pulling a trailer.
In the end it was the conversion electrical system that made us sell it. Too buggy. But the platform was great.
They are absolutely one of the best budget campers you can possibly build.
We’re certainly inclined to agree!😁
I’m not a mechanic but we’ve found ways to get mechanical work done in Panama and Colombia where our van is not sold. We rarely drive over 70 kph on pavement and often 30kph on winding back roads. I don’t envy your lack of air conditioning in the cab and I’ll look forward to watching you sweat in Central America. It was 100 degrees yesterday in Cali and the suicide motorcycles were relentless as usual. Cheers from Colombia and our 2020 Promaster getting the drive done.
Yeah, we’re not looking forward to that aspect of it, it’s gonna be rough for sure. Thanks for watching and drive safe!
Nice review. Great on details and reasoning for the choice. We made different choices for different reasons, but I can see how your choices are working out well for you! Perhaps we'll meet up on the road someplace.
To each their own, indeed. Thanks for watching, Tim!
We started with a 2007 GMC Savana 2500 without cruise control for our first 7 years on the road. But I noticed that it didn't have a mechanical throttle. So I just bought a cruise control lever and replace the one on the column and voila, I had cruise control.
I don't know of any recall for the paint issue but we lovingly named our van "Chippy".
Nice! 😊
Interesting! I haven’t really researched anything like that, maybe I could upgrade/retrofit.
Thats a fantastic name, so fitting!🤣🤣
@@SlowRoamers
I read up on this as well
Sounds like if it’s a drive by wire adding cruise is very simple.
Swap out the blinker stock for the one with cruise.
Plug it in.
If it is the throttle cable style (earlier models like mine 😕) there is more work involved.
It can be done but you need the cc module (they are not available new anymore). You gotta hunt down a used one.
You also need the cruise control blinker stock.
The cable for the cruise to control the throttle body.
I can’t remember, but I thing might have to program the ECU as well.
@@malimish The paint has a 5 year warranty and paint failures start around year 6, so you're screwed. The paint jobs that are not white in color last forever, so keep that in consideration.
Get a V8, any V8, with a yellow gas cap, so it's flex fuel compatible.
@@stevenmelander5218 Thanks but we've not owned that van for nearly 10 years. Have moved on to other vehicles and probably won't be looking at the Express or Savana any time soon.
Just bought a GMC Savanna cargo van in March. (Chevy express with a different label on it. 🤗) Have been outfitting it as a weekend camper van while still using it to drive to work 5 days a week. I agree with what you said about this van being a great platform. Everything you said has made me feel good about my choice and the options I might have for future upgrades to lights and roof height, etc. I like having clearance underneath, and the ability to fit in a normal size parking space. Very practical, and very simple. But mine does have electric windows and a working AC (which is nice) and cruise control (which I really appreciate on long trips.) No navigation or blind spot monitor or parking assist or other fancy doodads though. No hands free phone either, just a very simple radio. I was looking for a truck like you could buy 20 years ago before trucks became expensive luxury status symbols. (Why do trucks have back seats and short beds? How are you going to haul lumber or do anything practical in them?) But I also wanted an enclosed cargo space and that is why I was looking at the Express/Savanna vans.
Nice! Great choice! I’ve been continuously pleasantly surprised by the van. I’m quite sure it will continue to serve you well as long as you keep up with basic maintenance. Thanks for watching!🙌🏻
Thank 4 the information. It really helps. I am searching for a van I have seen other Van lifers say theChevy Express is one of the best.
Especially easy to work on & to find parts. Enjoy & be safe on the road!! Hope to see y’all on the road!!!😊
Glad I could help, thanks for watching!
Thanks for the info Alex! As you know, I have the same model that you do, and YES that paint is horrible. But I appreciate the info on rear axle etc... I'm retired now, and working part time, but definitely thinking about the van and next steps. Currently it is being used as a mobile bike shop, although that will hopefully change over the next couple of years. THANKS again!!
You’re more than welcome, Jackie! Thanks for watching.😊
@SlowRoamers I just discovered your channel while researching Chevy vans. Thank you for making this fantastic video and I am now your new subscriber. What model year is your van? I am currently shopping for a used Chevy which I plan to set up for occasional camping trips. A question for you and other experienced readers who are willing to share the experience and knowledge. What would be the best model year(s), what engine size and what tranny would you look for if you were in the market for a used Chevy? My budget for just buying a van is under $10 k. Thanks in advance and best wishes from Maryland!!!
Hey, glad you found us and that our video could be of help. Thanks for following along! We have a 2006 2500 1ton package. It’s got the 4.8 with 4L80e 4spd auto. We’re partial to this particular year/engine/weight combination, although I think we’d like the bigger engine. I’m not certain if the express vans come with a 5.3 but if they did, that’s what I’d prefer.
