Vannin' Home
Posted By: SafariTim Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - December 11th 2021 5:17 am
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My kids have all loved "Thomas the tank engine", and I have watched more then I should. Gordon is the biggest, fastest, and strongest engine on Sodor Island. He is blue and pulls The Express. Every time I put my foot down I swear I hear, "Express, coming through!"
https://youtu.be/fVqmS-46Slc
Gordon will be replacing Vanessa(my 2005 GMC Safari). I want to do some traveling. I have 5 kids and plan on pulling a camper trailer. Vanessa needed some upgrades. That is where Gordon comes in, L31, 4L80E, 3/4 ton, and 3.73 rear gear.
That takes care of hauling what I need.
I looked up the RPO codes and Gordon was a special order. Fully loaded, 8 passenger, keyless entry, power windows, locks, and both front buckets are power, heated power mirrors, front and rear air/heat, full interior, carpet, Dude just checked every box on the order form, factory and dealer installed options. He kept full maintenance records, I am the 2nd owner. It's been about 5 miles from the dealership it was delivered to new. The motor was replaced at 100,000 miles, it has 165,000 on it now. Very happy with this van. It gets better mileage then the Safari.
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Picked up these wheels last weekend. I'm going to polish them and get new center caps. The tires on the van are 90% so I will just switch them. Going to the "you pull it" next week, looking for some conversion van parts. I'd like some ground effects, overhead console, GMC grill, and some interior parts. I'm also very curious about the differences between the Express composite headlight and the 1998 GM truck headlight. More pictures and parts coming.

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Posted By: newkirkinc1 Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - December 11th 2021 11:52 am
Nice one!
Posted By: lukester Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - December 11th 2021 11:52 pm
That's a good looking van. Can't wait to see those wheels on it.
Posted By: kursed Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - December 17th 2021 5:19 pm
Slick ride man, can't wait to see it progress.
I never liked Gordon on the show.
He's too uppity and snooty.

So I won't be following this thread.
lol

I'm just kidding.
(I still don't like Gordon, but I'll follow the thread.)
Cool van.
I like that color.
Posted By: SafariTim Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - December 20th 2021 6:51 pm
I went to the you pull it yesterday. Didnt find anything I could use. On the way out I got a flat tire. Then in hours of traffic Gordon started having issues. Running a little warmer then what it normally runs at. Even ran ruff a little. Made it home ok, but what a day. Never missed a lick since.?
See?
I told you he was uppity.
lol

I wonder what that was about...
I hope it was just a traffic/extended idle sort of issue.
Posted By: SafariTim Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - March 03rd 2022 10:16 pm
We hauled Vanessa off the other day. Gordon did great. Been driving the van for a while. I was wrong about getting better mileage, mileage kind of sucks. Gordon has been awesome but there are some weak points that I need to address. The cooling system could use an upgrade. Bigger radiator, electric fans, Gordon can be alittle uppity at red lights and traffic jams. But so far we are getting along. In the process of starting my own business. So, Everything has been going to into that. I have got some work done on the wheels.
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A before, during, and after. They were in ruff shape. The after isn't final, they still need a cleaning and hand polish. Cant
wait to see them rolling in the Florida sun. More to come, I miss my vans!

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Posted By: lukester Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - March 04th 2022 1:00 am
Looks like those wheels are cleaning up nicely.
Posted By: SafariTim Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - March 10th 2022 9:16 pm
This van is huge! What a canvas! Still trying to find where to start. Been kicking around ideas but nothing has stuck yet. I detail alot of RVs at work. I always like to see the headlights. The Motorhome buliders seem to use every make and model. Today I worked this one.
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Dodge Challenger I believe. Got me thinking. I need to get a GMC grill, I just like the big open grill better. Then modify it to fit the Challenger lights, some nice LED lights as running lights. This is a very ruff drawing. Just to get a visual.
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I think it's very doable. Basically flat, and I can modify the grill on my work bench. The van is my daily. Buliding the van in my head before I start anything. I'm not sure how I feel about it so far. What you guys think

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Posted By: SDMickey Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - March 11th 2022 2:08 am
Nice concept drawing
Posted By: Wedgy Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - March 11th 2022 4:43 pm
Nice acquisition Tim. I like the GMT Van. Score!

