You are here: Forums Vans & Minivans GMC Safari & Chevy Astro Buying a Used Safari

Buying a Used Safari

6 messages,  Last post on Apr 28, 2009 at 10:16 AM

You are in the GMC Safari & Chevy Astro Forum. Your Host is Karens

What is this discussion about? GMC Safari, Pontiac Montana SV6, Chrysler Town and Country, Fuel Efficiency (MPG), Van

Messages Page 2 of 2 1 2 Prev Next Last

Go To Msg # Search This Discussion

#4 of 6 Re: 2000 Safari, good buy for family of 8 or not? [spike99] by spike99 Feb 04, 2008 (5:12 pm)
Replying to: spike99 (Jan 31, 2008 7:32 pm) For more details about design "weak spots" (sort of speaking) on the Astor/Safari brand, surf the Astro/Safari contents within: http://www.apa.ca/template.asp?DocID=23#General%20Motors    ------------------    GENERAL MOTORS Chevrolet Astro, GMC Safari   If you intend to keep the vehicle for a long time, replace the unreliable steering and suspension parts with the more durable Moog parts that come with a lifetime warranty.   It is possible to modify the rear differential to increase durability in intensive usage: Install a bigger oil pan and fill with a high grade oil: 85W140 for standard (non-locking) differentials, and for antislip differentials use 70W90 synthetic oil. For rear cover installation call 514.522.7775 in the Montreal area.   Transmission failure is possible between 100,000 and 150,000 km under severe usage. Lock out the overdrive function when the vehicle is heavily loaded. If you don’t, trouble code 1810—signaling serious internal damage—may appear on your mechanic’s scanning tool. Under severe usage, change the transmission fluid every 40,000 km and use a suitable additive. These steps will reduce deterioration of the bands and clutches, which can clog the internal passages of the transmission and lead to failure. In the Montreal area contact Vimont Transmission at 450.663.0330.   There have been some reports of fuel pump failures. The replacement can cost from $800 to $900 (parts and labor), and GM rarely pays for the repair after the third year. Replacement pump assemblies supplied by GM are no better than the originals. To extend the life of the pump, do not let the fuel tank fall below one-quarter full. A used pump from a scrapyard can be installed for $250–$300, parts and labor included.   When renewing rear drum brakes, use shoes with riveted brake linings. Rear brake shoe life varies from 50,000 to 100,000 km, depending on who is driving and the load carried.   Premature wear of the cargo-door weather seals can lead to water leaks. Check their condition before buying the vehicle, as their replacement costs around $500.    ==============   On my 2001 AWD Safari, its had the following "non wear/tear" problems:   - Blown tranny - complete rebuild 120,000 kms. - Front Brake ABS sensor gone / was replaced. - Other front ABS sensor is now gone. (ABS fuse is now pulled and it brakes are better then its factory ABS system). - 2 x Idler arms replaced. Today, she's getting another set of idler arms (Moog brand) installed. Next time around, only get Moog idler arm replacement parts. - Cruse control module gone. Replaced. - Another Cruise control module gone. Vehicle no longer has Cruise Control. - Transfer case seals leaked. Complete gasket replacements. - Rear end locked on tight corners. Fluid changed and problem went away. Today, we only use Synthetic 70W90 gear oils (front and back axles). - Retainer clips rusted out - complete replacement. - Sliding door acting up - track replacement. - Vacuum hose (for internal front heater system) replaced. - 2 x "new" batteries. Factory battery replaced 7 months ago, another battery replaced last Friday.   As noted above, most problems were AWD system related. And, a few electrical problems as well. Depite these problems, our van has never left us stranded. She's always been able to "wimper" home or "wimper" to the nearest auto shop.   Next time around, don't think we'd buy an AWD Astro/Safari van again. Way too many AWD problems and being AWD, subtract 3-4 MPGs from an equal 2WD model. When towing or hauling people around (which adds to its overall vehicle weight), she drinks gas like a starving pig. Almost as bad as my neighbor's V8 4x4 Pickup. Even in my deep snow winters, I should have gotten the 2WD design - and drive it like a 2WD van.   Hope these details help as well...   .
#5 of 6 modified Safari vans by racefreak64 Apr 23, 2009 (6:49 pm)
I have a very nice modified 87 GMC Safari van.If anyone is interested in discussing purchase call perrinjmshaw.ca or look at ad on Kijiji.ca in Calgary or Edmonton under classic cars Replies to this message: taarooon (Apr 28, 2009 10:16 am)
#6 of 6 Re: modified Safari vans [racefreak64] by taarooon Apr 28, 2009 (10:16 am)
Replying to: racefreak64 (Apr 23, 2009 6:49 pm) Hello, I am wheelchair bound and I am interested in buying a modified used van what kind of modifications? what is the mileage? Thank you

Messages Page 2 of 2 1 2 Prev Next Last

Go To Msg # Search This Discussion

You are here: Forums Vans & Minivans GMC Safari & Chevy Astro Buying a Used Safari