@@SlowRoamers Thank you very much and glad to hear 4.8 is doing ok for you!!! A contractor on hvac-talk forum said this:" My 07 2500 has the 4.8 and even loaded with tools and a ladder on the roof, I haven't noticed any lack of performance." And on Chevrolet forum comments on 4.8 vs bigger in express vans one poster had the same preference you have. He said: " I would go with the 5.3. Its a 327 and newer more efficient engine. Plus it gives you more towing, cargo weight and chassis options." Wishing you and your lovely girlfriend joyful and safe journeys
@@slobodantrendic22 yessir! The 4.8 is great and super reliable albeit a little underpowered for our heavy van, but it gets us around which all we need!
Ooo! I see you got Meg’s outside table done! I’ve had camper-vans for the past 20 years, never had 4WD, and have had tons of fun and adventures (albeit not as adventuresome as yours) without ever missing or wishing for it. 4WD is not necessary to explore, I totally agree. The equipment isn’t the point, it’s the time spent with the people you love and you’ve got that figured out at an early stage. Good for you! I love the bloopers, which prove you often have to look like a maniac to “get the shot”! Thanks for the video and looking forward to all the places your van will take you!
Indeed, I think identifying the priorities that matter is a good practice. I’ve missed out on a lot of adventure and travel time by spending lots of time building “the perfect rig” just to find out that what I was building wasn’t quite right. Thanks for watching Tiki Envy’s, we’ll be back on the road soon and showing you what BC really looks like. 😊
I own a van just like this and I can tell you from experience. Change over to cross drilled and slotted rotors, and nothing but Napa ceramic pads. Will stop anything.
We’ll be doing a full power stop brake upgrade as soon as we get back to the states!
Intro was pure GOLD.
Yeassss, that’s the only thing I needed from this video.😁🙌🏻
@@SlowRoamers Once spent two days on a 2 minute clip of a podcast remastering an Apollo countdown to be clear. Was my least listened episode. Still proud as hell and the one person that said they liked it made all the difference.
It always the case. The stuff you don’t work as hsrd on does super well and the stuff you pore heart and soul into flat lines.🤦🏼
Great video Carlos as always! Would love to hear more about oxtail.
Thank you for the video! Big Chevy fan! I talked with those people in Washington about a 24-inch high roof on an express 3500 ext, and they said it wouldn't be a problem. I love Chevy for the same reasons. LS and more. Very insightful video. I didn't know that much about the rear axle but this made it make perfect sense. GM was probably maximizing profit margins by adding some bs semi floater to the express. It's extremely good to know that another axle even from a Silverado 35 would just slip right in. I was thinking of doing that but for stability purposes for a high top but one of the reasons I think these vans are the ultimate now is because they actually have the same electronic stability control sprinters do now for their tip over control so they can roll all the way over just by swerving. I didn't know about the breaking issue but that could actually explain what's going on with my dad's sierra 2500 6.6 Duramax from 06'. I wish GM would just make a new van for crying out loud. They need to keep it the same mechanically but just bolden the aesthetic the same way they do with all their other consumer model vehicles, but make it more boxed out up at the top like the transit vans. Not to copy a transit or become a Chevy sprinter. Those other vans have that girly feminine looking front end that's just not ok for a man to drive, and it's transcendent to it's drive components because their 25 and 3500s vans even with duallys' in the back still don't out tow/haul express vans. At the same time the attention transits/sprinters get makes it seem like they have more aftermarket part availability. I've watched you guys a little, and I don't actually like your build but I respect your depth of knowledge from crafting your rig basically from the ground up. I'm also convinced that express vans are the ultimate budget build platform as well, and I want to show up everybody else rig on RUclips with my own including the highest end sprinters. Looking on Facebook market for a van, I realized they had that flaking issue.. Yeah they're not perfect vans but I still think they're the best for people like me with little bits of money. I want a $15-25k ish build including the van.
Well that was quite the read.
I agree that it would be nice to have some vertical walls, it would increase space and make it so much easier to build inside. I don’t see what people see in the promasters and transits, but they do come from the factory as high tops which is a huge plus for livability when built out. Also, I think non-car people put a lot of trust in modern technology, not realizing that modern vehicles are quickly slipping past the level of reliability that vehicles once had in exchange for convenience and comfort and being over engineered.
Anyway, thanks for watching and commenting. Best of luck with the build.
@@SlowRoamers Absolutely brother!
Great information! Thanks! Have you ever compared the INTERIOR length, width and height of your Chevy to a short and tall Sprinter, Transit or Promaster? Did you find that the interior space of your chevy was similar or a lot smaller?
All those vans have slightly larger interior spaces, their boxier designs lend to that. I never tried to compare them because I was never interested in any of them.
I love my GMC Savana 2500 Quigly 4X4 with the 6.0 ltr and the 6L90 trans. Its a beautiful Beast. I also have a 3500 box van i converted into a tiny house on wheels that i currently live in, almost 10 years now, its got the 4.8 ltr with the 6L 90 trans, its a big white turtle. super reliable.
Heck yeah! They’re such good vans. Spread the word!🤣🤣 Thanks for watching!
Love the video, man. Full sized cargo/passenger vans, especially retired ambulances, are fantastic platforms. I like the Express Vans over the Econolines, especially the LWB.
If you don’t mind me asking, how come you got the 4.8, instead of the 5.3 or the 6.0?