Dyno Dave's GMT thread will provide some insight and inspiration for sure. I had a 97 GMC 1500 with the 350. FI never failed, but a fuel pump did. Fairly close to home, but still, FYI. Also had a worn cap and rotor fail. sidelining the truck. Don't want any of that happening on a trip, dig into those service records! Nice. Good Wrenching!

Iron Chevy Small blocks, and the 4.3 will take a lot of heat, but I'd remedy that cooling issue first. The 3/4 ton GMT should be ideal for your needs. I loved my last GM 350. Don't let that one get hot. My 5.9 has new heads, but the shop obviously didn't do the WP. Had I known, I would've replaced it along with the leaky radiator, back when I was younger in 2014. Did all that in the snow. It's snowing now, and just ain't no way Bro!

I have new radiators in both of the Dodge smallblocks, but they really don't have enough radiator, IMO. I run coolers and fans on the 5.9 B350 Xplorer MH, but it is a Hot Pig with the boat in tow on any kind of grade. I have found custom aluminum radiators for the Dodges, maybe you could for the 350, as well. They are 3 row, increased coolant capacity but are not crossflow. frscke1 has custom aluminum ones in both his BBC G30s.

Here. The 454 Church Van G30 with the BBC cools fine, but has the AC fan modified to run upon start. Factory coolers with the original radiator is all good so far.

Just some Internal combustion observations. Again Super nice Van and Good Wrenching!
Posted By: SafariTim Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - March 12th 2022 7:48 pm
Check this out! If I'm ever low on water, the door is holding tank!
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Express hack! Simply pull back the seal and it opens the tank!
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Got to clean out the drains!

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Posted By: SDMickey Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - March 12th 2022 9:37 pm
Most likely a factory option grin
Posted By: SafariTim Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - March 12th 2022 9:41 pm
First van here with a pond!
Posted By: newkirkinc1 Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - March 13th 2022 12:13 am
Had a few of those lol
Posted By: SafariTim Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - March 13th 2022 5:16 pm
The cooling, intake, and exhaust systems are the first things on my mind as far as mechanical.
Looking into 3 row radiators. I have everything needed to do a electric fan conversion. I'm dieing to clear up so space under the hood.
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That engine cover of a catch can has to go! (Wish I could run it to the tank in the door!) I also have aluminum intake tubes from the Disastro. Id love to get the mileage up. Plugs, wires, and just started doing research for on throttle body spacers. Dual exhaust is a must. I'm not really into horsepower, but definitely into reliability and durability.

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Posted By: SafariTim Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - March 18th 2022 12:59 am
Ol' Gordon was a very useful engine today! Our work truck was down this morning. So, I hooked up Ol' Gordon. And he did awesome. Full trailer with all detailing equipment and 275 gallons of water. Just as smooth as could be. Rode like a Cadillac and looked just as good. [Linked Image]
I have also tinted the front windows to match the rear factory tint. Small steps, but they are steps. 11 inch touchscreen and new doghouse coming very soon.

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Posted By: SDMickey Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - March 18th 2022 10:16 pm
Nice set up
Posted By: SafariTim Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - March 22nd 2022 2:39 am
Gordon is starting to fit right in. We had some issues in the beginning. But the more I drive it the better it.gets. We have logged a few family memories already. He is truly part of the family now! I gave him a good detail today. First gooding cleaning I have done. Happy with how it turned out

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Laid that wax on heavy. The color changes a lot depending on the lighting. The clearcoat is gone on the roof and paint is starting to flake. So, that needs attention. The church van interior is in near perfect 90s perfection. With the stereo system to match. "I'm all about that treble. No bass just treble." Sounds like the McDonald's drive-thru. Also looking to attach something to the power antenna. Maybe a little one finger salute.
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First good pictures of the van. Pushing hard this week on the wheels. Hope to have them mounted within the next 2 weeks.

