Re: [A/S] Pickup (and other) Questions

[Jack Canavera <jpcanavera@xxxxxxxxx>]

Don,
I pulling my Safari with a '99 Chevy Express 1500
Passenger Van.  The wheel base is 135" and van length
is 218.7".  The extended model is about 20" longer. 
My specific van is rated to tow 6500 lbs.  There is a
2500 extended (rated 7000 lbs max., non extended 8000
lbs.) and a 3500 extended (10,000 lbs. max either
length).  Note that these maximum ratings are based on
specific engine/axle combinations and are for the 1999
model year.  My Safari weighs in around 5500 lbs.  I
don't tow with fresh water and keep the holding tanks
down to minimal waste, usually dumping at my
destination or at intermediate stops.

I'm quite happy with the handling, including turning
radius and overall stability.  Turning diameter is
about 45.2 while the extended van is 53.4.  You sit up
high in the Express van with the Van cutting a pretty
good chunk of the wind stream before encountering the
A/S.

I have a 5.7 liter engine and a 3.73 rear end.  My
first trip with the Safari netted between 10.5 and
12.5 mpg. through some rolling hills in Missouri with
a 15 mph head wind on half the trip.  I was traveling
in third gear between 60 and 65 mph.

You will find a similar 1999 Suburban 1500 2WD has the
same maximum towing capacity as my Express.  Wheel
base slightly shorter, length slightly longer, turning
radius a little tighter and height a little shorter. 

I only run into problems opening the van rear doors if
the trailer is angled.  Normally only one door in this
case is restricted.  This may occur when I'm dealing
with a back in site that has minimal manuvering space.

Good luck in your search.

Jack

These numbers all available from the Carpoint web
page.


=====
Jack Canavera
STL Mo.
'01 Safari 27'