I personally didn’t make the decision, Meg my partner purchased the van prior to us meeting. I likely would have got a bigger engine had I know what I know now and was present during the purchase.
@@SlowRoamers ah gotcha I hear ya, still a fantastic platform.
I was looking for a used one of those for years but for some reason the used market was really beat up more than the Ford ones. Ended up with the Ford version of your van. 4.6 e250 shorty. I think the "overlanding" equipment aftermarket is a bit larger on the Ford side but it's got its own problems like spark plugs popping out. Haha. Have you gotten your 4.8 tuned? Looking at getting mine done to help with some of those hills.
They’ve all got their issues in some form or the other, but yeah, there’s a little more aftermarket support for Ford for whatever reason. I haven’t done a tune. I’d be a little skeptical of it, I do find that although the factory tune may not be as fuel efficient or powerful, it’s safe, and that’s mainly what we need out of a motor for our trip.
All the reasons I have my van 😎
🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻
The best thing about the ford and chevy vans is that you get a real engine and a real suspension not the euro trash they put on transits and sprinters. We won't even mention the ram van(front wheel drive pffffft)
lol, I’m inclined to agree. I’ve heard a lot of good things about the dual I beam suspension on the Econoline. I like the express suspension because there’s fewer camber issues for tire wear.
I have a 1999 Express 2500 that I bought for $700 in 2018. It has the 5.0 which, I read online, is a 350 with smaller pistons? I'm told that makes the engine more durable. Anyway, I enjoy the ride quality the longer wheel base provides and the way the transmission shifts for effortless extra power without having to stomp on the accererator like other vehicles. I've put some money into it but I actually prefer it over my 1997 Dodge B2500. It's longer, wider, has a longer wheel base, much stronger suspension and the AC works! I still have the Dodge because it's a high top and it has the 360 which is a beast of an engine that has never left me stranded. I really appreciate your humor! Saw you guys on Foresty Forest but didn't get a chance to subscribe. Excuse me now while I go take care of that!
Awesome! Is it the 5.3? I’ve never heard of a 5.0 in a Chevy, but I don’t know everything. Glad you found us, thanks for watching!
It's either a 6.0 or a 5.3.. chevy never made a 5.0
@@Liimpy Chevy made plenty of 5.0's in the form of a 305 (my old Camaro had one), but not in a long time and not on the LSx platform.
@@deucebigs9860 fair enough, I don't think any have been produced in my lifetime
The positive thing about the Chevrolet and GMC models is nothing has been appreciably changed since 1996 so parts are available - cannot say the same for Ford who often changes parts twice in a year so parts can be iffy especially if you break down in a small town.
Totally agree!
Don’t forget that the Express Van/Savana are LWB for the extended models, whereas the Fords have the overhang of a frigging school bus 😅
@@miggster324 No doubt, which reduced the departure angle.
Econoline parts are EVERYWHERE
@@reidcrosby6241We are comparing apples and oranges - A new Chevy has most parts interchangeable clear back almost 30 years but a brand new Ford Transit does not
Hey there. I'm currently looking for a van that I can live out of, or at the very least road trip comfortably. I stumbled upon your video and found it very helpful! I was looking into Chevy G20 vans because my stepdad had one growing up, and it was kind of my ideal I had in mind. When I saw that there's a more modern version, it definitely intrigued me. I was wondering if you could tell me a little bit about the modifications you've added to yours? For example, I like the look of the roof, but I know next to nothing about what that is or how I would get something similar.
For starters, take a peek at this video, it will likely answer a lot of your questions.
ruclips.net/video/c_vpqQDz2I4/видео.htmlsi=93WAavUJoyGllxow
The hightop came from a business called High Top Vans in Washougal, WA. If you go there, let them know Slow Roamers sent you. Let me know if there’s anything else you’d like to know.
I have a express 3500 small box truck with the single rear wheels.
The box is the same width of the van body.
I’m converting it into a overland-ish camper.
I to have traveled extensively into wild back country with 2wd trucks.
A small lift, good tires, a locker, and a touch of skill will get you pretty damn far.
Preach it man! 😁🙌🏻
@@SlowRoamers
What locker or limited slip did you put in your rear end ?
Is it the Dana super 70 ?
That’s what my van has.
Can’t find much of anything for them.
There’s the rare factory g80 locker.
But that’s like finding hens teeth.
My research shows me the super 70 is different than the HD Dana 70 (which there are lots of parts for).
So is this RWD you and he has?
@@bdmenne yep, just RWD.😊
@@SlowRoamers I was interested in the Mercedes Metris. A lil concerned about it not being AWD. But I know it’s mechanics is $$$$.
Your rig looks like the Goldilocks between Metris $ my Dodge Caravan Minivan
wow wow wow this is a 2 wheels drive ?????!! wow wow wow! Amazing!!
You betcha.😁🙌🏻
Nice video, def happy with my 08 3500!!
Heck yeah man! 🙌🏻 Thanks for watching!
Nice video thx for sharing your opinion!
Hahaha, that doesn’t happen often, someone thanking you for your opinion.🤣 thanks for watching!🙌🏻🙌🏻
About the paint, what did you end up coating it with? Nice vehicle by the way.
