Re: Newbie & buying 1995 chevy sportsmobile- really need adv
Since 1977 Until 2010 I only had GM vans. They for the most part are really good. The last one I had was also a 1995. Am not sure by your description what the problem might be. The loss of power sound like it could be plugged exhaust but the no starting sounds more like charging system, battery or such. Its hard to know for sure but if the dealer can and will fix it I think you will be ok. While the van is older the miles are not that high because its only 11,000 a year.
That 350 TBI motor is good and other than little things (oil leaks mostly) should last and it is not that costly to replace it. If and when the time comes to replace it I would only install a new or rebuilt (from GM is best) not a used one. Assuming its a G30 (not a G20) the transmission should be a 4L80e (4L60e on the G20) which is a super good transmission and can be rebuilt if needed. The only other things that are common problems with them are ball joints (the lower ones especially) and the electric fuel pumps.
After you get it back from the dealer and let your shop check it out and make their recommended repairs the one additional thing I would replace just to know its done is that pump and the fuel filter. Unless you have service records and know for sure it has been replaced recently just do it. It is best to do it with less than 1/4 tank of gas as the fuel tank has to come down to do it. The other things I would do to help be reliable are.
Cooling system flush and new hoses and probably a new not rebuilt water pump.
Complete brake check including pack the front wheel bearings and new axle seals front and rear.
Flush the brake fluid. Change the rear axle gear lube (this goes with the rear axle seals) change.
Check the front and rear suspension shocks and such.
A major tune up with plugs,cap rotor, plug wires and filters.
Transmission Service, check the u joints.
By spending some money on it now you will know whats been done and when.
I know its scary to have a vehicle you just bought break down but with a little work it should be a reliable van for you to enjoy for years to come.
If you have any questions about it let me know...
...Jamie
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2008 Ford E-350 V-10 EB
Transformer Interior
U-Joint Off Road 4x4 kit in the garage
2004 F-350 Dana 60
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