Faults:

Got this van after it sitting unmoving for 3 years, so a tune up was needed and fluids changed, but would be about the same for any vehicle.

Radiator core died, engine temp reached overheat situation on two occasions, but didn't otherwise affect the engine one bit; it'll probably outlast me.

Radiator hose line blew out recently, fixed with a bit of cutting and linkage replacement for 89 cents.

Minor rip in bench/bed fabric, my fault.

Power windows don't work yet.

General Comments:

The van can haul, and how. I was able to take everything I owned without needing a trailer when moving.

Does have some trouble climbing steep hills, but has no trouble at highway speeds normally.

Suspension slightly rougher than it could be, but justified in that it was built to hold large amounts of weight.

Comfortable interior, quite plush and holds a lot of people.

Exterior has rust on some areas, but only minor surface rust. Blue paint is peeling, but silver stripes are unaffected.

Engine has buckets of torque and refuses to break down.

Faults:

Speedometer cable noisy; cost $20 to buy and 30 minutes to change.

Radiator had small leak, just soldered it.

We live in the Great Lakes rust belt, so had it sprayed with oil in fall of 97, 98, 99, and 2000. It is rust free with original paint.

Freon would leak out over winter, so I converted it to r134a refrigerant. Did it myself; cost $250 for compressor, dryer, expansion tube, r134A compatible O-rings and freon.

Fan blower motor wore out. I changed it myself in 15 minutes. Cost $45.

Rear u-joint wore out. Changed myself.

Front pitman arm became 50% worn. Changed myself, but was difficult.

A small puff of oil smoke when starting cold, because the valve seals are worn. It's an easy fix, but I have no time.

Starter wore out. I changed myself.

Changed brake pads twice and exhaust once.

Just changed the water pump. Did it myself ($30).

General Comments:

My previous van was a 1980 Ford Econoline van. I drove it for 10 years. It rusted and worn out. I thought it was a very good van. Then I bought this 1986 GMC in 1994. It has been been driven through almost every province and state in North America. I even drove it down the coast of Mexico. It starts on the first turn, and has never broken down once.

It does not use or leak oil.

There is no engine or drive train noise.

Checked the timing chain while changing the water pump, and it was only slightly worn.

I think I can drive this van another 5+ years.

This van refuses to die.

I am so impressed with this van, I just bought a 1988 Chev G20 for $1000. It's in the same condition as my 1985, but has a 350 ci motor to tow my car trailer.

I would recommend these GM VANS to anyone.