Hey Guy, it’s called Raptorliner. If you go back a ways on our channel there’s a video of me painting the van.
ruclips.net/video/E8spIsItEbU/видео.htmlsi=iYRi27-epgt76rlh
Can't never go wrong With a Chevy easy to work on parts are cheap and easy to find new or used parts and not to mention resell Hell lot better
Heck yeah my dude!😁🙌🏻
Minor Minor upgrade but so valuable for protecting bottom, mud flaps. Highly recommend.
I would if I wasn’t likely to rip them off all the time…🫤
You can get away with 2WD with a locking differential. I do like locking in the transfer case is n steep grades (no brakes). Even if you don't lock the hubs just for the gearing
I’m watching from my 21 Chevy express 2500. I have the 6.6l I need the short wheelbase. I think it was a U-Haul rig. Other the the low top, I’m loving mine!
Nice!🙌🏻🙌🏻
Have you tried sealing up the gap on the brakes with JB Weld, then filing it to fit?
Ooof, no I haven’t, but I think I’d sooner get new calipers.
Thanks for the video, you got me interested in the rear axle and engine swap. Just bought a used 2014 chevy express 3500 15 passenger van 4.8l which apparently comes with a free floating rear differential and for sure comes with a gutless motor. LSD was an optional upgrade when bought brand new, havent looked to see if it has it yet. Im assuming that means adding lsd to the current axle might be an option? I have a 6.7 cummins and still take it easy uphill anyways :)
The LSD is a big upgrade, I’m not sure about finding it though, upgrading the Dana 70’s apparently a challenge. For a 3500 the 4.8 is certainly a little small, but I think it’ll get you around fine.
@@SlowRoamers yea, it does fine on highway 108/ sonora pass in california, which is one of the steepest I know of. Unfortunately you might have to wind the motor out a little bit more than a bigger bore or turbo diesel.
Look for the G80 designation on the spec code sheet, usually found in the glove box, on trucks anyways
Nice rig, Happy travels.
Thanks!🙌🏻
Great video! I’m going to be looking into one.
Great decision, thanks for watching!🙌🏻
Hi Alex, Thanks for a very informative video. May I know how much it costs to have a medium roof installed on a Chevy Express?
About ten thousand US depending on how much work you have the factory do - windows insulation etc…barebones around $7000.
It would be best to put an email into High Top Vans. Their prices are quite competitive and their service is excellent. It was a while ago, but We definitely didn’t pay $7k like @conchscooter has mentioned.
It sounds like it’s probably Fiberine or Wasatch you’re referencing? HTV is far less expensive than that as I recall.
Thank you for the info.@@SlowRoamers
I would definitely go with one of the big 3 for simplicity and how easy they are to work on. Id personally lean towards Ford for the obnoxtious numbers of them on the road and aftermarket support. Plus the Econolines share many chassis parts with the Super Duty. Really can't go wrong with either..cool vid
Yep, to each their own. I really love the proportions of the Econoline vans, even more so than the Express’, but I’ve always had a liking for Chevy. Thanks for watching!
How is it with driving in high winds on the road with the high top? Did you ever feel like you would tip over? Or do you just reduce speed?
The van is reasonably wide and the top is certainly one of the more aerodynamic of the available tops, plus it’s only a medium top. We’ve never had crazy violent sidewinds like what they get in the Midwest, but I don’t think it would be much of an issue.
I have a medium hightop ford wheel chair van. Drove cross country twice Driven thru Wyoming during "high profile vehicle wind warnings" with absolutely no issues.
If you got a 03-07 express without cruise control you can add it just by swapping in a turn signal stalk for a express van that came with cruise
Oh interesting! Perhaps I’ll try that. Thanks for the tip!
@@SlowRoamers actually you may need drive by wire I forgot my 2003 van has a cable throttle body 🤷
Ah yes. We’ve got the same, cable throttle body.
@@SlowRoamers i like the drive by wire, it's smoother and saves on gas a little. because the computer can feather out throttle input. But the drive by cable is a better design more simple which is always better and better throttle response almost to much I can even drive it barefoot and feel every twitch of the pedal lol. I'm glad mine came with cruise control tho I think it uses vacuum to control a second cable pretty cool. Deft not a simple swap like the drive by wire cruise
@@SlowRoamers can you check your van to see if the throttle has 2 cables that would be awesome if they came equipped I swear videos online say you just need to swap the turn stalk
😁 Best van in my opinion.
Yep!
Good choice.
I like to think so.😊🙌🏻
My favorite is the 2017 Dodge Caravan, basic model which unfortunately means no built in kids entertainment DVD screens. But it does have 2 electric front windows!!!!!!!!