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Posted By: Wedgy Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - March 22nd 2022 4:43 pm
Gordon's looking good!
Posted By: lukester Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - March 23rd 2022 1:25 am
Looks good.
Posted By: SafariTim Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - April 20th 2022 12:31 am
Things changing day to day. My business hit the ground running and im trying to keep up. Gordon is becoming company property and is turning in my work van. He is doing an awesome job. Today he spent sometime in the shop, getting set-up. I cut up an old bed liner to fit the back.
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And then started adding equipment. He is fully set up and ready for whatever job comes our way. I removed the rear seat and used the mounting points to strap down a 150 gallon water tank. I have a rack that slides into the hitch, for my generator when in use. I don't want to make a mess inside of my van. This is temporary, just until my trailer is finished.
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I wanted to show off what Gordon and I can do so I gave him a good washing. Ready for customers to start lining up!
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Posted By: maples01 Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - April 20th 2022 1:12 am
I'd never convert to electric fan again, the mountain here is hard on a vehicle, burned up my electric fan, they aren't designed to run constant to it pretty much melted inside, seized up, keep the engine driven fan the designers put on it.
Posted By: SafariTim Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - April 20th 2022 1:38 am
Plans on building Gordon have changed. He will be used for work only. Staying basically stock. Clifford aka The Disastro (my 1998 Astro AWD) will be my personal van. Until I find the right G van.
Posted By: frscke1 Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - April 20th 2022 3:05 am
Get a magnetic sign to put on the side so the people passing by know who's doin the excellent work ...


even a Large art easel to set beside you working with your phone number in BIG RED numbers !
Posted By: SafariTim Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - April 20th 2022 11:59 am
Should have known you would say big and red!
Posted By: WoodButcher Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - April 21st 2022 12:42 am
Good looking van Tim, how do you like working out of a full size in comparison to the astros?
I switched to a safari back in 2000 and never looked back. I imagine the big van is more comfy hauling a big family.
Posted By: SafariTim Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - April 21st 2022 2:39 am
I have been switching around from van to van lately. 2007 and 2014 Town and Country, 2005 safari, lifted 1998 astro, and 1998 express. The safari was awesome, but had its limits. Power, towing, and space. The Express has no limits. Seats 8 and fits 6 bikes. Towed the Safari like it wasn't there. The Town and Country is tight, with 5 kids ages 3-12. Took it to the beach, the sto-and-go option is nice. We even had 2 coolers on the rack in the hitch. She was feeling the weight. Drove it to the store today felt like a civic. I can reach the passenger door from the driver seat. They all do thier jobs well. The wife loves her van. Easy to get in and out. Damn near every door opens at the touch of a button. 4 windows that roll down.

But for me, it's the express hands down! Ford's shifter that folds flat has nothing on the Express and its ability to comfortably fit a woman kneeling between the front seats and it's high enough most people cant see the ponytail.
Posted By: SafariTim Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - April 21st 2022 2:43 am
I to add fuel mileage, forget that! It's all about the smiles per gallon!
Been working hard! My business took off and I'm playing catch up. Hated working out of the van. Gordon is like new inside. With soft, clean, carpet. So, I got an old trailer from a buddy cheap. Rear door had some water damage. Replaced the boards and added extra bracing for shelfs. Lots of sanding! Hopefully it will be done next weekend.
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Just going to paint it white with my company name in black. Got all new lights also. As you can see from the pictures things are tight. Looking for my next trailer already and will more than likely sell/trade this trailer. Looking for some cool aluminum wheels, missed a set of slots. Aluminum polishing is part of my business, so I need cool wheels. Finishing Gordon's new wheels. He is overdue for an oil change and tire rotation.
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This is a before and after sanding and machine polish.[Linked Image]
And this is the final hand polish. They still need to be washed. Should get them mounted Thursday.

