Chevy Express 1500 AWD reliability and mileage

[geoffnichols]

I'm dreaming of a lightweight camper van conversion based on a Chevy Express 1500 AWD. My budget doesn't support a new base vehicle so I'm looking at starting with a used van. Vans are available with 100K - 140K miles in my price range. My question is what can I expect from these vans? I have experience with Toyota Tacomas and 100K doesn't worry me but I don't know Chevy vans. What do you think? Anything I should be concerned or looking for?

Thanks!

 

[89s rule]

My first question would be...what is your budget? And then what purpose will the vehicle serve?

This does not answer your question but it is a good starting point.

 

[rockbender]

my work truck is a 2000 Chevy 1500 4x4 (that also has an AWD mode) and has 290,000 miles on it. It amazes me how trouble free it has been. That being said, if the van is anything like my pickup I am definitely thinking about doing a light build w/ a penthouse top on an AWD 1500 based rig next time around. I think it would be a perfect rig for exploring forest service roads and travelling through snow country.