Well, having “overlanded” that very van, I can vouche for its fuel efficiency, space and reliability.🤣🤣
I'm not a fan boy of any specific brand and I think there are always pros and cons to all of them. I went with the Econoline purely because there are just so many of them and they are easy, cheap, and did I mention just so many of them! They did make more of them and for a longer time period if I recall correctly compared to Chevy, but honestly I wanted a solid front axle and not CV axles on the few Chevy's I did find for sale. There were so many $$$$$ Sprinters and Transits, but just a few more Econoline's 4x4 for sale when I was looking. I think from 1993 to now the Fords are all very similar with the main changes being about the different engine options, or the smaller parts on E150s (nobody should convert those IMHO). You can bolt a 2010+ front clip on a 1993 if you wanted it to look newer. Also the 5x7 headlights is an option as well, oh and I got my high-top for $150 at a junkyard and did it myself! I did however buy a 4x4 converted van and agree 100% with you about 2WD is all that's needed most the time. I came from a 2WD Class C RV towing a Jeep TJ and took that RV across creeks and to places most wouldn't. Not once did I get stuck, the 2WD with better tires and lower air pressure goes a LONG ways. I've been in the 4x4 E350 for almost 3 months now with ~5000 miles with close to 1k being off road. This comment comes from BLM and Starlink actually LOL. So far I've had to use 4x4 four or five times and most of them were on OHV trails. I've only used 4x4 once on a Forest road and that was earlier in the season with a pretty bad washout area, actually got the front tire off the ground then. Hope to catch ya out camping sometime, cheers and safe travels! -Tom
Thanks for the comment, Tom! I do agree, the solid front axle option that ford comes with is primo. The next truck I build will have a ford front end in it.🤣 Keep an eye out for us, we’re around. 🙌🏻
@SlowRoamers Nice! I'd like to build something sorta like the "AVEON RV", but smaller, on an older chassis and with a 12v Cummins 🤣 Gonna keep dreaming about it 🍻
@@joulemine Cummins swap EVERYTHING! I have dreamt of putting a 12valve in a truck one day, but have recently been turned off them due to their weight. They're such a heavy vehicle engine that they really begin to wear on steering parts. Not particularly ideal for super remote/ long term travel...although, I could be totally wrong.
@SlowRoamers Powerstrokes (6.7 & 7.3) along with the 5.9 Cummins are all right at 1000 lbs for the engine. Gas V8s are about half that typically. Tons of F250s and F550s with plenty of miles on them. The Dodge axles were known for wearing balljoints. I like the 12 Valve purely for the mechanical fuel pump and ease to get it working. It's like 4 or 5 wires 😆. Its also known for good MPGs. Honestly, driveshafts become an issue on longer wheel bases with heavy rigs anyway. So it's not like it'd be possible to do the same wheeling a properly set up Yota, Jeep, etc would do. Pros and Cons to everything for sure. I've seen a few TDI swapped TJs and JKs, even a 4BT Cummins, but they have to be tuned up and higher RPMs for power. Not sure they'd go well with a heavy camper 🤷♂️
Prone to go wrong. you said that right. KISS. All these new trucks/overland vehicles have so much BS going on, I'm afraid half that fancy tech stuff would break after 5-10 years, and they are so freaking expensive.
Preach it!🙌🏻
Thank you for this! I prefer the Chevy van myself. I’d like a newer one than 06’ though, before putting $$ into a conversion. The older, the higher mileage (I’m finding only 150k+}, & plastic parts get crumbly. I’ve seen that the newer ones got the dreaded afm engines w/fatal lifters - but the 2500 & 3500 did not? Hard to find accurate info. Did I miss your discussion of the rear axle? I’ve read that it’s an oddball Dana & difficult to add a locker. That & proper tires could save a lot of trouble even w/out 4x4. Which I don’t really want. If I could solve all this, I agree that the Chevy is the superior platform for me. Is there a good website w/specs? Really do enjoy your channel.
Nice thing is, because Chevy didn’t really change much throughout the years, changing out all those crumbly plastic bits is pretty easy. Also, keep in mind that the newer engines also get a few more sensors, which is fine until they don’t work any more. Ours did come with the oddball Dana 60 and that’s why we upgraded to the Dana 70 HD3. Honestly, at this point, the only the van is REALLY lacking is a transfer case with lower gears, it’s got plenty of traction. We’ve considering just popping in a transfer case but we’ve also run out of time, gotta hit the road. We don’t have anything up in the of van details on our website, but perhaps we should do that. Thanks for watching and commenting!🙌🏻
Majority of afm engines have lasted for 100s of thousands of miles , there's a few years to avoid, but Majority were just fine
Awesome van! I’m torn between a van and a pick up truck for my family. I like that the truck has 4x4 already and has more comfortable and modern features, but I like that the van has way more interior space. I don’t understand why these vans don’t have a 4x4 option from the factory. I know yours is 2WD and is very capable, but it just seems silly to me since they are very similar to a pick up truck. I’ve got 5 in my family so I don’t think all of us will be able to sleep inside comfortably so I would probably just set it up as a gear hauler with a removable platform bed in back that we can use in a pinch.
I agree, seeing as it’s pretty close to a truck chassis, 4x4 is fitting, however I think we have to look at it from a use-case and manufacturer point of view. The van was built as a contractor/ delivery van, based in cities. I don’t think Chevy would likely have profited from a 4x4 van like they would from a more affordable 2wd van. That being said, there is an AWD 1500 model. Our choices to keep the van 2WD aren’t for everyone. I would have likely searched for a 4wd option if I had been purchasing with Meg, but I’m happy with how the van has performed otherwise. Thanks for watching!