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Posted By: Wedgy Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - May 09th 2022 1:56 pm
Good find Tim!
Everybody here pulls a trailer. In SoCal, not so much, to the jobsite, as per parking, tight maneuvering. Nice unit.
Sweeeeeet!
Nice find. It's good to hear your business is rock n' !
Ordered and waiting on center caps to come in. I ordered shorter caps the original caps are 5.5 inches and I ordered the shortest I could find at 3.5 inches.

But the real reason for this post is to brag. Today I pulled to a stop, looking at the Astro van sitting at the light. Maybe a 2000 RWD, had some rims like my old Safari and those huge tow mirrors from a newer diesel truck. The light turned green, he took off pretty quick. So, I pushed Gordon to 3/4 power. And pulled passed him. I laughed as I got a full length ahead. I looked back at them and noticed he was still pushing the astro. I already lifted, but couldn't help myself. I pushed Gordon up to full power. The 4L80 dropped down a gear and Gordon stood up! I was about 15 lengths ahead when I lifted this time. I love this van!
Center caps have not came in yet. Still waiting to get the wheels mounted. But I wanted to share progress on the trailer.
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Very happy with the outcome. Should beable to double my money when it comes time to upgrade.

One man's trash is another man's treasure!
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Posted By: SDMickey Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - May 13th 2022 12:32 am
Good deal & nice job. Big difference
Posted By: lukester Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - May 14th 2022 11:34 pm
Nice work. Looks like a new trailer.
Thanks guys! Ordered some stickers for the trailer with my company name. Should be ready monday. I also replaced all the lights with LEDs. Center caps should come in monday. Cant wait!
Still waiting on the caps. Last seen 6 hours away. But the lettering did come in. Put it on this afternoon. Business is still growing and planning to add more services as I buy the equipment. The back door is also lettered the same.
My name is Litteral, as am I. I have heard every joke, literally.
My buddies will ask if I'm telling the truth. And I answer, I am the truth.
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Thanks for the incentive to keep working, posting and sharing my story with you guys! Awesome site! So many sites or its members are not as helpful and welcoming as this. No matter the van or the owner, everyone seems to be treated equally. I would like to thank this site's creators, moderators, and its members. Very positive, thoughtful, helpful, and friendly! Best automotive forum, literally!

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Just got home from the tire shop. No new tires, but I got the wheels mounted. I can not believe the difference in weight, at least 10 lbs per wheel.Gave Big Gordon alittle attitude.
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Looks great man 👍
Nice touch !
I made to the you pull it yesterday. Didnt get everything I wanted but I got what I needed. A new window for the red van and a wiper cowl cover. [Linked Image]
Had to pull the wipers so I gave them a shot of black paint while I had them off. I also got some dome lights from a G20 conversation van.

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Started doing some work on Gordon. Here is the plan, Trash the whole center compartment. I just dont like it, Starting from scratch. Came up with this on Skechup. Simple, LED accent lighting, clock, USB, the basics. Will not take up too much room.[Linked Image]
But when in need of extra space or dont want to reach too far for that coffee![Linked Image]
WAIT! Thats not all! Now you have finished that coffee and are ready for a nice cold drink.
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Just slide those cup holders out of the way to access to the mini-fridge.
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I have started on this project already and will post picture to night or tomorrow. coming along great!

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Posted By: lukester Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - June 05th 2022 2:40 am
That is awesome man.
Posted By: SafariTim Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - June 05th 2022 12:15 pm
Gordon is The employee of the month, again! A hard worker for sure.
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So, I started on the center compartment. Found these foam blocks at tractor supply. They use them to stack between trailers during shipping. They just trash them and said I could have them. Perfect for this and many projects. I glued 2 of them together to get the width needed.
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I started with the backside and bottom to get it sitting right. So easy to cut and shape the foam.
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Now that it fit in the space, I started with the opening for the drawer. I didnt want to cut too much out at this point. I want to make sure it fits well around the dash before i worry with the inside of the compartment.
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I will use wood as bracing where needed, cover with fiberglass and vinyl. Get a refrigerated compartment from the, you pull it. It should keep a cold drink cold on long trips.