@@SlowRoamers most pickups are used in cities as contractor vehicles as well in 2WD and 4x4. The vast majority of pick ups I see are 4x4 in northern USA with ice and snow. If just seems odd to me that it was never an option
@@woolengrappler If only we had say in manufacturers choices eh? haha
Hi there..640,000 kms on my Chevy Express when I sold it. The only issue other than maintenance was a new timing chain at 600,000. What a b… to change. One thing for sure is to use an engine additive such as mystery oil to prevent the condensation that builds up in the engine. Seems to show around 400,000 km. If you don’t use an additive such as mystery oil you will get lifter clatter around 400,000 kms. Takes about three oil changes before the lifters clean themselves and go quiet.
Thanks for the insight, I’ll add that to the maintenance regime! And 640,000km!!!!!! Holy smokes
@@SlowRoamers one other thing I noticed when I began to add mystery oil to the crankcase. The mystery oil began to remove sludge that had built up over the years. My oil filter picked up the sludge so I was changing the oil filter every 1000km until the engine cleaned itself. You can tell the oil filter is getting full of sludge when the oil pressure starts to drop about ten lbs. That’s when I would change the filter and oil pressure would go back to normal. Keep on trucking. J
Thanks for the tip!🙌🏻
they are the best cargo van. I have had a few. the check engine light is also been a problem with the ones I have owned. unfortunately gm is going to discontinue the express vans and go electric.
I knoooooww, what a sad reality. The last of the greats is going out of production. 🫤
Great information, can you tell me what the inside dimensions are, length & width? Really like the idea of the Chevy 2500.
Roughly 5x5x9 I think.
Thank you
😊🙌🏻🙌🏻
Great video 📹 dude
Thanks amigo!🙌🏻🙌🏻
That is my thinking as well with the Transit (a/w ARB locker) - Being able get out there far enough where 97.5% of the rest can't/don't/won't get to is my happy place.
BTW - I'm not sure if your hip to this - but the Reverse Peace sign ✌ (that u flashed ) means "Up Yours" (little public service announcement-:)
lol, I certainly didn’t consider that, although I’m not sure as many folks from my generation or people not from the UK would recognize that. But I’ll keep that in mind for next time.🤣✌🏼
@@SlowRoamers Too Funny - As it happened I recently subbed to a British centric streamer & they certainly use it a sh*t tonne.
Yea that peace sign thing must be something new cuz I've been using that for 30+ years and nobody has ever gotten the wrong message.
@@Datzneat ✌🏼✌🏼✌🏼✌🏼✌🏼✌🏼✌🏼
@@TerryManitoba that certainly makes more sense.🤣
Great video good points. Curious can you stand up in it?
Not me personally but my fiancé can which was the main concern.
The lower roof is also intentional so the van can still fit inside a shipping container.
@@alistairjackson7658 Huh... why would you put it in a shipping container?
@@jamesphillips9516 Alex and Megan will ship the van back from South America, probably from Paraguay to the east coast of Canada or the USA. That's a typical approach since driving down is already 30,000kms.
@@jamesphillips9516 Between Panama and Colombia is a protected wilderness area called the Darien Gap. No roads whatsoever to connect Central and South America. So, if you want to take your vehicle across that gap, you have pay a shipping company to ship it. A few years ago the prices was around $2,800 USD for a vehicle that fits inside a standard container. I'm sure it's more costly now. But you don't have to ship long distances. You can drive to the southern-most region of Panama, ship to Colombia, and then continue the drive down through Patagonia.
Alex, are you saying this vehicle is a SHTF vehicle ? Love the idea of less electronics. Tried to send email from ur website, but not provided
Mainly saying that in a world of over engineered vehicles, the express vans are the last of the old vanguard, when vans were vans, not spaceships. And there’s value in that. 😊
@@SlowRoamers What wrong with your A/c? Ive recharged 30 year old cars where the A/c started working again after a recharge
Well, for starters, we don’t have AC…🫤
thumbs up!
my 4.8 is pissed that I did the weldtec 5" lift
lol, it’s a plucky little motor, but def gets bogged down with weight, big tires and height.
A box truck with an old-style Chevy express 3500 body would be ideal in my opinion. Pretty sure they use similar engines as well, just as reliable, but just beefier. Plenty of headroom for standing up in and building out because of the box. What’s your take on old box trucks?
Yeah, a 3500 cutaway is basically all the guts of an express, it just left the factory as a cab & chassis. I’d love a box truck as a mobile living situation and have certainly considered it in the past.
Agreed! A smaller box truck has WAY more room, straight walls (a bit wider internally and few/no sloping walls), and apples to apples is less expensive to buy (and less competition when looking). I’d opt for the 6.0 engine
What he said😁
i'd love to see you swap a ls in 1 day without complications :D
lol, not sure we’re going to do a bigger engine on the van, but we will do it on another vehicle. That was a hint.😉
Ah, I see what you meant now. Well, perhaps a day is a little quick, but nonetheless, apparently it’s a relatively easy swap.
great video, funny. nice van too
Thanks Gina! Glad you liked the intro, I had fun with it for sure.