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Posted By: SDMickey Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - June 05th 2022 7:54 pm
Safari Tim. Nice set up and you have skills brother !

I'm the senior member of the California Caveman Club! ( I still haven't figured out how to post pics )

When I bought my 1974 G10 Shorty back in October 2020 ; Charlie was kind enough to post my pics and story. Good man with good skills.
The center compartment project is spreading up the dash now. I loved the old headunit I had in Vanessa, I'd love to install it in Gordon. but the dash in the first gen express just don't make sense and the second gen is worst. I have been researching different dashes from all automakers. I really like the 2018 Jeep Wrangler.
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Love the red! My plan is first to go to the you pull it Saturday and get a mock-up dash, round a/c vents and hopefully a refrigerated compartment. I have been doing some 3D modeling of the dash and can't wait to get started!
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Yea, Its a big dream and a lot of work. But I'm going for it! I have done some this and that in the past. Been watching and reading tons on interior work. But never done this before. Never hurts to try.

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Posted By: SDMickey Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - June 09th 2022 4:32 am
That looks awesome !
Posted By: SafariTim Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - June 13th 2022 11:49 am
I spend hours looking at custom vans online. Yesterday I came across this 1st Gen Express, and fell in love. I love the old school vans, but they are expensive or need a lot of work. This van has the old school feel, but a somewhat modern van. My van is too new, to be cool and too old to be new. [Linked Image]
This is the only picture I have been able to find. It's from Japan. I know it's just a lowered conversation van, stock everything and some paint. But for me the sealed beams and painted grill put it over the top. Its got me thinking about if it had the quad headlight set up, smooth the bumper and flares and add some flaring to the chin spoiler.
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I'm on the fence about the running boards. Think I like just the flares better with a electric fold out step. The big open GMC grill is more my style also. Didnt make it to the junk yard this weekend and picked up some extra work today. So, maybe Tuesday or Wednesday I can slip away.

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Looks nice!
Posted By: Lee7673 Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - June 14th 2022 8:53 pm
Sweet!
LET THE GOOD TIMES BEGIN! I made it to the you pull it this morning.
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I got the dash cover and all the little covers, (about 7 parts to the dash).
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This part sucks! Need to change anything on a Chevy dash and this whole thing has to come off and around everything. I'm going to simplify that with the new dash. The dash came out pretty simple. Mostly clips, but some screws. I have pictures of the van after I removed the dash, as reference for later. I couldn't find any pictures online of whats under the cover, let me know if anyone needs them.
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This is where I had to stop on the center compartment. Now that I have any extra dash I can pick back up. Got to build a stand to hold the dash so I can start reshaping it.
I also got the GMC grill with sealed beams,(the GMC badge will not be staying). Did not get the buckets. Still have not settled on the headlights yet. I'm starting with the sealed beam grill, because it is basically flat around the headlights. My options so far.

1.Stock composite
2.Stock sealed beam, with aftermarket LEDs
3.Aftermarket 1997 Chevy 1500
4.2015 or newer Challenger
5.1976 Monte Carlo (stacked dual square sealed beams), with aftermarket LEDs
6.Round sealed beams, with aftermarket LEDs
1-6 Whats your choice! I can't pick.
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The taillights were an easy choice, picked up a set of Cadillac taillights while i as at the yard. These will be going in the stock location, but I will be updating them with custom programmable LED. I also got the lower valence for the front bumper.
I have a problem sitting still. If my hands stop moving I fall asleep. Anytime. Anywhere. I like to stay busy. These projects will fill in during rainy days or when its too dark to be outside. I will post pictures of the progress.