That intro is 11/10
Thanks my friend. I had a lot of fun with it. I wish I could have done more.😊
Agreed!!
@@SlowRoamers very overlandy
@@b.s.adventures9421 yessssss🙌🏻🤣
I really wish they did some official crash tests on these, but assuming they don't since they aren't considered to be on the normal consumer market. I mean, have you felt safe driving around in it? Its gotta be a tank for the most part, but I'm sure certain impact at certain angles might not bode well for the short nose full size vans. Cheers
It’s a big vehicle, yes, feeling like a tank, not really. I’d be inclined to agree that the crash test ratings aren’t likely too good. Perhaps in the newer models they put more safety features in.
I did like the hat😊
Don’t worry, it’ll make more appearances.🤣
Great vid!
Sorry dude... Our 2014 AWD cargo Savana 3 inch lift 5.3 litre with upgrade suspension Rocks.... Mexico 8 times
lol, I’m quite sure it does. 🙌🏻
The Savanah is the same van 👀
Exactly
Video starts at 2:05
Youre welcome
Actually, the video starts at 0:00. Not everyone is trying to shave seconds or minutes off of their viewing time. It's as much a social experience (for some) as it is information. If you're bothered by the social aspect, maybe you should seek out a different medium for your micro-seconds, bullet-points, no-humanity-required preferences. Honestly, some people's drive for maximum time savings comes across as pathological.
@@RichardHarlos the intro was too long. Sorry I have a different opinion than you I guess lol
@@eagleone5456 Not a different opinion, but a different preference, which is perfectly fine.
People have become comfortable 'projecting' their inner experience onto things that are outside themselves. Not only is this incorrect, but it leads to many problems that would be non-existent if they would, instead, express their inner experience as just their *their inner experience.*
So, for example, when you write "the intro was too long", you're projecting your impatience (an inner experience) as if it's a flawed attribute of the video. It's not. It's your impatience. And in the interest of honesty and self-awareness, that's more in line with what you ought to be expressing.
Other examples include "that was the best steak" when in fact, it was a steak that you enjoyed more than any other that you recall in that moment. Or, "That was a great movie" when, really, you enjoyed that movie a lot.
There are other benefits to thinking correctly, and to expressing oneself honestly, that accrue over time. One of those benefits is simply a better understanding of oneself; by extension, a better understanding of those around you. Another is that it all but eliminates any potential for conflict. If I claim that something is 'the best', then someone else's 'opinion' of what 'the best' means will lead to disagreement. But, if I simply say that I enjoyed it a lot, no one can disagree about whether I did.
Here's hoping you find something in my reply valuable and useful. Cheers!
@@RichardHarlos bro S T F U no wonder you liked the intro, writing a damn book nobody cares and nobody is reading all that...
sincerely, another mf who couldn't stand the intro 🖕🏼
Love chevies! Awesome rig man. I’ve been through a lot in my Tahoe and it never let me down. But paint! Yea, sure, paint! But who cares about paint 😂?
When you’re in the bush, paint is the last thing you care about.🤣
@@SlowRoamers ha ha ha that is true. I am always phobic about tires. Hate ta swap”em ))
Great info on thanks
Thanks for watching!🙌🏻
Love this build except for the led headlights! Blinding oncoming drivers is dangerous.
I can’t disagree with that, however I think a lot of it has to do with people not aiming their lights accordingly.
Also if you have driving with the stock chevy sealed beams. You'd understand the need.i can't see anything with mine. I need to get the leds
I like the chevy express but they are outnumbered by fords about 10:1. No joke. I wash shocked.
Yeah, Ford’s production is way higher and parts availability is a lot higher which is why so many people choose them. I personally still prefer the Express.😊
Agreed but not a fan of transit. I’m a JD tech and my working truck is a 23 3500 2wd transit. Lots of room but worthless in mud or rough terrain. Work for GM 4 years and my opinion might be a little bias. Looking for an express or savanna for a future build.
Gmc savana parts also all work in express too tho.
Chevy always wins dollar for dollar but all ur mods take tons of time compared to a much better off the shelve Ford that is always the most reliable for off the lot playpens! Pls dont loose your channels appeal to appease the gear heads.. I joined to see nature, secrete spots, unique meals and hippy love vibes of others ya’ll meet, not mechanical dominance.. hope my 2 sense is just a welcome as yours. Peace love and gratitude for all of your episodes. As always more drone footage 🤓🥰
True, there are a lot of perks to driving a ford. Worry not, we’ll be back on the road soon. We’ve just been stopped off at my parents place for while as we do the last repairs and changes before leaving for the North. Admittedly, I don’t love doing the tech/ wrenching videos and would much prefer to be actually be telling a story, but that requires a moving and working vehicle in our case. Thanks for watching and I appreciate your honesty. 😊
Wow
Good too know my weird shaking break sound is normal. I was a little worried
I have a 2011 awd chevy express .