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Posted By: lukester Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - June 16th 2022 2:42 am
Nice scores.
I started on the dash this morning. First I built a frame to hold the dash. Just something to keep it at the right angle while working on it.
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A few days ago I cut and glued together a piece of form for the front of the dash. I will not be able to keep the pull handle or the passenger air bag. Which is fine by me, I never set off an air bag before! I used some tape to hold the foam in place and expanding foam to fill the gaps.
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Taped it tight because the expanding foam. It worked great to glue the foam to the dash. After it dried, I spent the next few hours filling my eyes with Styrofoam dust.
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Looks like Christmas in June, asking Santa for a foam cutter tomorrow. I don't know what I was thinking here, I wanted the top edge to be more squared. I also want the highest point to slowly drop to the passenger side. It's ok, a little more expanding foam. Another step taken!

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Posted By: Lee7673 Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - June 20th 2022 12:45 pm
Nice finds at the pull it yard. Keep us posted with pictures about the progress. Looking good
Posted By: SDMickey Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - June 21st 2022 5:10 am
looking good brother
Plans for the grill...
I'm going to make it easy on myself and switch out for the sealed beams. But upgrade them to HID.
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The front turn signal and parking lights will be replaced with sequential LED trailer lights.
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These are 6" by 2" and will just fit the stock location.
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These are 9" by 1", which is about 2 inches too narrow, but the grill will be getting modify already. I want to fill the gap between the grill and bumper. The grill will be getting painted body color also. Came up with this playing with a photo editor.
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Posted By: SDMickey Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - June 30th 2022 10:55 pm
Front signal lights look pretty cool
Those look cool!
This morning I was walking back to the van. The color is so weird. Sometimes I like it and sometimes I dont. I haven't seen it much on other vehicles.
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Parked in the shade nice sunny day.
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It was about 4 am, so just the lights in the parking lot. What you guys think.

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Posted By: Underdog Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - July 20th 2022 8:49 pm
The paint on my wife's car also changes color based on the lighting. However, it's not as dramatic as your van. Your van looks great in either color!
Posted By: lukester Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - July 21st 2022 2:52 am
I think it looks good.
Posted By: SDMickey Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - July 23rd 2022 10:20 pm
Nice in any light chevy
I got out this morning and put the lower valance on. Love it, Gordon was looking kinda bucked toothed. It's not perfect but really fit the bumper better.
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Posted By: Underdog Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - July 27th 2022 3:12 pm
I agree it looks much better
Posted By: SDMickey Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - July 27th 2022 3:28 pm
Nice touch
Posted By: kursed Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - July 27th 2022 3:41 pm
Yes sir, much better. I'm enjoying watching this one progress.
The big boy needed a bath. The valance was straight out the junkyard. Loving the new look. Wanted to share a better picture.
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Just look at that shine. Sad with the issues in the paint, and scared to see what it could cost to try to blend. My brother was a painter and he says it be tuff to blend with the way it changes.
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Thanks again guys! The dash has been a slow process but still working on it.

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Posted By: lukester Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - July 28th 2022 12:59 am
Looking good.
Posted By: SDMickey Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - July 28th 2022 5:14 pm
Wow = nice score out of the junkyard !
Love the valance, my 97 has the same one. However you are missing the valance extension. My 97 has a 2" wide strip below that valance.
Posted By: SafariTim Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - September 17th 2022 1:52 am
Don't count me out guys. I wasn't happy with the dash. I started over. This time i stripped the dash, vinyl, foam, down to plastic. I need to build a stand to hold the dash and console as if it were in the van. Working 14 hours, 6 days. So, I'm in the planning phase. The paint is bugging me. The is going hood and roof is dead! The paint is also flaking off. Playing with a photo editing, I came up with what a think will be the cheapest fix.
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This covers the bad spots and looks good. Helps hide all this glass. My brother and I painted my trailer, so we will do this also. Wet sand and buff it will look good. The grill will be black also, once it gets done/started. But full tune up is first!

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Posted By: lukester Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - September 17th 2022 2:01 am
I think it would look good painted like that.
Posted By: SDMickey Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - September 17th 2022 4:20 am
Nice choice
Posted By: kursed Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - September 17th 2022 2:26 pm
I definitely dig that, looks sharp.
Posted By: DaveT Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - September 18th 2022 5:25 am
Like the color
Posted By: SafariTim Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - September 22nd 2022 12:59 am
Gordon limped home today. He is missing pretty bad. I just looked at the records the original owner kept and I don't see a tune up listed. He is setting 174,000 miles now and records show that the motor was installed at 108,000. So hopefully a fresh tune-up should fix him right up. But I'm also worried it might be more. When I got home popped the hood and it smoothed out, but then started again. Poor guy. Any tips?
Posted By: frscke1 Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - September 22nd 2022 1:14 am
Computer is getting the wrong info and telling the motor to run that way.

Id check sensors O2 CTS ... gas delivery N vacuum


Could be a bad plug wire
Posted By: SafariTim Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - September 24th 2022 3:48 pm
Got into it this morning to see what's going on. Looks like he is way over for a tune up
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Posted By: kursed Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - September 28th 2022 6:45 pm
Yikes!
Posted By: SafariTim Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - October 10th 2022 10:05 am
Took forever, but Gordon was back at work Saturday night. That damn hurricane blew me into next week, so I been trying to make up the time. I been stuck driving the soul-less Town and Country. She is great for what she does, but not getting any respect at the job site. First pothole repair done from a Town and Country.
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Post diggers, shovel, rake, 2 bags of asphalt, a bag of concrete, and she was LOADED.
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Look how clean that block is. I think the oil came from spillage, I need to check the tube. I was wanting to go to the pul it this weekend, but didn't make it. I need round a/c vents, thinking something like F250 Ford. Round and easy to clean.
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I made a better frame to hold the dash and removed all padding. I covered the a/c vents and airbag with Pollywall. I need the trim for around the radio/gauges. I don't want to take Gordon apart until I have everything ready to go in.
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The next time I hear someone talk about money problems, I'm going to offer to buy their time for the next 2 weeks. I make money all day! I have yet to find away to make time.

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Posted By: SDMickey Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - October 10th 2022 2:32 pm
Nice work.
Posted By: SafariTim Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - October 11th 2022 1:13 am
Slow day at work today. Thankfully Gordon was there to help pass the time. He got a fully exterior detail, with a heavy coat of banana wax. My new favorite picture of Gordon! The flake just loves this Florida sun. Really shows the color change.
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Its hard to see in this picture but there are 3 dents down the passenger side. Looks like someone opened the rear door too far, and the front 2 doors on this side have dents. The paint is fine, looking for a paintless dent repair. But we have paint issues in other areas.
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In his first life, he was a family trip van and spent most of his time backed into the carport. The hood and driver side getting the sun.I detail for a living and my van is a rolling billboard. So, I want it perfect. Down the road I will have to have him repainted, but til then.
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The grill, bumpers, flares, and side skirts will all be done in black also. I want to keep the van looking good as
I build it. Everything will be built, painted, and installed, giving the van two-tone paint until complete. Still not set on the final color or style.

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Posted By: SDMickey Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - October 11th 2022 2:27 am
Looking good
Posted By: DaveT Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - October 11th 2022 3:06 am
Nice, like your van...
Posted By: Astrocreep66 Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - October 11th 2022 11:39 am
Sweet ride. looks good
Posted By: SafariTim Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - October 12th 2022 12:53 am
Thank you guys for feeding my obsession. Gordon getting ready for work!
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Posted By: SafariTim Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - October 21st 2022 4:42 pm
I started on the center of the dash. Currently the radio and A/C sit more towards the driver. I'd like to center everything and give the dash an update. I'm reusing the head unit I installed in Vanessa.
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Can't wait it was awesome and has everything included. Bluetooth, GPS, back up camera, hands free text and calling, it as basically a tablet. I started with a chunk of styrofoam and sanded it by hand with 80 grit paper to get it ruffled into the basic shape. The center piece will be removable for access.
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It's not easy to make it perfect. So, I decided I would use some baseboard and trim molding. The baseboard and trim molding will be wrapped in vinyl wrap. Baseboard covered with a red matt or red brushed aluminum vinyl. The trim molding will be done with a gross black. I'll also use it long the passenger side of the dash, to tie everything together. The dash itself will be done with a black vinyl upholstery.
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Once I get the styrofoam shaped it will be covered with a thin layer of fiberglass. Coming together good so far. Sunday I will go the the pull up it to get the dash trim and round a/c vents.