I’ll make the assumption they’re the same brakes or at least the same design. I think at some point if you see enough corrugations or gravel road a you’ll get the rattle.
@SlowRoamers yeah they chatter alot . Mostly when gently breaking under light pressure. I don't mind as it still stops well enough
For safety it might be worth having them looked at though. 🫤
A inverter and a house ac will solve your problems
Yep, we have both.
What kind of paint did you use?
Raptorliner
WHAT YEAR is your model?
2006
I kept skipping forward to see when an inside van tour would occur. What happened?
That’s a different video. Go back a ways in our videos.
Yes it is.. to me its Express gargo van
🙌🏻🙌🏻😁
i really cant pick. ford e350 or the chevy2500 ugh
lol, both are great options, honestly.
Chevy
You should’ve ended the video of you starting the van and it wouldn’t start 😂😂😂
lol, but she don’t never start!😁
What is Overlanding? Ive watched several videos one this very morning, that basically call out that term and culture of overlanding. Don't get me wrong these 100K plus Sprinter Vans with winches and all the bling are ridiculous. Much or most of the bling people buy for or do to their vehicles is marketing from the Overlanding industrial complex ( his term not mine). After all that dig your van and your approach to Vanin.
Admittedly, I REALLY don’t like the term “overland” anymore because it has become so commercialized, it’s a great way to sell your stuff. Unfortunately, we (Meg and I and our channel) are a business and the term works well for us in some respects. I’d like to think that every “overlanding” modification we’ve done to the van is very purposeful and we don’t really have much excess. We do live out of the van and have put a collective 50,000km on the van in the last two years of travel with plans of an additional 30k as we travel down the pan am. We’ve put every bit of this van to use many times, it’s not a show van by any means. So, to answer your question: if you’re a cynic, the word overland is an excellent way to sell stuff, if you’re a more optimistic/ sunny disposition person, overlanding is a mode of a travel in which the journey is of more importance than the destination…or something like that. I think i personally land somewhere in the middle of those two camps. I hope that helps…🫤🤷🏼♂️
Foresty Forest essentially has the same rig.
Well…yes, but also no. His is a 2012 (not entirely sure on year) Quigley conversion with a 6.0L and a low top. But yes, a Chevy express.
No snow where you go?
We kind of avoid snow as much as possible.
"I'm going to commit a cardinal sin: sharing my opinion."
Oh for fuck's sake.
Thanks for watching
Paint started peeling and would not stop at about 70k miles. First transmission at 90K miles, second at 160k, and third at about 190k. Both rebuilt and new. Would not buy.
Ooof, that sounds rough. Everyone has their different experiences with everything.
Totally different vehicle but I have a 2013 Hyundai Elantra with 192,000 MI. I work all over the country in the summer and the only thing that's ever gone wrong mechanically was an alternator when steering arm needed replaced in one ball joint
Did you follow the service recommendations, probably not..
@@Liimpy Yes I did. I really liked the Van, that's why I kept fixing it. Slow Roamers - Really enjoy the your video's, you guy's are a great team, so impressed with where you take that Van!!
@@kcicabinets7933 maybe you weren't getting a new transmission or whoever rebuilt it, did a sloppy job.. both of mine lasted well over 200k , I do run amsoil fluids with aux coolers and installed new Hampshire TQ converters
WHAT YEAR IS YOURS??????????????
2006
its probably cheaper than a transit or Sprinter, but it looks like it from 2004..
2006 👌🏼
@@SlowRoamers thank god. The 2024 look the same as yours 😅
Yeah, like I said in the video, a lot of the same parts (and looks) are shared from the early models all the way to present.
Video starts around 2:35
Interesting to go look at these vans that have sold in the past at Regal Auctions, and that paint flaw seems to show up on most, if not all, of them. BTW, for anyone wanting to do that, I found searching various terms did not work and I finally had to search for 'G2500' in order to find the 2500 Express vans that had sold. Looks like the price range for the 2016 models can range from $8K - $16K for example.
4l80e trans is much better than the 4l60e.
👍🏼
The 4l60e was used on the awd gm van models from 2003-2014. And the 4l80e trans was used on 2500/3500 gm van models from 2003 to 2009 iirc. They started putting in the 6 speed automatics in 2010 I Believe
@@starmaster191 I’ve heard from a lot of people that the 4L80e is a far superior trans to the 60e. I’m not well enough educated to know why that is. I often wish we had another gear though, would be nice to have a middle gear for climbing hills…
@SlowRoamers I used to rebuild both models and you're right about the 4l80e. It's MUCH better.
The biggest thing to remember with any automatic is to keep the transmission temperatures down. Temperature gauges aren't expensive, especially compared to the cost of a rebuild. An add on cooler makes a huge difference, and an external transmission filter base and spin on filter never hurts.
There are also magnetic filters that are cheap ($25ish) and easy to install into a cooler line.
I also run one of these filters on the low-pressure side of my power steering pumps. Haven't had a power steering pump failure in almost two decades since doing so with annual filter and fluid changes.
Sorry for the book, didn't mean to write so much but hopefully it's helpful to someone