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Posted By: Wedgy Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - October 22nd 2022 1:27 am
Originally Posted by SafariTim
I started on the center of the dash. Currently the radio and A/C sit more towards the driver. I'd like to center everything and give the dash an update. I'm reusing the head unit I installed in Vanessa.
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Can't wait it was awesome and has everything included. Bluetooth, GPS, back up camera, hands free text and calling, it as basically a tablet. I started with a chunk of styrofoam and sanded it by hand with 80 grit paper to get it ruffled into the basic shape. The center piece will be removable for access.
[Linked Image]
[Linked Image]
[Linked Image]
It's not easy to make it perfect. So, I decided I would use some baseboard and trim molding. The baseboard and trim molding will be wrapped in vinyl wrap. Baseboard covered with a red matt or red brushed aluminum vinyl. The trim molding will be done with a gross black. I'll also use it long the passenger side of the dash, to tie everything together. The dash itself will be done with a black vinyl upholstery.
[Linked Image]
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Once I get the styrofoam shaped it will be covered with a thin layer of fiberglass. Coming together good so far. Sunday I will go the the pull up it to get the dash trim and round a/c vents.

Polyester resin will eat styrofoam. I'd do a test piece to make sure that would Not happen with what material you will be using. I found out the hard way. That is a LOT of work that would be a shame to loose. Good Fabbing! Impressive!
Posted By: SDMickey Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - October 22nd 2022 5:12 am
Man; nice skills
Posted By: DaveT Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - October 22nd 2022 5:55 am
Very cool

Cant wait to see it done
Posted By: SafariTim Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - October 23rd 2022 10:43 pm
I slipped away to the "you pull it" this morning. All Chevy work vans. Lol I got excited when I seen some conversation van paint on the back of this one van, but it was a work van someone used conversation van rear doors but didn't paint them. I got the dash bezel and A/C vents. Got the vents from a Chevy HHR. [Linked Image]
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Smaller than the F250 vents but the same idea. Again I detail for a living, A/C vents suck! I wanted something simple and easy to clean. So now I have a complete second dash for the van. My garage was a mess so I got some space cleaned up to really jump on the dash.

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Posted By: SDMickey Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - October 24th 2022 12:21 am
Can't wait to see " the magic "
Posted By: DaveT Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - October 24th 2022 1:17 am
Hay SafariTim, love your work. I like what you are doing here, cant wait to see the finished product.
Don't know anything about fiberglass myself.

Gordon, very cool
Posted By: Astrocreep66 Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - October 24th 2022 12:46 pm
That is a ton of work, can't wait to see finished product.
Posted By: SafariTim Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - October 26th 2022 4:15 pm
I know I post a lot of pictures of my van but, I got to play with the photo booth today
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I only have to work 1 job today some more time for the dash tonight!

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Posted By: newkirkinc1 Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - October 26th 2022 6:18 pm
Nice.
Posted By: DaveT Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - October 26th 2022 10:25 pm
Cool, so can you upload an interactive picture of your van now?
Posted By: SafariTim Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - October 27th 2022 12:27 am
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It's pretty basic. A round room with an opening to drive a vehicle into. The walls are on a track and it spins around the vehicle. They use it at the dealership to take pictures of the vehicles to post them online. Walls and roof are white. I'm dieing to bring my projector up on slow days, lol.

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Posted By: DaveT Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - October 27th 2022 1:23 am
So cool
Posted By: SDMickey Re: Gordon 1998 Chevrolet Express 2500 8 passenger - October 27th 2022 4:28 am
Pretty cool photo booth
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